The cold morning sun painted dancing shadows on the dojo walls. Today seems to be another ordinary day, but the atmosphere is charged with expectations and nervousness. We gathered in the courtyard, each face revealing a unique expression. Next to Yuki, Kaelan, Yui, and Mei, I awaited instructions from Ayako and Hiroshi, feeling a nervous flutter in my stomach that I hadn't experienced in a while.
Ayako: "Alright, everyone, today is the day to put into practice everything you've learned so far. Are you ready?"
Hiroshi: "Yui, Mei, both of you especially, will have to give your best today since this is about to become part of your daily routine, understand?."
Yui and Mei straightened their posture under Hiroshi's watchful gaze, nervously nodding. He began distributing real weapons, taking into account our preferences in wooden weapon training. Yui got a sharp spear, Mei received a pointed dagger, Yuki held a long sword and a shield, while Kaelan opted for a hefty mace. When my turn came, Hiroshi also handed me a knife. I looked at the gleaming blade for a moment, silently tying it to my waist. It's not that I intend to use it; after all, my specialties are my kicks and magic, but I was convinced that having a backup weapon would be good in case something unexpected happens.
Ayako, next to Hiroshi, distributed small bags with water and food to each of us.
Ayako: "Here are your provisions. Remember, when entering a forest, ruin, or anything remote from civilization, it's essential to have enough food and water. We plan to return before nightfall, but on a real adventure, you never know when you might be forced to stay in the wilderness longer than planned."
Hiroshi: "When you're ready, follow me!"
As we inspected our weapons and adjusted the provisions in our bags, Ayako and Hiroshi began leading the way toward the nearest gate. Situated in a region isolated from everything and in the vicinity of a dungeon, the village requires lots of protection, featuring a high wooden fence made with tall logs driven into the ground side by side. To leave the village, we need to pass through a gate guarded by soldiers. During the walk to the gate, Ayako continued:
Ayako: "Yesterday, I stopped by the guild to pick a mission for us. Guess what? A group of goblins was spotted in the vicinity, and we're going to drive them out. You should have seen the receptionist's incredulous face when I accepted an F-rank mission, fufufufu..."
Hiroshi: "Goblins are among the weakest magical creatures, so it's an F-rank mission. You should be able to handle it without difficulty, but remember, never let your guard down even when facing theoretically weak enemies."
Ayako: "And, guys, here's a piece of advice: even reconnaissance teams have their bad days. They once mistook an orc camp for goblins, and there's nothing to prevent it from happening again."
Hiroshi: "I remember we had just become adventurers that day. It was the first time I truly felt my life was in danger... we were really careless back then."
Ayako: "Exactly, and that's why we don't want you guys to make the same mistake as us."
Kaelan: "Well, no matter how hard I try to imagine, I can't see you two struggling with an orc camp. I mean, at first, I didn't realize, but you guys are kind of living legends among the adventurers passing through this village; it's hard to find someone who doesn't recognize you."
Hiroshi: "Hahahaha, true, we built up a good reputation over time, but everyone has to start somewhere, don't you think? We were a pretty clumsy group at the beginning, believe me."
Kaelan: "Hmm, so that's how it is, got it..."
Ayako: "And it wasn't just the two of us; we were a group of four. I admit we were a bit unconventional, but we made things work."
Yui, suddenly interested in the topic, raised her hand eagerly, like a student would to ask a question to the teacher.
Yui: "That sounds amazing! Mei and I really want to form a group too, but we don't have anyone else in mind besides us."
Mei: "Yeah, yeah, can you tell us more about your group?"
Ayako: "Well, the other two original members of our group were none other than Kaimmy's parents, Sakura and Kazuki."
All eyes turned to me, making me feel a warmth rise to my cheeks. I confirmed with a shy nod.
Kaimmy: "Yes, my parents used to be part of their group; that's why they left me here while they went on a mission. Today, they still do some duo missions, but much less than before."
Kaelan: "Ah, I see. Are your parents famous adventurers too? That might be why you're standing out so much around here."
Mei: "Hey, don't downplay her achievements! She's doing well because she's talented! But let's continue the conversation, what did your parents do in the group?"
Kaimmy: "I, um... thank you. My dad is a sword and shield specialist, taking on the main tank role, and my mom was the group's mage. They made an incredible duo!"
I said the last part very softly, my cheeks blushing even more, but Ayako didn't let it slide, hugging me and rubbing her face against mine. It's becoming so common that I fear it might become a habit...
Ayako: "Ahww, you're so cute when you talk like that! Yes, those two were really amazing when they were together. Still are, actually."
Hiroshi: "Sakura also played the healer role alongside Ayako. You know, we didn't have a priest in the group, so the two of them had to combine efforts to make up for that."
Ayako: "Exactly! I kind of made up my own rules, but my main role was more like that of a rogue, although not exactly. I'd sneak ahead to scout the area and avoid unwanted surprises, and I ended up having to learn how to pick locks and disarm traps in the process."
Hiroshi: "I assisted Kazuki in the tank role, staying a bit behind and preventing anything that slipped past him from reaching the others. But sometimes, the roles of each group member aren't so clear-cut; adapting to the situation is always the best option."
Ayako: "Normally, in a group, you have someone on the front line, a ranged attacker, a healer, and someone specialized in reconnaissance and disarming traps. Some groups also employ adventurers with special roles, like archaeologists or individuals specifically designated to carry everyone's supplies, so they're more free to fight."
Hiroshi: "And the number of people in each role can vary too. It's most common for each group to have around 6 people, ensuring there's at least one main and one backup for the most crucial functions of the party."
The twins, full of enthusiasm, decided on the roles they wanted right then and there after hearing this explanation:
Yui: "Well, I've decided I'll be on the front line!"
Mei: "I want to be the rogue of our group."
And, turning to Ayako and Hiroshi, they continued:
Yui: "With that settled, there are two of us, but we still need to assemble the rest of our group."
Mei: "Do you have any tips on how to find more people to join us?"
With a nostalgic gleam in her eyes, Ayako replied:
Ayako: "Ah, you're getting straight to the point, I love that! Don't worry, many groups looking for new members often attend the test for new adventurers. If you showcase your skills during the test, you might impress someone, and you'll likely receive many invitations to join other groups. Or, if you prefer, you can be the leaders and start recruiting other adventurers who are taking the test. The choice is yours!"
Hiroshi: "That's how many groups form, especially among the younger ones. It's a great way to find people you get along with and who complement your skills."
As the conversation unfolded, we reached the gates. Constructed in the same rustic manner as the fence around the village, using whole logs as material, the village gates gave the impression of being quite heavy and sturdy. Three soldiers guarded the gate access, two on the ground just in front of the gate, and one in a small tower, keeping an eye on what was happening outside the village. While Hiroshi and Ayako exchanged brief words with the ground-level guards, Yui and Mei immediately sought to catch the attention of the soldier up in the tower, their eyes instantly lighting up as he began descending from the tower in response.
Yui: "Dad! Hello!"
Mei: "Dad, we're here! How's the activity today?"
The tall, sturdy man, clad in a worn-looking gray armor reflecting the sunlight, approached with a broad smile on his face.
????: "Busy as always, my arms are already sore from how many times we've had to open the gate today. That dungeon is attracting more adventurers every passing day."
Yui: "Hahaha, so it's just another normal day, as always. You remember we told you that we're going on a little training expedition with Ayako and Hiroshi today, right?"
????: "How could I forget? You two came home out of the blue yesterday all excited, saying you're going on a hunt today!"
Hiroshi: "No need to worry about it, it's just another part of their training; they need to go through this if they want to become real adventurers, after all. We'll ensure everyone's safety, I guarantee it."
Turning his attention to Hiroshi, the man continued, with a respectful tone in his voice:
????: "Yes, I'm well aware of your reputation. I know my daughters will be in very capable hands, but you know, as a father, I can't help but worry."
Mei: "Dad, don't worry, they're just some goblins! They can't even use aura; it'll be easy!"
Takeshi: "So, the group taking care of those goblins we saw lurking around the village walls at night will be you guys? Got it, good luck then." And, turning to Ayako and Hiroshi, he continued: "Thank you so much for taking care of and training my daughters. I couldn't ask for better instructors. By the way, my name is Takeshi. If you need anything, you know where to find me. Good luck on the mission!"
After passing through the gates, we walked along the road to the entrance of a small trail, frequently used by adventurers in the region to cross the forest. As I stared at that small opening in the dense vegetation, my heart began to beat faster, aware of the future that awaited me. Hunting goblins, huh? I hope it's as easy as Mei made it sound.