Chapter 16: A New Path and Rising Tensions
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the stone pathways of the Royal Academy, Kain stood at the window of his quarters, his mind elsewhere. The welcome party for the new students was fast approaching, but Kain had other plans. He had been preparing for weeks, honing his powers in the spatial dimension, and now he was ready to take the next step—registering with the adventurers' guild to gain real world experience.
He knew that sneaking out of the academy without being detected would be a challenge, especially with so many eyes around. Fortunately, his shadow abilities gave him an advantage that few others possessed. With a flicker of thought, he summoned an android replica of himself from his spatial dimension. The android would attend to any potential visitors, serving as his stand-in while he ventured into the city.
With the android activated, Kain turned to the window and allowed his body to meld into the shadows cast by the setting sun. His form dissolved into darkness, and in an instant, he slipped through the narrow gap beneath the window, disappearing into the deepening twilight outside.
The shadows embraced him as he traveled swiftly and silently through the alleys of the capital, unseen by the crowds bustling about their evening routines. His destination: the adventurers' guild. However, Kain quickly realized that while he had his abilities, he didn't know where the guild was located. The capital was vast, and aimlessly wandering the streets could waste precious time.
He emerged from the shadows near a bustling tavern, deciding that this would be a good place to gather information. Slipping inside unnoticed with a mask on, he quietly approached the bar, blending in with the other patrons.
The bartender, a grizzled man with a scar across his cheek, looked up from his work. "Need something?" he asked, eyeing Kain.
"I'm looking for the adventurers' guild," Kain replied, keeping his voice low and measured.
The bartender chuckled. "First time in the capital, huh? You'll find it in the western district. Just head down the main road, take a left at the blacksmith's forge. Can't miss it."
Kain nodded his thanks and exited the tavern, slipping back into the shadows the moment he was outside. He moved quickly, following the directions he'd been given. As he approached the western district, he spotted the blacksmith's forge, its glowing embers lighting up the street. Nearby, the large building with a sign featuring crossed swords and a shield came into view. This had to be the guild.
He stepped out of the shadows and entered the building. Inside, the adventurers' guild was lively and filled with chatter. Adventurers of all ranks were gathered around the quest boards, discussing missions and boasting of their achievements. Kain moved to the registration desk, where an older man with a weathered face sat, flipping through a stack of papers.
"Looking to sign up?" the man asked, giving Kain a brief glance.
"Yes," Kain replied simply.
The man handed him a registration form. "Fill this out. Once you're done, you'll get your guild card, and you can start taking on quests."
Kain quickly filled out the form, listing his basic skills without revealing the full extent of his powers. He handed the form back, and the man nodded in approval before pulling a small metal card from a drawer and handing it to Kain.
"This is your guild card," the man said. "Keep it on you at all times. You'll need it to accept quests or get paid. If you lose it, you'll have to pay to replace it."
Kain took the card and examined it. His name and a unique identification number were engraved on the front, while the back displayed the insignia of the adventurers' guild. Pocketing the card, Kain thanked the man and stepped away from the counter.
He scanned the quest board, his eyes lingering on a few promising missions. While he was eager to get started, Kain knew he couldn't linger. The welcome party was about to begin, and he needed to be back at the academy before anyone noticed his absence.
Melding into the shadows once more, Kain left the guild, moving swiftly and silently through the city's alleys until he reached the academy grounds. He re-entered his room through the same shadows that had carried him out, seamlessly returning to his quarters.
The android was still standing by the window, having fulfilled its purpose. Kain deactivated it and watched as it disappeared back into his spatial dimension. No one had come looking for him while he was gone.
A knock at the door broke his thoughts. Aria, dressed elegantly for the party, entered with a bright smile. "Kain! The party's starting soon. Are you ready?"
Kain nodded, offering her a calm smile to mask the tension of his earlier excursion. "I'm ready. Let's go."
Together, they made their way to the grand hall, where the welcome party was in full swing. The hall was filled with the sound of music and laughter as students, nobles, and protectors mingled. Tables were laden with food, and the atmosphere was festive, but Kain's mind remained focused. The real challenges were yet to come.
As they entered the hall, Kain's eyes swept the room, noting the presence of several prominent figures among the students. Some exuded an aura of power and confidence, while others looked more reserved. It was clear that the ranking duels that would take place in the coming days had already begun to stir tensions.
Aria leaned in, speaking quietly. "Everyone seems excited, don't they? It's strange to think that just a few days ago, we were strangers, and now we're part of something bigger."
Kain nodded, though his thoughts were elsewhere. He had successfully registered with the guild and obtained his card, marking the beginning of his journey as an adventurer. Soon, he would be able to test his abilities in the real world, away from the scrutiny of the academy. For now, however, he would play his part in the academy, waiting for the right moment to reveal his true strength.
The night continued, filled with music, conversation, and the occasional glimpse of intrigue. But for Kain, this was just the beginning.
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