Aran, a vast world full of wonders, is home to many different races and creatures. Humans, who dominate the plains, Elves, graceful and skilled in magic, live in the dense forests, and Dwarves, hardworking and known for crafting, dominate the mountains with cities carved from stone. This world is divided into six main countries.
To the west is the Kingdom of Saltria, a fertile land with bountiful harvests. To the north, the Confederation of Zedria, a snowy region with sharp mountains that look like natural fortresses. In the northeast, the Kingdom of Lusitania, surrounded by blue seas, is the center of trade and sailing. The Kingdom of Gainax, in the east, is known for its advanced magitek technology. The Kingdom of Miyou, hidden within ancient forests, is famous for its ancient magical arts, known only to a few. Lastly, there is the Qinlin Empire, where Shouta lives—a magnificent empire that is the cultural, economic, and military hub of Aran.
But despite Aran’s grand appearance, peace between these nations is just an illusion. Rivalries have existed for centuries. Borders are filled with skirmishes, and alliances are easily broken by the thirst for power.
However, now a much greater threat has emerged. Reports of the resurrection of demons are becoming more frequent. These creatures, once thought to be mere myths, are now showing real power. In border regions, small towns have been destroyed without warning, leaving only chaos in their wake.
Somewhere in the Qinlin Empire, Shouta stood under the moonlight, reflecting on a story he had read in a book in the library. “If this resurrection is true...” he muttered to himself, “...this world will never be the same again.”
Six months of trials had changed Shouta. Under the guidance of two different mentors—Master Orlin, the wise mage, and Lydia, the tough swordswoman—he slowly transformed from a clumsy youth into someone much stronger, though there was still much to learn.
Every morning, Shouta began his day in Master Orlin’s study, a room filled with thick books, ancient scrolls, and the sharp scent of herbs, filling the air with a sense of calm.
“Magic is the art of understanding the world,” Orlin said on the first day, placing a small crystal in front of Shouta. “It is not just a weapon, but a way to connect with something greater.”
The lessons began with the basics: feeling the flow of mana within his body. The first few weeks felt futile. Shouta could only produce tiny sparks that would disappear in seconds. But with Orlin’s unwavering patience, he finally began to sense the flow of mana in his body, steadily mastering basic elements like fire, water, earth, and wind.
One morning, in the fourth month, Shouta successfully cast a mid-level spell for the first time without losing control. With a rare smile, Orlin said, “Finally, you’ve succeeded.”
Every evening, Shouta went to the training yard, where Lydia waited with a wooden sword in hand. Lydia was known for her tough approach, but Shouta learned to respect her strictness.
“Hold your sword like this,” Lydia said one day, correcting Shouta’s posture. “A sword is not just a tool. It is an extension of yourself.”
Her training began with the basics: how to hold a sword, maintain balance, and strike efficiently. But Lydia wasn’t afraid to give light punishments every time Shouta made a mistake. She once smiled cynically and said, “I’m not the best at hitting, but I know how to make you learn.”
Yet, behind her strictness, there was care. Lydia always made sure Shouta took time to recover after each session. Sometimes, she would share stories of her adventures as an adventurer, giving Shouta a glimpse into the dangerous world outside.
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By the sixth month, Shouta had shown real improvement. He could now handle mid-level magic with control and had even managed to block some of Lydia’s attacks, though not perfectly.
One night after their final training session, Orlin and Lydia called Shouta into the living room. The crackling fire filled the silence as the three of them sat together.
“Shouta,” Orlin began gently, “this training is only the beginning. The outside world is where you will truly learn.”
Lydia, usually serious, gave a small smile and added, “You’re strong enough to protect yourself now. But strength means nothing if you don’t use it. Register at the adventurer’s guild.”
Shouta looked at them, feeling a mix of doubt and excitement. But one thing was clear to him: he had come too far to turn back. The world outside awaited, and the path was now his to walk.
A few days later, he stood in front of the Adventurer’s Guild. The atmosphere outside was very different—busy, noisy, and far from the quiet he had known in Lord Viscaunt’s house. The sounds of fellow adventurers filled the air, while small stalls sold supplies needed for those about to embark on their journeys.
Inside the Guild, Shouta felt nervous. He had never really interacted with other adventurers—only Lydia, who he knew was one herself. But that nervousness slowly faded as he approached the registration desk. A friendly woman in a red robe greeted him with a smile.
“Welcome, new adventurer!” she said cheerfully, looking up from the paperwork she was writing. “Name?”
“Shouta,” he answered, his voice a bit shaky.
“Shouta... how old are you?” she asked, writing something down.
“Fifteen,” Shouta replied, slightly nervous.
“Wow, so young! So, you’re the young adventurer starting your journey, huh?” the woman smiled warmly. “I’m sure you’ve heard a lot about the world outside. Don’t worry, the guild is here to help you along the way. We’re here to support you.”
Shouta felt a little more at ease hearing her words. The warm smile made him feel more accepted.
“All adventurers who register here must be ready for risky adventures, but don’t worry, there’s much to learn. We’ll help,” she added, signing his registration and handing him an adventurer’s card. “Here’s your adventurer’s card. You’re officially a member of the guild.”
Once the registration was complete, Lydia, who had been waiting by the door with a smile, walked over to Shouta.
“Good, you’re registered. Now let’s get started. I’ll accompany you on your first mission. We’re going to collect goblins in the eastern forest. They’ve been causing trouble for nearby villages,” Lydia explained, detailing the mission.
Shouta felt nervous, but excitement won out. This was his first real step as a true adventurer. To him, the world felt bigger now, but he wasn’t going to back down.
Soon, they arrived at the area that had been attacked by goblins. The small ruins and signs of destruction confirmed the creatures’ presence. Lydia signaled for them to stop.
“We’ll attack together. I’ll take the lead, while you,” she said, turning to Shouta, “will try to fend off their attacks with your magic.”
Shouta felt uneasy, but he knew this was his chance to prove himself. He raised his hand and focused on the mana flowing through his body, trying to sense the energy within. Suddenly, loud rustling came from the bushes ahead. Goblins appeared, more than they had anticipated.
Lydia moved quickly, her sword cutting through the air with incredible speed. Shouta, still trying to control his magic, fought off the goblins that came closer.
His heart raced. He raised his hand, concentrating, and created a large wind ball. With a quick motion, the windball flew, striking a group of goblins, sending them flying. But others quickly dodged and ran toward them.
One goblin leaped, swinging its sword at Shouta. Reflexively, Shouta raised his hand and released a small wind blast that pushed the goblin back. But his struggle to control the magic made him lose his balance. Another goblin took the chance and attacked quickly, but Lydia was already there, cutting it down with deadly precision. Two goblins fell in an instant.
Shouta sighed in relief, but his focus was broken by heavy, ominous footsteps from behind them. He turned, his eyes wide in shock. From the shadows of the trees emerged a group of masked figures in dark clothes, moving with incredible speed. They didn’t seem like ordinary adventurers. There was something strange about them—their presence felt different, like shadows watching.
“W-Who... who are you?!” Lydia yelled, worried.
To be continued…