Junzo walked out of the Wild Wolf Den, the Alpha Wild Wolf's pelt still fresh in his inventory. His thoughts raced as he recalled the battle he had barely survived the encounter. The rush of victory was slowly fading, replaced by the reality of the challenges that lay ahead. He needed to get stronger, fast.
The road to Vermillion Town was ahead of him. The town was the next major checkpoint on his journey, where he would hopefully find more quests, valuable items, and useful NPCs to help him advance further. As he moved through the Whispering Woods, he activated his Map and checked for nearby locations of interest.
[System]
You have unlocked Map.
Current Location: Whispering Woods
Nearby Locations: Vermillion Town (5 km), Forest Gate (2 km)
He decided to head toward the Forest Gate, a small outpost on the outskirts of the woods. It was a good place to rest, and he might find NPCs who could offer side quests or valuable information. As he walked, Junzo continued to monitor his stats and abilities, ensuring that he was fully prepared for whatever came next.
[Character Stats]
Name: Junzo Ishikawa
Class: Mage
Level: 4
EXP: 250/400
HP: 120/120
MP: 80/80
[Attributes]
Strength (STR): 5
Dexterity (DEX): 5
Intelligence (INT): 20
Vitality (VIT): 5
Luck (LUK): 10
[Abilities]
Fireball (Level 1)
Arcane Mastery (Passive: Increases spell potency and mana regeneration)
Fire Wall (Level 1: Creates a barrier of fire to block enemies)
Mana Shield (Level 1: Absorbs damage using MP instead of HP)
Basic Staff Attack (Physical: 5 damage)
He had made significant progress since his arrival in the world, but his abilities and equipment were still basic. A thought crossed his mind if he wanted to take on stronger monsters and eventually face the bosses, he would need to learn more skills, get better gear, and maybe even join a guild.
As he approached Forest Gate, he saw several NPCs milling about, preparing for their own adventures. A few of them were wearing armor, while others were practicing swordplay or magic. It was a bustling outpost, and Junzo couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement.
He approached a nearby NPC Merchant, who was selling various potions, scrolls, and basic equipment. The merchant greeted him with a smile, recognizing him as a newcomer to the area.
[NPC Merchant]
"Ah, a new face! Welcome to the Forest Gate, traveler. I sell all sorts of useful items for adventurers like you. Potions, scrolls, and basic gear, at your service. What can I do for you today?"
Junzo browsed the merchant's stock, which included healing potions, mana potions, and several Spell Scrolls. One scroll caught his eye it was a Wind Blast scroll, which could teach him a new spell. However, the price was steep, and he wasn't sure if he could afford it yet.
[System]
Wind Blast Scroll
Cost: 200 Gold
Effect: Teaches the user the Wind Blast spell, which deals wind damage to enemies.
Prerequisite: Mage Class
He decided to hold off on buying the scroll for now, realizing he needed more gold to be financially stable. But he couldn't ignore the opportunity for learning. The Wind Blast spell could be incredibly useful for long-range combat, especially since his Fireball spell was mostly limited to direct damage.
[System]
You have 30 Gold remaining in your inventory.
Your Gold will increase as you complete quests and defeat monsters.
After chatting with the merchant, Junzo made his way toward the Guild Headquarters, a large building with the emblem of a sword and shield hanging above the door. He had heard that joining a guild could open up more opportunities, from special quests to unique abilities. He wasn't sure which guild to join yet, but it was worth checking out.
The guild hall was bustling with activity. Several adventurers were gathered inside, talking about their most recent battles, while others were listening attentively to the Guild Master, a tall, imposing man wearing a set of ornate armor. His name was Thalor, and he was a veteran of the guild. Junzo approached him cautiously, hoping to learn more about what the guild had to offer.
[Thalor, Guild Master]
"You're the new recruit, aren't you? I can see it in your eyes. Hungry for adventure, just like the rest of us. Tell me, what is it that you seek? Power? Fame? Or perhaps something more?"
Junzo hesitated for a moment before answering. "I'm looking to get stronger. I want to explore this world and learn everything I can. Maybe even become one of the best Mages."
Thalor smiled, a knowing look in his eyes. "A wise answer, young Mage. Strength isn't just about power it's about knowing when to fight, when to wait, and when to rely on others. Here in the Silver Crest Guild, we specialize in teamwork. We help each other grow, and in turn, we conquer the toughest challenges the world throws at us. If you're ready to learn and grow, then I welcome you to join."
Junzo felt a sense of excitement welling up inside him. He had never been a part of a guild before, but this felt like the right choice. He nodded firmly.
[System]
You have joined the Silver Crest Guild.
Guild Benefits: Access to Guild Quests, Guild Shop, and Guild Member Skills.
Guild Perks: Increased EXP gain, bonus loot from guild-related missions.
Guild Reputation: 0/100 (Increases as you contribute to the guild.)
With his guild membership confirmed, Junzo felt a new sense of purpose. The Silver Crest Guild wasn't just a group of players it was a community, a family. There were new possibilities, new adventures to be had.
[Thalor, Guild Master]
"Now that you've joined, you'll have access to a wide range of resources. But remember, being part of a guild isn't just about receiving help it's about contributing as well. You'll be given a Guild Quest soon, so keep your eyes open. And don't hesitate to ask if you need advice. We're here to help each other."
Thalor handed Junzo a Guild Quest Scroll. He unrolled it, reading its contents:
[Guild Quest]
Objective: Defeat 10 Shadow Bats in the Twilight Caverns.
Reward: 500 EXP, 50 Gold, Guild Token
Progress: 0/10 Shadow Bats Defeated
[System]
You have received a Guild Quest: Shadow Bats in the Twilight Caverns.
Quest Level: 5-10
Suggested Party Size: 2-4 players
Junzo felt a surge of anticipation. This was his chance to gain more experience and prove his worth to the guild. But he knew that the Twilight Caverns would be no easy task. He would need help if he was going to succeed.
He turned to the other guild members in the hall, considering his options.
[System]
New Objective: Find party members to tackle the Guild Quest.