Hello, lovely readers!

First and foremost, thank you for joining me on this creative journey into the world of fanfiction. I want to clarify a few things and set some expectations as we delve into my written stories.

The characters, settings, and elements from the original work that you may recognize belong to their respective creators. My stories are a labor of love, and I merely play in the sandbox they've crafted. No copyright infringement is intended, and I am not profiting from these writings.

While I strive to stay true to the essence of the characters and the universe they inhabit, please note that these stories are my interpretations. Sometimes creative liberties are taken to explore different angles, scenarios, and emotions that the original work may not have covered.

Occasionally, my stories may touch upon mature themes such as violence, romance, or sensitive topics. When such themes arise, I will provide appropriate content warnings at the story's beginning so you can make an informed choice about whether to continue reading.

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Lastly, thank you for being here. Your support and enthusiasm for these stories mean the world to me. Writing is a journey; I'm grateful to have you alongside me.

With that, thank you.


[chapter five]


This expanse of wilderness, known as the Great Forest of Tob, carried a distinction that surpassed its sheer size.

From colossal titans to the tiniest creatures, the forest was home to a diverse and perilous assortment of inhabitants, giving even the most audacious orichalcum-class adventurers pause before venturing too far. The forest's towering ancient trees formed a dense canopy that filtered sunlight into dappled patterns on the forest floor. Shadows danced amidst the foliage, concealing both wonders and dangers within.

Even members of the adamantine group would find themselves exercising caution before venturing into its core. Such was the forest's formidable reputation.

As a result, the secrets concealed amidst the forest's tangled undergrowth remained largely untouched, a testament to the persistent veil of mystery that enshrouded them.

Yet, on this extraordinary day, a pair of exceptional courage stood poised to unravel the mystery of the Great Forest of Tob.

Geraint, a man of striking handsomeness with a cascade of blond hair that seemed to shimmer like sunlight filtering through leaves, and Walpurgisnacht, a woman of deadly allure whose every movement exuded an air of grace, were seated upon a small glade at the forest's heart.

Their exchange was light and carefree, starkly contrasting with the lurking dangers surrounding them—proof of their exceptional abilities. Geraint absentmindedly twirled a sprig of forest lavender between his fingers while Walpurgisnacht leaned against a tree, her fingers idly tracing the intricate patterns etched into its bark.

"All right, let us hold the first ever Great Forest of Tob Scavenger Hunt!" Walpurgisnacht declared, a spark of excitement gleaming in her unearthly eyes.

Upon surveying the vastness of the Great Forest of Tob, she had proposed an engaging activity to Geraint. The sheer magnitude of the forest had compelled her to suggest this lighthearted activity, a chance to explore and engage amidst the dense foliage.

With a playful grin, Geraint nodded in agreement, fully embracing the friendly challenge. "A scavenger hunt sounds like just the thing to do in a forest as grand as this."

They huddled together under the verdant canopy; their shared anticipation was palpable. The forest seemed to hold its breath as Walpurgisnacht explained the rules they'd follow: Each of them would venture into the forest to select five items of their choosing. After an hour, they would reconvene to initiate the showdown.

In this showdown, they'd pit one of their chosen items against each other in a test of quality and creativity. The sun filtered through the leaves above, casting intricate patterns of light and shadow on the forest floor, as if nature itself were watching this friendly contest.

A sly smile played on Geraint's lips as he inquired, "And what does the winner get?"

Walpurgisnacht's laughter echoed, blending harmoniously with the forest's symphony of rustling leaves and distant calls of creatures. "The victor of each showdown gains a point based on the item's quality. After five rounds, the one with the highest score claims victory."

Geraint's eyes sparkled with mirth. "So, it's not just about finding things, but about choosing wisely and presenting them effectively."

"Exactly," Walpurgisnacht agreed with a nod. "It's not only about the object itself, but how you wield it in the battle of wits.

[x]

After an hour of exploration and discovery, they finally reunited at their chosen meeting point, their faces animated with the thrill of what was to come. The forest seemed to hum with their shared excitement, as if the very trees and creatures were curious witnesses to this unique competition.

Walpurgisnacht reached into her satchel and withdrew a flower that emitted a faint, ethereal glow. "My first choice."

Geraint's response was a flourish of his hand, revealing a glimmering yellow mushroom that seemed to exude an aura of vitality. "And mine."

"My mage flower versus your healing mushroom," Walpurgisnacht proclaimed with a mischievous glint in her eyes, holding up a delicate, luminescent blossom in one hand and a sturdy, earth-toned mushroom in the other.

Geraint chuckled heartily, his selection, the mushroom, cradled in his palm. "A clash of magical botanicals, it seems."

As they began to discuss the merits of their chosen items, Walpurgisnacht eloquently detailed her flower's abilities. "This mage flower has the incredible power to regenerate mana. Imagine the potential it holds for spellcasters who require a wellspring of magical energy."

Geraint nodded appreciatively, acknowledging the impressive utility of her choice. "And my healing mushroom, as you know, can mend wounds swiftly. Vital for any adventurer who braves the perils of our world."

With a gracious nod, Walpurgisnacht conceded, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "It is my loss this time. The priority, I must admit, has to be on healing, especially in the heart of a forest like this."

Geraint's smile widened, satisfaction twinkling in his eyes. "Ah, a point for me then. It seems this healing mushroom was worth the trouble."

Curiosity sparked in Walpurgisnacht's gaze. "Oh? What sort of trouble did you encounter to procure such a treasure?"

Geraint waved her concern away with a dismissive yet proud gesture. "Nothing beyond my capabilities, I assure you. The mushroom grew within a cave where the goblins had established a makeshift settlement."

Walpurgisnacht raised an eyebrow, her intrigue evident. "A goblin settlement? That must have been quite the encounter."

Geraint's laugh resonated through the glade, filled with amusement and fond reminiscence. "That would have been the case, but rest assured, I managed to procure the mushroom without causing a commotion. A few cunning words and a hasty exit sufficed."

"Shall we move on to the next?" Walpurgisnacht proposed, a gleam of anticipation in her eyes.

Geraint's lips curved into a confident smile, mirroring his excitement. "Okay, ready for the next challenge."

With a shared understanding and a moment of shared suspense, they prepared for the next round of their unique contest.

"Very well then," Geraint declared, his voice carrying a touch of playfulness. "On the count of three. One... two... three!"

At the count, they simultaneously revealed their chosen items, excitingly showcasing their unique selections as the forest watched on in hushed anticipation.

[x]

As the day advanced, their friendly competition unfolded in tandem, each showdown combining cleverness, allure, creativity, and engaging conversation. The forest seemed to have taken on the role of a silent audience, the rustling leaves and distant bird calls adding a natural soundtrack to their contest.

Eventually, the moment arrived for the ultimate face-off, the culmination of their shared adventure and playful rivalry. The air was charged with excitement, and a sense of finality seemed to settle over the glade where they stood.

A serene smile touched Walpurgisnacht's lips as she invited Geraint to reveal his trump card. "You've certainly given me a run for my money, Geraint. Shall we determine victor?"

With two points to their names each, the outcome of this fifth and last showdown would ultimately determine the champion of their engaging contest. The stakes were higher, the tension palpable, and yet there was an underlying camaraderie that spoke of the genuine connection they had forged through their competition.

"Very well then," Geraint concurred, a glint of determination in his eyes. "On the count of three."

Their voices harmonized in perfect unison, echoing through the tranquil expanse of the forest as they each revealed their chosen items. The weight of the final decision hung in the air, and for a brief moment, it felt as if the whole forest held its breath.

With the last count spoken, their trump cards were unveiled

[x]

Stationed at a window that overlooked the vacant roads, a pair of guards observed the expansive, empty field beyond. The monotonous view seemed to stretch endlessly, leaving one of the guards feeling the weight of boredom and lethargy settling over him like a heavy cloak.

A barely stifled yawn escaped his lips, betraying his lack of focus. His partner shot him a reproachful glance, a silent reminder of the stakes at hand.

"Oi! Look sharp! If you get caught slacking by the captain, we all get punished," his partner warned, his voice a low hiss.

His partner's words struck a chord, reminding him that their notoriously formidable captain had a keen eye for such lapses. Any display of inattention could lead to a grueling training session that neither wished to endure again.

The memory of that infamous day when their captain's wrath had transformed into an ordeal of running around the outer walls while donned in heavy armor still haunted him, sending a shiver down his spine.

"Sorry about that." He quickly apologized to his vigilant partner, straightening up and rubbing his eyes as if trying to shake off the drowsiness that had threatened to overtake him.

The mundane scene suddenly transformed as a sense of attention and seriousness settled in. Once an unchanging tableau host to a movement.

Two figures emerged, seemingly from the very fabric of the landscape, their presence casting an almost magical aura upon the previously empty terrain.

The guard's expression lifted, replaced with a glimmer of excitement. This unexpected spectacle was a welcome distraction, a chance to break free from the tedium that had enveloped them. He reached for the nearby spyglass, eager to view the approaching duo more closely, his eyes squinting as he adjusted the focus.

As he peered through the lens, the figures gradually became more defined.

One of the figures was an undeniably handsome blond man, a presence that seemed to command attention effortlessly. His features were chiseled, and his bearing exuded an air of confidence and charisma. Yet, rather than harboring admiration, a hint of displeasure was etched on the guard's face as if the man's handsomeness carried a personal offense.

"Ah, men like him always get the attention," the guard grumbled, his envy palpable.

His companion, noticing the guard's sour expression, raised an eyebrow and smirked. "Jealous much?"

The guard shot a glare at his companion. "Oh, please. He's not even that handsome."

The companion chuckled knowingly. "Sure, sure. But that one there," he nodded toward the blond man, "has 'heartbreaker' written all over him."

The guard clenched his jaw, his fists unconsciously tightening. "Someone with those looks can win anyone over without trying."

The companion's teasing grin softened into a sympathetic smile. "You feeling a little unlucky in love, my friend?"

The guard looked away, a mixture of frustration and vulnerability crossing his features. His gaze focused on the distance as if lost in thought.

"It's just... frustrating. I've been trying, you know? But it's like I'm invisible."

His companion laid a reassuring hand on his friend's shoulder. "Hey, don't sell yourself short. Not everyone's allure is in their appearance. You've got your strengths."

The guard let out a bitter laugh. "Right, my 'strengths.' They're doing wonders for me."

With that, the two guards shifted their attention, focusing on the man's companion.

The response he could muster was a deep breath. He could hear the frantic rhythm of his heart.

At that moment, he felt his heart was desperately attempting to break free from the confines of his chest, as if it recognized something in the enigmatic woman that his mind had yet to grasp.

A delicate veil shrouded her face, teasing only fragments of her features into view, leaving much to the imagination. It was as if the veil itself was a guardian of her beauty.

Despite her modest robe, an undeniable aura of enchantment and allure radiated from the woman.

Her beauty held a subtle but potent quality, a deadly charm that was impossible to ignore. It was a beauty that went beyond mere appearances, touching on something deeper—an allure that seemed to stir the very essence of those who gazed upon her.

The contrast between her simple clothing and the captivating energy she exuded was a paradox that only heightened her mystique. It was as if danger and elegance had intertwined, creating a mesmerizing and potentially perilous presence that held their attention in a vice-like grip.

The two guards exchanged a shared sigh of appreciation for her beauty.

"Would you look at that? What a beauty," one of them whispered.

"Indeed, my friend. She's like a vision in this fading light," his companion added with a hint of awe.

"I know. There's something different about her, something that draws you in," the guard replied, his voice a mixture of fascination and intrigue.

"You think she's from around here?" his companion mused aloud.

His partner scratched his chin in thought before speaking. "Hard to say. She could be, but there's something exotic about her features. Maybe she's from a distant land."

His eyebrow lifted until it nearly met his hairline, his curiosity clearly piqued.

"A traveler, then?"

"Could be. Or maybe she's here for an important event, given the way she's dressed."

He squinted, examining the intricate embroideries on her robe.

"The style of her robe doesn't seem unique to our region. But those patterns and designs... they're unfamiliar."

His companion nodded in agreement. "Do you think we should go and ask them about their business here?"

"Hmm, I'm not sure. They seem... important, you know? Might be some high-profile travelers or even diplomats."

His companion chuckled softly. "Well, one thing's for certain—they've certainly added a touch of intrigue to our otherwise dull watch."

And as the figures drew closer, their enigmatic presence seemed to envelop the guards, casting a spell that held them captive in a moment both thrilling and mysterious.

"True, and we don't want to offend anyone by prying too much. But we also need to watch for any potential trouble."

"You're right. Then, let's ask them for a short interview. I'll go down and meet them. You stay here and continue keeping watch."

"Oi! You have a wife and two kids! Let me go down there and talk to her."

The companion's eyebrows shot up, and a surprised chuckle escaped him. "Really? Bringing my wife and children into this?"

The man shrugged with a mischievous grin. "Hey, desperate times call for desperate measures."

His friend crossed his arms, feigning a stern expression. "You can't just play the 'wife' card whenever you want."

"Fine, fine," the other relented with a laugh. "But you've got to admit, she's not just any ordinary traveler."

His companion smirked, his gaze drifting back to the woman. "Oh, I admit it. But just because I'm married doesn't mean I can't appreciate beauty, my friend."

He nudged his companion playfully. "I know, I know. But let's be professional about this. We need to find out why they're here and if they pose any threat."

The other sighed dramatically. "All right, all right. I'll leave the 'interviewing' to you. But you owe me one."

The guard saluted mockingly. "Deal. Just make sure you don't get too distracted by her presence."

With a final glance at the approaching figures, the guard who had volunteered for the "interview" straightened his posture, ready to approach the mysterious travelers and uncover the purpose of their unexpected presence in their mundane post.

[x]

After passing through the gate, Walpurgisnacht smiled as she exchanged cheerful waves with the kind guards who had inquired about their visit. The guards had been polite and amicable, a far cry from what she might have expected. It was a pleasant surprise to encounter such friendly faces at the entrance to E-Rantal.

The guards seemed genuinely friendly, and their warm reception had lifted her spirits.

Turning to Geraint, she expressed her surprise, her voice tinged with genuine wonder, "I could hardly believe the guards in E-Rantal are this friendly. And here I was dreading that they might deny our entry."

Geraint initially wore a blank expression as he absorbed her statement. However, that expression quickly shifted into one of amusement, a playful glint entering his eyes.

"You're right," he replied, nodding along.

Her curiosity piqued, Walpurgisnacht was about to inquire about his sudden change in demeanor, sensing that there was more to his reaction than met the eye. However, Geraint skillfully steered the conversation in a different direction, diverting her attention.

"Where shall we head first?" he asked, presenting her with a choice. "The Adventurer's Guild or the Golden Pavilion? It's your call."

As they approached the intersection, she took note of the two paths introduced to them by the guards.

One led to the bustling Adventurer's Guild, and the other to the elegant and enchanting Golden Pavilion.

Considering their options, Walpurgisnacht weighed the possibilities. She and Geraint were beings who existed beyond biological limitations. While they were not bound by the same needs as humans, they did not refrain from indulging in human pleasures when the mood struck them.

In fact, during their recent journey to the expansive Great Forest of Tob, their activities had primarily revolved around gathering delectable fruits, savoring roasted meats at their leisure, and enjoying extended periods of rest.

The forest's immense expanse and abundant resources could have allowed them to extend their stay without limit. However, they contemplated that if the forest alone held such remarkable beauty, it piqued their curiosity about the marvels the rest of the world might hold.

After some deliberation, they had reached an agreement to continue their journey. Having just concluded their wilderness exploration, the next logical step was to venture into more civilized areas, to experience the unique offerings of human settlements and the interactions they could foster.

The most favorable point of departure appeared to be a city, and E-Rantal, the closest one to the Great Forest of Tob, was consequently the chosen destination for their current adventure.

"Walpurgisnacht, have you reached a decision?" Geraint's voice brought her companion back to the present moment.

"Oh, right! Let's make our way to the Adventurer's Guild first!" Walpurgisnacht's decision was swift, a blend of curiosity and practicality.

"Understood!" Geraint responded with a nod of agreement.

So, the two opted for the path that led them to the Adventurer's Guild, a decision that aligned with their desire to gather information, possibly take on new quests, and immerse themselves in the pulse of the city's adventurous spirit.

The village chief had advised them that registering as adventurers would be wiser than continuing to identify as mere travelers.

Being recognized as adventurers would grant them smoother access to any city within the Kingdom, as opposed to the potential restrictions travelers face in some cities.

With this counsel in mind, they stepped onto the path leading them toward the Adventurer's Guild, ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges that E-Rantal had to offer.

Even with a leisurely pace, the two arrived quickly at their destination.

[x]

Nestled within the bustling heart of the sprawling city, the Adventurer's Guild stood as a functional and unpretentious building, a testament to its practical purpose. Its exterior boasted a mix of worn brick and modest wooden beams, each scratch and weathered mark telling tales of the countless adventurers who had crossed its threshold. A large, slightly weathered sign above the entrance read "Adventurer's Guild" in simple yet welcoming lettering.

Inside, the atmosphere was lively and bustling. The main chamber exuded an air of practicality, dimly lit by lanterns hanging from exposed wooden beams. A sturdy wooden counter ran along one side of the room, where a few guild officials attended to a steady stream of adventurers, their voices a constant murmur of inquiries and exchanges.

The floor bore the marks of countless boots, scuffed and worn, while the walls were adorned with a few basic maps and informative posters. This humble backdrop stood in stark contrast to the opulence of the city's more prestigious establishments. In one corner, a humble fireplace crackled, casting a gentle warmth that countered the coolness of the stone walls.

Yet, the heartbeat of the Guild was its central bulletin board, a patchwork of hand-drawn maps, hastily scribbled notes, and faded sketches. Each scrap of parchment represented a unique undertaking – from the mundane fetch quests to the more perilous and grandiose expeditions into the unknown.

Chairs and benches, although worn, were strategically placed for those awaiting their turn or sharing tales of their recent endeavors. Conversations hummed in a blend of accents and languages, creating an ambiance of camaraderie and shared purpose.

The harmonious atmosphere was suddenly broken by the entrance of two figures - a handsome blond man and a veiled woman of undeniable allure. As they stepped into the Guild, a hushed pause rippled through the room as curious eyes turned toward them. The air seemed to tingle with the presence of something intriguing and out of the ordinary.

Unfazed by the attention, the two confidently navigated through the crowd of adventurers, their arrival prompting an unconscious and instinctive movement, like a tide parting to make way for a ship.

Approaching the counter, their presence continued to cast an almost magical effect, their aura demanding attention without a single word spoken.

Seeing an unoccupied guild official, the pair gracefully made their way toward her. The soft murmur of conversations tapered off as the room's occupants turned their focus toward this mysterious duo. All eyes were now fixed upon them, captivated by the elegance of the veiled woman and the charismatic presence of the blond man by her side.

"Hello," the man's voice rang out, smooth and commanding, cutting through the hushed atmosphere. "We would like to register as adventurers."

His words carried a weight that drew attention and respect from both the guild officials and the onlookers who had been swept up by their entrance. Even the guild official behind the counter found herself momentarily caught in his aura, her professional demeanor faltering.

It wasn't until her neighboring colleague delivered a well-placed slap to her back that she jolted back to reality, releasing a surprised and slightly embarrassed "eep" sound. The sudden motion snapped her out of her daze, her cheeks flushing a deep shade of crimson.

To shift the mood, Geraint flashed a charming smile and decided to reiterate his initial statement.

"We're here to register as adventurers," he reiterated, his voice carrying a magnetic charisma.

Seizing the opportunity, the previously flustered guild official swiftly transitioned into her professional role, clearing her throat and launching into the standard adventurer registration procedure, her words flowing smoothly as if rehearsed a hundred times before.

The room slowly settled back into a buzz of activity, the incident with the newcomers becoming a captivating story to share later among the adventurers. And as the registration process continued, the Guild resumed its usual rhythm, intertwining the lives of countless adventurers who sought challenges and thrills within its walls.

[x]

Once she had smoothly completed the adventurer introduction speech, the teller adeptly procured two slightly worn parchments from a nearby pile. She then placed these in front of the duo, along with writing tools that were similarly aged.

"Please fill out the form," she instructed, her voice now a blend of professionalism and approachability. Her gaze met theirs with a reassuring smile, the earlier moment of fluster all but forgotten. "And don't worry if you're not well-versed in writing," she added with an encouraging nod, her tone lighthearted. "Leave it blank if you don't know how to write. We're here to assist you every step of the way."

[x]

"Thank you, but we can handle it," Geraint replied with his genuine smile, matching the teller's kindness.

The teller, however, was caught off guard by Geraint's smile. Her heart skipped a beat, and for a few seconds, she stood in stunned silence. Her composure was once again shattered.

Seconds later, a blood trail started running down her nose.

Geraint was about to voice his concern when the teller's body swayed, and she collapsed like a puppet whose strings had been abruptly cut.

The hubbub in the room ceased as everyone turned their attention to the scene. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of surprise and alarm.

As the scene unfolded, a nearby teller, a glint in her eyes, seized the moment to step in and replace her unconscious coworker. Her enthusiasm was evident as she smoothly took over the vacant position behind the counter, her gaze directed towards the handsome man who had caused quite a stir.

Eager to engage in conversation and possibly garner his attention, she addressed the growing concern among the adventurers while ensuring her words carried a sense of casual confidence.

"Just so you know," she began, her smile veering toward flirtatious, "our colleague hasn't been feeling her best since this morning. Don't worry, I'll take care of you instead," her words provided a lighthearted note that diffused some of the tension in the room.

Geraint's gaze lingered for a moment on the unconscious teller being gently carried away by concerned colleagues before turning his attention to the new teller, who seemed determined to make a lasting impression.

"Then, we'll be in your care," he replied, his charm seamlessly returning as he acknowledged her presence, momentarily oblivious to the impact his smile had on those around him.

[x]

Through the assistance of the new teller, Geraint, and Walpurgisnacht were able to complete the registration process and transition into adventurers successfully. The new teller's efficiency and affable demeanor had smoothed over the earlier disruption, making their interaction positive.

As Geraint and Walpurgisnacht meticulously examined their newly acquired copper tags, the teller behind the counter, sensing their curiosity, proactively extended their conversation.

"Is there anything else I could assist you with?" Her tone was polite and accommodating, ready to address any further inquiries they might have.

Geraint's thoughtful gaze shifted from the tag to Walpurgisnacht, a silent exchange passing between them. Their connection was evident in these unspoken moment.

Encouraged by Walpurgisnacht's subtle nod, Geraint turned back to the teller, his curiosity overcoming any hesitation.

"Actually," he began, his voice carrying a polite yet inquisitive note, "I'm interested in seeking assistance regarding selling herbs and various other items. Would you be open to helping with this?"

The teller's eyes brightened with genuine interest, her eagerness to be of service evident. "Of course! We have a trading post within the Guild where adventurers can list items they wish to sell. It's a great way to connect with potential buyers and fellow adventurers. I can guide you through the process if you'd like."

Geraint's smile returned, appreciative of the teller's willingness to assist. "That would be fantastic, thank you. We have a variety of herbs from our recent journey that we believe could be valuable to others."

The teller nodded, her focus fully on assisting them. "Excellent! Once we've concluded our conversation here, I can show you the trading post area and walk you through the steps of listing your items. It's quite straightforward."

Geraint expressed his gratitude with a nod. "That would be very helpful, thank you. We appreciate your guidance."

As the teller offered a warm smile, the adventurers' journey took another step forward.


I'd love to hear your thoughts on the story if you have time from: overall Impressions, writing style, as well as suggestions. Please feel free. Be honest and constructive in your feedback. I genuinely appreciate your input, as it will help me refine and polish the story before finalizing it.

Thank you for taking the time to read and provide feedback. Your insights mean a lot to me. I am looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

Best regards.