The streets of Forgeholm bustled with activity as Adrian returned to the city, his thoughts focused on the next steps in his journey. The sun dipped toward the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and red, casting a warm glow over the city.

Adrian approached a local newspaper stand, its colorful array of headlines grabbing his attention. He exchanged some coins for the latest edition, hoping to catch up on recent events in Forgeholm and the surrounding regions.

"Anything new and exciting in the paper today?" he inquired of the stand's vendor.

The vendor grinned as he handed Adrian the newspaper. "Ah, plenty happening in the city, as always. You should give it a read."

With the newspaper in hand, Adrian made his way to the Mage's Emporium, a place known far and wide for its vast collection of magical tomes. He stepped into the shop, where the air was heavy with the scent of parchment and the soft rustle of pages turning.

"Good day," the shopkeeper greeted him, and Adrian nodded in response.

Browsing the shelves, he selected a couple of books that delved into the foundations of various elemental magics.

Once he had secured the books, Adrian left the store, his mind buzzing with anticipation as he headed for the Iron Wolves Mercenary Guild Hall.

The guild was in the western part of Forgeholm.

As Adrian entered the guild hall, he was met with the spirited camaraderie among its members.

Adrian approached the front desk, where a receptionist was assisting newcomers.

After a brief exchange of pleasantries and paperwork, the receptionist directed Adrian to meet Captain Darian, who would take him through the formalities of joining the guild.

Captain Darian reviewed the contract, scrutinizing it closely before nodding. "Looks like everything is in order," he said. "Welcome to the Iron Wolves Mercenary Guild."

As Adrian officially joined the guild, Captain Darian began explaining the guild's hierarchy and structure.

"We have got a simple system in our guild," Captain Darian started. "The majority of our members are of Third Order Ranks, experienced and capable in their own right. We have some seasoned veterans who've reached the Fourth Order. They all are generally a party’s vice leaders. Our party leaders all have Fifth Order Rank, and they are the backbone of the Guild."

His finger gestured toward Major Karl. "And at the top of the pyramid, we have Major Karl, a Sixth Order Rank Warrior, and the leader of the Iron Wolves Mercenary Guild. He's the one who oversees everything we do here."

As Captain Darian finished the explanation, he looked expectantly at Adrian. "Any questions or anything else you need to know?"

Adrian listened attentively as Captain Darian explained the guild's hierarchy, absorbing the information without a hint of objection. He appreciated the clarity and structure of the Iron Wolves Mercenary Guild.

"Everything makes sense," Adrian replied, his tone calm and composed. "I'm eager to get started."

Captain Darian nodded in approval and then proceeded to introduce Adrian to his new team.

"Great. You'll be a part of Team Seahorse," he said. "You'll have five other members on your team, including your leader, Captain Zelene Russel. She's a Fifth Order Mage with a unique ability to control water and sound, which has earned her the nickname ‘Aqua Sonic.' She'll be your go-to person for guidance and strategies."

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

Adrian nodded, acknowledging the introduction. "I look forward to working with her and the rest of the team."

Captain Darian then began to inform Adrian about the other members in the team.

"The vice leader of your team is Allan. He's a Fourth Order Warrior with solid combat experience."

Adrian made sure to remember that name, and Captain Darian continued the introductions.

"Your other team members are Selena, a Third Order Mage specializing in healing and support magic, Tavon, a Third Order Warrior with exceptional agility, and Lila, a Third Order Mage who excels in wind manipulation."

Adrian offered nods as he made note to remember each one and their abilities. The combination of magical and combat abilities made for a versatile and well-rounded team.

Captain Darian looked satisfied with the exchange.

"You're in good hands with Team Seahorse, Adrian. They're a seasoned group, and they're used to taking on a variety of missions."

Adrian stared at Captain Darian with a resolute look, "I'm ready to contribute and learn from this experienced team."

Captain Darian patted him on the back. "That's the spirit. Welcome to the Iron Wolves, Adrian. If you ever need assistance or have questions, don't hesitate to ask."

Adrian nodded in gratitude. "Thank you, Captain. I'll make sure to reach out if needed."

Captain Darian led Adrian to the third floor of the building, which was assigned to Team Seahorse.

"Alright, folks, gather around," Captain Darian called out to Team Seahorse. "We've got a new member joining us today. Adrian, meet your new team."

Adrian stood beside Captain Darian as the members of Team Seahorse turned their attention towards him. They sized him up, some with curiosity and others with a hint of skepticism.

"This here is Adrian," Captain Darian began, gesturing towards him.

"Adrian, this is Captain Zelene Russel, your team leader."

Adrian's gaze shifted towards Zelene, who regarded him with a keen interest. There was a warmth to her eyes, though her demeanor carried a subtle air of authority. "Nice to meet you, Adrian. Why don't you introduce yourself?"

Adrian nodded, his voice steady. "Pleasure to meet you all. I'm a Third-Order Warrior and was the main attacker while delving in dungeons and fighting against beasts with my previous team."

Zelene's eyes lingered on Adrian for a moment longer, a hint of a smile playing at the corner of her lips. "Good to have you, Adrian. You can call me Captain Zelena or just Zelene if you want to."

Selena, a Third Order Mage, extended her hand to Adrian with a warm smile. "Hello, Adrian. I'm Selena. I handle our team's healing and provide support, and I'm sure we'll work together well."

Lila, a Third-Order Mage, followed suit. Her voice carried a cheerful tone as she introduced herself. "I'm Lila, the wind mage. Nice to meet you, Adrian. You've got great looks, by the way."

Allan, the Fourth-Order Warrior and vice leader of Team Seahorse, crossed his arms and regarded Adrian with a skeptical look. "Allan here. You better not slow us down on missions."

Tavon, the Third-Order Warrior, chimed in with a taunting tone. "I'm Tavon, the speedster of the team."

Adrian reciprocated the greetings, feeling the distinct personalities of each member as they spoke.

"Now, Adrian, let me give you a rundown of what Team Seahorse primarily handles here in the guild," Zelene said, her tone switching to a more businesslike cadence. "We're tasked with security missions, escort missions, scouting missions, occasionally handling minor disputes, and assisting in emergency situations.”

Adrian absorbed Zelene's words, nodding in understanding. "Got it, Captain Zelene. I'm ready to contribute in any way I can."

Zelene nodded in approval. "Good to hear, Adrian. We work efficiently and look out for one another. If you ever need assistance or have questions, feel free to ask. Welcome to Team Seahorse."

With that, Captain Darian excused himself, leaving Adrian with his new team.

With formal introductions complete, Adrian was eager to integrate into Team Seahorse and begin his journey as an Iron Wolves mercenary.

"Alright, Adrian," Zelene said as they made their way towards the training ground, "we'll start with some team exercises to get you accustomed to how we operate."

Adrian nodded in anticipation, eager to learn from his new team and adapt to their methods.

The training ground was a spacious area equipped with various obstacles and targets.

Zelene took the lead, her authority palpable as she spoke out, "Alright, folks, let's get started. Today, we'll focus on coordination and teamwork. Adrian, we want to see how you handle group dynamics and work together with the team."

Allan, the vice leader, took a step forward with a grin and declared, "We'll pair up for these exercises. Adrian, you'll be with me for the first one."

Adrian regarded Allan with determination. "Sounds good."

Selena offered a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Adrian. Allan may seem gruff, but he's reliable."

Allan led Adrian to a set of wooden dummies set up in a combat formation.

"Alright, Adrian, we'll practice some close combat coordination. I'll take the lead, and you follow my cues."

They began their exercise, moving in sync as Allan demonstrated various attack and defense techniques.

Adrian followed his lead, somewhat impressed by Allan's combat skills.

Meanwhile, Tavon initiated a sparring session with Lila. Their movements were swift and coordinated, a dance of combat and evasion that spoke of hours of practice.

Zelene observed her team's interactions, nodding in approval. "Good, good. Now, let's switch things up."

Adrian's next partner was Lila. She grinned and playfully elbowed him. "Hope you're ready for some magic practice, Adrian."

As they began their exercise, Lila showcased her control over the wind element. She created gusts of wind that Adrian had to navigate through while maintaining his balance. It was a unique form of agility training that kept him on his toes.

Selena was then paired up with Allan, and they worked on defensive strategies, support, and healing tactics. It was evident that the team had honed their abilities through countless training sessions.

After the exercises, Zelene gathered the team for a debrief. "Great work, everyone. Adrian, you did well, and I can see you're a quick learner. Our strength as a team lies in our ability to adapt and complement each other's skills. We watch each other's backs and prioritize teamwork above all else."

Adrian nodded, feeling a growing sense of camaraderie with his new teammates. "I'm impressed by the team's coordination. I'm looking forward to improving and contributing."

Allan, who had been initially skeptical, offered a rare smile. "You did alright today. Just keep up the pace, and we'll get along fine."

Zelene clapped Adrian on the back. "That's the spirit, Adrian. Now, let's get some rest, and we'll have more training and missions ahead.”

As the team dispersed, Adrian let out a sigh before a calm yet cold look appeared in his eyes.