As the noonday sun began its descent towards the horizon, casting long shadows across Eifansdoche, I gradually stirred from my alcohol-induced slumber. My head throbbed with a dull ache, and the world around me swayed in disarray. I realized with a jolt that I had overindulged in the potent mana liquor, and the consequences were making themselves known.

The boisterous crowd in the inn had mostly moved on to other pursuits, leaving only a few stragglers nursing their own drinks or enjoying a late meal. The once-lively atmosphere had mellowed into a subdued hum of conversation.

I sat up, rubbing my temples as I tried to shake off the lingering effects of the alcohol. My vision slowly cleared, revealing the familiar wooden interior of the inn. However, the room seemed quieter now, the laughter and cheers having given way to a more serene ambiance.

As I attempted to regain my composure, a friendly voice broke through the haze in my mind.

"Feeling alright there, buddy?"

I turned to see a man with an open, friendly face standing before me. He had a weathered look about him, suggesting that he was no stranger to the adventures of life. A simple, brown cloak hung from his shoulders, and a small emblem on his chest indicated his affiliation with the Expedition Guild.

"I'm fine," I mumbled, my voice still slurred from the alcohol. "Just... had a bit too much to drink."

The man chuckled softly and extended a hand towards me. "No worries, happens to the best of us. I'm Jon, a member of the Expedition Guild here in Eifansdoche. I couldn't help but notice you earlier. You've got a... unique presence."

I accepted his hand, his grip firm but not overpowering. "Ferdinand," I managed to reply. "I'm new in town."

Jon's gaze bore into me, but there was an unmistakable warmth in his eyes. He seemed genuinely interested in getting to know me.

"You've got a certain energy about you, Ferdinand," Jon observed, his tone easygoing. "It's not something everyone has. Makes me wonder if you've got some hidden talents."

I blinked in confusion, my thoughts still muddled.

"Hidden talents? What do you mean?"

Jon leaned in closer, his voice conspiratorial. "Well, you see, some folks have a knack for magic, even if they don't know it yet. It's like a sixth sense. They can feel the flow of mana and harness it, even if they're not aware of it."

I squinted at Jon, trying to understand his words through the haze of alcohol. "Magic? I don't know the first thing about it."

Jon grinned, as if he were sharing an inside joke. "That's the beauty of it, my friend. You don't need to know much to start. Sometimes, all it takes is a little guidance."

He extended a hand once more, this time in a friendly gesture. "If you're ever interested, I can introduce you to some basics, help you figure out if you've got a natural affinity for magic."

I considered his offer, the idea of exploring magical abilities intriguing despite my current state. The possibility of discovering hidden talents was too tempting to resist. I do know that I have immense mana reserves at such a low level.

"Thank you, Jon," I said, my voice steadier now. "I might just take you up on that offer."

Jon tapped me on the back, his friendly demeanor unwavering. "That's the spirit, Ferdinand. For now, I'd suggest getting some rest and letting that alcohol wear off. We'll chat again soon. Probably."

As I sat there, contemplating Jon's offer and nursing my throbbing head, a portly figure approached our table. It was the innkeeper, a friendly, middle-aged man with a welcoming smile. He looked at Jon and me and chuckled warmly.

"Ah, you two have already met each other?" the innkeeper said, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Jon nodded with a grin. "Indeed, we've been having a friendly chat."

The innkeeper pulled out a chair and joined our conversation. "That's good to hear. Now, Ferdinand, I couldn't help but overhear your conversation with Jon, and it got me thinking. Have you considered registering with the Expedition Guild?"

I blinked in surprise, still feeling the lingering effects of the mana liquor. "Registering? Why would I do that?"

The innkeeper leaned back in his chair; his expression serious. "Well, you see, lad, in our land, especially in the royal kingdom of Eirelia, there are certain laws and regulations regarding the use of magic. For those who arrive here virtually without records, it's not just a good idea; it's necessary."

I furrowed my brow, trying to grasp the implications of what he was saying. "Laws about magic? What kind of laws?"

The innkeeper explained, "Eirelia has a rich history of magic, and they've established rules to ensure that magic is used responsibly and safely. Anyone with magical abilities is required to register with the local guild. It helps keep track of who's who and ensures that magic is used for the betterment of society."

I nodded slowly, beginning to understand the necessity of such regulations. "So, I would need to register with the Expedition Guild to comply with these laws?"

The innkeeper nodded. "Exactly. It's a simple process, really. They'll assess your magical abilities, make sure you're not a danger to yourself or others, and then you'll be free to use your magic in Eirelia without any worries."

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I took a moment to consider my options. The idea of registering with the guild made sense, especially given my current circumstances. It would also provide an opportunity to learn more about the world and my own abilities.

"Alright," I said with a determined nod. "I'll do it. I'll join the Expedition Guild."

The innkeeper smiled, a mix of relief and approval in his eyes. "That's the spirit, lad. It's for your own good, and it'll open up many opportunities for you here in Eirelia."

As the evening in Eifansdoche unfolded, the inn's common area had gradually filled with adventurers and locals, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere. I had decided to accompany Jon to explore the local market, hoping that some fresh air would help clear the remnants of the potent mana liquor from my system.

We strolled through the market, where vendors hawked all manner of goods, from colorful fabrics to exotic spices. The air was filled with the delightful scent of street food being cooked on open grills. It was a vibrant and chaotic display of daily life in Eifansdoche.

Amidst the bustling crowd, a familiar figure caught my eye. It was Nico, weaving his way through the market with a small basket in hand. His expression shifted from concentration to shock as he noticed me.

As Nico drew closer, his usual blank face seemed to shift from its typical stoniness to something more akin to surprise and disbelief. He hurried over, weaving expertly through the throng of shoppers, his expression hard to read.

"Oi," he finally muttered, his voice void of his usual grumpiness.

I smiled back, noticing the unfamiliar warmth in his tone. "What brings you here?"

“I should be asking you.” He replied, eyeing Jon, who was whistling away and avoiding his glances.

“You’re trying to recruit again, are you?” Nico asked. This makes Jon whistle even harder.

Nico's disappointment was palpable as he shifted his attention from Jon to me. His usually blank face now carried a hint of frustration.

"You're recruiting somebody who's barely known the place!" he exclaimed, his tone tinged with irritation. “Have you got enough money for a registration fee?” He asked me.

I exchanged a nervous glance with Jon, who continued to whistle as if trying to avoid the conversation. I turned back to Nico, swallowing hard. "I... I didn't realize there was a registration fee," I stammered.

Nico's expression didn't soften. "Oh, there's a fee, all right," he grumbled. "And it's not cheap. They don't just let anyone join these expeditions, you know."

I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach, realizing that I might have jumped into this adventure without fully understanding the financial implications. "How much are we talking about?" I asked tentatively.

Nico crossed his arms, his disapproval still evident. "It depends on the expedition and the Guild's policies, but it can be quite substantial. And they usually expect payment up front."

I turned to Jon, who had finally stopped whistling and was now looking equally concerned. "Jon, did you know about this?" I asked.

Jon shifted uncomfortably. "I... I might have forgotten to mention it," he admitted sheepishly.

Nico let out an exasperated sigh. "Typical. You adventurers are always so reckless." He then turned back to me. "Look, I'm not saying it's a bad idea, but you need to be prepared for the financial side of things. Joining an expedition is not as simple as it sounds."

"10,000 Denarógs," Nico stated.

"D-denarógs?" I was devoid of words. I did not know what currency that was; let alone understand what it meant.

Jon chimed in, saying, "Don't worry, you haven't been formally sent an application. Y-you can totally back out, he-he.", laughing flakily.

However, I wanted to join. Partly because I was drunk. The alcohol still pulsed through my veins, dulling my senses and making everything seem like a wild adventure. I turned to Nico, my voice wavering but determined.

"I'll figure it out, Nico," I replied, surprising even myself with my resolve. "I'll find a way to come up with those Denarógs and join the Expedition Guild."

Nico raised an eyebrow, his gruff exterior softening slightly. "You're a strange one, Ferdinand. Most folks would run for the hills when faced with such a hefty sum."

I grinned, the alcohol-induced bravado still coursing through me. "Well, I've always been a bit of an oddball. And who knows, maybe I'll discover something along the way."

Jon and Nico exchanged a glance, and I could tell they were both unsure whether to be amused or concerned by my determination. Regardless, I had made up my mind, and there was no turning back now.

Nico sighed, his irritation giving way to a reluctant smile. "You've got guts, I'll give you that. If you're serious about joining the Expedition Guild, you'll need more than just determination. It's a tough world out there, and being drunk won't get you very far."

After Nico's revelations about the Expedition Guild's fees and Jon's awkward attempt to reassure me, I decided to take a walk through the bustling market to clear my head. The intoxicating scents of exotic spices and sizzling street food wafted through the air as I weaved through the colorful stalls. It was a welcome distraction from my worries.

As I wandered through the market, I couldn't help but notice the diversity of the crowd. Eifansdoche was a melting pot of cultures, and the market was a microcosm of that diversity. People from all walks of life, some in traditional robes adorned with mystical symbols, others in more modern attire, jostled for space, bartering and haggling with merchants. It was a vibrant, lively scene that spoke to the richness of this world.

I found myself drawn to a stall selling intricately crafted jewelry, each piece adorned with precious gemstones that shimmered in the sunlight. The merchant, a kindly elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye, explained the significance of the gemstones and their connection to the magic of Eirelia. Her words were a testament to the deep-rooted belief in magic that permeated this society.

As I left the lively market behind, I made my way back to the inn with a sense of weariness tugging at me. The bustling streets had taken a toll on my senses, and the thought of returning to the quiet solace of my room was a comforting one.

The inn's entrance was a welcoming sight as I pushed open the wooden door. The familiar scent of timber and a hint of roasted meats greeted me, a stark contrast to the aromatic chaos of the market. I weaved my way through the patrons, my fatigue weighing on my steps.

My eyes avoided engaging with those around me, and my focus remained solely on the path to my room. Conversations and laughter washed over me like a gentle tide, but they were distant echoes in my weary mind. I approached the inn keeper for my room’s keys and went my way.

Finally, I reached the narrow corridor that led to my chamber. The soft glow of lanterns lining the walls illuminated my way, casting dancing shadows that seemed to mirror the uncertainty of this world.

With a heavy sigh, I turned the key in the lock and stepped into my room. The familiar surroundings welcomed me like an old friend. The bed with its rumpled sheets, the small desk strewn with parchment and ink, and the single window that allowed a sliver of moonlight to sneak in – it was a comforting oasis amidst the unknown, a faint reminder of my past.

I slipped out of my boots and let myself collapse onto the bed, exhaustion washing over me like a tidal wave. Sleep beckoned, promising temporary respite from the questions and uncertainties that had filled my day.

As I closed my eyes, I couldn't help but wonder what tomorrow would bring. Joining the Expedition Guild was a daunting challenge, but it was also a chance to embrace the mysteries of Eirelia. With that thought in mind, I surrendered to the embrace of sleep, my dreams taking me on new adventures in this enchanting world.

As I lay there in my room, sobering up from the effects of the mana liquor, my mind raced with thoughts of the path I had chosen. Joining the Expedition Guild was no small endeavor, and the prospect of raising 10,000 Denarógs felt like an insurmountable mountain before me. Yet, as I reflected on my decision, a fire ignited within me, a deep-seated drive that pushed me forward.

I had come to this world, in the kingdom of Eirelia, by some twist of fate. The unfamiliarity of it all, the magic that permeated every corner of this land, and the mysteries waiting to be unraveled had enchanted me from the very beginning. But it was more than just curiosity that fueled my determination; it was the yearning to understand this society, its customs, its people, and its magic.

Joining the Expedition Guild wasn't merely a means to an end; it was my gateway to exploring the depths of this world. I wanted to learn its secrets, unlock the hidden potential within myself, and embrace the opportunities that lay beyond the horizon. This journey was not just about surviving; it was about thriving and becoming a part of Eirelia in a way that went beyond being a mere outsider.

But as I lay there, fueled by determination and curiosity, I couldn't help but acknowledge the irony. In many ways, the world of Eirelia was similar to the world I had left behind. The people had their dreams, their struggles, and their complexities, just like in my previous life. The pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery remained universal, transcending the boundaries of different worlds.

Yet, the reality was far from the fantastical dreams I had once held. Eirelia, with all its magic and wonder, wasn't a utopia; it had its own challenges and hardships. The journey ahead was uncertain, and the price of admission into this new world was high.

As I closed my eyes and drifted into sleep, I couldn't escape the realization that perhaps the grass wasn't necessarily greener on the other side. It was a bittersweet truth that reminded me that, in the end, life was about embracing the unknown, wherever it might lead, and making the most of the opportunities that came our way.

Contemplating the challenges ahead, I felt the brunt of the weight of responsibility that settled on my shoulders. But instead of crushing me, it motivated me. The Expedition Guild represented a chance to prove myself, to adapt to this new world, and to become a contributing member of a promising society. It was my path to self-discovery and self-improvement.

And so, as I stared at the ceiling of my room, I made a silent promise to myself. I would raise those 10,000 Denarógs, I would earn my place in the Expedition Guild, and I would embark on countless adventures not just for the sake of adventure itself, but to immerse myself in the essence of Eirelia, to uncover its wonders, and to grow into a person with immense potential. My pursuit was driven by a thirst for knowledge, a desire to understand, and an unshakable determination to thrive in a world where magic ruled.

Anyway, how much is a Denaróg, really? I forgot to ask.