Upon reaching the southern training grounds, their eyes took in the sight of relentless, sweat-soaked adventurers. Each one exhibited an aura of unyielding determination, poised to confront the PhantomBlades.

“Where’s the other one?” Haruki questioned, scanning the surroundings until Garrick’s voice startled him. “Right behind you,” Garrick replied, his expression reflecting concern as Haruki momentarily forgot his participation in the Guild Challenges.

“Yeah, my bad, Garrick,” Haruki admitted. “But look at them, all fired up to take down the PhantomBlades.”

“Motivated, indeed,” Kilin remarked. “But it’s going to be a real challenge once they actually confront them.”

Daisy grinned mischievously. “Why don’t you put them to the test?”

“Huh?” Haruki blinked in surprise.

“Attention, everyone! Haruki’s up for a mock battle! He’s confident he can take you all down in seconds!” Daisy announced to the gathered adventurers.

“Wait! Hold on a second—” Haruki attempted to protest, but before he could finish, a barrage of magic and swords came hurtling toward him. He had no choice but to swiftly evade the incoming attacks.

Haruki found himself under intense pressure at the start of the mock battle, facing a barrage of attacks from numerous adversaries. The sheer volume of opponents made it challenging, but Haruki remained resilient. Through his training, he began to find his rhythm, deflecting strikes and maneuvering strategically.

Despite the overwhelming force, Haruki maintained a composed demeanor, ensuring not to cause any harm to his comrades. His movements grew more precise and calculated as he countered their attacks, gradually turning the tide of the battle.

As the clash intensified, Haruki’s skill and determination shone through. With precise maneuvers and skilled tactics, he skillfully neutralized his opponents. However, sensing that he had overpowered them, he decided to halt his attacks, concluding the mock battle on a high note.

Daisy, Garrick, Seraphina, joined by Lila and Roderick, erupted in applause for Haruki’s display.

“Told ya,” Daisy quipped, shooting a knowing glance at Kilin.

“You’re right, Daisy. Haruki’s a quick learner,” Kilin acknowledged, impressed by Haruki’s progress.

“But it wouldn’t be enough,” continued Kilin, his tone serious. “Haruki-boy, you’ll be facing opponents much stronger than you in the near future. You’re aware of that, right?”

“Absolutely,” Haruki replied. He turned to apologize to all 24 adventurers for the misunderstanding, expressing that he hadn’t intended to engage in a fight. However, he was met with warm smiles and praises from the group, appreciative of his efforts.

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The 24 adventurers resumed their training, while Haruki’s group made their way back to the northern grounds.

The day dawned anew, and Haruki readied himself at the Inn where they were staying. Making his way downstairs, he found Lila and Roderick waiting for him.

“Haruki, ready for today?” inquired Lila.

“Absolutely, all set and prepared,” he affirmed.

Roderick interjected, observing Haruki’s attire, “Before anything else, you’ll need proper equipment for the tasks ahead.” He pointed out that Haruki’s Earth clothes might not suffice for further exploration. Thus, they ventured through the town, eventually arriving at a shop boasting an array of swords, armors, and magic staffs. Once inside, Haruki sifted through numerous armors, struggling to find the right fit until he stumbled upon one that suited him perfectly.

“Haruki, you also need to buy a proper sword,” Roderick suggested.

“You’re right, this sword is for training. Better set this aside,” Haruki agreed. He resumed his search for a suitable and comfortable sword. While browsing, he noticed a particular sword emitting an elusive aura. He picked it up, showing it to the others, but they couldn’t perceive any aura from their perspective. Only Haruki could sense this mysterious energy emanating from the sword.

As he tested it out with a swing, a sudden flashback flickered in his mind—static and blurred, impossible to decipher. Bewildered, he halted, pondering, “What—was that?”

“That what?” Lila inquired.

“It’s nothing,” he replied, concealing his puzzlement. He decided to purchase the sword and, accompanied by Roderick and Lila, headed to the Guild in search of quests.

In the bustling atmosphere of the guild, adventurers clinked their tankards together, engrossed in animated conversations. Making their way through the lively crowd, Haruki, Lila, and Roderick approached the counter where Aria, the guild receptionist, was busy sorting through quests.

“Aria-san,” Haruki greeted.

“Ah, Haruki-kun, Lila-kun, Roderick-san. What can I help you with today?” Aria responded with a welcoming smile.

“We’d like to take on some quests, please,” Haruki requested.

Aria delved into the available quests, scanning through options suitable for their D-rank guild status. “D Rank… Hmmm,” she muttered thoughtfully, sifting through the list.

“D—Rank—Aha!” She said, then handed it over to the three. “Today, you’ll be collecting herbs from the south of the Empire. Aurumleaf, to be exact, though it’ll be hard to identify, as it has a similar appearance to normal grass.”

“What’s an Aurumleaf?” inquired Haruki.

”Aurumleaf, which Aria-san said is similar to common grasses, is a medical herb found far south in the Eldoria Empire. It can cure some illnesses, such as fever. But there are different types of Aurumleaf,” explained Lila.

”Normal Aurumleaf cannot cure heavy symptoms, but the second type, which is rarer, has that ability. The last one can cure any illness, even those on the brink of death, but it’s extremely rare and expensive,” elaborated Lila.

”Why is that?” Haruki asked.

”The last type is found in the very north of the planet, an extremely cold place. In the center lies the Garden of Aurum, guarded by its protector. Only a few have reached it,” Lila explained further.

”Oh, I see,” Haruki nodded in understanding.

”Let’s save the conversation for later. We have a job to complete,” Roderick interjected.

”Yeah,” agreed Lila. “Well, Aria-san, it’s time for us to go. ”They bid farewell to Aria at the guild as they ventured out for their quest.