ALL NOVEL Chapter 25 – A New Look For The Adventurer’s Guild
After being left abandoned inside the store for close to an hour, I was once again greeted by the energetic shop owner. After emerging from the back door, I could see he was holding some leather armor, presumably for me. Without pause, the stout man began to cheerfully yell towards my direction.
“Kotato! I believe I’ve got just the piece of equipment for you! Here, try this on! It should be roughly the right size for ya!”
With a loud *Slam* the shopkeeper set the armor on the counter for me to look at. Slowly, I walked over to examine the piece in more detail. Grabbing the rough leather in my hands, I could feel the sturdiness it offered. The chest piece was a darkened black, rich in its colour. Looking closely, I could see small, intricate scales running all throughout. It was light, yet flexible. Accompanying the chest piece, was a matching pair of leg guards and gauntlets.
“Blackened Basilisk Hide. Durable, flexible, and resistant to magic. All key qualities for a swordsman utilizing magic in their attacks. This is the last set I have in the shop. Would ya like to cast appraisal on it to verify my claims?”
While I wasn’t an expert, I could clearly tell a lot of work went into refining the material to produce this wonderful set! I also wanted to cast the appraisal spell, but I had a few concerns. From my limited knowledge, I knew almost everyone could cast it if they knew the incantation. However, I could probably cast the spell if I imagined the spell’s result. Therein lied the problem.
Tarragon already believes I’m an experienced adventurer, thus, any experienced adventurer should know how to cast the spell. Second, and probably the most important reason for why I didn’t want to attempt casting appraisal, was I “technically” didn’t remember the proper incantation words! Felice was very adamant to me I would clearly stand out if I spontaneously started casting spells without saying any words or proper phrases for the well-known ones! So, I decided to use the craftsman’s words against him.
“While I appreciate the suggestion Tarragon, why would I doubt the individual trying to help me? That would be rather poor taste on my part, wouldn’t it?”
A smirk grew across his face as he let out a small chuckle at my remark.
“Hah! Well said Kotato! Tells you what. I’ll give you the full set for 28 silver Solara. This normally goes for 45, but I’ve quite enjoyed having you in my shop! It’s not too often I come across someone who can easily outmaneuver a retired D ranker!”
“Wonderful! I appreciate your generosity Mr. Wicks! I’ll take it! Also, do you happen to have some blue clothing to go underneath the leather armor? My shirt is well, you know... No longer practical for everyday usage.”
“Sure, I should have one in the back somewhere as well. That’ll be an extra silver to the total.”
Thrilled at the amazing deal I just received, I happily took out the coin pouch I was given after leaving the palace and counted out 29 silver coins to hand to the shopkeeper. I was quite fortunate the equipment was within my budget! If there was no discount, I wouldn’t have been able to even afford the armor all together!
After returning from the back again with a plain blue, cotton shirt, I happily decided to try on the new shirt and armor combo utilizing the store’s dressing room. While the room was rather small, and I wasn’t really one for fashion, I had to admit, I thought I looked pretty cool! Looking into the dressing chamber’s small mirror, I found myself examining every part of my character in awe! The black scaled armor with a sharp blue undertone produced a wonderful contrast that was truly eye catching! I imagined I almost looked like a boss character or something from a video game! Satisfied with my new apparel, I gave Tarragon my thanks, then confidently left the store in search of my next objective; the adventurer’s guild!
Back on the cobblestone path, I was happily walking through the streets carrying my otherworldly cloths. Slightly annoyed I had no handy method for storing my torn shirt and pants, that’s roughly when I decided to ask my helpful assistant my next burning question.
Is it possible to store my clothing in an “item box”? Do I have access to a multi-dimensional storage container through magic?
[Calculating]
[Answer! – Permitted Individual Kotato Yamata Is Capable Of Casting The Spell “Spatial Storage!”]
Sweet! If I am correct, this spell should allow me to efficiently store any items I receive while out adventuring! It was a super handy feature in most isekai stories, so I was all the more grateful this world appeared to have a similar feature!
Tell me more about the spell “Spatial Storage”
[Calculating]
[Displaying Summary Of The Spell “Spatial Storage!” For Permitted Individual]
---
Spell: Spatial Storage
Status: Typeless Magic
Incantation: “World create a storage space for I. Wrapped in void outside of time and space combined. Spatial Storage!”
Description: Creates a storable void of space that only the user may access. Any item may be placed inside so long as the user can deposit the object into the opening created. Objects deemed “item” is still being debated in the magical community. Living beings are unable to be stored in this dimensional space. Objects placed within Spatial Storage do not undergo changes as a result of the flow of time. Size of container varies based on magic user’s affinity and skill at casting “Typeless Magic”.
Functionality: Users may simply picture the item they wish to retrieve to remove it from Spatial Storage. Should a user wish to completely remove all stored objects, they may say “Remove All” to force all stored items to be ejected from the storage void. Warning: use of “Remove All” command presents a potential danger to the caster. Please exercise extreme caution when using the “Remove All” functionality.
Additional Functionality: Spatial Storage is castable on objects that presently function as containers to transmit the property to the object. Adventurer’s will commonly own a “Spatial Storage Bag” to assist them on their journeys as a result of this spell’s transmittible property.
---
Cool! The spell functioned more or less how I expected it to. While I was disappointed living things could not be placed within, I fully understood why such a restriction would be in place. However, I wondered if a living being, partially placed within would still be alright? Maybe I would test this theory later...
Satisfied, and curiously thinking about new uses for this magic, I decided to try casting the ability for myself. Although, I did so without using the fancy incantation!
Picturing the swirling vortex of a “blackhole-like” rift in space, I imagined a storage container unique to myself. Internally, I pictured the space the size of a house and commanded the doors to open!
Suddenly, a swirling black and purple hole in the observable universe opened up beside me. It was roughly the size of my shield, and was impossible to see anything within. Hesitantly, I gently placed my torn clothes within the void as they disappeared into nothingness. Then, I commanded the rift in space to close.
*Schroon!*
It disappeared without issue, along with my battered garments!
Sweet!
Next, I tried summoning the spatial storage again, except this time, with the intention of removing my clothing. However, I attempted to modify the spell further.
When I pictured my spatial storage, I requested internally to also produce a “Digital List” of all the contents within! I mean, if I was going to be placing lots of items in here, there was a good chance I would forget some of the things placed inside unless I had an efficient way of tracking them! This behaviour was a horrible habit of mine in RPGs, as I often found myself hording even the smallest articles of interest under the pretense that “This might be useful at some point in time!”.
Presently, to my surprise, hovering right next to the new rift in space I conjured, was a small, holographic list reading the following:
---
Kotato Yamata’s Spatial Storage Contents:
Item: Withdraw
-??? x1 [Y/N] 0[+/-]
---
...
Well, presumably, the “???” was the clothing I had recently deposited. I guess the spell not recognizing the item made sense since my dress clothing was from another world.
Thinking this, I moved my finger over to the “Withdraw” column, tapped in the air where the “+” symbol was, then hit “Y”. Moments later, with a captivating *Pop!* sound, my clothing shot lightly into the air, resulting in me scrambling to catch the floating, bewildered garments.
Pleased with my little experiment, I happily placed my clothing back into the void and imagined it closing.
*Schroon!*
Now, with a pair of free hands, I once again began walking down the streets in search of the adventurer’s guild. After all, I still needed to formally register as an adventurer and hand in the goblin subjugation requestion Felice had marked as complete for me.
---
After wandering around the city, unable to find the Solara’s Guild Branch, I decided it would be in my best interest to ask some of the busy locals running around the whereabouts of the guild.
Eventually, I was able to learn I wasn’t “too far” away. I had inadvertently found myself in the south-western district of the city, whereas the guild branch was in the north-western section, along with a whole assortment of other services tailored towards adventurers, such as monster part processing, lodging, etc.
With my bearings organized, I eventually found myself standing outside the entranceway to a tall, wooden building, lavished with beautiful masonry and marble columns adorning the smooth brick pathway.
Standing tall and imposing in the roadway, were stone statue monuments depicting... Adventurers? Each statue was wielding a weapon. From left to right the statues held a: Spear, Bow, Sword, and Magic Staff. Examining the monument closely, I saw a bronze plaque with gold lettering which read:
“Solara’s Adventurer Guild Branch”
“Lux tua luceat superbia”
There was that phrase again. Seeing the actual wording written out this time, I was now confident the phrase was indeed something in Latin. I had the thought, does this mean that humans from my world have already been here? But from a long time ago during Earth’s history? Or, was Latin just a potential constant language across multiple universes? Scowling my brow, I mulled over the ideas surrounding this phrase as I approached the doors to enter the magnificent building. When suddenly—
*SLAM*
The pair of wooden doors flung open with such force; I was knocked away into some nearby bushes. A group of adventurers, oblivious to their actions, angrily walked out of the hall complaining loudly to one another.
“AGGGGHHH! It’s so frustrating the labyrinth is still closed! That was the easiest source of money for us! I can’t believe it, why the heck would the king close the labyrinth for a “military exercise” for 3 whole weeks???!? Completely asinine I say!”
“I know right?? And wasn’t it so stupid the branch headmaster didn’t even give us the “compensation package” since we apparently didn’t go into the labyrinth enough? Seriously, we went into there at least a few times a month, and he wouldn’t give us the money! We are more than enough to be considered labyrinth fighters!”
“Whatever, lets just get going to kill these stupid goblins in Eldermyst.”
I heard 3 distinct voices. Apparently, the adventurers in question were annoyed at not receiving some type of compensation and loudly complaining about having to kill some goblins. Looking at the trio, they seemed to be a group of 2 spellcasters and 1 fighter.
After they had left the pathway, I managed to get back on my feet and walk towards the doors again. Lightly brushing off some twigs and leaves that had decided to take up residence in my new armor, I pushed open the doors to the guild entrance hall.
Inside, was everything you would expect to find in a fantasy adventurer’s guild! The entranceway was large and spacious. To my right was a notice request board, and on my left was a tavern or pub-like dining area. Directly Infront of me, was the reception counter stocked with enthusiastic attendants ready to help! I could see several humans and a cat demi-human behind the wooden counter, eagerly ready to call the next adventurer over from the short queue.
Standing behind some other adventurers, waiting my turn, I calmly took in the atmosphere of the environment. After a few minutes, it was eventually time for me to approach the counter. The attendant waving me over, happened to be the cat demi-human. She had brown hair, ears, and a tail that was excitedly waving back and forth, as they motioned for me to approach. Their ears also had small, white puffs of fur inside them! They looked incredibly soft to pet! Walking towards their excited handwaves, they greeted and introduced themselves to me.
“Welcome to the Solara’s Adventurer’s Guild Branch! My name is Neko and it would be my pleasure to serve you today. What may I assist you with?”
Trying not to snicker, I found it amusing the cat demi-human was literally named Neko, the word for “cat” in another popular language from Earth. However, as amused as I was surrounding their name of choice, I was more curious as to the lack of “Nayns! Meows! and Meowns!” during their introduction.
Not wanting to leave them waiting, I introduced myself.
“Greetings Neko! My name is Kotato, and I am looking to register as an adventurer. I also have a goblin subjugation request I would like to turn in.”
Neko tilted their head slightly in confusion at my statement. Then continued speaking to me in their energetic, feminine voice.
“Well of course Kotato! I can definitely register you as an adventurer with the Solara’s Guild Branch. However, I have to ask, how did you complete a goblin subjugation request to turn in? Only adventurers can take request from the guild. Are you already registered at another branch perhaps?”
“Ummmm, well, not exactly, but I happened to complete this request while I was... Wandering through the Eldermyst forest? It was marked complete for me at the Paws & Beans tavern.”
Ya, come to think of it, I didn’t exactly have a good explanation for how I completed this request, did I? I mean, “technically” I didn’t even kill the goblins, but killed some bandits instead while rescuing Inari!
This... Was fraud... Wasn’t it?
I began to grow slightly nervous as Neko continued staring at me. I also handed her the completed goblin slaying request in an attempt to help my case. She examined it rather closely, then spoke to me in a confused tone.
“Hmmm, well this is technically marked as complete by that branch’s headmaster, I can’t accept it unless you are registered with the guild. Shall I prepare your registration forms so I can process the request?”
“Yes please Neko! I would greatly appreciate it! Also, while I remember, is there a particular reason why you aren’t using “Nayns and Meowns” in your speech? All of the other cat demi-humans I’ve come across speak that way. Apologise if my comment is insulting towards you. I’m just curious is all.”
Sadness grew across Neko’s face. Her tail was twitching, almost like she was hesitant or unsure in how to respond. Then, after careful consideration, she replied to me quietly.
“But... You’re speaking common Solarian, aren’t you, Kotato? So, you should understand why I can’t speak in beastkin here... Right?”
“Sorry Neko, but I’m not quite sure why. I’m new to the kingdom, but just happen to be.... Very good at picking up languages?”
Puzzled, Neko finally decided to enlighten me on why her speech was restricted.
“Kotato, the reason I’m not speaking like that, is because In the Kingdom of Solara, speaking any language besides Solarian is a crime. I can get in trouble with the adventurer’s guild branch if I speak in beastkin... Potentially even forced into slavery if I do!”
Wait... Speaking another language is OUTLAWED in this kingdom?!?!?! And what was that?? A potential punishment was being converted to a slave?!? What the heck King Solar!
Honestly, I was quite angered upon learning this information from Neko. There was still a lot I had to learn about this world, but the thought of slavery for speaking another language was a completely foreign thought to me! Seriously, even if I was brought here for some world-saving purpose, I would never want to work for a kingdom with such shitty laws! This new tidbit of information gave me some reassurance about selecting the mind sealing spell instead of “royal house arrest”.
Saddened myself, I replied to the depressed demi-human cat.
“I’m sorry Neko... I didn’t know about that law in this kingdom. I wonder if anything will ever change about that stupid ruling.”
“It’s alright Kotato, if anything, I appreciate you asking me. There are rumors that the princess is looking to reduce inequality between the races, but they are just that, rumors.
Now, lets get back to your registration! Here is the individual registration form for the Solara’s branch. Once you’ve completed it, I will process and verify the information with the guild’s signet. Next, you combat status will be verified by an appraisal attendant in the room behind me, along with the official issuance of your adventurer identification plate.”
Cheerful once again, Neko handed me the registration form and accompanying quill:
---Individual Registration – Solara Adventurer’s Branch---
Name:
Age:
Combat Class:
Experience?
Reference:
Emergency Contact / Next of Kin:
---
It was a pretty basic intake form, but even as basic as it was, I was starting to have some doubts about going through with the registration process. I mulled over my thoughts as I impatiently began tapping the quill on the wooden counter top. Thinking ahead, if I completed this step, I would then have the appraisal spell cast on me. That alone was sure enough to raise many eyebrows. Actually, come to think of it... Wouldn’t that be a problem for the kingdom? If by some chance my status screen wasn’t glitched anymore, it would still have the text “Summoned Hero” which would surely raise many alarm bells at the branch office! Did the king just forget about this when he allowed me the opportunity to be an adventurer? Or, was something planned if the branch found out about me being a summoned person?
...
Satisfied I had made my decision, I gently handed both the quill and registration form back to Neko.
“I’m sorry Neko, but I don’t believe I can register to be an adventurer at this branch... It just doesn’t feel right to support a kingdom whose laws I don’t agree with.”
With ears twitching, the cat demi-human looked very surprised at my comments about declining to register.
“Are you sure Kotato?”
“Yes, I am sure. Thank you for the assistance today Neko, but I will be taking my leave now.”
“Understood. Here is the subjugation request you handed me earlier. Best of luck in your adventures Kotato!”
Neko bowed slightly as she handed the parchment back to me. I gave her a quick nod to say thank you. With the request still in hand, I started walking towards the entrance to leave the building. My thoughts were a mess, but I believed this was the right decision. Looking the stamped parchment over and over with my eyes, I knew just where I was heading next.