Exploring Town

The cart passed the city gates after a long and rough ride. When Karl and Ark stepped aside, Ark froze, his curious eyes expanding at the sight. There were endless rows of lively streets beyond the enormous stone walls that rose high into the sky. Children ran from stall to stall, merchants shouted about their items, and the smell of roasted meat and fresh bread filled the air. Carts clattered by, and people in brightly colored clothing hurried about, their voices mixing into a single, never-ending, living sound.

Ark's face glowed with excitement as he pulled at his father's arm. “ Father, this city is very beautiful and big. 

Karl laughed, though his tone carried weight. “Yes, Ark. This is the main city-our supply hub. Food, weapons, resources-everything flows through here. Without it, the surrounding lands would struggle to survive.”

Both Karl and Ark walked through the busy streets, the smell of freshly baked bread and the cooking of meat from the vendors filled the air. Ark's eyes raised around, enjoying the colorful stands and noisy crowds. Karl continued to walk for a few minutes before coming to a stop in front of a wooden building that had windows that were leaking a warm glow.

"This is the place," Karl said with a small smile.

Ark raised  his head, curiosity in his  eyes. “A restaurant, Father?”

"Yes," Karl replied, pushing open the door and said."Someone important is waiting for us inside.”

The warm scent of roasted spices filled the small restaurant as Karl pushed the door open, Ark following close behind with wide, curious eyes. The place was occupied-wooden tables, filled with travelers and locals, laughter mixing with the sound of dishes.

A man with a wide smile waved his hand from the other side of the room. "Oh, Karl! I'm here.

Karl calmly smiled and said. "There you are, Joseph." He placed a hand on Ark's shoulder, guiding him forward. Together, they crossed the room and sat at a wooden table.

A young waitress approached, bowing slightly her head. "Sirs, what would you like to order?”

"Three chicken curries," Karl replied without hesitation.

When the waitress left, Karl leaned back, relief in his tone. "Joseph, finally we will meet again after seven months. What a long time.”

Joseph laughed, his voice hearty. "Haha, I missed you too, my friend." His eyes softened as they shifted to Ark. "And this must be your son? Hello, brave boy. I am Joseph, your father's old companion. Did you know your father is one of the finest sword fighters I've ever met?”

Ark pushed his chest out a little and raised his back. “My name is Ark, and I'm four years old!" he declared proudly.”

The three of them laughed softly, and just then, the waitress returned, setting down steaming bowls of chicken curry. The rich smell rose into the air, making Ark's stomach growl.

Karl and Joseph smiled, then Joseph said "First, let's eat. Then, we'll talk.”

After finishing their lunch, Joseph wiped his mouth with a cloth and leaned closer to Ark, his expression serious yet kind.

"Ark," he said, “ Today is your special day Ark , give you 100 percent.”

Ark blinked in surprise, his small fists tightening with excitement.

Joseph stood, and both Karl and Ark followed. Together, they left the restaurant and walked through the bustling streets until they arrived at a tall, stone building wearing a crest-a sword crossing over a shield. It was the Adventurers' Guild Headquarters.

The hall was alive with activity inside. Adventurers shared stories of their quests, argued and laughed. The smell of steel and leather filled the air, and weapons shining on their backs.

Joseph leaned down to Ark's height."Normally, this guild tests take only children above twelve. But your father told me about you, and since you've shown talent and love for books in early age, I convinced the Guild Master to allow a special test.”

Ark's heart raced with excitement. He tightened his fists, his eyes sparkling and said. “I'll prove myself... I'll show them what I can do.”

He smiled and thought. ‘ Ahaha, my first real test-I can't wait!’

The heavy doors of the inner room opened, and a man in a dark green cloak stepped out. His presence alone made the room fall quieter-broad shoulders, sharp eyes, and a steady aura that spoke of experience. The Guild Leader calmly said.

"Joseph. Karl. It's been a while," he greeted with a firm smile, shaking both of their hands before his gaze fell on Ark. For a moment, his stern expression softened into a faint smile.

"So, this is the boy I've heard about," the guild leader said, his voice deep but calm. "Ark, you're the first child to take this examination at such a young age. That alone makes you special.”

Ark straightened his posture, nerves and excitement whispering inside him. ‘ That's a lot of pressure, that really incredible aura. ‘

The Guild Leader placed a hand on Ark's small shoulder. "All the best, young one. Now, follow me.”

The Guild Leader stood straight again.

"Now, follow me.”

Karl, Joseph, and Ark fell into step behind him, ready for the trial ahead.

The Guild Leader guided them through a labyrinth of corridors, each lined with trophies, weapons, and portraits of legendary adventurers. Ark's small footsteps echoed nervously, but his eyes never stopped taking in the details. Every corner seemed alive with history, every shadow hinting at countless stories. 

Finally, they reached a guild leader room. The room was lined with bookshelves and maps, the scent of ink and parchment lingering in the air. The Guild Leader sat on a grand chair, his presence heavy yet calm. Karl, Joseph, and young Ark also took their seats opposite him.

From down the desk, the Guild Leader take-out a glowing crystal, faintly pulsing with light. "Karl has already told me that you've always loved magic books," he said, his eyes narrowing slightly at Ark. "But since you've never practiced swordsmanship, we will first measure your mana power.”

Ark's eyes sparkled with excitement as he moved forward. He touched the crystal with his little hand. Nothing happened for a moment before the crystal abruptly lost all of its glow and turned completely black.

The Guild Leader's eyes slightly expanded. The room fell silent for a moment. In order to avoid the stressful environment, the guild leader quickly smiled and said . "Oh... impressive, Ark. Very good.”

But the Guild Leader's eyes changed, looking sharply and silently into Karl's as Ark glowed with pride. They exchanged a silent message.

Clapping his hands lightly, the Guild Leader leaned back. "Well then, Ark. Since it's your first time visiting this city, why don't you explore it for a while? Your father and I have some... boring matters to discuss."

Karl cleared his throat, catching the hint. "Go on, Ark. Enjoy yourself, but don't wander too far from the guild building.”

Then Ark excitedly said, "Thank you, Father; I am coming in under 30 minutes." Then he came out of the guild building. 

Ark noticed the subtle tension in their expressions and thoughts. ‘ The Guild Leader's and Father's faces looked serious for a moment... Do they know something about me?’

Ark calmly said, “Ah, forget it. I'll think about it later. For now-let's explore the town!”

Then Ark goes to town Street for exploring.

Meanwhile, back inside the Guild Leader's office, the atmosphere had completely changed. The door clicked shut behind the Ark, and silence settled like a heavy weight.

The Guild Leader's cheerful expression melted into something serious, his eyes narrowing as he looked at Karl and Joseph. Both men straightened in their seats, their faces tense, prepared for the truth.