Arlen made his way through the bustling city of Ithlul, passing by vendors hawking their wares, artisans working in open stalls, and travelers from all corners of the continent. His shadowy figure, robed and masked, drew more than a few strange looks, but Arlen had learned long ago to ignore prying eyes. The sight of non-human races was still new to him, and despite the strangeness of his own form, seeing elves, dwarves, halflings, and even a few horned tieflings wandering about felt surreal. Ithlul was alive with diversity in a way he’d never experienced before.
As he moved deeper into the heart of the city, the towering structures of the Grand Bazaar loomed ahead. It was a sprawling sea of shops, stalls, and beggars, all packed tightly together in an organized chaos of trade. The sheer size of the market overwhelmed him. Merchants called out to passersby, showcasing exotic goods from across the continent, from shimmering silks and spices to enchanted items and rare creatures.
Arlen paused near a food vendor, watching as coins of different colors were exchanged—bronze, silver, and a few glints of gold. Most merchants had small scales beside them, weighing the coins before concluding their deals.
“I have no money… damn. Why didn’t I think of that,” he muttered to himself.
Arlen’s newfound powers might give him an edge in this world, but money was still the lifeblood of any city. Without it, he was as helpless as any beggar on the street. He figured he could probably earn some coin easily enough with his abilities, but it wasn’t something he relished. The thought of doing odd jobs felt like a chore.
Just as he mulled over his options, a booming voice from behind caught his attention.
“Announcement from the council!” A town crier stood on a crate, shouting into the crowd. “Anyone capable or willing to help exterminate the vile undead should head to the coliseum to sign up. You will be compensated fairly. Enlist as a soldier, or join as a freelance adventurer!”
Arlen’s ears perked up at the mention of adventurers. ‘Soldier? No thanks,’ he thought, recalling his time serving in his past life. The last thing he needed was to be shackled by military duty again. ‘But adventuring… that might be worth checking out.’
He started asking around, trying to find the location of the Adventurers Guild. His appearance earned him more than a few wary glances, and many simply ignored him or moved away. The people of Ithlul were used to strange things, but Arlen’s masked, robed form still unsettled them.
Finally, he noticed a young boy, his mother distracted by a merchant’s stall. Arlen crouched slightly and asked the boy, “Where’s the Adventurers Guild?”
The child, wide-eyed but unafraid, pointed around a corner. Arlen nodded and made his way in that direction, grateful for the lead.
Turning the corner, he came upon a small park nestled between the tall buildings. People sat on benches, eating food or chatting idly. In the center of the park stood a large bulletin board covered with posters, advertisements, and flyers. Arlen scanned the board until his eyes found a map of the city.
Surprisingly, he could read the writing. “I guess that’s useful,” he muttered, realizing that whatever strange force had brought him to this world had also gifted him the ability to understand its languages. He traced the map with his finger, finding the location of the Adventurers Guild on the far side of the city.
Great. It’ll take me hours to get there, he thought, resigned to the long walk. With the midday sun rising overhead and foot traffic clogging the streets, Arlen began his trek across Ithlul.
Hours later, after navigating through the maze-like streets and taking more than a few wrong turns, Arlen finally stood before the Adventurers Guild. The complex was massive, sprawling over several blocks and made up of interconnected buildings. Large banners fluttered in the breeze, bearing the emblem of the guild—a crossed sword and staff overlaid on a shield. The main building was a towering stone structure, with grand archways and bustling crowds moving in and out. Attached to the complex were several inns and taverns, catering to the adventurers who called the guild their home away from home.
The entrance hall was just as impressive as the exterior. Arlen stepped inside and immediately felt the energy of the place. Adventurers of all races and walks of life filled the room, some clad in gleaming armor, others in dark robes, and a few in strange, exotic garments from faraway lands.
A massive display board spanned the length of one wall, covered in notices for jobs, quests, bounties, and contracts. The room smelled of sweat, leather, and alcohol, as adventurers chatted, shared stories, and clinked mugs together at long wooden tables. There were those boasting about their latest monster slaying, while others huddled in corners, studying maps or planning their next journey. The guild hall had the air of a place where deals were made and legends were born.
Arlen joined the long line waiting at the front desk. Most of the people in line were not adventurers, judging by their lack of gear. They looked like merchants, farmers, or refugees—likely there to inquire about joining or protection from the rising undead threat. Arlen, despite his impatience, knew he had no choice but to wait. Arlen’s gaze lingered on the large quest board, where dozens of missions were posted. Some of the tasks seemed simple—escort missions, gathering herbs—but others were far more dangerous, involving slaying beasts, hunting down criminals, or venturing into haunted ruins. His curiosity grew as he imagined what kind of jobs he might take on to earn the money he so desperately needed.
After what felt like an eternity, Arlen finally reached the front desk. Behind it sat an elven woman, her appearance striking in a subtle, natural way. She had long, flowing auburn hair that shimmered like autumn leaves in the soft light of the guild hall. Her emerald-green eyes glowed faintly, hinting at a magical lineage, and her skin had the smoothness of polished metal. Her scent reminded Arlen of the forest—fresh pine, damp earth, and the faint sweetness of wildflowers. It was a stark contrast to the bustling, smoky atmosphere of the guild.
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Her name tag read “Lyrelia.”
She greeted him with a polite smile, her voice soft but clear. “Good afternoon, sir. What brings you to the Adventurers Guild today?”
“I’m looking at joining the guild,” Arlen said, trying to keep his tone steady.
Lyrelia nodded, understanding immediately. “Alright, we can get you started on that. You’ll need to fill out some forms. Would you like me to help you with that?”
Arlen chuckled awkwardly. “I think I’ll need some help.” Though he could read and speak the language well enough, writing it was an entirely different matter. ‘Another thing to add to the growing list of skills to study and learn.’ he thought with a sigh.
Lyrelia didn’t seem fazed. “Absolutely, I can assist you. Let’s start with your name.”
“Arlen,” he replied, offering no last name. Surnames were not a requirement in the kingdom. ‘It does seem like a record keeping nightmare, not having last names for a large part of your population. How do they keep track of their citizens and non-citizens?’
With an elegant motion, Lyrelia began filling out the form on a sheet of parchment. She continued with a series of routine questions—his age, his experience. Most of it was simple enough, but when she arrived at the next question, she hesitated slightly.
“And what class would you consider yourself?”
Arlen tilted his head, confused. “Class? I’m not sure what you mean.”
Lyrelia smiled patiently. “Umm… it’s how you fight. Like, are you a magic user, do you fight with a sword, a bow, or maybe something else?”
“Oh,” Arlen said, pulling his knife from his side. The gleaming 8-inch blade caught the light as he held it up. “I use a knife.”
Lyrelia raised an eyebrow, clearly a bit confused but still professional. She jotted down his answer, though her quill hovered for just a moment, as if unsure how to categorize him.
“Okay... a knife user. That’s noted. Do you have any special talents or skills? Things you’re particularly good at? Like herb gathering, navigation, tracking?”
“I’m pretty adept at navigation,” Arlen replied. “But I specialize in stealth.”
Lyrelia gave him a quick look over, her eyes scanning his robed form skeptically. She wrote it down without comment, her quill scratching lightly on the parchment.
After several more routine questions, Lyrelia glanced up from the form and smiled. “Alright, that should be everything. We’ll need a bit of time to process your application and get it approved by the administration. Once that’s done, you’ll be scheduled for an interview with one of our recruiters.”
She handed him a small card with an address on it. “In the meantime, you’re welcome to stay at the Sunburst Inn, just east of the guild hall. Room 412. A representative will notify you when your paperwork is approved. Once you get the message, just head back here and we’ll set you up with a recruiter.”
Arlen nodded, grateful for her help. “Thanks,” he said, tucking the card into his robe.
“You’re welcome,” Lyrelia replied warmly. “Good luck, Arlen.”
He was one step closer to establishing himself in this strange new world—one step closer to understanding his place in it.
Now, all that was left to do was wait for his chance to prove himself. As he made his way out of the guild hall and toward the Sunburst Inn.
END OF CHAPTER 14
Here is some information about the Adventurers guild. I figured I’d send the ranks of the guild here. It will be explained to Arlen in future chapters but not in too much detail.
Rank Descriptions and Pendants
1. Spark / Novice
Description: The entry-level rank for new members of the guild. Undergo basic training and orientation to learn the guild’s values and operations. Assigned simple tasks such as local deliveries, assisting in the guild hall, or basic errands.
Pendant: A simple pendant made of bronze in the shape of a small flame, symbolizing the ignition of their journey. The word “Spark” engraved subtly at the base. Represents potential and the beginning of an adventurer’s path.
2. Apprentice
Description: Members who have completed initial training and shown commitment to the guild. Begin to accompany higher-ranked members on low-risk missions. Start to develop and hone specific skills or specialties.
Pendant: A silver pendant depicting an open book, signifying learning and growth. “Apprentice” engraved along the edge. Represents the accumulation of knowledge and the apprentice’s dedication to learning.
3. Wanderer
Description: Adventurers who have gained experience and can undertake independent missions. Often tasked with exploration, scouting, and mapping uncharted territories. Known for their adaptability and resourcefulness.
Pendant: A pendant shaped like a compass rose, made of tarnished silver to reflect the travels. “Wanderer” etched on the back. Embodies the spirit of adventure and the journey through unknown paths.
4. Paragon
Description: Members who exemplify the guild’s ideals of courage, honor, and excellence. Take on challenging missions that require leadership and strategic thinking. Serve as role models and may mentor lower-ranked members.
Pendant: A gold pendant featuring a radiant star. “Paragon” prominently displayed on the front. Signifies exemplary character and achievements that shine brightly.
5. Champion
Description: Elite adventurers recognized for their exceptional skills and significant contributions. Lead important quests and may represent the guild in official capacities. Possess a deep understanding of their craft and have proven themselves in critical situations.
Pendant: An ornate pendant made of electrum (a gold-silver alloy) depicting a shield and sword crossed, symbolizing strength and valor. “Champion” engraved in bold lettering. Reflects their role as defenders and heroes of the guild.
6. Master
Description: Veterans with unmatched expertise and wisdom. Responsible for training, strategizing, and overseeing significant operations. Hold considerable influence within the guild and contribute to policy-making.
Pendant: A pendant crafted from platinum, shaped as an intricate knot, representing mastery and interconnected knowledge. “Master” inscribed in elegant script. Denotes the complexity of their understanding and their role in guiding others.
7. Grandmaster
Description: The highest rank within the guild, held by each of the members of the guild’s administration Council. Oversees the entire guild’s operations, sets long-term goals, and maintains the guild’s legacy. Rarely participates in field missions but may do so under extraordinary circumstances.
Pendant: A unique pendant made from mythril, depicting a phoenix encircled by seven stars. “Grandmaster” prominently featured with additional engravings of significant guild emblems. Represents rebirth, ultimate authority, and the culmination of an adventurer’s journey.