[chapter eight]
The bustling street came to life with curiosity and intrigue as a striking blond swordsman effortlessly towed a rudimentary wooden cart filled to the brim with bound, groaning men.
Passersby and onlookers found themselves irresistibly drawn to the peculiar spectacle unfolding before them.
Whispers and murmurs rippled through the crowd, creating a hushed symphony of speculation and conjecture.
"Look at that! It seems they've apprehended some bandits."
"Ah, those adventurers never cease to amaze me. At least they're helping to keep the city safe," another individual chimed in with a nod of approval.
However, these assumptions were soon challenged when a sharp-eyed observer within the throng noticed the distinctive copper plate hanging from the handsome blond adventurer's neck—a symbol of an adventurer's rank.
"Hold on a moment. Do you see that? A mere copper-ranked adventurer wouldn't be capable of such a feat."
"Indeed, hauling a cart full of grown men? There's more to this than meets the eye."
"You're absolutely right. This is no ordinary copper plate adventurer."
The crowd's conjectures and theories continued to circulate, each voice contributing to the evolving narrative.
"You know, those men look rather rugged, like they've been involved in some illicit activities. Bandits might be a reasonable guess. They might have caught them in the act."
"I'm not entirely convinced. Take a closer look at their attire and demeanor. These men may not be bandits at all. They could be slavers, perhaps apprehended from some sort of trafficking operation."
Amidst the speculations, a passerby suddenly gasped, drawing the attention of those nearby.
"Wait, wait! Look at the man in the cart, the one at the far end. I've seen him before. He's one of those notorious slave traders causing havoc in the district!"
The revelation sent shockwaves through the crowd, a fusion of astonishment and righteous indignation spreading rapidly.
"Are you certain? Slave traders? Right here in the city?"
"I'm positive! I remember that face. They've been involved in some shady business," the confident voice persisted.
As the overlapping conversations in the crowd continued, the atmosphere shifted from mere speculation to a growing undercurrent of righteous indignation.
Then, from the fringes of the assembled onlookers, a young voice chimed in, capturing the collective attention.
"I know him! I saw him before with that beautiful woman. They were staying at the Golden Pavilion."
The revelation spurred heightened interest among the crowd as their gazes turned toward the young speaker.
The ensuing murmurs painted a vivid picture of a city alive with rumors and conjecture, where truth and assumption often engaged in a delicate dance.
The arrival of the Golden-Haired Adventurer demanded immediate attention as he strode forward with an air of composed determination.
Approaching a nearby group of patrolling soldiers, an aura of unwavering confidence surrounded him, immediately drawing their focus.
"Excuse me, esteemed soldiers. Might I have a moment of your time?"
The soldiers, taken aback by the adventurer's eloquence and the seemingly effortless manner in which he maneuvered the laden cart, exchanged quick glances, momentarily caught off guard by this unexpected encounter.
After a brief pause, one of the soldiers stepped assertively forward to engage with the adventurer clad in gold. His posture subtly transformed, reflecting a newfound sense of poise that mirrored the stranger before him.
"Of course, how may we assist you?"
In response to the soldier's polite inquiry, Geraint offered a gracious smile, his demeanor infusing the space with a serenity that dispelled any lingering tension.
"Thank you for your courtesy. I am Geraint, a copper-ranked adventurer."
The sight of the copper emblem adorning Geraint's neck elicited a sense of curiosity among the soldiers.
Undeterred, Geraint continued, his voice steady and deliberate, weaving a narrative that unraveled the events that had transpired in recent times.
"My partner, Walpurgisnacht, and I were entrusted with a mission to locate a missing pet named Sable, belonging to Mr. Cedric Thorne."
Recognition flickered across the soldiers' faces, acknowledging Cedric's notable status in E-Rantal.
"While in our pursuit of Sable, we stumbled upon a disconcerting revelation. A group of slave traders not only absconded with Sable but had also ensnared over a dozen women at their stronghold near the outer wall."
The revelation prompted gasps and murmurs from the nearby spectators and onlookers, who now comprehended the gravity of the situation.
Geraint remained unruffled by the stirred emotions, persisting with his narration.
One of the soldiers within the group managed to piece together the puzzle, directing a discerning gaze at the cart filled with bound men before refocusing on Geraint.
"Are you suggesting that you and your partner managed to dismantle the entire group?"
Geraint's smile bore a subtle hint of satisfaction, a testament to their resolute actions.
"Yes, I am pleased to perceive your understanding."
While curiosity simmered among the soldiers, they held back from voicing their inquiries. Adventurers were known for their tendency to conceal their full capabilities, often reserving them as trump cards or insurance against potential adversaries.
An air of both curiosity and determination swirled in the soldier's expression as he contemplated posing another question, yet hesitated to do so.
"I understand your discretion, but my partner and I are no ordinary copper-ranked adventurers. You see, my partner, Walpurgisnacht, possesses the ability to cast fifth-tier magics. As for myself, I am a swordsman of equal prowess."
Geraint's response hung in the air, capturing the rapt attention of those who had been listening.
"Then, how can we be of service?" the soldier inquired.
"The number of slave traders was notably substantial, rendering it impractical for us to handle their transport. Additionally, we stumbled upon crates that likely contained contraband items. And, of course, there are the rescued women to consider. Would it be feasible to seek the assistance of the city's soldiers in managing this multifaceted situation?"
The lead soldiers fixed a resolute gaze: "Absolutely."
[x]
The aftermath of the dramatic events stretched on throughout the entire day, extending well into the late hours as the city's authorities worked tirelessly to untangle the complex web of criminal activities that had been uncovered.
The processing of the forty captured slave traders was a painstaking affair. Each individual had to be meticulously identified, searched, and documented before being placed into temporary holding.
Amidst the organized chaos, officials diligently examined the crates of contraband discovered underground.
These once-hidden crates now lay exposed, revealing a treasure trove of illegal goods. From banned substances to stolen artifacts, every item had to be carefully cataloged and assessed, contributing to the mounting evidence against the captured criminals.
And then there was the matter of the rescued women who needed immediate medical attention, care, and counseling.
The entire ordeal was deeply traumatic, and the city's resources were devoted to ensuring their physical and emotional well-being.
Next was the matter of interviews, which was perhaps the most crucial step in the aftermath.
The duo found themselves sitting before a panel of officials, to whom they recounted the events that had transpired in vivid detail.
As the authorities probed to seek to piece together the truth, they responded patiently, fully aware of the importance of their testimony in ensuring justice.
Finally, after hours of interviews, cross-referencing, and meticulous record-keeping, Walpurgisnacht and Geraint were granted permission to depart from the bustling administrative hub. Sable, the missing pet, had been waiting patiently.
Using [Speak with Animals], Walpurgisnacht was able to establish communication with Sable, soothing the creature's anxiety and explaining the situation.
"Come, Sable," Geraint said gently, his voice carrying a reassuring tone. "Mr. Thorne must be worried sick waiting for you."
[x]
As the duo approached the prestigious district where Cedric Thorne's residence, the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow that painted the city in hues of amber and rose.
Geraint knocked gently on the intricately carved wooden door, its polished surface gleaming in the fading light. The door swung open, revealing a middle-aged man with a worried expression etched upon his features.
His eyes widened in disbelief as they fell upon Sable, who was held comfortably by Walpurgisnacht.
"Sable? Is that really you?" Cedric Thorne's voice quivered with a blend of hope and disbelief. He took a tentative step forward, his gaze fixed on the furry creature that had returned.
Sable barked softly in response, a musical sound that resonated with familiarity. With a heart full of emotion, Cedric Thorne extended a trembling hand, allowing Sable to hop onto his palm. The reunion was a delicate dance of emotions, a moment that transcended words.
Tears welled up in Cedric Thorne's eyes as he cradled Sable in his hands, his touch gentle and loving. "Oh, my dear Sable, I thought I had lost you forever."
Sable nuzzled against Cedric Thorne's palm, its small form radiating comfort and affection. The worries of the day, the fears and uncertainties, seemed to dissolve in the presence of this heartfelt reunion.
Geraint and Walpurgisnacht exchanged a subtle glance, their eyes reflecting a shared sense of fulfillment. They had not only dismantled a criminal operation and saved innocent lives but had also restored a cherished bond between a man and his beloved companion.
Cedric Thorne's gaze lifted from Sable to the adventurers who stood before him. Gratitude and emotion mingled on his face as he addressed them with a voice that trembled sincerely.
"Words cannot express the depth of my gratitude. Thank you."
Geraint's humble nod and warm tone resonated with the tranquil evening atmosphere. "We are humbled to have been of service, Mr. Thorne."
The gentle barking of Sable added a charming touch to the sentiment in the air, as if the faithful companion was affirming the adventurers' words.
Mr. Thorne's gaze softened as it returned to Sable, his smile reflecting the deep bond he shared with the awakened creature.
"Mr. Thorne-" began Walpurgisnacht, but her words were gently interrupted.
"Please, benefactors, you can address me by my name."
Walpurgisnacht acknowledged his request with a nod, her tone respectful. "Understood. Then, may we request a private conversation?"
Sensing the gravity of the situation, Cedric Thorne nodded solemnly and gestured for them to follow him inside. As they entered the sitting area, Cedric gestured for them to be seated.
"I appreciate your discretion," he began, his voice a blend of gratitude and anticipation. "What is it that you wish to discuss?"
[x]
Walpurgisnacht and Geraint stood before Mr. Cedric Thorne, the air heavy with a mix of relief and gravity. Walpurgisnacht began to recount the events that had led to Sable's rescue, her voice carrying a sense of urgency and purpose.
"Mr. Thorne," she said, her tone firm yet compassionate, "Sable was held captive, along with others, with the intention of being sold on the black market. We want you to know that the individuals responsible for this heinous act have been apprehended and are currently in custody."
Geraint chimed in with a reassuring nod. "We made it a top priority to ensure that justice was served and that those responsible faced the consequences of their actions."
Cedric's eyes glistened with a mixture of gratitude and emotion, his voice quivering slightly as he spoke. "I can't express how thankful I am for your efforts. Sable means the world to me."
The duo's attention then turned to Cedric's question about why anyone would target Sable. Walpurgisnacht took a thoughtful breath before explaining, "Mr. Thorne, Sable is not just an ordinary pet. She is an awakened animal, possessing magical properties that make her a valuable asset."
Cedric's expression shifted from curiosity to realization. "So, her magical properties are the reason someone would take interest in her?"
Walpurgisnacht nodded, her eyes focused on his. "Exactly. Sable's awakened state is a compelling reason for individuals to covet her."
She continued, her voice tinged with concern, "In order to ensure Sable's safety during the investigation, we chose not to reveal her awakened state to the authorities. Instead, we informed them that one of the captors had taken a liking to Sable and claimed her as their own."
Cedric's brows furrowed but nodded in understanding. "So, you've deliberately withheld information about her magical abilities."
Walpurgisnacht smiled. "Yes, precisely. We believed it was best to keep that information from those who might exploit it."
She then proceeded to share another revelation, her voice measured and thoughtful. "Moreover, it wasn't the slave traders who discovered Sable's awakened state. It appears that someone was orchestrating the entire operation behind the scenes, manipulating the slave traders."
Cedric's eyes widened in astonishment. "So, it wasn't a mere coincidence that they found Sable?"
"No, it wasn't," Walpurgisnacht confirmed, her voice steady. "There are forces at play beyond the captured slave traders."
Seeing Cedric's genuine surprise, Walpurgisnacht continued with a sense of caution. "Are you suggesting that Sable is in danger even after what happened?"
Walpurgisnacht nodded, her voice firm. "Yes, that's a possibility we can't ignore."
Cedric's gaze turned resolute as he understood the gravity of the situation. "I see. In that case, I'll use this opportunity to visit a relative in the empire. It might be best for both Sable and me."
As Walpurgisnacht saw Cedric's acceptance of her warning, she retrieved a mission completion form and handed it to him. "Before we go, Mr. Thorne, could you please sign this form? It signifies the successful completion of our mission."
Cedric took the form with a renewed sense of purpose, his hand steady as he signed it with a flourish before handing it back to her.
"Thank you," Walpurgisnacht said, her voice carrying genuine appreciation. "With this, our mission is officially considered complete."
With a gentle bow of acknowledgment, both she and Geraint expressed their gratitude.
Cedric, however, stopped them from leaving just yet. "Before you go, I must thank you once again for returning Sable to me. Your actions have given me hope and reassurance."
A warm smile graced his lips as he added, "As a token of my appreciation, please consider yourselves eligible for a half-off discount on any books from my bookstore."
Upon exchanging their final words of gratitude and saying their goodbyes, Geraint and Walpurgisnacht stepped out into the night, the cool breeze carrying the weight of their successful mission and the heartfelt gratitude of a man and his beloved companion.
Geraint broke the silence that followed, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity. "Shall we head to the Adventurer's Guild now?"
He continued, referencing the typical procedure. "Once a mission is completed, we need our contractor's signature on the mission completion form. Then, submit the form to the reception to claim our reward."
Walpurgisnacht shook her head with a gentle smile. "Not tonight. Let's leave that for tomorrow. Besides, we haven't had a proper meal since yesterday."
Geraint chuckled, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "Now that you mention it, you're absolutely right."
She nodded in agreement, her expression softening. "Honestly, I've become quite spoiled by the delightful cuisine at the Golden Pavilion."
Geraint joined in her laughter, a shared understanding of the sentiment between them. "I can't argue with that. Let's find a good place to eat and enjoy a well-deserved meal."
As they walked leisurely through the city's enchanting night, the shared camaraderie between Geraint and Walpurgisnacht spoke of random topics.
[x]
Following a meticulously crafted feast by the master chefs of the renowned Golden Pavilion, Walpurgisnacht and Geraint exchanged farewells for the evening. With the lingering flavors of the meal still tantalizing her taste buds, her anticipation turned to the luxurious haven that awaited her.
The crowning jewel of the Golden Pavilion Celestial Suite was its opulent bathroom, featuring a massive bathtub that promised pure relaxation after indulging in the culinary wonders crafted by the guild's talented chefs.
With a graceful gesture, Walpurgisnacht conjured a delicate stream of warm water that cascaded elegantly into the tub.
She reached for the amenities thoughtfully provided and added a few drops of essential oils, each drop infusing the air with soothing scents similar to lavender and chamomile. The aroma wrapped around her, carrying her into a realm of tranquility.
Stepping out of her clothing, she sank into the welcoming embrace of the tub. The water, with its perfect temperature, enveloped her body in a gentle cocoon of warmth. She reclined against the plush cushioned backrest, a contented sigh escaping her lips.
As she closed her eyes, she allowed the serenity of the moment to wash over her. The symphony of water, fragrance, and her own steady breaths created a soothing melody that resonated with the calmness of the night.
A hint of excitement curled the corners of her lips, barely visible in the soft glow of the ambient light. Thoughts of the upcoming day played like a distant whisper in her mind, promising new adventures, experiences, and the potential for even more enchanting moments.
Walpurgisnacht was eagerly anticipating the dawn of the new day that awaited both her and Geraint.
[x]
Stepping into the bustling hub of the Adventurer's Guild, Walpurgisnacht and Geraint were greeted by an electric atmosphere charged with hushed conversations and curious glances.
Whispers of their recent heroic exploit spread like wildfire, painting them as the protagonists of a tale that was on every adventurer's lips.
Geraint couldn't help but chuckle softly as he leaned over to Walpurgisnacht and remarked, "Seems like we've become quite the talk of the town."
Walpurgisnacht grinned in response, her eyes glinting with a mixture of satisfaction and amusement. "I honestly did not think that finding Mr. Cedric's companion, Sable, would lead to such an encounter."
As they navigated through the bustling crowd, adventurers paused in their discussions to steal furtive glances their way.
The buzz of speculation and admiration swirled around them, creating an aura of excitement that seemed to envelop the entire guild hall.
Walpurgisnacht and Geraint strode calmly and confidently towards the vacant receptionist.
She pulled the mission form from her satchel and handed it over to the receptionist.
"Good morning. We have completed our mission. Please inspect," Walpurgisnacht said, her tone polite and business-like.
The receptionist nodded, her gaze shifting between the two adventurers and the document in her hand. With a practiced efficiency, she accepted the mission form and began reviewing its contents.
After a brief but thorough examination, the receptionist looked up. With a cough, she replied, "We have received proof of your mission's completion. Please wait a moment as we prepare your payment."
Geraint nodded appreciatively, a faint smile playing at the corner of his lips. "Thank you."
The receptionist stepped away, her footsteps fading as she headed towards the administrative area.
Minutes later, the receptionist returned, holding a small pouch of coins. She handed it over to Walpurgisnacht, who accepted it with a gracious nod. The weight and jingle of the coins within were a satisfying confirmation of their success.
"Thank you," Walpurgisnacht said, her tone carrying genuine gratitude.
As they turned to leave, a hesitant voice called out to them. "Erm... Lady Walpurgisnacht and Sir Geraint, the guild master wants to meet you." The receptionist called back.
The unexpected summons drew their attention, surprise briefly flickering across their expressions. Sharing another glance, this time tinged with curiosity, they nodded in unison.
Geraint: "Of course, we'd be honored to meet with the guild master. Could you lead us the way?"
With a friendly smile, the receptionist gestured for them to follow.
[x]
"Please, come inside," the receptionist said, her welcoming gesture accompanied by the gentle push of the ornate door. The intricate detailing on the door hinted at the room's significance within the Adventurer's Guild.
Walpurgisnacht and Geraint acknowledged the receptionist's invitation with nods and smiles before stepping across the threshold into the room. Inside, their eyes took in the well-arranged furnishings. Two sofa sets faced each other, separated by a low, finely crafted wooden table.
The room's occupants soon captured their attention. Two individuals occupied the space—one, a weathered and robust older man, and the other, a cloaked figure with an air of mystique.
Walpurgisnacht and Geraint exchanged a fleeting glance, their expressions reflecting their curiosity and anticipation regarding the purpose of this summons.
With grace and professionalism, they approached the room's occupants.
"Good day," Walpurgisnacht initiated the conversation with a respectful nod, her tone carrying an air of courtesy and decorum.
"I am Walpurgisnacht, and this is my companion, Geraint. We received word that the guild master wished to speak with us."
Geraint followed suit, offering a confirming nod. His demeanor was composed and alert, demonstrating his readiness for the upcoming discussion.
Their gesture was reciprocated as the rugged older man introduced himself with an authoritative presence. "I am Pluton Ainzach, the Guild Master of the Adventurer's Guild in E-Rantal," he declared, his experience and leadership evident in his bearing.
The cloaked figure, though appearing frail, stepped forward and introduced himself with a soft yet wise tone. "I am Theo Rakheshir, the Guild Master of the Magician's Guild in E-Rantal," he revealed. Despite his fragile appearance, an aura of magic surrounded him.
With the introductions complete, Guild Master Pluton Ainzach extended a hospitable invitation. "Please, have a seat," he offered, indicating the well-appointed sofas positioned across from each other.
"Thank you," Walpurgisnacht responded graciously, her tone conveying appreciation for the warm welcome.
Theo Rakheshir offered a soft smile to complement his words. "We greatly appreciate your willingness to meet with us."
Geraint nodded, his demeanor a balance of preparedness and genuine curiosity. "It's an honor to be here," he replied,.
Unable to contain her curiosity any longer, Walpurgisnacht respectfully inquired, "Then, if I may be so bold, may we ask why we have been summoned?"
Guild Master Ainzach cleared his throat before beginning his explanation. "Your actions played a significant role in thwarting criminals who sought to spread destruction and despair within the Kingdom," he stated, his voice carrying a sense of solemnity. "Furthermore, you managed to capture a prominent figure within the criminal organization of the Kingdom—Succulent."
"We did?" Walpurgisnacht's gasp of surprise was audible. She hadn't fully grasped the extent of their accomplishment until this moment. Turning to Geraint, she sought confirmation.
Recognizing her reaction, Geraint nodded, his expression a blend of pride and humility. "It was the warrior capable of employing illusions."
Recognition dawned on her face as she muttered, "Ah! That man."
Guild Master Ainzach continued, his voice commanding as he placed a pouch of money on the table between them. "This is the bounty for capturing Succulent."
Walpurgisnacht's gaze settled on the pouch of money, and the weight of their actions began to sink in. She exchanged a stunned glance with Geraint, their shared accomplishment taking on a new significance.
However, Guild Master Ainzach had more to reveal. He placed another pouch onto the table, the clinking of coins on wood punctuating his words. "And this is for the additional contributions you have made."
With a gracious nod, Geraint met Guild Master Ainzach's gaze. "Thank you," he said, his tone resonating with heartfelt appreciation.
Walpurgisnacht echoed his sentiment. "We are deeply honored."
Guild Master Ainzach's rugged features softened as he offered a nod of finality. "With this, the matter of the slave traders is resolved. Now, let's turn our attention to the next subject at hand."
Walpurgisnacht and Geraint sat with unwavering attention, their focus wholly on the guild masters, poised to receive the details of the new topic that awaited them.
"Your promotion."
"Promotion?"
Ainzach nodded.
"To be able to dismantle an entire group of slavers, including Succulent, a criminal that was estimated to be adamantine rank, is no small feat."
A brief pause followed, the gravity of their achievement settling over the room. Ainzach's gaze shifted between Walpurgisnacht and Geraint, conveying a mix of assessment and respect.
"That alone speaks volumes about the power you both possess."
Ainzach's attention then turned to Geraint before returning to Walpurgisnacht, his words measured and thoughtful.
"Your partner here revealed to one of the guards that you are capable of wielding fifth-tier magic. Is that accurate?"
"Yes," Walpurgisnacht confirmed without hesitation.
Theo Rakheshir chimed in with enthusiasm, breaking the somber atmosphere with his inquisitiveness.
"Ooh! What type of magic do you specialize in?"
The unexpected excitement from Theo momentarily caught Walpurgisnacht off guard. She had not anticipated such a spirited reaction to her magical abilities.
But there was another aspect of the question that gave her pause. Walpurgisnacht realized that she didn't have a simple answer. Her magical abilities spanned various classes and were highly versatile.
Guild Master Pluton Ainzach couldn't conceal a subtle wince at his friend's overly eager demeanor.
Ainzach, who had assumed that Walpurgisnacht regarded her abilities as a closely guarded secret, intervened on her behalf, his tone gently chastising.
"Ahem, Guild Master Rakheshir, perhaps your question is a bit too probing, don't you think?"
Theo Rakheshir's expression shifted, his exuberance dampened as he was reminded of his role as a Guild Master.
With a slightly embarrassed cough, he swiftly regained his composure and offered a sincere apology.
"I apologize for my enthusiasm. Please forgive me."
Walpurgisnacht graciously waved off his apology with a warm smile.
"It is fine. It was nothing like that. How do I put it? I was having a hard time answering the question since I am able to use various types of magic."
Walpurgisnacht's response briefly stunned Theo Rakheshir. However, this state of surprise was fleeting. Within seconds, his features lit up with visible excitement, his eyes practically sparkling with curiosity and interest. It was as if a switch had been flipped, and his initial shock had transformed into an unabashed fascination.
"Oh, how fascinating! A mage of multiple disciplines! That's quite a rare feat, even among accomplished practitioners. The breadth of your expertise must be truly remarkable. Or perhaps it's your talent?"
Theo's Rakheshir's enthusiasm was palpable, his earlier moment of reserve completely forgotten. His demeanor had shifted again from a reserved guild master to that of an intrigued magic aficionado, eager to learn and understand the extent of Walpurgisnacht's magical prowess.
After being reminded of his status by Guild Master Ainzach's discreet cough, Theo Rakheshir composed himself, his initial enthusiasm subdued but his curiosity still evident in his gaze.
Seizing the opportunity, Geraint skillfully steered the conversation back to the matter at hand, recognizing the need to address their potential promotion.
"So, about that promotion?" Geraint's voice was steady, his words carrying a tone of professionalism that reflected his strategic thinking.
Guild Master Ainzach's weathered features creased in a thoughtful expression, his gaze shifting between Walpurgisnacht and Geraint. He nodded appreciatively at Geraint's straightforwardness, clearly valuing their direct approach.
"Ah, right! Let me be perfectly honest with the two of you," Ainzach began, his tone measured. "Your achievement and skill do not fit a copper-rank adventurer."
Walpurgisnacht exchanged a quick glance with Geraint, both surprised by the Guild Master's assessment yet intrigued by the prospect of advancement.
Geraint's analytical mind, ever ready to dissect situations, voiced an observation. "Is that the reason why Guild Master Rakheshir is present? To assess Walpurgisnacht?"
Ainzach's nod confirmed Geraint's deduction, his expression serious but not without a hint of intrigue himself. He respected their perceptiveness.
"Indeed," Ainzach affirmed. "Theo's expertise in the magical arts extends beyond what most can comprehend. He's here to gauge the extent of Walpurgisnacht's abilities."
Walpurgisnacht's brows furrowed slightly as she considered the implications. She recognized that her magical proficiency was being placed under the spotlight, and the intensity of the situation increased her sense of responsibility.
Geraint's dedication to Walpurgisnacht was palpable as he looked at Guild Master Ainzach with a mixture of seriousness.
"Then..."
Geraint's voice trailed off, but his gaze remained fixed on Guild Master Ainzach, his unspoken words hanging in the air.
Ainzach, understanding Geraint's concern, met his gaze with a steady look, assuring him that his intentions were clear.
"Yes, I will oversee your warrior promotion assessment," Ainzach confirmed, his voice carrying the weight of his guild master position.
"Please take care of us."
Ainzach's nod held an unspoken promise.
"Guild Master Ainzach, if I may ask," Geraint began, his voice respectful yet inquisitive. "Could you provide us with the details of the promotion assessment? Knowing what's expected of us would allow us to prepare appropriately."
"Of course," Ainzach replied, his tone measured. "The promotion assessment for warriors will primarily focus on your display of sufficient strength. You'll face a series of challenges that test your combat prowess, endurance, and ability to strategize in real-time. It's about showcasing your proficiency in different weapons, your understanding of battle tactics, and your capacity to adapt to unexpected situations."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "For magic casters, the assessment is more straightforward. You'll be required to showcase your ability to cast tier 3 magic spells. The assessors will be looking for precision, control, and the incorporation of advanced magical techniques."
Geraint nodded, absorbing the information. He glanced at Walpurgisnacht, who nodded along.
"Your performance will be evaluated by a panel of experienced guild members, including myself and Theo," Ainzach added. "The assessment isn't just about reaching a certain standard; it's about showcasing your potential for growth and leadership within the guild."
Walpurgisnacht's voice held a note of appreciation as she responded, "Thank you for providing us with these details, Guild Master. We'll make sure to put in our best effort and approach the assessment with the seriousness it deserves."
Geraint's words were measured yet resolute. "Indeed. We're honored to be considered for this opportunity, and we'll work hard to meet the expectations set before us."
Ainzach's eyes held a glint of approval as he observed their dedication. "I have no doubt that the two of you have the potential to excel," he said, his confidence in their abilities evident.
All of a sudden, Walpurgisnacht perked up. Despite half of her face hidden behind a veil, one could still sense the shift in her demeanor as a mischievous smile played on her lips, hinting at an idea brewing in her mind.
"Guild Master Ainzach and Guild Master Rakheshir," she began, her voice carrying a lighthearted yet confident tone. "I have a proposal for our adventurer promotion assessment. Would you be willing to hear it?"
Guild Master Ainzach and Theo Rakheshir exchanged glances, intrigued by Walpurgisnacht's sudden change in demeanor and her unexpected proposition. Ainzach's brows lifted slightly, his curiosity piqued by the prospect of an adventurer making a suggestion about their own assessment.
Theo Rakheshir's expression was a mixture of anticipation and amusement, his eyes fixated on Walpurgisnacht as if he could already sense the uniqueness of her proposal.
"Of course," Ainzach replied, his voice a blend of interest and curiosity. "We're all ears, Walpurgisnacht."
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