The sun hung low on the horizon as Einz Carter stood in his room at the Hearth's Embrace Inn, his newly acquired adventurer's guild card resting on the wooden table. Today was a day of preparation, a day to ensure he was well-equipped for the challenges that lay ahead. With a sense of purpose, he began to calculate his resources.

Einz sat down, spreading out his meager possessions. He counted his coins - 32 silver coins, 4 large copper coins, 20 copper coins, and 51 nickel coins. Adding the reward he received from the guild for helping with the Rock Bear and the share of spoils from the goblins, he had a total of 45 silver coins, 7 large copper coins, 70 copper coins, and 51 nickel coins.

It was a modest sum, but it would have to do for now. He knew that as he took on more quests and adventures, his wealth would grow.

Einz decided to start by upgrading his weaponry. He made his way to the local blacksmith, a burly man named Brogan. The forge's fire roared, and the clang of hammer on metal filled the air.

"Good day, sir," Einz greeted Brogan. "I'm in need of a sturdy sword and a small shield. I also have an old weapon that could use some repairs."

Brogan nodded, sizing up the young adventurer. "Aye, I've got just the thing for ye." He showed Einz a selection of swords, each with its own character and craftsmanship. After careful consideration, Einz chose a well-balanced sword that felt right in his hand. Brogan then repaired his old weapon, ensuring it would serve as a reliable backup.

• Sword: 5 silver coins
• Small Shield: 3 silver coins
• Repair of Old Weapon: 2 silver coins

With his new sword and repaired old weapon strapped to his belt, and a small shield on his arm, Einz felt more prepared for combat.

Next, Einz made his way to the craftsman's shop, where a skilled leatherworker named Seraphine worked her craft. He approached her with his worn-out leather armor and asked for repairs. Seraphine carefully examined the armor, nodding in understanding. "I can patch this up for you, no problem."

While the repairs were being made, Einz decided to purchase a pair of leather gauntlets for added protection. As Seraphine worked, he watched her skilled hands expertly mend the armor, reinforcing it for the challenges that awaited.

• Leather Gauntlets: 1 silver coin Repair of Worn-Out Leather Armor: 2 silver coins

With his equipment in order, Einz turned his attention to gathering daily necessities. He headed to the market, where various stalls offered everything an adventurer might need.

First, he purchased a set of healing potions, herbs, and antidotes to ensure he could tend to injuries or ailments on the road. He also picked up trap tools for his journey, knowing that they could come in handy for both offense and defense.

At a nearby trader's booth, he acquired a set of cookware and spices to make meals on the go more palatable. Rations were essential for long journeys, and he stocked up on those as well, securing a supply of food that would last him for a while.

As he gathered his supplies, Einz couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. With his newly acquired gear and provisions, he was one step closer to fully embracing his role as an adventurer in the vast and mysterious realm of Aetheria.

n the bustling Adventurers Guild of Havenmoor, Einz approached the reception desk where Elara Windrider, the guild's diligent receptionist, greeted him with a warm smile.

"Welcome back, Einz. How can I assist you today?" Elara inquired, her eyes filled with curiosity.

Einz nodded respectfully. "I'm ready to take on my first quest, Elara. Can you please explain how the quest system works?"

Elara's smile widened as she sensed Einz's enthusiasm. "Of course, Einz. Let me walk you through it. First, every quest is categorized by rank, from E to SS, indicating its difficulty. Since you're just starting out, I'll register you as a D rank adventurer, which is the entry level. You'll have the opportunity to prove yourself and advance to higher ranks as you gain experience."

Einz nodded, eager to embark on this new journey.

"Now," Elara continued, "quests can come in various forms—solving local problems, exterminating monsters, retrieving items, and more. When you're ready to take on a quest, simply check the quest board over there." She gestured toward a large board covered in parchment notes. "You can choose a quest that matches your rank and interest. Each quest note provides details on the task, rewards, and any special requirements."

Einz's gaze drifted to the quest board, his curiosity piqued.

Elara then leaned in, speaking in a lower tone. "Now, I have a special recommendation for you. Kellan's group, led by the renowned adventurer Kellan Stormblade, is currently looking for assistance. They're a famous group of C rank adventurers known for their skill and success. Helping them on a quest could be a great way to gain experience and build your reputation."

Einz was intrigued by the prospect of working alongside experienced adventurers like Kellan's group. "That sounds like a great opportunity, Elara. What do I need to know about forming a party?"

Elara nodded approvingly. "Parties are a crucial aspect of adventuring. They allow adventurers to combine their skills and abilities to tackle more challenging quests. In your case, joining Kellan's group will likely be a temporary arrangement. You can ask them directly if they're willing to have you in their party."

Einz felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness as he considered the possibility of joining such a prestigious group.

"Remember," Elara said, her voice reassuring, "in a party, communication and teamwork are key. Make sure to coordinate with your fellow adventurers and always have each other's backs. Now, let's get you registered as a D rank adventurer, and you can head over to Kellan's group to discuss the quest. I have a feeling you'll make quite an impact, Einz."

With Elara's guidance, Einz took his first step into the world of Aetherian adventuring, ready to face the challenges and seize the opportunities that awaited him in the company of Kellan's experienced group.

End of chapter.