Thus the struggle began, Ameliah and Enderian began to work dutifully. After a few days of ingredient picking, Ameliah was notified of an upcoming meeting with Rat, one of the administrators of the adventurer’s dormitory, Shadow Cavern.

Adventurer dormitories were one of those things that started because people had too much money; as one does when they become successful, they begin casting nets, planting seeds, and accumulating wealth.

Adventurer dormitories were just the public names for them, in truth, these dormitories were all small tribes, little trees, connected to a much bigger world.

In these dormitories, heroes would be cultivated, to build on an expanding network of an idea invading the world.

The name of this idea for Ameliah and Enderian was Shadow Cavern.

...

...

“Sit down,” Rat says with a sigh, crossing his legs and pulling out his notebook.

Ameliah and Enderian take a seat.

Rat lets out another breath, “Well, welcome. In truth, you’ve passed our preliminary inspection, you are diligent adventurers, and at this stage, that’s all you need to be welcomed to the Shadow Cavern. This meeting is just a formality, and an introduction to our tribe; after that you’ll have your room keys and it will be business as usual.” He says, beginning the work.

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Ameliah smiles and claps her hands, “Wonderful!” She says.

Enderian also smiles.

Rat nods his head, his long hair swaying across his face, “Have you received any other invitations?” He asks.

Ameliah shakes her head, “No,” she says.

Rat lets out a sigh, “Thankfully,” He says with a smile, “The last thing I need is a struggle with another dormitory.” A thought crosses Rat’s mind and he makes sure to say, “But don’t consider this an estimate of your value; in truth the Shadow Cavern has a very open policy. They accept people of all kinds, all with their own stories; let’s just say that its not the gate that we’re worried about. What we’re concerned with is how far up the path you can walk.” He says.

“Does the Shadow Cavern have a support system?” Ameliah asks.

Rat smiles. “Yes, very much so. As is standard for an adventurer dormitory; we provide credit loans to tribe members who need it, and we have brokers with connections throughout the kingdom, if you were ever looking for information or a particular item for sale.” He says before organizing his thoughts. “But as beginners, what you two should be worried about is honing your battle capability. Feel free to use credit as you please here. You two are still young, and the elders of this tribe understand the value and potential of human life, thus, to them, whatever money they can loan you, is truly a minuscule amount.” He explains.

Ameliah’s cheeks blush, “Get a loan? I would never...” She begins to say.

Enderian raises an eyebrow, “How much are you willing to loan exactly?” He asks.

Rat smiles. “20,000 coins for beginners. This amount will increase depending on your progression.” He says.

Ameliah’s eyes widen, her cheeks becoming hot.

Enderian lets out a laugh, “A tribe! How nice!” He says, the idea growing on him.

Rat waves a hand, “Of course the Shadow Cavern will sometimes have requests for you as well. The more experienced adventurers of the tribe will sometimes have work for beginners, and as you grow more powerful, they could request favors. As beginners, try to be friendly; if things go well, you could be working with us for a long time.” He says, moving his hair out of his face. “Anyways, the Shadow Cavern will assign an administrator to meet with you monthly, to assess your needs, and the direction of your personal growth. The administrators here are quite experienced, and they most likely have a better idea of what it takes to succeed than you do, so do be patient with them. Also, last thing, we also have an emotional support therapist should you need it; adventuring can sometimes be stressful, its very understandable, if you should need the support, let us know.” He says.

Ameliah furrows her brows, “I don’t need therapy,” She says.

Enderian smirks, “Therapy, what a luxury,” He says, amused.