Chapter 47: DRA’KESH WITHOUT MERCY
The Adventurers Guild dominated an entire city block, its three-story façade a masterwork of functional architecture that managed to convey both welcome and warning. Carved reliefs depicting heroic deeds covered the massive oak doors, while the constant flow of people in and out spoke to the organization’s central role in the capital’s economy.
Inside, barely controlled chaos reigned. The main hall buzzed with activity as adventurers studied job postings, negotiated contracts, and shared tales of recent exploits. Notice boards covered every available wall space, their surfaces hidden beneath layers of quest announcements, monster warnings, and official proclamations.
Yomi took it all in with the calculating gaze of someone assessing a potential battlefield. The hierarchy was visible in how people moved and spoke, veteran adventurers commanded respect through presence alone, while newer faces pressed against the walls like nervous prey animals.
"First time?" The receptionist who greeted them was a middle-aged woman with the efficient manner of someone who had processed thousands of applications. Her name plate read ’Mira,’ and her smile was professional but genuine. "You’ll want basic registration, I assume?"
"Yes," Lirien answered when Yomi remained silent, still studying the room’s dynamics.
"Standard process," Mira explained, pulling out a leather folder thick with forms. "Personal information, background verification where possible, skill assessment, and evaluation combat. Once that’s complete, you’ll receive your G-class credentials and can begin accepting appropriate contracts."
Yomi’s attention sharpened. "Evaluation combat?"
"Guild policy," Mira said with practiced ease. "We need to assess your actual capabilities for safety reasons. Too many new adventurers overestimate their abilities and end up as monster food." Her expression softened slightly. "Don’t worry, it’s not meant to be overwhelming. Just a demonstration of basic competence."
The paperwork proved tedious but manageable. Personal information, emergency contacts, next of kin , most of which Yomi had to improvise, drawing on the identity he was slowly constructing in this world. When they reached the evaluation phase, Mira led them through a maze of corridors toward the guild’s training facilities.
"Your opponent will be Gareth Thorne," she explained as they walked. "B-class warrior, fifteen years experience. He’s... enthusiastic about these evaluations, but he knows to hold back appropriately."