Market Marvels and Guild Goals: Ventures in Silverwood

"What are you grinning about? Don't get over the head you literally beat a level 5 boar." Said Ethan with glint of anger.

"Level 5 or not, that boar was a menace," retorted Alex, wiping sweat from his brow. "Besides, I saved your skin, didn't I?"

Ethan's jaw clenched. "Saved my skin? Ha! I would've taken care of him with ease. You just happened to be there."

The tension between them crackled like static in the air. 

"Oi, look over there, is that Silverwood over there" Screamed Alex forgetting about argument they were just going through.

As Alex pointed excitedly towards the distant silhouette of Silverwood, Ethan's irritation momentarily faded, replaced by a sense of awe. The legendary forest, with its towering trees and mysterious depths, had long been a subject of fascination for adventurers like them. Peering through the dense foliage, they could make out the outline of ancient ruins, half-hidden by the encroaching wilderness. Moss-covered stones hinted at a forgotten past, while vines snaked their way around crumbling pillars.

"Silverwood," Ethan breathed, his voice barely above a whisper. "I've heard about it, but to see it with my own eyes..."

"It's breathtaking," Alex finished for him, his gaze fixed on the distant forest. "Do you think there are treasures hidden within those ruins?"

Ethan shook his head, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Knowing our luck, probably just more boars. But who knows? Maybe there's something worth finding."

"Well, let's hurry up and go there." Said Alex enthusiastically. 

"Yeah, come one." Said Ethan.

They rushed towards the town, though it was around fifteen kilo-meter's away. They were able to reach Silverwood in under forty five minutes, due to the excitement.

As Ethan and Alex ventured deeper into Silverwood, they stumbled upon a bustling market nestled amidst the ancient trees. Colourful tents lined the narrow pathways, their awnings adorned with exotic fabrics and trinkets from distant lands. The air was alive with the sounds of laughter and chatter, mingling with the enticing aromas of spices and cooking food.

"Would you look at that," Alex exclaimed, his eyes widening with excitement as he took in the vibrant scene before them. "I never expected to find a market in the middle of the forest!"

Ethan chuckled, his gaze wandering over the array of goods on display. "Seems like half the town is here. I wonder what they're selling."

As they made their way through the crowded market, they passed stalls selling everything from fresh produce to intricately crafted jewellery. Vendors called out to them, eager to showcase their wares, while groups of travellers haggled over prices and exchanged stories of their adventures.

"Hey, Ethan, do you think we should try some of that?" Alex asked, pointing to a stall where a portly man was frying up crispy-looking dumplings.

Ethan glanced at the stall, then back at Alex with a deadpan expression. "Are you serious? We're practically running on empty here. We can't even afford a cup of water, let alone those dumplings."

Alex's stomach growled audibly, betraying his hunger. "But I'm so damn hungry," he protested, his eyes fixed longingly on the sizzling treats.

Ethan rolled his eyes. "Hungry or not, we're broke. Unless you've got a hidden stash of gold tucked away somewhere, we'll just have to keep moving."

"Fuck sake, fine." Alex sighed, reluctantly tearing his gaze away from the tantalising dumplings. "But if I pass out from hunger, I'm blaming you."

Ethan grinned mischievously. "How about you eat me? I hear I'm quite filling," 

"Keep dreaming, big guy. I'd rather starve," he retorted, unable to suppress a laugh as they continued on their journey.

"Ok how about this, let's get to a guild, do some tasks and earn cash?" Said Ethan.

"Great plan, but which way is the guild?" Questioned Alex

"The only way to find out is by asking someone" Said Ethan.

As Ethan and Alex wandered through the vibrant market of Silverwood, they approached a group of traders gathered around a wooden cart laden with colorful fruits.

"Excuse me," Ethan called out, catching the attention of a burly man with a bushy beard. "Could you point us in the direction of the nearest guild?"

The trader scratched his chin thoughtfully before responding with a hearty laugh. "Well, lads, you're in luck! The guild hall is just down yonder, past the old oak tree. Can't miss it!"

"Thanks a bunch!" Alex exclaimed, his excitement palpable as he turned to Ethan. "Let's go quickly!"

With renewed determination, Ethan and Alex made their way through the bustling market, following the trader's directions towards the guild hall. Along the way, they passed by a group of street performers, their lively tunes filling the air with infectious energy.

"Hey, look at that!" Alex exclaimed, pointing to a trio of musicians playing traditional folk songs on stringed instruments.

Ethan grinned, nodding in appreciation as they paused to listen to the melodic strains of the music. For a moment, the worries of their journey faded away, replaced by the simple joy of being alive.

As they continued on their path, the towering spires of the guild hall loomed into view, its grand facade adorned with intricate carvings and decorative banners. 

As Alex and Ethan stepped into the guild hall, they were met with a cacophony of clashing swords and raucous laughter. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and ale, and the room was filled with a motley crew of adventurers of all shapes and sizes.

"Whoa," Alex whispered, his eyes wide with awe as he took in the bustling scene before them.

"This place is incredible."

Ethan nodded in agreement, scanning the room with a practiced eye. "Looks like we've stumbled into the right place. Let's find someone who can give us some tasks to do."

As they made their way through the throng of people, they couldn't help but notice the curious glances and whispered conversations that followed in their wake. It was clear that they stood out among the seasoned adventurers, their youthful faces and modest gear marking them as newcomers.

"Hey, check it out," Alex murmured, nudging Ethan with his elbow. "I think that old lady over there is giving us the stink eye."

Ethan followed Alex's gaze to where a formidable-looking woman sat alone at a nearby table, her piercing gaze fixed squarely on them. Despite her advanced age, there was a strength and vitality about her that commanded respect.

"Let's go talk to her," Ethan suggested, leading the way towards the old woman's table. "Maybe she can point us in the right direction."

As they approached, the old woman's steely gaze softened into a warm smile. "Well, well, what have we here, a couple of fresh-faced recruits looking to make a name for themselves?"

"Something like that," Alex replied, returning her smile with a nervous grin. "We're just trying to find our way around."

The old woman chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "You've come to the right place, then. I'm Agatha, and this here, is my guild. We may not look like much, but we've got a few tricks up our sleeves."

Before Alex or Ethan could respond, a group of burly adventurers approached them, eyeing them up with thinly veiled contempt.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" sneered one of the men, his voice dripping with disdain. "A couple of weaklings looking to join the guild?"

Ethan bristled at the insult, his hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of his sword. "We may be new here, but we're not afraid of a challenge."

The leader of the group smirked, cracking his knuckles menacingly. "Is that so? Well, let's see what you're made of, then."

Before Ethan or Alex could react, the old woman, Agatha, leapt to their defense, her movements swift and fluid despite her age. With a series of lightning-fast strikes, she dispatched the would-be assailants with ease, sending them sprawling to the ground in a heap. The room fell silent as the other adventurers looked on in shock, their expressions ranging from awe to disbelief. Ethan and Alex could only stare in amazement as Agatha turned to them with a wry smile.

"Looks like you've made quite the impression," she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

"Welcome to the guild, boys. I have a feeling you're going to fit in just fine."

After the altercation, Ethan and Alex found themselves surrounded by curious onlookers, their eyes wide with awe and admiration. It seemed that Agatha's display of strength had earned them a newfound respect among the guild members.

"Thanks, Agatha," Ethan said, his voice filled with gratitude. "We owe you one."

Agatha waved off his thanks with a dismissive gesture. "Think nothing of it, boys. It's my job to look out for the newcomers around here."

As the crowd began to disperse, Agatha motioned for Ethan and Alex to join her at her table. "Now then, let's get down to business. I assume you're looking for work?"

Ethan and Alex nodded eagerly, their previous apprehension now replaced with determination. "You bet," Alex replied. "We're ready for anything."

Agatha smiled approvingly. "I like your enthusiasm. I have a few tasks in mind that could use a pair of capable hands. But first, tell me about yourselves. What brings you to Silverwood?"

Ethan and Alex exchanged a glance before Ethan spoke up. "We're adventurers, always on the lookout for new challenges and opportunities. We heard about Silverwood and thought it sounded like the perfect place to test our skills."

Agatha nodded thoughtfully. "A noble pursuit, indeed. Silverwood can be a dangerous place for the unprepared, but with the right guidance, I'm sure you'll do just fine."

As Agatha finished speaking, Ethan and Alex exchanged a glance, their determination shining brightly in their eyes. They were ready for whatever challenge Agatha had in store for them.

"So, what's the task?" Ethan asked, eager to prove their worth.

Agatha leaned back in her chair, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "Well, it's quite simple, really. In order to earn your membership passes to the guild, you must prove yourselves capable of handling the dangers that lurk within Silverwood."

Ethan and Alex nodded in understanding, waiting for Agatha to continue.

"I want you to force me to use my magic," Agatha said, her tone serious. "Show me that you have the strength and skill to overcome any obstacle that stands in your way."

Ethan and Alex exchanged another glance, a hint of uncertainty flickering in their eyes. Agatha's magic was legendary, and the thought of facing it head-on was daunting, to say the least.

But they were determined to succeed, no matter the cost.

"Alright, we accept your challenge," Ethan said, his voice firm with resolve. "We won't let you down."

Agatha nodded approvingly. "Very well."

After accepting Agatha's challenge, she led Ethan and Alex to a secluded clearing deep within Silverwood. The air was thick with anticipation as they prepared for the task ahead.

Agatha stood at the centre of the clearing, her posture relaxed yet alert. "This is where we'll conduct your training," she explained, gesturing towards the surrounding trees. "Here, you'll have the space and freedom to unleash your full potential."

For hours, Ethan and Alex sparred with Agatha, each attack met with a deft countermove. Despite their best efforts, they couldn't seem to gain the upper hand. Agatha's skills were unparalleled. Frustration gnawed at Ethan and Alex as they struggled to keep up with Agatha's relentless assault. But just as they were beginning to lose hope, Alex had a sudden realisation.

While Ethan engaged Agatha in combat, Alex observed her movements with hawk-like focus, committing each subtle shift in stance and flicker of her wrist to memory. Unbeknownst to Ethan or Agatha, Alex had a hidden advantage - the ability to manipulate time. As Ethan launched another attack, Alex saw an opening.

"Temporalis" Whispered Alex.

"Time selected:- One hour in the past". 

"Going back in time."

"Time travel complete"

Suddenly, Alex found themselves back in the clearing, one hour before their training session with Agatha. This time, armed with the knowledge of Agatha's moves.

"Listen, I have a plan...." Alex whispered a plan to Ethan, his voice barely audible over the rustle of the leaves.

With a nod of understanding, Ethan executed the plan flawlessly, catching Agatha off guard with a series of feints and misdirections. As Agatha struggled to keep up with their unexpected tactics, Ethan seized the opportunity to deliver a decisive blow, knocking her off balance and sending her sprawling to the ground. Surprised by their sudden reversal of fortune, Agatha looked up at them with a mixture of shock and admiration.

"Well played," she conceded, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "You may not have defeated me in combat, but you've certainly earned my respect." With Agatha's approval, Ethan and Alex were officially welcomed into the guild, however.

"No, we still haven't made you use your magic to the full extent" Said Ethan.

"Huh, Ethan you dumbass. We barely made her trip." Whispered Alex.

"I know but I have the feeling that we can win." Said Ethan