The interior of the guild was just as chaotic as the streets outside. Adventurers of all shapes and sizes crowded around a massive bulletin board covered in quests, while others lounged at tables, swapping stories and downing tankards of ale. A receptionist behind a wooden counter was busy fielding inquiries, her expression one of practiced patience.
As they approached the counter, the receptionist looked up. "New applicants?"
"Something like that," Kieran said before Meliora could reply.
The receptionist eyed them, her gaze lingering on Meliora's fine cloak and Fredrick's glowing broom. "We don't get many royals here. What's your business?"
"We're seeking to register as adventurers," Meliora said smoothly. "We intend to take on quests and hone our skills."
The receptionist raised an eyebrow. "You realize the guild isn't exactly… selective, right? Anyone can join. It's staying alive that's the challenge."
Fredrick puffed out his chest. "We're ready for any challenge!"
Kieran sighed. "What he means is, we're new and probably going to need some guidance."
The receptionist smirked. "Honest. I like that. Fill out these forms, and we'll get you started."
As they began the tedious process of registration, Kieran couldn't shake the feeling that they were in over their heads. The guild was a hub of danger and opportunity, but it was also a magnet for trouble. And trouble had a way of finding him.
"Here we go again," he muttered.
+
As the receptionist processed their guild registration, a familiar, glowing interface appeared in Kieran's vision. He frowned. The system rarely showed itself unless it had something to add to his suffering.
[System Update: Disciples Detected. Status Monitoring Unlocked.]
"What?" Kieran muttered under his breath.
[System Notice: You may now view the status of individuals who consider you their mentor. Use this feature wisely.]
A new menu materialized, listing Fredrick and Meliora under the heading "Active Disciples." With a thought, Kieran selected Fredrick's name.
[Fredrick]
Class: Aspiring Knight
Level: 6
Stats: Strength: 12 Agility: 8 Intelligence: 5 Charisma: 10 Luck: 7
Skills:
Broom Mastery (Unique): Channel mana through ordinary cleaning tools, transforming them into versatile weapons.
Power Pose (Passive): Boosts morale and intimidates enemies.
Beginner Swordsmanship: Basic proficiency with bladed weapons.
State: Overconfident but eager to improve.
Kieran blinked. "Broom Mastery? That's... oddly specific."
Curious, he selected Meliora next.
[Meliora]
Class: Royal Strategist
Level: 9
Stats: Strength: 6 Agility: 7 Intelligence: 15 Charisma: 18 Luck: 11
Skills:
Tactical Insight (Passive): Grants the ability to analyze battlefield conditions and predict enemy strategies.
Royal Presence (Passive): Inspires allies, increasing their effectiveness in combat.Basic Magic: Proficiency in light-based spells.
State: Determined to prove herself worthy of her royal lineage.
"Of course she'd have 'Royal Presence,'" Kieran muttered, shooting a glance at Meliora, who was calmly filling out her registration form.
Fredrick leaned closer. "Did you say something, Master?"
"Nope, nothing at all." Kieran dismissed the interface with a wave of his hand. The last thing he needed was for them to know about this new ability. The system already caused enough headaches without adding more expectations.
+
Once their registrations were complete, the receptionist handed them wooden plaques inscribed with their names. "Welcome to the Adventurers' Guild. As new members, you're starting at Bronze rank. Prove yourselves, and you'll rise through the ranks to Silver, Gold, and beyond."
Fredrick held his plaque like it was a trophy. "Thank you! We'll do our best."
Meliora gave a polite nod. "Are there any tasks suitable for beginners?"
The receptionist gestured to the large bulletin board. "Bronze-rank quests are on the left. Mostly gathering herbs or dealing with minor pests. Don't overestimate yourselves, especially if you're planning to head into the Frontier."
Kieran followed the gesture, his eyes landing on the chaotic collection of papers pinned to the board. Most quests seemed simple enough: collecting rare mushrooms, escorting caravans, exterminating oversized rats. But his attention was drawn to a group of adventurers arguing over a map at a nearby table.
"See that?" one of them said, jabbing a finger at the parchment. "The ruins past the Hollow Marsh. That's where the artifact is supposed to be."
"Are you crazy?" another replied. "We barely survived the Marsh last time. No way we're going back there without a full party and better gear."
Meliora noticed his distraction and followed his gaze. "The Frontier ruins are said to hold relics of the gods. Dangerous, but the rewards are unparalleled."
"Sounds like a great way to get yourself killed," Kieran said, turning back to the board.
Fredrick plucked a quest off the wall. "How about this one, Master? 'Eliminate the Goblins of Briar Hollow.' A group of them has been raiding farms near the city."
Kieran frowned. "Goblins, huh? Low-tier monsters, but they're crafty in groups. Are you sure you're ready for something like this?"
Fredrick straightened. "With your guidance, Master, I can handle anything."
Meliora studied the quest thoughtfully. "If it's a group of goblins, strategy will be key. Perhaps we can set a trap to reduce their numbers before engaging."
Kieran sighed. "Fine. But if things go sideways, we're running. No heroic last stands, got it?"