Stern crossed his arms, his expression a mix of disbelief and frustration as we stood by the bustling town square. His sharp green eyes narrowed in on me, and for the first time, I felt the weight of his scrutiny bearing down hard.
"You're kidding, right?" he said, his voice low, yet laced with irritation. "No class insignia? You mean to tell me all this time you've been a... self-proclaimed warrior?"
I scratched the back of my head, sheepishly looking away. "Well, yeah. I mean... I fight with a sword, don't I?"
He let out an exasperated sigh, shaking his head. "That's not the point. No wonder I didn't see you use any actual warrior skills during our last quest or our duel. You have no formal training from the Class Guilds." His hand came down hard on my shoulder. "We need to fix that, now."
Before I could protest, Stern was already marching toward the town hall, the hub of all registrations and legal matters. The building loomed ahead, an impressive structure with grand arches and polished stonework, gleaming under the midday sun. I followed, not entirely sure what I was getting myself into, but I trusted Stern—though his scolding could have been a little softer.
---
We entered the occupation, profession, and class registration hall, a spacious room with various counters, some for class registration, others for secondary professions. The air inside was cool and carried the scent of parchment and ink. Stern led me to one of the counters, where a well-dressed man with a neat hairstyle greeted us with a professional, yet polite smile.
"Welcome," he said, his voice smooth and practiced, as though he had repeated this greeting countless times before. His posture was straight, and his navy-blue attire seemed immaculate, not a single wrinkle in sight. "My name is Klaus, the Class and Job Assistant. How may I assist you both today?"
Stern gestured toward me with a curt nod. "He needs to register. He's been calling himself a warrior, but in reality, he has no class insignia or proper training. We're here to fix that."
Klaus raised a brow but didn't miss a beat. His smile remained professional, though there was a flicker of amusement in his eyes. "A self-proclaimed warrior, you say? Interesting." He turned his attention to me, his hands clasped behind his back. "Well, it's a good thing you're here now. It's important for all adventurers to align themselves with a class guild, not only to gain skills but also to be recognized officially."
I shifted uneasily. "Yeah... I didn't exactly know how all this worked. Honestly, this is all new to me. Could you explain what the class system is, and maybe the job system too, while we're at it?"
Klaus' eyes lit up, and with a small nod, he stepped around from behind the counter, his hands gesturing smoothly as he began his explanation.
"A class, young adventurer, is your primary role, the foundation upon which your abilities, fighting style, and progression as an adventurer are built. When you choose a class, you become a member of the respective Class Guild, which is responsible for training you and helping you develop specialized skills. The main classes we offer are warrior, mage, archer, thief, priest, and fighter."
I nodded slowly, taking in every word. Stern stood beside me, his arms crossed, his expression softening as Klaus explained the process.
"Each class has its own unique skill set," Klaus continued, "and as you grow stronger and gain more experience, you will be offered the opportunity to advance into specialized class branches. For example, as a warrior, you may choose to become a swordsman, knight, or guardian. Each of these branches offers distinct abilities and combat styles, allowing you to focus your strengths."
He paused, looking at me as though waiting for any questions. When I remained silent, processing the weight of everything he was saying, he continued.
"Now, a secondary job, profession, or occupation is something you can pursue alongside your primary class. This helps adventurers develop skills outside of combat. Once you choose a secondary job, you'll join a merchant guild associated with that profession. These guilds offer specialized training and resources."
I felt a spark of curiosity. "What kind of jobs can I take on?"
Klaus smiled warmly, clearly pleased with my interest. "There are several paths you can follow. Let me give you a few examples." He extended his hands as if painting the image for me, his voice smooth and authoritative.
"Take Artisans, for example. They join the Artisan Guild and can specialize in:
- Weaponsmiths, who craft high-quality weapons like swords and axes.
- Armorsmiths, who forge protective gear such as shields and armor.
- Alchemists, experts in creating potions and magical substances.
- Enchanters, who imbue items with magical properties.
- And finally, Jewelers, who craft enchanted accessories such as rings and amulets."
Stern glanced at me with a raised brow, almost challenging me to pick something impressive. Klaus, meanwhile, carried on without missing a beat.
"For Collectors, who join the Collector Guild, there are options like:
- Treasure Hunters, who seek out rare artifacts and treasures.
- Herbalists, who gather medicinal and magical herbs.
- Miners, who extract precious ores and gemstones.
- Lumberjacks, who harvest wood from forests.
- And Beast Tamers, who capture and train animals or magical creatures."
The idea of taming beasts sounded... intriguing. But before I could dwell on it, Klaus moved on.
"For Builders, they join the Builder Guild, and can become:
- Architects, who design structures.
- Masons, skilled in stonework.
- Engineers, who craft machinery.
- Carpenters, who specialize in wooden structures."
I glanced at Stern, who was watching me closely, clearly wondering what I was thinking. But Klaus wasn't done yet.
"Then we have the Researcher Guild, where you could become a:
- Historian, recording ancient knowledge.
- Magical Scholar, researching advanced magic.
- Scientist, advancing technology or biology.
- Rune Master, who deciphers ancient runes for powerful magic."
Klaus' expression brightened even more as he reached his final point.
"Finally, we have the Entertainer Guild for those who seek joy in performance. Specializations include:
- Bards, who play instruments with magical effects.
- Actors, who perform stories and plays.
- Dancers, entertainers through movement.
- Illusionists, who use magical illusions.
- And Painters, who create art for galleries."
He let out a breath, a satisfied gleam in his eyes as he stepped back. "So, as you can see, there are countless ways to grow not just as a warrior, but as an individual in our world. Both combat and non-combat skills shape your journey."
I stared at him, my mind racing with possibilities. There was so much more to being an adventurer than just swinging a sword. I had a whole new world of skills to explore. I glanced at Stern, who gave me a small smirk.
"Well?" he asked. "Time to stop proclaiming and start becoming an actual warrior, don't you think?"
I grinned, finally feeling like I was about to take my first real step forward.
I stood there, trying to absorb everything about classes and secondary jobs. With a slight furrow in my brow, I turned to Stern.
"So, what about you? Which class and merchant guild are you part of?" I asked, genuinely curious. It felt a little odd to ask this now, considering all the time we've spent together, but I never thought to ask about the specifics of his affiliations.
Stern smirked, his usual cocky grin surfacing. "Obviously, I'm part of the Mage Guild. I think it's pretty clear by now, right?" He chuckled. "As for the merchant guild, my secondary job is mainly with the Researcher Guild. But... I'm also part of the Collector Guild since I'm a book hunter. I'm searching for grimoires—different kinds of them—so I can learn as many spells as possible."
I blinked in surprise, tilting my head slightly as I absorbed his words. "Wait, you're part of two merchant guilds?" It wasn't exactly what I expected, and honestly, it sounded like a lot of work. "How does that even work?"
Klaus, ever attentive, jumped in with a smile. "Ah, good question! Some professions, or secondary jobs, can indeed be highly compatible with each other. Take Stern here for example. Since his research revolves around grimoires, and collecting those grimoires is a core part of his work, he naturally fits into both the Researcher and Collector Guilds. Being a book hunter, he needs to do research to find grimoires and then collect them, so both guilds suit his needs. Collectors, in particular, are often compatible with other professions, as they gather rare and valuable resources that may aid various other professions."
Stern crossed his arms, looking smug, nodding along to Klaus's explanation. "Yeah, it makes perfect sense when you think about it. My work requires both collecting and researching to uncover new spells. Two guilds, twice the knowledge."
I nodded, beginning to understand how these professions could interconnect. "That... actually does make sense," I muttered. It was fascinating how diverse this whole system was. But now, it was time to decide for myself.
"I'll choose warrior as my class," I said confidently, the excitement building in my chest. It was the moment I had been waiting for. Finally, I'd make my self-proclaimed title official.
Klaus smiled warmly. "Excellent choice! You're about to become a true warrior now," he said with a nod, but his expression shifted slightly. "However, before you can officially join the Warrior Guild, there is one more step. You'll need to take the class exam."
I raised an eyebrow. "Class exam? What kind of exam?" My curiosity piqued. Was it a written test? Physical trials?
"Don't worry," Klaus chuckled, turning on his heel and gesturing for us to follow him. "I'll lead you to the Warrior Guild office. The exam will be explained there."
Stern and I followed Klaus through the town hall, winding our way through bustling corridors until we reached a large, imposing door with the Warrior Guild insignia etched onto it. It looked sturdy, as though it had been there for years, weathering countless battles and challenges.
We entered the office, the interior space feeling like a warrior's haven. Weapons of all shapes and sizes adorned the walls, and the room hummed with the energy of those who sought strength and glory.
Klaus gestured toward two figures standing near the back. "Guild Master Kaida and her assistant Draven will be handling your registration and exam."
Guild Master Kaida stepped forward first, her presence immediately filling the room. She was a beastkin—a cat-person—with sharp, feline features that gave her an air of both elegance and intimidation. Her fur was sleek and dark, her cat ears flicked slightly as she assessed me, and her long, muscular tail flicked behind her in subtle, controlled movements. She wore a set of sturdy warrior armor, fitted perfectly to her lean but powerful form, exuding an aura of authority and fearlessness. Despite her intimidating presence, her amber eyes sparkled with a warmth that suggested she enjoyed a good challenge.
Kaida grinned, baring her sharp teeth in what I hoped was a friendly gesture. "So, you're the new applicant." Her voice was strong, but there was a friendly tone behind it. "I'm Kaida, the Guild Master here. Welcome to the Warrior Guild."
Klaus nodded to me and gestured for me to introduce myself. I took a deep breath, straightened up, and puffed out my chest, trying to match the grand atmosphere. "I'm Held Bernhard, and I will be the strongest adventurer and a true hero!" I declared, my voice booming, "But, uh... yeah, I'm here to register as a warrior!"
There was a beat of silence before Kaida burst out laughing, the sound rich and booming. Her ears twitched with amusement as her tail swayed with each hearty laugh. "I like your spirit!" she said between chuckles, clearly entertained by my grandiose introduction. "Confidence and ambition are essential in a warrior. But, let's see if you can back that up."
She straightened up, her playful demeanor giving way to seriousness. "Registration is simple. You just need to pass the exam. If you can do that, you'll officially be part of the Warrior Guild."
I gulped slightly, though I tried to hide my nerves. "Okay... What's the exam?"
Kaida's grin returned, and she casually pointed behind her. "You'll need to defeat him."
A young man stepped forward, and the energy in the room seemed to shift. He had a wild, almost dangerous air about him. His armor was light but sleek, fitting his toned and muscular body like a second skin. His hair was messy, and his eyes gleamed with a cocky, arrogant glint. He cracked his knuckles with a smirk that spoke volumes about his confidence. This was Draven, the assistant, and his presence radiated aggression and challenge.
Draven crossed his arms and looked me up and down with a sneer. "You? A hero?" He scoffed. "I'm going to beat you into a pulp, 'hero,'" he said with a sharp laugh, his voice dripping with disdain and amusement.
I could feel my pulse quicken as I stared at him. This guy was going to be trouble.
As we entered the battle arena, a low hum of excitement filled the air. The arena itself was a wide, open space with a dirt floor that had clearly seen many mock battles before. The walls were lined with spectators, including staff, adventurers from the Warrior Guild, and a few curious onlookers. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, and the energy was palpable.
Klaus and Stern joined the crowd, taking their places among the audience. I could see Stern's usual smirk replaced by a look of keen interest and concern, while Klaus seemed to be brimming with encouragement. The large gong at the center of the arena was the focal point of the space.
Draven, my opponent, stood in the middle of the arena, his stance wide and ready. His posture was intimidating, his muscles tensed as if coiled to strike. His aura was filled with a wild, aggressive energy. I couldn't help but feel a pang of anxiety as I faced him. This was not just a test; it was a demonstration of raw power.
Kaida, the Guild Master, stood at a raised platform beside the arena. She looked down at us with a stern yet amused expression. "The exam is simple," she announced, her voice carrying clearly over the din. "You must survive against Draven for five minutes. You are only allowed to use a wooden sword. Do whatever you can to last the duration."
I nodded, my grip tightening on the wooden sword I had been given. I could feel the weight of it in my hands, a stark contrast to the heavy, real steel I imagined I would be wielding someday. With a deep breath, I focused my mana on enhancing my speed, preparing myself for the oncoming battle.
A sharp clang of the gong signaled the start of the match. Before I could fully immerse myself in my battle stance, a roar-like thunder erupted from Draven. His sudden, explosive dash caught me off guard. The speed and force of his initial charge were terrifying. I barely managed to sidestep his attack, the wooden sword barely deflecting the force that felt as though it could have knocked me off my feet.
Draven's eyes gleamed with a sadistic delight. "If you were weaker, you might have died," he taunted with a maniacal laugh. His tone was mocking, and it only fueled my determination to prove him wrong. I knew I had to take this seriously.
Draven was relentless. He lunged again with a crack of sound that seemed almost like real thunder. I sidestepped his attack once more, but his swing left a visible dent in the arena floor. I began running, trying to put distance between us. His movements were lightning-fast, his body surrounded by an electric surge that only added to his intimidating presence.
"So, is this your fastest?" Draven taunted, his voice crackling with excitement as he swung again. I ducked, narrowly avoiding the blow, but his follow-up downward swing came too quickly. I raised my wooden sword to deflect, but the impact was immense. The ground beneath me cracked and a small crater formed from the force. The blow sent me skidding back, my body crashing into the wall separating the arena from the audience.
The wall crumbled under the impact, and I felt the sting of pain radiating through my body. Draven's mocking voice echoed from the arena. "Still alive, are you?" His maniacal laughter filled the space, making me grit my teeth in frustration. With a grimace, I pushed myself up using my wooden sword for balance, a smirk forming despite the pain.
"Is that all you've got?" I called out with a smirk, my voice tinged with mockery. It wasn't much, but it was all I could manage in my battered state.
Draven's eyes lit up with twisted amusement. "You really do have a death wish, don't you?" he chuckled, his voice almost musical with delight.
The crowd seemed to revel in the spectacle, their cheers and claps blending into a cacophony of support. Kaida watched with a proud smile, clearly impressed. Klaus was on his feet, cheering loudly, while Stern's cheers were more subdued but no less encouraging. I could sense a hint of concern in his eyes, but he clearly believed I could pull through.
Despite my battered state, I decided it was time to turn the tables. I had to make the battle more than just a defensive struggle. With the damage Draven's swings had caused, several boulders had been created around the arena. I saw an opportunity and decided to use them.
Before Draven could launch another attack, I swung one of the boulders in his direction. It soared through the air, catching Draven off guard and causing him to momentarily lose sight of me. Seizing the opportunity, I appeared at his side. Draven dodged effortlessly and countered with a swift swing, sending me flying again. I scrambled to my feet and used another boulder, sending stones hurtling toward him. Each attack was a distraction, and for a brief moment, I managed to land a few hits. But Draven quickly regained his focus, his eyes narrowing as he pinpointed my location.
Despite my best efforts, Draven's next attack was unstoppable. His wooden sword connected with me again, sending me crashing through the air. My vision blurred, and I felt my consciousness slipping away. I struggled to stand, my body aching with exhaustion and pain. The sound of the gong echoed, signaling the end of the five minutes.
Kaida stood, her imposing figure commanding attention. "Time's up!" she announced with a clear, authoritative tone. "Held has survived the allotted time. He has passed the exam."
Draven's smile was a mix of admiration and disappointment. "You were lucky," he said, his voice still tinged with amusement. "Congratulations on surviving. I didn't expect you to last."
The crowd erupted into cheers, their excitement palpable. Klaus was jumping up and down, shouting encouragement, while Stern's eyes followed me with a mix of concern and satisfaction.
As the adrenaline began to fade, my legs buckled, and I collapsed onto the arena floor. My vision swam, and I felt an intense fatigue wash over me. The last thing I heard was the roaring applause and Draven's laughter, a mix of amusement and respect. The world around me faded as I succumbed to exhaustion.
My body crumpled on the arena floor, the echoes of the battle still ringing in my ears.
As I gradually came to, I realized I was lying on a comfortable bed in the infirmary of the town hall. The room was softly lit, with a gentle hum of activity in the background. I blinked a few times, trying to clear the fog from my mind. Klaus and Stern were seated beside me, their expressions a mix of relief and curiosity.
"You finally wake up," Stern said, his voice carrying a hint of relief. His usual stern demeanor was softened by a small, approving smile.
Klaus's face lit up with a grin. "No way you lasted that long against Draven. You're something else!" He laughed, shaking his head in disbelief.
I managed a weak chuckle, though my body protested with a dull ache. "That's right. Now I'm like a vegetable after being beaten by that beast. Haha." The humor helped ease the tension in the room, and soon we were all laughing together.
Just then, Draven appeared at the door, his imposing figure casting a long shadow into the room. His expression was one of casual amusement, the corner of his mouth twitching upwards. "Hey, you did quite a good job in our match. Usually, we just test applicants based on their strength, normally by testing their mana levels. But Kaida gave you special treatment and let you challenge me."
I raised an eyebrow, pretending to be confused. "Special treatment? Where's that coming from?"
Draven laughed heartily. "She acknowledged your spirit and wanted to see how far you could push yourself. And to our surprise, you passed the exam set by Kaida—battling me. So, you've gained respect from her." He handed me a small, intricately designed insignia. "By the way, Kaida told me to give you this. It's a warrior insignia. Put mana into it, and it will register you as a warrior in the Warriors' Guild."
I took the insignia, feeling its weight in my hand. It was cold and metallic, with a detailed emblem of crossed swords. I channeled some of my mana into it, and it began to glow with a soft, radiant light. The inscription of my new status as an official warrior was now set. "Thank you, Draven."
He gave a nod, his eyes twinkling with approval. "You're free to visit the Warriors' Guild and train anytime. You did well." With that, he turned to leave, his presence fading from the room.
Klaus and Stern congratulated me with genuine warmth. "You did great out there," Klaus said, clapping me on the shoulder.
"Yeah," Stern added, his usual seriousness tempered with a hint of pride. "You really held your own."
A few hours later, I felt almost back to my usual self. We were back at Klaus's counter, filling out some paperwork. The bustling atmosphere of the guild hall was a stark contrast to the quiet of the infirmary. Klaus looked up from the papers, his brow furrowing slightly as he considered something. "Now that you've got your class, what about your secondary job? Have you decided?"
I nodded eagerly, a spark of excitement in my eyes. "I want to be an explorer. I love the idea of going on adventures."
Klaus raised an eyebrow, a mix of amusement and curiosity crossing his face. "Exploring, huh? That role is part researcher, too. You'll be venturing into uncharted areas and exploring dungeons."
I could barely contain my enthusiasm. "Yes, exactly! That's why I'm excited. I want to see what's out there and find hidden treasures."
Stern's expression was a mix of amusement and caution. "You're acting like a child with a new toy right now. But you do know what dungeons are, right? They're dangerous, filled with monsters. Though, yes, there are treasures to be found."
"I know, and that's why I'm excited!" I replied, my excitement undimmed. "The thrill of adventure and discovery is exactly what I'm looking for."
Klaus chuckled and nodded, completing the registration process. "Alright, you're officially an explorer now. Just so you know, there isn't an explorer's guild in this town. If you head to Stormpeak Summit or the Kingdom of Stonewrought, you'll find an explorer's guild there. You should visit that place soon." He handed me a second insignia, this one representing my role as an explorer. "Here's your explorer's guild insignia."
With the paperwork done and my new roles confirmed, I felt a surge of pride and excitement. I was officially a warrior and an explorer, ready for whatever adventures lay ahead. As I left the guild hall, I felt a sense of anticipation and readiness for the challenges to come.