8 First Quest (part 1)

[DING !]

[SUB-CLASS DETECTED !]

[CLASS: SWORDSMAN <<COMMON>> HAS BEEN OBTAINED !]

"WHAT???" Luke exclaimed in his mind as the holographic interface displayed Luke's updated status and class information, a wave of disbelief washed over him.

Confusion clouded his mind as he grapples with the revelation. How could he have acquired a subclass? Was that even a normal thing or Was it a result of his unique connection to the shadow system?

Roland noticed the bewildered expression on Luke's face and his distant gaze. Concern filled his voice as he reached out to his friend. "Hey, Luke, you okay? You a bit nervous about becoming an adventurer?."

Luke snapped back to the present moment, realizing that revealing his subclass might raise questions and suspicions he wasn't ready to address. He decided to keep it to himself for now, not wanting to alert Roland until he understood more about his newfound abilities. With a reassuring smile, Luke replied, "Yeah, Roland, just a bit overwhelmed with everything. But I am excited."

Roland studied Luke's expression, sensing that there was something his friend wasn't revealing. However, he respected Luke's decision to keep it to himself for the time being. "I understand, Luke. Just know that I'm here for you, and we'll face whatever challenges come our way together."

Luke nodded gratefully, relieved by Roland's understanding. "Thanks, Roland. I'm sorry about not wanting to be a soldier instead…its just that-"

Roland interrupted, placing a hand on Luke's shoulder. "No need to apologize, Luke. We all have our own paths to follow, and sometimes, our journeys take unexpected turns. Becoming an adventurer is an exciting opportunity for you, and I believe you'll excel in this new role."

Luke's gratitude towards Roland swelled within him, but the weight of his secret still rested heavily on his shoulders. He wanted to share his newfound subclass and sword slash skill, but the fear of judgment and misunderstanding held him back.

With their conversation easing Luke's worries, he focused his attention on the holographic interface before him. It displayed his updated status, including his class and level, but he chose not to delve into the details of his subclass just yet. Instead, he embraced the anticipation of what lay ahead, eager to discover the full extent of his newfound abilities on his own.

[NAME: LUKE GRAHAM]

[JOB: ADVENTURER]

[CLASS: SHADOWMANCER <<RARE>>]

[SUB-CLASS: SWORDSMAN <<COMMON>>]

[LVL: 2]

[VIT: 100]

[STR: 15]

[DEX: 23]

[INT: 10]

[MP: 100]

[SP: +5]

[AP: +10]

[SKILLS: 2]

[<<LV.2>> SHADOW REFLECTION]

[<<LV.1>> SWORD SLASH] [<<NEW>>]

[TITLES: 2]

[INHERITOR OF THE SHADOW SYSTEM]

[THE ONLY SURVIVOR]

Luke felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination as he studied his updated status. The mysteries of his subclass would have to wait, but he knew that his journey as an adventurer was just beginning. With assistance from Roland, he was ready to face the challenges that awaited and embark on becoming strong enough to seek revenge.

Luke and Roland made their way back to the receptionist counter in the Adventurer's Guild, their eyes scanning the board filled with various quest postings. Stephanie, the friendly receptionist, waving at them with a warm smile.

"sooo,you ready?" Stephanie asked, her voice filled with genuine curiosity.

Luke nodded, a newfound determination in his eyes. "Yes, Stephanie. I'm ready to take on my first quest as an adventurer. I want to grow stronger."

Stephanie's smile widened as she admired Luke's enthusiasm. "That's the spirit, Luke. However, as a new adventurer, you're currently ranked as an E-class adventurer. This means that for now, you'll need to focus on quests suitable for your rank."

Luke furrowed his brow, not fully understanding the concept of adventurer ranks. "What do you mean by ranks, Stephanie?"

Stephanie leaned forward, explaining with patience. "Adventurers are ranked based on their skills, experience, and accomplishments. Starting as an E-rank adventurer is common for newcomers. To tackle more dangerous and substantial quests, you'll need to rank up and reach at least D-rank adventurer."

Roland chimed in, eager to help his friend understand. "So, Luke, to take on more challenging quests, you need to gain more experience and prove yourself. It's all part of the adventurer's journey."

Luke nodded, absorbing the information. "I see. So, what kind of quests are available for me as an E-rank adventurer?"

Stephanie shuffled through a stack of quest papers, selecting a few and placing them on the counter. "For now, you have a few options. We have some herb-picking quests, where you gather specific herbs for alchemical purposes. These quests are relatively safe and help you gain familiarity with the surroundings. We also have some missing persons quests, where you assist in locating individuals who have gone astray. These quests require observation and investigation skills."

Luke glanced at the quests, his excitement dampened slightly. "They seem rather simple compared to what I imagined."

Stephanie reassured him, her voice filled with encouragement. "Remember, Luke, every journey starts with small steps. These quests may seem simple, but they provide valuable experience and opportunities for growth. Completing them successfully will contribute to your rank advancement and open doors to more challenging quests."

Luke took a deep breath, a determination rekindled within him. "well, okay, maybe I shouldn't underestimate the value of these quests. I'll give them my all and prove myself as a capable adventurer."

Roland grinned, his enthusiasm contagious. "That's the spirit, Luke! So which quest will you be choosing?."

With a newfound focus and determination, Luke selected a herb-picking quest from the board.

{<<E-RANK QUEST>>}

{Pick 20 pieces of ice-flower roots and return to the alchemist, Isabella Ashthorn}

{<<REWARD: 20 SILVER COINS>>}

"aha! Interesting pick, luke!" roland said as he gestured a tombs up to luke but luke curious about what they were turned to Stephanie, with curiosity gleaming in his eyes and asked. "Stephanie, what exactly are ice-flower roots? I've never heard of them before, and im a the son of a farmer."

Stephanie smiled, happy to provide the information Luke sought. "Ice-flower roots are a rare and valuable herb found in the Frostwood Forest, located to the east of Valeria. They possess unique properties and are often used in alchemical potions and remedies. The roots have a shimmering blue color and are known to thrive in the icy conditions of the frostwood forest."

Luke's interest grew, intrigued by the magical properties of the herb. "Sounds fascinating. Are they difficult to find?"

Stephanie nodded. "Yes, they can be quite elusive. The Frostwood Forest is a treacherous place, filled with icy terrain and magical creatures. luckily those creatures are deep in the forest while you'll be able to find the flowers around the entrance if you search well. You'll need to exercise caution and sharp observation skills to locate the ice-flower roots."

Luke's determination surged as he pictured the challenge ahead. "I'm ready for it. I'll gather those ice-flower roots and deliver them to this Isabella Ashthorn person."

Roland grinned, his excitement matching Luke's. "That's the spirit, Luke! Ill let you go on this quest while I return to my position at the head station with general stormheart, find me if you need anything."

Luke nodded, appreciative of Roland's support. "Thanks, Roland. I'll make sure to find you if I need any assistance. Stay safe at the head station."

With a final wave to Roland, Luke turned his attention back to Stephanie. "Stephanie, could you provide me with any additional information about Isabella Ashthorn? It would be helpful to know more about the alchemist I'll be delivering the ice-flower roots to."

Stephanie nodded, reaching for a small dossier on the counter. She handed it to Luke, who opened it to reveal a picture and a brief description of Isabella Ashthorn.

"Isabella Ashthorn is a renowned alchemist known for her expertise in herbal remedies. She resides in a small cottage on the outskirts of Valeria. She's often sought after for her potions and elixirs, and she values the rare ingredients found in the Frostwood Forest, such as the ice-flower roots."

Luke studied the picture of Isabella, noting her kind and wise expression. "She's pretty."

Stephanie smiled. "I'm sure she'll appreciate your efforts, Luke. Remember, take your time in the Frostwood Forest, and don't hesitate to seek help from other adventurers if needed. They can provide valuable guidance and support."

Luke nodded, grateful for Stephanie's advice. "Thank you, Stephanie. I'll keep that in mind. Now, it's time for me to embark on my first quest as an adventurer."

With newfound determination and a sense of purpose, Luke bid farewell to Stephanie and headed towards the exit of the Adventurer's Guild. The Frostwood Forest awaited him, with its icy wonders and hidden dangers.

As he stepped outside, the cool breeze brushed against his face, fueling his excitement and igniting a spark of adventure within him. The path to becoming a formidable adventurer was laid out before him, and with each step, he would grow stronger, uncover secrets, and forge his own destiny.