I had thought someone would ask who we were and where we came from, especially the innkeeper. However, I still hadn't spun up a convincing story. "We are from a village down the way to the capital. I'm here with my sister, as you saw… She is quite the adventurer," I said, trying to sound as casual as possible. With that, I started walking toward the door, eager to escape the inn's stuffy atmosphere.
All I heard from the innkeeper before I closed the door behind me was, "But she has…" I could guess he was referring to the slave collar around Marie's neck. My story was far from convincing, but it would have to do for now. I didn't believe he would report me or cause trouble, especially with so much uncertainty surrounding my character. However, I still needed to earn some money to ensure his silence. If he pressed the issue on why I ignored him, I could easily blame the hustle and bustle of the diner for not hearing him properly. After all, the inn had a dining area on the first floor, right by the reception.
With the innkeeper's directions fresh in my mind, I continued until I finally spotted the guild. The innkeeper hadn't exaggerated when he said it would be hard to miss. In fact, it was impossible to overlook, considering the guild was directly on the route from the gate to the inn.
The guild functioned as the local government, a vital institution thriving in every corner of the empire. It existed in the kingdom's capital and extended even to the most remote villages under the kingdom's rule. The guild managed records like birth certificates, death certificates, land ownership, and income details—tasks deemed too tedious for the nobles. Yet, for the common folk, especially the middle class, it provided immense benefits. By keeping track of everyone, the guild could effectively assign jobs, ensuring that blacksmiths, tailors, foragers, hunters, and adventurers received tasks suited to their skills. This system allowed the guild to thrive indefinitely. It was akin to freelancing on Earth, but much more efficient, as everyone was given consistent work tailored to their abilities. This arrangement was beneficial for both employees and employers alike, as freelancers often offered cheaper rates.
But enough about the guild; now it is time to describe it. The Guild stood out as the only four-story building in the vicinity. Its architecture resembled that of a European embassy back in Tokyo. Enclosed by iron fence walls topped with sharp spikes, the building exuded a secure, businesslike appearance. The entrance gate, made of sturdy iron bars, loomed taller than the fence and stood wide open, offering a clear view of the structure beyond. A stone pathway extended from the gate to the entrance, leading directly to the steps. Eight low steps ascended to the main doors, which were also open, creating an inviting yet straightforward, no-nonsense design. The Guild towered over the surrounding buildings, its exterior reflecting a practical and functional style—a place where nothing was hidden.
As I stepped inside, I began brainstorming answers to the potential questions I might face during the interview with HYM. After all, they wouldn't simply hand jobs to an undocumented individual, would they? I was here not only for a job, but also to ensure my documentation.
Upon entering the Guild, I was struck by the openness of the interior. It exuded a sense of organized efficiency. To my right, a reception area featured a counter staffed by friendly ladies, each ready to assist with inquiries and provide guidance to visitors like me. Every counter served a different purpose, manned by pleasant attendants who offered their help with warm smiles. Their welcoming demeanor immediately put me at ease, easing the tension that had built up since we arrived in Chafeire.
To my left, I noticed several benches arranged for those waiting, along with magazine stands stocked with a variety of publications to help pass the time. The space felt inviting yet professional, striking a balance between comfort and purpose. In the center of the room, a grand stairway rose majestically, its design suggesting a transition to more important areas of the building. The wide staircase was elegantly crafted, drawing my gaze upward and hinting at the significance of the rooms above. I knew that the upper floors housed key figures, including the Guild Master, and the atmosphere suggested that the operations conducted here were vital to the community's governance.
"What can I help you with today, Sir? Are you new here?" said the lady at the reception, striking up a conversation.
"Yes, I am. I would like to be documented, please." I replied, trying to maintain a confident tone.
Her smile broadened, and she motioned for me to step closer. "Of course! We'll need to gather some information, though. First, could you please provide your name and where are you from?"
I hesitated for a moment, the weight of the lie hanging in the air. "I'm… Arthur, from the village of Eldendier," I said, channeling my inner calm despite the flutter of anxiety in my stomach. It seemed to me that, saying my origin is from Eldendier, a village name suggested by HYM would be a great idea as it's the only place remote enough that I have information on. "I've recently arrived in Chafeire with my sister to seek opportunities for work."
"Eldendier, you say? I've heard of it! A peaceful little place," she replied, her eyes sparkling with interest. "Now, let's see… Are you currently associated with any other branches of the guild, or is this your first time?"
"This is my first time," I said, trying to keep my expression neutral. "I'm hoping to find a place where I can contribute my skills and perhaps make some coins along the way."
She nodded thoughtfully, her pen moving swiftly across a ledger as she documented my information. "Excellent! We always welcome new faces. I just need to take down a few more details, including any skills you possess and your experience level."
As she asked her questions, I began to feel a sense of relief wash over me. Perhaps this wouldn't be as difficult as I had feared. I outlined my skills, fabricating a story of adventure and survival. After all, I had experience from my own world—fighting, scavenging, and adapting to challenging situations. Maybe this would allow me to carve out a place for myself in Chafeire after all.
Once I had finished answering her questions, she looked up with a warm smile. "Thank you for your patience, Arthur. We'll process your application right away, and you should receive your documentation shortly. In the meantime, feel free to explore the Guild's facilities and see what opportunities await you!"
"Thank you," I replied, the weight of uncertainty beginning to lift. I stepped back, glancing around the bustling interior of the Guild, hopeful about what lay ahead.