When they reached a larger street, Spes directed the two young men to a specific spot, instructing them to wait. They were going to take public transportation, which would be faster to reach the city center. On the ground, there was something resembling a rail system, but made of wood and vines. Aestus and Orkan were very impressed, as it was their first time leaving Comanse. They found everything incredible and much larger. After a short wait, a large, hollowed-out trunk arrived, seemingly moving along the tracks with branches that appeared and disappeared magically. The interior of the trunk had several benches that could accommodate around 20 people. There were few passengers, so the three of them could sit close together.

Once they sat down, the trunk began its journey. Orkan tried to understand how it worked when he noticed a crystal-powered device on the floor with a sign attached that read, "Nature crystals only." That was the most confusing element, in the Rogue's opinion. He could understand electricity, fire, water... but nature was strange. "Well, as long as it works, I don't need to understand it," he thought. Spes chatted excitedly with one of the passengers, inquiring about a relative's health. Aestus and Orkan talked among themselves, pointing out points of interest in the city. The buildings were becoming more imposing and ancient-looking as they approached the city center. The scent of nature was no longer as strong, mixing with chimney smoke, the smell of freshly cooked food, and other indistinguishable odors. Spes informed them that they would be getting off at the next stop.

Before reaching their destination, after making a turn, they caught a glimpse of something incredible. The city center was easy to spot because it consisted of an immense tree, with an absurdly thick and twisted trunk that towered above the rest of the vegetation. Several structures were built alongside the tree, as if they were part of the trunk. Everything appeared very natural, as if there was some peculiar mutualistic relationship occurring. In front of the tree, there was a large square, spacious and with an elegant decor. Spes noticed the reaction of the two Hunters and let them enjoy the view without interruption. However, when the vehicle stopped, the Mage nudged the two of them, pointing towards the exit.

The boys followed Spes's lead and stepped off the trunk, their eyes wide with awe as they stood in the heart of Silvi. The towering tree before them seemed to reach the heavens, its gnarled branches spreading out like a canopy over the bustling city. Buildings seamlessly merged with the organic structure of the tree, their architecture blending harmoniously with nature's own design.

As they stepped onto the streets of Silvi, Aestus and Orkan couldn't help but be captivated by the enchanting atmosphere. The air was filled with a symphony of scents, a delicate fusion of blossoms, earth, and the comforting aroma of hearth fires. The sounds of chatter, laughter, and the occasional melody drifted through the air, creating a vibrant tapestry of life.

The crowd in that area was much larger than in the rest of the city, as it was the workplace for many residents. Silvi was practically a capital of diplomacy and relations between cities and peoples. When it came to conflicts and interests among different races, the Lagomorphs were regarded as impartial and fair, mediating negotiations and drafting contracts, documents, and agreements. Biologically, Humanoids and Lagomorphs were very similar, with the latter being generally smaller and more agile in their thinking (and sporting a pair of furry ears).

Spes stepped off the transport, looking around with interest, his ears perked up. The city center was always bustling with people, but today there was a larger crowd than usual. He guided the two Hunters through the crowd, eventually reaching the doors of the Guild. It was a large building nestled between two smaller ones, made of ancient stone with a dark wooden double door. Upon entering, it was as if they had been transported back to the Guild in Comanse. The hall had practically the same layout, with a bar on the right, tables nearby, and a counter on the opposite side of the door, with a notice board next to it. However, the atmosphere was different, with fewer people and a peculiar scent of herbs, along with many pots of plants hanging on the walls. There were only two Hunters sitting at one of the tables, speaking quietly—a Lagomorph Light Mage and a Humanoid Archer. They looked toward the door, waving cheerfully at Spes, who returned the gesture with an enthusiastic wave of both hands.

As they approached the counter, there was a large figure stooped down, arranging some boxes of documents. Orkan was about to tap on the counter, but Spes stopped him, shaking his head. The Mage began mimicking someone who was furious, and Orkan got the message. They waited for a short while until the Guild's representative stood up. A towering figure emerged, the largest Lagomorph in the entire city. Aestus was confused, as it felt like he was seeing Barthos with a pair of furry ears on top of his head. He was facing another big, bearded man who seemed like he could snap his spine like a twig. Orkan and Aestus were already expecting a gruff reception, but they were taken aback by the way they were greeted.

"Well, well, well. We have newcomers here?" the burly man said, with a friendly and welcoming tone, a relatively high-pitched voice that didn't match his massive frame. "My name is Baitu, the one in charge of the Guild. I see you're accompanied by Spes, so you must be good folks."

The two Hunters were still trying to process the flood of conflicting information, unable to formulate a coherent response. Baitu looked at the three of them and noticed Spes biting his lips, holding back laughter, and understood everything. Letting out a laughter reminiscent of Barthos', it seemed to awaken Aestus and Orkan, who drew the parallel with their friend from Comanse, relaxing and laughing along.

"You made them think I'm a fierce bully, didn't you? You're terrible, Spes," Baitu said, laughing. "Welcome! You're not from around here, are you?"

"No, we came from Comanse. I am Knight Aestus, and this is Rogue Orkan," Aestus said, using his formal voice. "We took a contract from someone in this city regarding a necrobear." He then showed the document to Baitu. "We haven't obtained the contractor's signature yet because we came straight here after completing the hunt."

Baitu took the document from their hands, examining its contents, scratching his head. He asked for a moment and checked his book and information on his record terminal. At least Baitu seemed to be more adept with technology, unlike Barthos. In a few moments, he exclaimed:

"I found the contract here. It was posted by Keun, one of the Chemists from the clinic," he said, looking in Spes's direction.

"Oh, what a coincidence. I know him well. He did mention seeing a necrobear in that region and that he was going to post a contract. Don't worry, I'll sign this. I can guarantee the Creature was defeated. I was there."

Orkan breathed a sigh of relief, while Aestus smiled in Spes's direction. The Mage winked at them discreetly. Aestus didn't feel entirely comfortable with the situation, but Spes seemed like a good person, genuinely wanting to help them. His intuition usually didn't fail when it came to judging people's character. He could often sense if someone wasn't trustworthy. Spes seemed to have an illuminated aura of joy and kindness.

"Well, if Spes said so, who am I to doubt, right? I'll prepare the reward and enter the information into the system. Please provide me with your details," Baitu said.

The two boys provided the necessary information, and Baitu started to separate the payment crystals. Spes went over to talk to the other Hunters while this was happening. They greeted each other cheerfully and soon engaged in an animated conversation.

"I hope he doesn't ask to split the reward," Orkan whispered in Aestus's ear, who stifled a chuckle. His friend never changed.

"Here is your payment," Baitu said shortly after, placing a medium-sized bag on the counter. "Congratulations on the job! I noticed that your clothes and armor suffered quite a bit in that battle. I'm a Blacksmith, so if you want, I can repair everything for you."

"Oh, yes, please. That necrobear was quite strong."

Baitu concentrated intensely and reached his hand towards Aestus's chest. Unlike the Blacksmith in Comanse, this service seemed to require great effort from Baitu. After repairing the garments of the two Hunters, he appeared truly exhausted. Aestus didn't comment, knowing it could be a sensitive subject, but he could tell that Baitu wasn't a very skilled Blacksmith. It was incredible how the level of aptitude varied among individuals, even within the same class. Aestus and Orkan expressed their gratitude and offered to pay, but Baitu refused. Aestus was about to insist on paying again when Orkan's stomach made a loud rumbling noise, interrupting the conversation.

"I think you're hungry! Take a seat at any table, and I'll take care of you," Baitu said. Seeing the confused expression on their faces, he quickly clarified, "Our Guild is very small, you know? We don't have many Lagomorph Knights or Guardians. So, since there isn't much activity, I handle the reception and the bar." Baitu seemed slightly embarrassed. "When you decide what you want to eat, just let me know."

Aestus and Orkan thanked him once again and made their way to the tables, approaching where Spes was engaged in lively conversation with the other two Hunters. The three of them were laughing heartily, engaged in friendly banter.

"He exists, I'm telling you!" Spes said with a smile on his face, while the other Hunters teased him.

"Oh, sure, Spes. And the lebretons came from our moons," the Archer said sarcastically.

"Do you seriously believe that?" the other Hunter asked.

"The Oracle exists. I just can't prove it, but he exists. It's the most famous legend of Kairos," Spes said, but he didn't seem to believe his own words, apparently just wanting to stir up controversy.

"That's why it's called a 'legend,' you dummy," the Archer said, laughing. She turned to Orkan and asked, "What do you think, Rogue?"

"I thought only kids believed in the Oracle, as a way to explain the origin of Classes. If it really is him who chooses everyone's Classes, he's a total jerk," Orkan said, teasingly.

Everyone laughed, even Spes. Aestus tried to soften the conversation in Spes's favor, adding, "I think the idea of there being an all-powerful being who possesses abilities from all Classes and can see the future is quite enticing. It also explains the random distribution of people's Classes. But I think it's just a legend, a way to explain to children why some people have powers and others don't."

"Okay, okay. I got it," Spes crossed his arms and rolled his eyes. "But I still believe he exists. I have no proof, but I'm convinced," he added, chuckling.

"But speaking of legends, today is the day we finally meet a living legend. I don't even know if I'm prepared," the Mage Hunter said.

"What are you talking about?" Orkan asked, curious.

"Baruc is coming to Silvi today. He should arrive shortly after lunch. He's having a meeting with the mayor to discuss some mine or something," the Mage replied.

"Baruc?! In person?" Orkan asked, shocked. The Mage simply nodded.

Aestus was also quite surprised at the possibility of seeing Baruc in person. He looked at Spes, expecting a similar reaction, but the Lagomorph remained serious, even appearing somewhat irritated. The others didn't seem to notice, so Aestus remained silent, not wanting to create an uncomfortable situation. He just couldn't understand how someone, at least apparently, could not like Baruc. The guy was a genius, revolutionizing everyone's lives, responsible for building hospitals and orphanages in various cities. He even rescued several people from the other continent who were prisoners of the feared Reptoids. Moreover, all Reptoid attacks and assassination attempts had been repelled by Baruc's defense systems and soldiers. The least people should feel is gratitude.

The conversation then shifted to other topics, discussing hunts and contracts, exchanging battle experiences. Aestus and Orkan made their food choices and placed their orders, followed by Spes, who seemed to know the menu by heart. As they waited, they discovered that Spes was well-known among the Hunters, accompanying some of them on contracts and having some combat experience. His passion, however, was taking care of patients at the clinic. People from Comanse and Foscor, the next town over, often came to Silvi to be treated by Spes and the other staff. According to the other Hunters, the service was swift and effective. Spes blushed at the praise, trying to change the subject. The food arrived shortly after, much to Spes's relief. While they ate, the Mage and the Archer bid their farewells, informing that they would go after a simple hunt.

After finishing their lunch, Aestus and Orkan felt a bit drowsy and tired. The night in the tent had been pleasant, but it couldn't compare to sleeping in a proper bed. Spes suggested they take a rest in the Guild's rooms since he needed to return to the clinic and deliver the herbs he had collected. He also encouraged the newcomers to take on some contracts in the area. The notice board was filled with requests, as the number of Hunters in the town was quite low.

"You can visit the clinic anytime you need healing or potions. It's on the other side of the square," Spes said, getting up from his chair. "We really enjoy helping the Hunters passing through the town. If you ever encounter a particularly strong Creature, I can accompany you if you want. But, you know... a good hunting group always benefits from a Mage of Light. Just saying..." He waved his hands as he walked backward toward the door.

After Spes left the Guild, the two young men stretched and went to inquire about available rooms, deciding to share a room with two beds. Since there was no rush to take on contracts, they decided to take a brief nap. They climbed a wide flight of stairs to the first floor, where a long corridor with doors on either side greeted them, then entering one of the rooms not far from the staircase.  It was a small but functional room, with beds right next to the door, one on each side. On the opposite wall was a simple wardrobe to store their clothes and belongings, a narrow desk, and a spacious, beautifully designed bathroom, with a powerful shower in a large shower stall.