As the group approached Swan Town, Ethan noticed its charm despite being smaller than the grand cities he'd imagined. The cobblestone streets were lively, with children playing, vendors selling fresh produce, and a small fountain in the town square where travelers rested. In the distance, modest houses and shops lined the main road, their thatched roofs and stone walls giving the town a quaint yet bustling atmosphere.
The adventurer guild was the largest building in town. Its wooden exterior bore the emblem of crossed swords and a shield, and adventurers in armor and robes moved in and out of its doors.
"Let's get you registered," Iris said, leading Ethan inside.
The guild hall was filled with adventurers of all kinds—humans, beastkin, elves, and dwarves—huddled around job boards or chatting over tankards of ale. The air smelled faintly of wood smoke and leather.
A beautiful elf woman with striking red eyes and curly yellow hair greeted them from behind the counter. "Welcome to the adventurer guild. Are you here to register?"
"Yes," Ethan replied, stepping forward.
The elf handed him a form and explained, "Please fill in your details, including your elemental affinity and class. If you're unsure about anything, I can assist."
Ethan glanced at the form and filled in the details with the system's guidance.
Adventurer Registration Form:
Full Name: Ethan Maxwell
Race: Human
Gender: Male
Age: 15
Class/Occupation: Magic Swordsman
Elemental Affinity: All Elements
When he handed back the form, Zora, the elf receptionist, froze. She read the details, her expression shifting to disbelief. "All elements?" she repeated. "Sir, no one has ever registered with mastery over all elements. Are you certain?"
Ethan scratched his head. "Pretty sure. Do you have a way to verify?"
Zora hesitated before nodding. "Wait here. I'll inform the guild master. This requires special approval."
---
Minutes later, Zora returned with a stern-looking man. He was tall and muscular, with a scar running down his cheek and piercing blue eyes. "I'm Alaric, the guild master," he introduced himself. "Zora tells me you claim to wield all elements. Such an extraordinary claim needs proof."
"I'm ready," Ethan said confidently.
Alaric placed a glowing crystal orb on the counter. It pulsed faintly with magical energy. "Place your hand on this orb. It will reveal the elements you can control."
Ethan nodded and placed his hand on the crystal. At first, nothing happened. Then, it began to glow. Colors erupted within—red for fire, blue for water, brown for earth, yellow for lightning, white for light, black for darkness, and a faint silvery shimmer for spatial magic. The orb's light grew so bright that it illuminated the entire hall.
The crowd around them fell silent. Even seasoned adventurers stopped in their tracks to witness the spectacle.
"It's true," Alaric muttered, his voice filled with awe. "You possess affinity for all elements. This is unheard of."
The orb dimmed, and Ethan removed his hand. "Does this mean I'm approved?"
Alaric smiled faintly. "You've proven yourself, but be warned—such talent will draw attention, both good and bad. Proceed with caution."
---
Zora completed Ethan's registration and handed him a silver badge. "This is your adventurer badge. It will track your rank and achievements. You're starting as an Apprentice, but with your abilities, I'm sure you'll rise quickly."
"Thank you," Ethan said, admiring the badge.
"By the way," Alaric added, "the guild also offers quests, training, and resources. Don't hesitate to use them. We'll be keeping an eye on your progress."
Ethan nodded, feeling a mix of pride and curiosity. As they exited the guild, Iris turned to him with a smile. "What do you think of becoming an adventurer?"
"It's a good start," Ethan replied. "But I think the royal academy might be the next step. I want to refine my skills."
Iris nodded. "Then let's head there next. The academy is where the best of Aeloria gather. It will be the perfect place for you to grow."