The sun hung high in the sky, casting golden rays over the courtyard as Jack's family and Ava stepped out of their house, their expressions reflecting a mix of anticipation and curiosity. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of dewdrops and the distant hum of a bustling city. The crisp air carried a sense of anticipation, an unspoken promise of adventure and growth. Jack adjusted his coat while Sofia skipped beside him, her curiosity bubbling over as she took in the sight before her.
With a flick of her wrist, Ava retrieved a shimmering object from her space ring. As it materialized, the air rippled with energy, revealing a magnificent flying boat. Its sleek, streamlined body gleamed under the sunlight, inscribed with intricate magical runes that pulsed faintly with power. The vessel hovered just above the ground, humming softly as if eager to take flight. The polished exterior gleamed under the morning sun, exuding an aura of enchantment and craftsmanship far beyond anything they had seen before.
Sofia's eyes widened in pure astonishment. "Wow, Big Sister Ava! What is this? It looks so awesome!" she exclaimed, bouncing on her feet in excitement.
Ava chuckled at Sofia's enthusiasm, placing a hand on the girl's head. "This is called a flying boat," she explained with amusement. "It's a magical tool imbued with flight enchantments, allowing us to soar through the sky and travel great distances effortlessly. It is one of the more advanced means of transportation in this world."
Sofia's eyes sparkled with nostalgia before a flicker of sadness crossed her features. "Oh! That's amazing… Our old world, the Blue Planet, had similar technology too."
Ava raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Oh? Your world also have flying tools?"
Emma, standing beside Sofia, nodded, her tone tinged with melancholy. "Yes, Miss Ava. We had Hovercrafts, Hoverbikes, Flying Cars, and Hoverboards. But after coming to this world, all our technology and vehicles stopped working. It's like everything we once knew was stripped away."
Ava's expression softened. "I see. That must have been a difficult adjustment for all of you."
Sofia lowered her gaze, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yeah… sometimes I miss home."
Ava, sensing the weight of their emotions, smiled reassuringly. "I understand. The past is important, but this world offers new opportunities, new adventures. Who knows? Perhaps one day, your knowledge and skills will help bridge the gap between your lost technology and the magic of this world."
Jack, noticing the somber mood, decided to change the subject. "Miss Ava," he said, his curiosity evident in his voice, "Now that we're heading to the Adventurer's Guild for registration, could you tell us more about it? And what about the Mercenary Guild, Merchant Guild, Alchemy Guild, Blacksmith Guild, Academies, Production Halls, and Mage & Warrior Halls? I want to understand their true purpose in this world."
Ava's eyes twinkled with approval. "Ah, an excellent question, Jack. Let me break it down for you."
She raised a hand, and the flying boat's runes glowed brighter as it responded to her command. With a single graceful step, she boarded the vessel. She gestured toward the flying boat, prompting everyone to step aboard.. Once everyone was seated comfortably, the boat lifted into the sky, gliding smoothly over the cityscape below. As the magical craft ascended smoothly into the sky, Ava began her explanation.
1. Adventurer's Guild: "The Adventurer's Guild is one of the most well-known institutions in the continent. It is an organization where warriors, mages, archers, assassins, and other combatants accept missions in exchange for rewards. Missions vary from simple escort tasks to high-risk monster subjugation, dungeon exploration, and treasure hunting. The guild ranks adventurers based on their skill and accomplishments, allowing them access to greater challenges and higher rewards. Furthermore, they maintain stability in regions by eliminating threats that could endanger the general populace."
2. Mercenary Guild: "Unlike the Adventurer's Guild, which focuses on missions given by external requesters, the Mercenary Guild specializes in combat-for-hire services. They are hired for protection, large-scale battles, and even warfare. Mercenaries are often contracted by noble houses, powerful organizations, or even entire kingdoms to serve as private military forces, bodyguards, or battlefield soldiers. They are highly trained and come in squads of varying sizes, offering protection or power where needed. While adventurers enjoy more freedom in their quests, mercenaries operate under strict contracts."
Jack's mother, who had been listening intently, nodded in approval. "So, the Mercenary Guild is more structured, while the Adventurer's Guild allows for flexibility?"
3. Merchant Guild: "Trade is the lifeline of any thriving civilization, and the Merchant Guild governs this world's economy. They control trade, commerce, and the economy. Every major transaction, auction, and business deal is regulated by them. This guild ensures fair trade practices, regulates markets, overseas merchant caravans, and even controls high-value resources like enchanted artifacts, rare herbs, and alchemical ingredients. The wealthiest merchants hold great influence and sometimes rival even noble houses in power. If you wish to establish a business, you must be registered with the Merchant Guild."
Sofia's eyes lit up with curiosity. "What about alchemists and blacksmiths guilds?"'
"I was just getting to that," Ava said with a smile.
4. Alchemy Guild: "The Alchemy Guild is dedicated to the art of potion-making, medicine, and experimental magical concoctions. Here, alchemists study various plants, monster parts, and arcane ingredients to create potions with miraculous effects ranging from healing elixirs to explosive brews that can change the tide of battle. The most skilled alchemists can even transmute substances or refine raw mana into powerful elixirs."
5. Blacksmith Guild: "Weapons and armor form the backbone of any warrior's strength. The Blacksmith Guild consists of master craftsmen who forge, enhance, and repair weapons, armor, and magical artifacts. Some of the most legendary weapons have been crafted in this guild, imbued with enchantments that make them invaluable in combat. The demand for high-quality equipment ensures that blacksmiths always hold a respected status in society."
Jack's mother crossed her arms thoughtfully."What about the academies?"
6. Academies: "The Academies are responsible for nurturing young talents. To nurture the next generation, major cities have established academies that provide free education in production classes for those under the age of 21. These academies train young talents in various disciplines, helping them develop skills early. Exceptional students often receive scholarships and access to restricted knowledge, allowing them to rise to prominence faster. They teach various production classes: alchemy, blacksmithing, spellcraft, runecrafting, talisman creation, and more. Their goal is to ensure that every young ascendant has a foundation in a secondary profession."
Jack's interest piqued. "And the Production Halls?"
7. Production Halls: "The Production Halls function as research institutions and training centers. Production Halls serve as libraries and training grounds for all things related to crafting. Whether it be potion-making, weapon-forging, talisman inscriptions, spell-scroll creation, or puppet crafting, these halls store vast amounts of knowledge. Adults who wish to learn a trade must pay a fee to access these resources and receive training from experienced professionals, and they also provide hands-on training, allowing craftsmen to refine their skills through practice. These halls also serve as crafting hubs where individuals can practice and refine their skills."
Emma leaned forward. "So, if someone wanted to become a master craftsman, they would have to spend time in the Production Halls?"
"Yes," Ava confirmed. "The best crafters are those who dedicate years to perfecting their art."
Jack's mind buzzed with possibilities. "And what about the Mage & Warrior Halls?"
8. Mage & Warrior Halls: "These halls are invaluable to all combat-oriented professionals. These halls contain libraries filled with magic spell books and combat skill manuals for all professional classes. They also have specialized training grounds where aspiring mages and warriors can hone their abilities. Anyone from mages to knights, assassins to summoners, can hone their skills here. If one wishes to receive personal guidance from a professional master, they can pay a fee to receive tailored instruction, significantly accelerating their growth."
James, who had been silent thus far, finally spoke. "And if someone seeks personal guidance?"
Ava nodded. "One can request training from a Master, but it comes at a price. The more skilled the instructor, the higher the fee."
Jack's mind raced as he absorbed Ava's words. "So, if we want to grow stronger, we need to take advantage of these opportunities," he mused aloud.
Ava nodded with a satisfied smile. "Exactly. Training alone can only take you so far. To truly ascend, you must immerse yourself in real-world experiences. This continent is evolving rapidly, and those who seize these opportunities will determine its future."
Jack exhaled slowly, taking in all the information. "This world is far more structured than I expected."
"That's because it has to be," Ava said. "The Otherworlders Continent is a land of opportunity, but also one of danger. Only those who seek knowledge, power, and experience will thrive."
James, who had been listening intently spoke. "Then it's decided. We will explore these guilds and halls and find the best path forward."
Jack's mother placed a hand on his shoulder, her voice gentle yet firm. "Son, strength isn't just about power it's about wisdom, strategy, and adaptability. Choose your path wisely, for it will shape the road ahead."
Jack met her gaze, determination burning within him. "I understand, Mother. We won't waste this opportunity."
Jack clenched his fists, his determination burning brighter than ever. The path to strength was laid before him, and now, he only had to walk it.
The flying boat continued its journey across the vast sky, carrying them toward their next adventure toward a future brimming with endless possibilities. Their flying boat glided toward their first destination, the beginning of a new chapter in their journey.
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To Be Continued…!!