This beat my secret trips to Moonforest by a mile.
"Board," I whispered.
A translucent screen materialized before my eyes:
BASIC INFO
- Name: Yuzuki Yatoshu (Male)
- Race: Human
- Age: 18
- Job: Warlord Lv.1
- Unique Magic: Void
I frowned at the stats. How strong is this actually?
Do you not believe me?! Freya's voice burst into my mind, thick with tears. Sob... sob...
I tensed immediately for an instance. "Miss Freya?"
Relax~ Her tone shifted to playful. You can talk to me in your thoughts.
So this is what you meant by standing by. I tested the mental connection.
Wow, you already know telepathy! I chose the right person! Pride radiated through her voice.
Sorry, I don't care.
So rude... She sounded genuinely hurt.
I'll ask questions later. Right now, I need to test these stats.
A rustling ahead caught my attention. Through the underbrush emerged a standing lizard creature, easily seven feet tall with humanoid proportions. In a split second it realized my existence, Its yellow eyes locked onto me. I noticed that one of its legs get ready to charge.
Perfect timing. When the lizard charged, I instantly shifted into basic combat stance—feet apart, weight balanced, fist cocked.
[Combat Tech: Basic Form Fist]
BOOM!
The moment my fist connected with its chest, the creature exploded into crushed meat before it could even screech. Blood and viscera splattered the trees behind where it had stood. I stared at my unblemished fist. Still not sure how strong I actually am.
Hmph! Freya sounded smug. You can hunt as many as you want, but that's your previous power transferred here!
Good. I smiled despite myself. This world interests me indeed.
With this stats of mine and this new I ventured deeper into the forest, curiosity pulling me forward like a hook.
Hours passed in a blur of discovery. The sun hung low on the horizon, painting the canopy in burnt orange and deep purple. I'd tested my abilities on various creatures—plant monsters with snapping vines, wolf-like beasts with crystalline fur, even a territorial boar the size of a small house. Some I killed. Others I let escape once I'd gauged their strength.
My body ached pleasantly, muscles warm from exertion. It had been too long since I'd pushed myself like this.
Time to find civilization.
I discovered a well-worn path cutting through the trees. Boot prints, cart wheel ruts—clear signs of regular traffic. I followed it south, my Presence Detect tingling as I sensed someone ahead.
A man emerged from around a bend. Middle-aged, weathered face, leather armor stained with forest grime. An adventurer, clearly. My Appraiser ability activated automatically:
BASIC INFO
- Name: Duran (Male)
- Race: Human (80%) / Forest Elf (20%)
- Age: 38
- Job: Warrior Lv.26
- Rank: C Adventurer
- Title: Forest Guide
- Class: None
- Storage: Travel Backpack (Limit: 20kg)
I approached with a slight bow. "Excuse me, sir. Could you direct me to the nearest city or village?"
His head snapped up. "How did you—" His eyes widened. "This is a dangerous area for civilians! Strong monsters roam these woods!" He rushed forward, checking me over. "Are you hurt? I have healing potions."
"I'm fine, thank you. I just need somewhere to sleep tonight." I offered a polite smile, holding still for his inspection.
"You're certain? It would be tragic if someone young like you died out here."
Guilt pricked at me. I'd been ready to kill him if he turned out to be a bandit, yet here he was, genuinely concerned for a stranger's welfare.
"Ah, you're probably wary of strangers. Sorry for the late introduction—I'm an adventurer on a mission." He gestured down the path. "Follow this road. Don't stray from it. There's an intersection with signs about ten minutes ahead. You can't miss it."
"Thank you, sir. I'll repay this kindness if we meet again."
"No need. It's my duty. Stay safe, and sorry I can't escort you—still have work to finish." He waved as he headed back into the forest.
I jogged forward, excitement building with each step.
Ten minutes later, exactly as mentioned before, I emerged from the tree line. A massive stone wall stretched across the horizon, easily forty feet high. Guard towers punctuated its length, torches already lit against the encroaching darkness.
Two guards flanked the entrance. I approached the checkpoint, keeping my posture relaxed and non-threatening.
"Excuse me, sir."
One guard looked up. "Yes? What's your business?"
"I'm seeking work. I've lived deep in the forest since childhood, but recently monster attacks have increased. They destroyed my home." I kept my voice steady, reciting Freya's prepared story.
"Wait—you lived in the deep forest?" The first guard's skepticism was palpable. "That's impossible. Do you have a better lie?"
Dammit.
'Hey, Freya! Is this really the background you prepared? Give me something!'
'Don't underestimate me! I always prepare diligently—that's why I was entrusted with this world!'
'Then help me convince them!'
'Hmm, let me think... Ah! Here—Huberg the Adventurer's memories. His proof is already in your backpack.'
I felt knowledge flooding into my mind. Names, faces, stories—a life lived in devotion to Guardian Freya, ending with the adoption of a baby found in the forest.
"May I show you proof from my bag?"
"Fine. Keep your distance." The guard's hand rested on his sword hilt cautiously.
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I retrieved a metal tag, weathered but unmistakable. The guard's hands trembled as he took it.
The guard’s breathing hitched. His eyes darted from the S-rank tag to my face, then back again. I noted the way his grip on his sword hilt loosened—not out of relaxation, but because his hand was trembling too much to maintain a firm hold.
"Huberg was my adopted father," I explained. "He found me as an infant. He told me to come here if anything happened in the forest."
The second guard leaned over, curious. "What's wrong?"
"It's... it's Huberg's S-rank tag!" The first guard's voice cracked.
"Seriously?!" The second guard examined it closely. "Then his story checks out. No one can forge these tags except the identifier."
"But how did Huberg end up with this kid? In the deep forest?"
"But it makes sense if you think about it. Huberg was one of the top adventurers—a hero of this city. If anyone could survive out there, it was him." The second guard turned to me. "Go on through, boy. But don't disgrace the memory of Huberg."
"Thank you, sir."
As I moved toward the gate, the first guard spoke quietly. "Boy. Next time we meet... tell me how his story ended."
His eyes held something complex—longing, grief, respect, all veiled beneath professional duty.
"It would be my honor."
"Welcome to Spawnhall, the border city." He turned away, as if still struggling with letting me pass.
I walked through the gate without looking back. Not my problem.
The city sprawled before me—smaller than I'd expected for a border settlement, but lively. Merchants called out final deals as they closed their stalls. The scent of cooking meat and fresh bread wafted from nearby establishments. Lanterns flickered to life along the main street.
My stomach growled. Food first, then lodging. But I'd forgotten to ask the guards for directions.
A clothing shop caught my eye—average quality from the storefront appearance. Perfect for testing currency values.
"Welcome, customer! How may I help you?" An older woman greeted me with a warm smile.
"May I browse your selection, madam?"
"Of course! This way, please."
She led me past racks of clothing, organized by quality. From cheap cotton to fine silk, everything meticulously displayed. I'd chosen well—this shop had range.
"This is our standard quality section." She gestured to serviceable travel clothes with decent stitching.
"The quality increases as you go down. At the end are my masterpieces." Pride shone in her voice.
"How much for your finest piece?"
"Ten gold. It's a fair price considering the materials and time invested. And it's one-of-a-kind—I guarantee nothing like it exists elsewhere."
Ten gold. If the exchange rate matched my world's economy, that could buy a luxury set of meals three times a day for a week.
I needed more data points.
"May I see this masterpiece?"
"Certainly, kind sir. Watch your step."
The "masterpiece corner" held flashy, elaborate outfits dripping with embroidery and gemstone accents. Noble fashion, clearly. Far too conspicuous for my needs.
Then I spotted it—tucked in the corner, understated and perfect.
"That one, please."
Her eyes lit up. "You have excellent taste, sir."
"What makes it special?"
"This was my first attempt at high-quality clothing. I focused entirely on durability and material strength, without any decorative additions." She ran her fingers along the fabric reverently. "The material alone is worth ten gold. Adding accessories would compromise its quality, you understand."
Perfect. Exactly what I needed—clothing that would survive whatever adventures awaited.
"I'll take it. And a pair of boots in your best material as well."
"Th-thank you! Thank you so much!" Were those tears in her eyes?
"Could you recommend a good food establishment nearby?"
"Of course! Turn left at the corner, then right. You'll find the only bakery at the end of that street. It's my personal favorite with many regular customers."
"That's quite the endorsement. Thank you, madam."
"But if I may ask—where are you from? Most locals know all the food shops. Since this is a border city, we don't have many options."
Sharp. Too sharp.
"I'm a traveler who prefers open country to cities. I only visit settlements for supplies." I let a hint of steel enter my voice. "Any other questions, madam?"
"N-no! Forgive my rudeness, sir!" Her face paled.
I'd let my intimidation show. I softened my expression immediately. "No offense taken. I get that reaction often during my travels." I smiled warmly.
"Thank you for your kindness, sir."
With new clothes and some silver in change, I set out to explore.
After gathering information from various shops, one name kept appearing: a famous inn that served as an unofficial information hub. Travelers, merchants, and adventurers all mentioned it. According to locals, you could find official kingdom news, local gossip, and job postings there—practically a guild and inn combined.
The building stood out despite the cramped neighborhood—three stories of solid construction with warm light spilling from its windows. I reached for the door handle.
"Welcome, dear customer. Please make yourself comfortable."
I froze. A female voice from inside—but I was still outside, and I'd used Stealth Lv.5 with silent steps. How did she detect me?
I need to be more careful.
"Excuse me, madam."
"'Ma'am' is fine. Come here, please."
I stepped inside. Behind the counter stood a woman in her thirties with striking features and an edge to her smile that suggested she'd seen—and survived—plenty of trouble.
My Appraiser activated:
BASIC INFO
- Name: Rinne Flamerose (Female)
- Race: Human (80%) / Dwarf (20%)
- Age: 33
- Job: Berserker Lv.80
- Rank: S Adventurer
- Title: Bloody Rose
- Class: Earl (inactive)
- Storage: Small Wallet
An S-rank adventurer running an inn? I kept my expression neutral, but my mind raced. What was someone this powerful doing here?
"What is it, young man? You need rest, don't you?"
"Right. Sorry—I was admiring the hall. It surprised me." Half-truth. The décor was impressive.
"Of course you are. My daughter's handiwork. Now hurry and sign here before we fill up. Unless you don't want a room?"
"Where do I fill out?"
"Here. Your verification, how long you're staying, and any special requests. Those might cost extra and depend on availability."
"What's the standard fee?"
"Five silver. No more, no less. Includes three meals daily, your room, shared bathroom access, this common area, and any job postings or news." She pointed to a board covered in request papers.
"But mark my words—this excludes any damage you cause, complicated requests, trouble you bring, and especially anything involving my family or daughter!"
She slammed her fist on the counter. The thick wood cracked.
I exhaled slowly. "Understood, ma'am. You have your boundaries."
I planned to stay a month minimum—enough time to learn the city and understand the status system thoroughly. At five silver per day, that would cost 150 silver. I had 50 silver currently, but needed to know the gold conversion rate.
No one else was around. Time to risk using my background.
"Sorry, ma'am. How much is one gold coin worth?"
"What isolated village are you from that you don't know basic currency?"
"I can't explain right now. Please, just—"
"It's equal to 100 silver. Same for copper to silver, and gold to platinum. Memorize that, boy." She sighed and jabbed a finger at me. "For reference, a decent meal costs at least one silver daily. That's where the fee comes from."
Simple enough. I'd spent eleven gold on clothes and supplies, leaving thirty-nine. A month's stay cost 150 silver—one and a half gold. I handed over two gold coins. The extra fifty silver might prove useful.
"Ma'am, last question. How do I get verification?"
She dropped her pen. "What?! I said no trouble!"
"I came out of the forest just this afternoon. I've lived with my adoptive father in the deep woods my entire life. Please teach me what I need to know." I lowered my head—the first time I'd ever bowed in supplication.
"Hah... Sorry, kid. I've had rough days lately. Then you show up—the weirdest customer I've ever had."
"I understand your burden, ma'am. I'll help however I can. Please teach me."
I met her eyes with complete sincerity.
Her face flushed crimson.
"Ma'am? Are you ill from stress? That's not good for a lady like yourself."
My concern was genuine. Running an inn, dealing with difficult customers, and serving as its sole protector despite her rank—that had to be exhausting.
"N-no, it's fine! You can make your ID tomorrow at the guild or guard headquarters. For now, fill out the rest and get to your room. I'll explain everything tomorrow, boy."
"Thank you, ma'am." A genuine smile crossed my face before I could stop it.
"R-right. Hurry up."
I wrote down my month-long stay and requested meals delivered to my room with access to recent news.
"Done. What's the total cost?"
"Been a while since I had a long-term guest. Your requests are reasonable. Just pay the 150 silver for lodging. Don't worry—I'll teach you what you need to know while you're here." Her face reddened again.
"Here." I placed the two gold coins in her palm.
"I don't have change—"
"Keep it, ma'am. For the trouble I'm causing with these lessons." I held her hand gently, emphasizing my gratitude.
She yanked her hand back. "A-alright. Thank you for your kindness."
"Let me show you to your room." She turned quickly, already heading for the stairs.
The second floor corridor had quality wooden walls—I could tell by touch and my Appraiser ability confirming it. Simple furniture, narrow hallways, everything functional rather than decorative.
"Here's your room. The bathroom is at the end of the hall, or you can use the larger shared bath downstairs. As requested, I'll bring your meals at seven in the morning, noon, and seven at night. Outside those times, you can eat in the common room by the entrance. Check the job board at my counter anytime." She paused. "Anything else?"
"That's everything. Thank you very much."
"We'll make your ID tomorrow at eight. Prepare anything that proves your previous life."
She meant my forest life with my adoptive father, i guessed.
"Understood."
"May you sleep well, kid."
"You too, ma'am."
Finally—a bed.
I'd organize tomorrow's plans after dinner, then rest.
At seven that night, Madam Rinne delivered my meal. Before she left, she gave me a vague warning.
"Wake up as early as possible. I don't want to attract any unnecessary disturbances."
Despite my exhaustion, that warning stuck in my mind. What could possibly be a disturbance to a high-ranker like Madam?
Instead of wondering all night, I chose to prepare for my rest by laying a subtle barrier.
I decided I would think of a plan tomorrow after breakfast.
For now, I preferred to sleep.
[First Objective, First Blood: Cleared!]