The group walked down the mountain and turned their horses in to the stables outside of Heartfalls. Its cobblestone streets, lined with traditional wooden houses and storefronts adorned with intricate lanterns, transport visitors to the heart of Araylian.
The air is thick with the aroma of freshly brewed tea and the enticing scents of street vendors hawking their wares. Geisha, their delicate silk kimonos trailing behind them, gracefully navigate the bustling crowds, their painted faces and elaborate hairstyles a testament to the city's enduring beauty.
At the city's core lies a serene koi pond, its tranquil waters reflecting the vibrant hues of the surrounding cherry blossoms. Families gather beneath the blossoms, their laughter echoing through the air, while elderly couples stroll hand-in-hand, their faces etched with the wisdom of countless seasons.
Heartfalls is a city of contrasts, where the echoes of the past mingle with the whispers of the future. Almost Ancient buildings stand alongside more newer buildings, their towering structures casting long shadows over the traditional architecture. Yet, amidst this blend of old and new, there lies a sense of harmony, a delicate balance between the city's rich heritage and its evolving spirit.
"Whoa! Heartfalls is prettier than I imagined!" Neca shouts, "Let's go try some of their food!"
"Wait-" Crystal goes to stop Neca who had already run off with the little girl, holding back her protests she follows behind El'gon and Rayth who followed the girls.
"We'll handle the quest thing later," Rayth says, "Let the girls enjoy their time here."
As Crystal trailed behind El'gon and Rayth, she couldn't help admire the city. Heartfalls truly exceeded her expectations, with its picturesque scenery and inviting atmosphere. Nevertheless, she couldn't let go of her duty to guide and ensure the safety of her companions. "Remember, let's stick together and be cautious," Crystal reminded them, her voice increasing in volume to ensure they reach them, "Heartfalls has a lot to offer, but it's also important to stay mindful of our surroundings."
Neca, who was already scanning the streets for any sign of delectable treats, turned around and flashed a mischievous grin. "Don't worry, Crystal! We'll be super careful while indulging in all the amazing food here!"
Crystal sighed, knowing that Neca's definition of being careful could sometimes be a bit... questionable. However, she trusted that El'gon and Rayth would keep a watchful eye on the energetic girl.
"Alright, just remember to keep an eye out for any potential danger," Crystal added, El'gon nodded in agreement, his usual calm demeanor contrasting with the liveliness of Heartfalls.
"Indeed, we'll keep our eyes peeled for any suspicious activity that might come our way. But for now, let's savor the joys Heartfalls has to offer."
As they wandered through the bustling streets, the aromas of freshly baked pastries and savory dishes filled the air. Crystal couldn't help but be tempted by the tantalizing scents herself, wondering if she should indulge in a little treat while waiting for the girls.
With Neca bouncing ahead, dragging the little girl with her, Crystal followed behind, feeling a sense of relaxation awaiting them in the heart of Heartfalls.
Neca's led them straight to a bustling ramen booth. The savory scent of simmering broth filled the air, instantly making mouths water. Without hesitation, Neca stepped up to the counter and ordered five steaming bowls of ramen, one for each of them.
As the bowls arrived, adorned with colorful toppings and swirling with goodness, Neca handed them through the group, "It's time for a ramen adventure!"
As spoons clinked against ceramic bowls and slurping noises filled the air, laughter and conversation erupted. Crystal watched as they savored each mouthful, their faces lighting up with pure delight. They playfully challenged each other, seeing who could slurp their noodles with the most finesse. It was a lighthearted competition, but everyone knew the real winner was the sublime taste of the ramen itself.
Amidst the ramen-induced bliss, Crystal couldn't help but wonder how something as simple as a bowl of noodles could bring people so much laughter. As they walked away, their hearts felt warm, their souls nourished not only by the delectable ramen but also by the joyous memories made together. The taste of that ramen lingered, and Crystal had hoped they were satisfied enough to go to the guild's building.
"Let's get our first quest!" Neca shouts as she leads them to the building, walking up the steps the group enter the building and they walk up to the man behind the counter. Crystal pushed her way to the front of the group, now taking initiative.
"Hello, and how can I help you today?" The man asks.
"We would like to take on some quests." Crystal states, and he looks over the group.
"Children don't count towards the group minimum of 5 people." The man states, "If you wouldn't mind taking a stranger in with your group, a woman came in just a bit before you looking to find a group."
"Who?" Crystal asks.
"Kait! Come to the counter please!"
"Comin'." A silver hair woman got up and walks towards them, "Hello."
"This her?" Crystal asks, before she sniffs, "Hm? What's this? You're more human than demon, but you still smell like a demon."
"I'm a quarter-demon. My mother was a half-demon, my father was a human." Kait says simply.
"You are quite beautiful with your silver hair." El'gon says with a wide smile, "We'd gladly take such a beauty with us."
"Oh I'd love to join a group. I need to get more experience."
"It seems safe enough." Crystal nods, and looks at the man, "Does that count as 5 people?"
"Yes. Here's your first assignment. A sorcerer has defected from the Mage Tower, he resides in the Enchanted Forest just west of here. The assignment is to either capture him alive or bring him back dead. Money for bringing him back alive is double what it will be if he is dead."
"What's the pay going to be?" Crystal asks.
"500 Ales per head. For a group of 5, it's 2,500 Ales."
"I see." Crystal nods, "We'll take it."
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Information approved for Public Knowledge.
Created by the Alesian Alliance of Demons.
Currency of Araylian:
1 Ales = 1 cent
10 Ales = 1 Deca-Ales
25 Ales = 1 Quarter-Ales
50 Ales = 1 Half-Ales
100 Ales = 1 Alesian Note
Coin Denominations:
Ales coin
Half-Ales coin
Alesian Dollar coin
Currency Notes:
5 Alesian Dollar note
10 Alesian Dollar note
20 Alesian Dollar note
50 Alesian Dollar note
100 Alesian Dollar note
To exchange your Ales, Half-Ales, or Alesian Dollar Coins for Alesian Dollar Notes, you must contact one of the three banks in Araylian. One in Heartfalls, Angelcoast, and Lagoonea.
Forged Ales, Half-Ales, Alesian Dollar Coins, or Alesian Dollar Notes will result in execution. You will have 2 days to prove innocence, you will be hung at highest noon after those 2 days.