Chapter 3: A first friend?

Leaving the guild hall, I hear a sound akin to the ring of a bell and feel a flash of information rushing through my brain.

[Achievement made]

[Achievement: "A First Sense of Adventure" acquired]

[Reward: Ability to ascertain information about yourself]

[Ability acquired: "Status"]

Seeing this, a bit of hope starts to bubble up deep in my soul. As I recite the word "Status" inside my mind, a screen opens with a feeling similar to those messages from before.

[Status]

Name: Orin?

Species: Human?

Titles: "Novice Adventurer", "Lost One"

Skills: "Basic Dagger Mastery Lv: 1", "Basic Sword Mastery Lv: 3", "Basic Herb Knowledge Lv: 1"

Abilities: "Status"

Looking over this status of mine more than once, it only brings up more questions than it answers. Why is my species listed as "Human?" Am I not even human? And I understand the origin of the title "Novice Adventurer," but what does "Lost One" mean? Is it connected to my amnesia and only vague knowledge about myself?

As I question the meaning of the title "Lost One," another window suddenly opens.

The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.

[Title: Lost One]

[The eyes of fate smile gently upon your soul]

Great, more mysterious things without answers.

Despite the confusion, a flicker of determination sparks within me. If this "Status" ability allows me to learn more about myself, then perhaps it can help me uncover the secrets of this strange new world. I close the status screen and refocus on my surroundings.

The streets are still busy, but I notice subtle shifts in the crowd's behavior. People seem to be preparing for something—a market stall owner hastily covering his goods, a mother herding her children indoors. The air feels charged, as if the town itself is holding its breath.

Curious, I approach an elderly man who is calmly watching the scene unfold. "Excuse me, sir. What's happening?"

The man looks at me with a mix of surprise and amusement. "You must be new here, lad. It's the weekly monster cull. The gates open, and adventurers head out to keep the area safe from roaming beasts. It’s quite the spectacle."

A monster cull. The thought of facing real danger both excites and terrifies me. But before I can dwell on it, the man's eyes narrow slightly as he studies me. "You're an adventurer, aren't you? Just registered, I reckon."

I nod. "Yes, just today. I’m trying to find my way around."

He smiles warmly. "Well, best of luck to you. Stay sharp and remember, the guild's there to help. And if you’re looking to learn, find someone experienced to partner with. No shame in teaming up."

I thank him and continue down the street, his words echoing in my mind. Partnering with someone experienced might be wise, but first, I need supplies and more information.

The marketplace is still lively, despite the impending cull. I browse various stalls, picking up basic provisions—a sturdy backpack, a few healing herbs, and a small map of the town and its surrounding areas. Each purchase feels like another step toward solidifying my new identity as an adventurer.

As I leave the last stall, the distant sound of the town's gate opening sends a shiver down my spine. A crowd of adventurers, some seasoned and others as fresh-faced as myself, gather near the gate, ready to embark on their quests.

I approach the group, feeling a mixture of anticipation and nervousness. One adventurer, a tall woman with a confident demeanor and a longsword strapped to her back, catches my eye. She notices me and walks over, extending a hand.

"First time, huh? Name’s Elara. You look like you could use a partner."

I shake her hand, grateful for the offer. "My name is Orin. Yes, I’m new here and could definitely use some guidance."

She smiles. "Stick with me, Orin. We’ll start with something simple and I'll help you get your first real battle experience. Just remember to stay alert and follow my lead."

As we step beyond the gates, the reality of my situation hits me once again. This is not just a search for answers about my past; it’s a journey into the unknown, fraught with danger and opportunity. With Elara by my side and my newfound abilities, I feel a renewed sense of purpose.

The path ahead is sunlit and still uncertain, but it is a path I am ready to walk. The adventures awaiting me are as boundless as the questions I seek to answer.

And so, with one step into the light, my journey truly begins.