Next day, in the training ground.
Adrian found himself sweaty, tired, but also exhilarated by the progress he had made during the session. Gruff, the dwarf trainer, offered him a firm pat on the back. "Good work, lad. You've got the spirit of a warrior in you. Keep at it, and you'll only get better with time."
Over the course of the training session, the Ironheart and other trainers guided the students through a series of exercises and drills aimed at enhancing their agility, strength, and combat skills. Adrian practiced swings and strikes with weapons, worked on his footwork, and engaged in sparring bouts to put his skills to the test.
As the training was over and it was nearing lunch time, Adrian went back to his inn. He freshened up and took a lunch before doing what he planned to do today.
First, he asked the innkeeper where to register for citizenship. The innkeeper nodded as Adrian inquire about the process of obtaining citizenship. She provided him with directions to the city's administrative building where he could initiate the citizenship registration process.
"It's not far from here," she explained. "Head out of the inn, take a right, and follow the main street. You'll come across the administrative building on your left after a short walk. It's a well-maintained stone building with a blue roof. You can't miss it."
She also mentioned that the building typically had clear signs indicating its purpose, making it easy to identify.
"If you have your identification documents and any necessary forms of documentation, they'll be able to guide you through the registration process," the innkeeper added.
It seemed that the path to obtaining citizenship iswas straightforward, and the city's administrative building was conveniently located nearby.
As he made his way to the administrative building following the innkeeper's directions, he found himself amidst the bustling activity of the city streets. The architecture around him shifted from quaint shops and cozy inns to more formal and official buildings. After a short walk, he spotted the administrative building with its distinctive blue roof, standing out among the surrounding structures.
Upon entering the building, he was greeted by a spacious and well-organized interior. The walls were adorned with decorative symbols, and the floors were polished stone. People were moving about, some standing in line, while others were engaged in conversations with clerks at various counters.
There was a main information desk near the entrance where a friendly-looking elf was stationed. Adrian approached the desk, and the elf smiled warmly at him.
"Welcome to the administrative building. How may I assist you today?" the elf inquired in a pleasant tone.
Adrian let the elf know that he was interested in registering for citizenship and asked about the necessary steps to do so.
The elf nodded in understanding and provided him with a brief overview of the process:
"Registering for citizenship involves a few steps. First, we'll need to verify your identification and gather some basic information. Once that's done, you'll need to complete an application form and provide any relevant documentation. The process usually takes a short while, and we'll guide you through each step."
The elf handed Adrian an application form and pointed him toward a seating area where he could fill it out. Additionally, they explained that he would need to present some form of identification and any supporting documents that might be required, such as proof of residency or other credentials.
"Feel free to approach the counter when you're ready to proceed. We're here to help," the elf added with a smile.
Adrian told him that he had no paperwork, no identification. As for the reason, he was traveling got attacked and had to run for a few days. All his belongings were left behind in the forest.
The elf at the information desk listened attentively as Adrian explained his situation. The elf nodded sympathetically and hummed as Adrian recounted the events that led to his lack of paperwork and identification.
"I understand. It seems you've had quite the journey," the elf responded. "While it's unfortunate that you don't have your documentation with you, we can certainly work through this. In cases like yours, we have a process for verifying identity through other means."
The elf explained that they can guide Adrian through an alternative verification process that might involve answering specific questions about his background, providing details of his journey, and possibly even corroborating his story through witnesses or other forms of verification.
"We want to ensure the accuracy and legitimacy of the information we gather, so please bear with us as we go through this process," the elf adds reassuringly.
They gestured toward a seating area and invited Adrian to take a seat while the elf prepared the necessary paperwork for this alternative verification process. Adrian would likely be asked a series of questions to establish his identity and provided context for his situation.
"Once we have the information we need, we'll work on completing the registration process for you," the elf explains.
Adrian asked, “Why must this be so complicated?”
As Adrian expressed his frustration with the complexity of the situation, the elf at the information desk listens attentively to his concerns.
"I understand that this process can be overwhelming, especially given your circumstances," the elf responded diplomatically. "However, I must emphasize that our goal is to ensure the accuracy and integrity of our records. Citizenship is an important matter, and we want to be thorough in our verification."
When Adrian further mentioned the possibility of seeking assistance through an unconventional means, the elf raised an eyebrow, indicating their curiosity about what he was suggesting. As Adrian continued to speak, the elf's expression remains neutral, but there's a clear sense that he was evaluating Adrian’s proposal.
"Sir, I must remind you that the administrative process is designed to be fair and transparent for all individuals," the elf states firmly. "Bribery is not an appropriate or acceptable course of action. If you have legitimate concerns or questions, we're here to help you within the bounds of the law and regulations."
The elf's response underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of the administrative process and treating all citizens equally. They offered the opportunity to proceed with the alternative verification process or address any specific concerns that someone might have within the established framework.
Adrian made the decision to reject the alternative offer and stepped away from the administrative building for now. As he left, he could not help but reflected on the unique challenges of navigating a fantasy world that might have its own set of rules and procedures, quite distinct from what he was accustomed to in the modern world.
As he contemplated his next steps, Adrian was reminded of the capabilities his cheat skill afforded him. The thought of creating a solution that might streamline bureaucratic processes or documentation requirements certainly had its appeal.
As he took a moment to survey the bustling city around him, Adrian was greeted by a colorful array of shops and establishments that catered to a variety of needs and interests. This fantastical world offered a diverse range of businesses, each with its own unique offerings and charm. Here were some of the types of shops he could find in this city:
Weapons and Armor Shops: From swords and bows to suits of armor and shields, these shops provided adventurers with the tools they needed to defend themselves and embark on daring quests.
Magical Emporiums: Stores specializing in magical items, potions, and enchanted trinkets offered adventurers a chance to enhance their abilities or protect themselves from supernatural threats.
You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.
Alchemy Shops: Alchemists offered a variety of concoctions, elixirs, and potions that could grant temporary boosts or unique effects, catering to those seeking a touch of magic in their lives.
Bookstores and Libraries: For those eager to expand their knowledge, these establishments offered a wide range of tomes, scrolls, and scripts, covering topics from history and lore to spells and incantations.
Herb and Potion Shops: Herbalists and apothecaries provided ingredients for brewing potions, as well as ready-made remedies for ailments and injuries.
Jewelry and Trinket Stores: Artisans crafted beautiful jewelry and trinkets adorned with precious stones and intricate designs, perfect for personal adornment or gift-giving.
Tailor and Clothing Shops: These shops offered a variety of clothing and accessories, catering to different races, cultures, and preferences.
Food and Drink Establishments: Taverns, inns, and food stalls offered a diverse range of meals, beverages, and treats to satiate adventurers' appetites after a long day's journey.
Artisan Workshops: Skilled craftsmen and craftswomen created intricate handcrafted items, from pottery and sculptures to intricate woodwork and metalwork.
Magical Academies: Prestigious institutions that offered training in the arcane arts and magic, attracting aspiring wizards, sorcerers, and spellcasters.
Stables: Adventurers could purchase or rent steeds, from horses to fantastical creatures, for swift travel across the land.
Blacksmiths and Forges: Expert blacksmiths and metalworkers provided weapons, armor, and tools that are both functional and beautifully crafted.
General Stores: These stores offered a variety of everyday items and supplies, catering to adventurers' needs for camping, travel, and survival.
Antique and Curiosity Shops: Curio shops showcase unique and ancient artifacts, intriguing oddities, and relics from the past.
Entertainment Venues: The city offered theaters, music halls, and other entertainment venues where bards, actors, and performers showcase their talents.
These were just a few examples of the diverse range of shops and establishments that populated this vibrant city of Arinthas.
Adrian decided to went to the bookstore. As he went in, he was greeted by the comforting scent of aged parchment and ink. The shelves were lined with a diverse array of books, scrolls, and manuscripts, each promising to transport him to different worlds, impart knowledge, or unlock the secrets of this fantastical realm. Here were some of the types of books he could find in the bookstore:
Adventures and Tales: Collections of thrilling stories and heroic sagas recounting the deeds of legendary adventurers, mythical creatures, and epic battles.
Spellbooks and Grimoires: Guides to magic and spellcasting, ranging from basic cantrips to powerful incantations, providing insight into the arcane arts.
Histories and Lore: Volumes detailing the history of the world, its civilizations, cultures, and important events that had shaped its past.
Bestiaries: Illustrated guides to the creatures and monsters that inhabited this world, complete with information about their habits, strengths, and weaknesses.
Maps and Atlases: Cartographic works that depicted the geography of the realm, showing regions, cities, landmarks, and hidden places.
Alchemy and Herbalism: Manuals for brewing potions, creating elixirs, and harnessing the power of plants and magical ingredients for healing and enhancement.
Philosophy and Ethics: Thought-provoking treatises on moral dilemmas, ethical principles, and the nature of existence in this world.
Craftsmanship and Skills: Instructional guides on various trades and skills, from blacksmithing and woodworking to music and artistry.
Languages and Linguistics: Books that delved into the various languages spoken in the realm, offering insight into communication among different races.
Religious Texts: Scriptures and teachings of the different deities and religions worshiped in this world, exploring faith and spirituality.
Astrology and Divination: Works that delved into the study of celestial bodies, predicting the future, and interpreting signs and omens.
Mythology and Legends: Compilations of myths, legends, and folklore, revealing the stories of gods, heroes, and mythical creatures.
Magical Theories: In-depth analyses of magical theories, discussing the mechanics of spellcasting, the elements, and the planes of existence.
Travel Journals: Personal accounts of adventurers' travels and explorations, complete with sketches, observations, and insights from their journeys.
Educational Primers: Beginner's guides to various subjects, designed to introduce newcomers to the world's history, magic, culture, and more.
These books held the potential to expand Adrian’s knowledge, sharpen his skills, and immerse him further in the rich tapestry of this fantasy world.
Adrian picked a map which showed this city and kingdom. He also picked 3 books about adventuring tales, plus 1 book about history. Then he went back again to pick a book about travel journals. Lastly he picked a book about educational primer. Then he came to the shopkeeper and paid his purchases.
The total cost of the books he had chosen:
Map of the City and Kingdom: 50 copper coins
Adventuring Tales (x3): 150 copper coins (50 copper each)
History Book: 50 copper coins
Travel Journal: 50 copper coins
Educational Primer: 50 copper coins
Total Cost: 350 copper coins
Books stored in his bag of holding, which was also stored in another bag as a form of hiding his wealth from potential thieves, Adrian went back to his room. There he spread out the map on a table. But it was too big, so he moved it on the floor. He was greeted by a beautifully detailed depiction of the city and its surrounding kingdom. The map was a work of art, showing a combination of artistic craftsmanship and cartographic accuracy. Here's what he saw:
City Layout: The map showcases the layout of the city, with its winding streets, bustling marketplaces, and towering structures. The city was divided into distinct districts, each labeled with its name and notable landmarks. Adrian could see the residential areas, commercial centers, and areas of interest marked clearly.
Landmarks: Prominent landmarks were depicted with detailed illustrations, making them easy to identify. The Royal Palace, the Grand Library, the Mage's Tower, and other significant structures stood out on the map.
Geography: Beyond the city's walls, the map extended to display the surrounding kingdom. Adrian could see forests, rivers, mountains, and other geographical features that made up the landscape.
Roads and Trails: Various roads and trails connected the city to nearby towns, villages, and points of interest. These pathways were marked with thin lines, indicating the routes he could take to explore the region.
Annotations: The map was adorned with annotations that provide additional information about specific locations, historical events, and notable figures associated with the city and kingdom. These annotations offered insights into the realm's history and culture.
As he looked at the map, he also looked at his business opportunity newspaper. He crossed over the information. He wondered whether there were any resources that he could quickly grab in the wild and then sold it in the city.
Examining the business opportunity newspaper once more, he scaned its pages for did not on potential resources that he could acquire and sell within the city. While the newspaper doesn't specifically list resources like a trading catalog, it did contain some valuable insights that could guide him:
Resource Abundance: The newspaper mentioned that the nearby forests were rich in timber and various herbs. The mountains to the west were known to contain valuable ores and minerals. Additionally, there's mention of a fertile valley to the east where farmers cultivate a variety of crops.
Demand and Trade: The newspaper highlights the growing demand for raw materials and natural resources due to the city's expansion and development. This includes timber for construction, herbs for alchemical purposes, ores for blacksmithing, and agricultural products for the bustling markets.
Local Crafts: While not exactly resources in the traditional sense, the newspaper did mention the city's reputation for producing fine crafts, intricate jewelry, and magical artifacts. These items could fetch a good price in both local and international markets.
Opportunities for Gathering: The newspaper also provided information on various guilds and associations that deal with resource extraction and trade. For instance, there's mention of a Timberwrights Guild for those interested in the timber trade, and a Miner's Consortium for mining ventures.
Challenges: Keep in mind that gathering resources might come with challenges such as navigating the wilderness, dealing with potential creatures or bandits, and adhering to any regulations set by local authorities or guilds.
Adrian contemplated and played with his chin. He looked again on the map wondering what was in the north, east, south, and west of the city. After consulting both the map and his Business Opportunity Newspaper, here was a brief overview of what laid in the cardinal directions from the Arinthas city:
West: As Adrian gazed westward from the city, his eyes settled on a range of imposing mountains. These mountains were said to contain rich deposits of various ores and minerals. Adventurers and miners often ventured into these peaks in search of valuable resources, while artisans and blacksmiths eagerly await the raw materials that emerge from these rugged terrains.
East: Turning his attention to the east, he saw a vast and fertile valley stretching out before him. This valley was known for its lush farmlands, where farmers cultivate a variety of crops to supply the city with fresh produce. The agricultural bounty of the valley helps sustain the city's population and contributes to the vibrant markets within its walls.
North: Looking north, he found dense and mysterious forests. These woodlands were home to a myriad of flora and fauna, including various herbs, plants, and creatures. The forests were often explored by alchemists, herbalists, and those seeking rare and magical components for their crafts. Be wary, though, as the deeper reaches of the forest might hold untold secrets and dangers.
South: Casting he gazed to the south, he saw coastal region with beaches and port. There was also a place called Rivenport for sea trade routes.
Adrian sighed. It seems that there were no resources free for grabbing. Even if there was, the road there was dangerous.
Time flew quickly. He noticed that it was time for dinner. This time he picked something worth 10 copper. Then he went back to my room. This time he turned on the candle while he read a book. It was a traveling book. “What is the book about?” Asked Adrian in whisper.
One of the traveling book he picked up from the bookstore was titled "Journeys Beyond Borders: Tales of Adventurous Exploration." As he opened its pages and began to read, he was immediately drawn into a world of vivid descriptions and captivating narratives. The book was a compilation of various travel journals, each chronicling the experiences of different individuals who ventured into uncharted territories, distant lands, and exotic realms.
The stories within the book transported him to faraway landscapes and cultures, painting detailed pictures of bustling markets, awe-inspiring landscapes, encounters with curious creatures, and interactions with local inhabitants. Adrian read about intrepid explorers crossing deserts, navigating dense jungles, scaling towering mountains, and sailing uncharted waters.
Throughout the pages, he encountered firsthand accounts of challenges overcome, friendships forged, and the profound personal growth that came from venturing into the unknown. The book not only provided a sense of escapism but also ignited his own wanderlust, inspiring him to consider the unexplored possibilities that laid beyond the city's walls.
As he delved deeper into the book "Journeys Beyond Borders: Tales of Adventurous Exploration," he came across a chapter that touched upon the practical aspects of travel, including legal and bureaucratic considerations. The author shared his experiences navigating the paperwork and regulations that came with exploring new lands and territories.
In this particular chapter, the author recounted their journey to a foreign city and the challenges they faced when it came to obtaining the necessary permits and documentation. He described encounters with local officials, the intricacies of obtaining visas, and the importance of understanding the local laws and customs to avoid inadvertently breaking any rules.
“Visas?” Asked Adrian as he rubbed his forehead. “Is this fantasy world or modern world?”
The author also provided practical tips on how to prepare for legal and bureaucratic hurdles while traveling, such as:
Research: Before embarking on a journey, it's essential to research the entry requirements, visa regulations, and any specific permits needed for the destinations you plan to visit.
Documentation: Keep copies of important documents, such as passports, visas, identification, and any permits, both physically and digitally. Having these documents readily accessible could help streamline the process at checkpoints and border crossings.
Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of the places you would be visiting. This includes understanding cultural norms, restrictions on photography, and any prohibited activities.
Patience and Courtesy: Dealing with bureaucratic processes could be time-consuming and occasionally frustrating. Maintaining a patient and courteous demeanor when interacting with officials could go a long way in facilitating smoother transactions.
Seek Assistance: If you're unsure about any legal requirements or procedures, consider seeking guidance from local experts or experienced travelers who are familiar with the region.
Adrian slammed his head against the table. Lamenting about the discipline this world had on legal paperwork. As he let out his frustration, he found solace in the warm water of the bath, allowing it to wash away the stresses of the day. After the refreshing soak, he slipped into the welcoming embrace of his bed. The day's events and the information he had gathered filled his thoughts as he closed his eyes, finally succumbing to sleep.