Chapter 9: A Boy Who Returned

  At a first glance, it all appeared the same. Just an ordinary day at the Adventurer's Company of Vellos. Busy clerks scurried about, juggling stacks of papers, while the tavern area buzzed with adventurers and travelers alike.

  A standard commotion emanated from the quest board. What was different was that an unusually large group of very young people waited for their qualification examinations.

  Some looked nervous, while others held a calm demeanor, ready to dive into action and to prove their worth. A few radiated sheer determination, while others simmered with visible anger or anxiety.

  There was no surprise that on this day, many aspired to become adventurers. This marked the Commemoration Day of the monster's attack over the city outskirts led by the so-called Charred Knight.

  The tragedy claimed many civilian lives, as well as the city's royal knights, adventurers, and even a few unfortunate passing nobles. That dreadful day left lasting scars in the hearts of all the ordinary citizens and adventurers. Thus, it became a tradition for young people to come for their registration and examination precisely on this day each year.

  This day attracted everyone who ever vowed to become adventurers. Especially the ones committed to protecting their town. Many of those fine young individuals had been orphaned following the attack. In response, the city’s Head Councilor, Welberg Dan, offered considerable support. Providing them with municipal housing and funding for any of their chosen professions.

  As a result, he became one of the most beloved figures in the city and around the border region. Some even suggested erecting a statue in his honor. Yet he always humbly asked to tone it down, insisting it was only through the grace of the lord Adonis Groodberth himself. The one who established such an efficient governing system.

  The sheer reason he was able to provide such assistance and help. Nevertheless, the impact of his decision was profound, guiding those unfortunate youth toward brighter futures and helping to heal their emotional and physical wounds.

  So it was more than natural that many of the orphans came to test their skills, as they vigorously trained for years following the day. Fueled by rage, determination, and purpose.

  A multitude of traveling adventurers, somewhat renowned figures, also came to test and showcase themselves. This was also a huge showcase event in itself, and none wanted to miss the opportunity. So the Company was buzzier than ever even by the early hour.

  There were barely any free tables, and the hall was basically packed to the brink of ripping apart. While everyone was minding their own business or simply waiting for their turn.

  However, it was about to change. Everyone's attention shifted as soon as the man in ragged clothing and a dirty cloak stormed in. Any gaze recognized the man. He was known here as the newsmaker.

  While such a title might have been somewhat exaggerated, his usefulness could not be understated. As he consistently brought the freshest rumors from around town and its vicinity.

  Although much of his gossip was trivial, occasionally he provided valuable insights regarding local dungeons, nearby legendary monsters, or wealthy nobles seeking trustworthy adventurers for protection. Consequently, everyone knew well to pay close attention to any of the information he shared.

  The man settled silently at one of the largest tables, surrounded by a party of ten very well-equipped adventurers. They served him a hearty meal of meat and two mugs of butterbeer. While engrossed in their affairs, other adventurers occasionally cast glances at the table, eager to know what it was about his time.

  Most of his chatter consisted of ordinary gossip, with little of significance, aside from a mention of a noble lady searching for a rescue party. A mission to venture into the very heart of The Borork Mountain range. The pay was an actual fortune, but they doubted anyone would be mad enough to take on such a task.

  Yet a certain statement caused a visible commotion through the group. Which piqued everyone's curiosity to the brink of exploding. Everyone around tried to pick up the information with their keen sense.

  The newsmaker told them about something very peculiar. When he had been tending to one of the graves at the graveyard, he noticed a strange man. He brought food and flowers to a certain grave. And that was the well-attended grave of a renowned couple who had perished during the attack. A hunter and apothecary whose home had been destroyed.

  Most of the town still remembered their son. The one who had gone missing after he left Vellos not long after he regained his senses, never to return.

  He described the tall man in a grey cape made of a sturdy fabric, resembling rare hide. The large bag he carried appeared fully loaded, with multiple shiny weapons dangling at his belt. The strange person appeared to have a strong enough build, visible even under the covers of his large coat. So the newsmaker speculated that it might be an unknown adventurer from the surrounding area, aiming to try his luck for the Company evaluation. Looking quite impressive and mysterious.

  This information was indeed valuable. The adventurers around the company knew all the town’s talents well. Adding someone from the outside to the pool of potential party recruits was always exciting for everyone.

  The man finished his meal and beer in silence. Afterward, he thanked the party and departed.

  As soon as the doors closed behind him. The tavern area at the Company erupted with excitement. Discussions swirled around this piece of information, as everyone theorized about the man's identity. Some absurd ideas were proposed until one adventurer suggested a truly groundbreaking one.

  “Think of it!” the man cried at the top of his lungs, knocking his mug over the table as half of its contents spilled. “Have you ever seen anyone visit the grave of the Antos couple ever before, except for municipal caretakers?!”

  “Come to think of it, I did not!” the answers followed from a bulky warrior.

  “I remember back in the day there were only two people. It was their son and Head Councilor himself.” A middle-aged, leather-clad adventurer said.

  “It's already been three years. Do you think he could have returned?!” A woman from the far table speculated.

  “Returned? The question should be if he even survived. No one has seen him even once after. He vanished without a trace!” Shouted the red-haired archer.

  “If memory serves me well, it was said he was seen moving towards the Gleaming Forest. And that is already a dangerous place for seasoned adventurers. Behind it lies only the Borok Mountain Range. No kid could ever survive there!” Said one scarred man in heavy armor.

  “Yeah, you’re right. That’s impossible, bullocks! Maybe he is some kind of distant family friend or relative. We should not get our hopes up.” An elf-woman adventurer sipped her beer.

  “Sure, the kid is either long dead or erased all his memories living closer to the capital. Did anyone see him on that day? He looked like a ghost thinking about death!” An old rogue-like adventurer stated coldly and emotionlessly.

  At this point, all the arguments escalated to a fever pitch. With some adventurers hurling curses at one another.

  Eventually the Company's hall was separated into two factions disputing over. Those who wanted to believe that the boy was alive. And those who were convinced that he had perished. They were so locked in a fierce confrontation that it looked like they could really physically clash at any moment.

  All that transpired while Helena and Valentina sat at their favorite table in their familiar spot by the window. Leisurely sipping spiced honey beers. They observed the uproar from a distance, their expressions unreadable. The squabble held no relevance for them. Their status as outsiders rendered them somewhat indifferent to the unfolding drama.

  They were only partially aware of fragments of the tale and felt no deep investment in the boy's fate. Yet, they found a certain entertainment in the chaos. It was a refreshing change from the usual pace. Quite lively! They thought.

  Yet, it did not take long for the fervor of the arguments to fade. And the adventurers settled into more civilized discussions at their tables or shifted topics entirely. It appeared everyone just needed to blow off some steam. As some of them still relived the pain of that day.

  But it was not a long-lived respite. Suddenly, a chorus of enthusiastic cries erupted from outside. Calls of support, joyful welcomes, and heartfelt wishes of fortune.

  That meant only a single thing: a potentially strong candidate had arrived to undertake the qualification test. The townsfolk always eagerly anticipated a notable figure joining the ranks of the Adventurer's Company. So did everyone inside, as they held their breath in eager anticipation of the newcomer.

  Even the clerks occasionally paused their tasks while peeking at the door. The throes of suspense were unbearable, and the atmosphere felt electric. Thanks to the previous heated discussions.

  When the heavy wooden door finally swung open, a collective gasp traveled through the room. Awe captivated the place as a tall man cloaked in a dark gray hooded cape, trailing to the floor, stepped inside.

  Every adventurer felt it. The man bore the unmistakable aura of a seasoned warrior, one who had navigated countless battles. In his demeanor, they could feel he emerged from more than one war victorious.

  It seemed as if the weight of danger, the smell of the battlefield, followed him. He took each step calculated and precise, as his imposing figure glided across the room. The immense bag that loomed against his back appeared to be fashioned from the same sturdy material as his cloak.

  All his belongings had seen the road, visibly worn down, covered in dust, scratches, and patches. Rough dirt hung on here and there. He traveled for a long time, and the road was undoubtedly rugged.

  He made his way directly to the reception desk with deliberate slowness, his gaze obscured by the billowing fabric of his hood, leaving all those around him guessing where his eyes truly rested.

  As he approached the small clerk girl, she seemed momentarily stunned by the towering presence standing before her. He unceremoniously set his bag down with a heavy, loud thud, nearly a bang. The sound reverberated over the entire floor. So substantial was the weight that the marble tiles beneath creaked as if they might shatter.

  “Huh, now look at that, Helena! This must be interesting!” Valentina exclaimed as she tugged her friend. Helena lazily put her mug on the table after one more sip. As they were observing the menacing man with renewed interest.

  With deliberate grace, the man finally pulled back his hood, revealing his face to the room. His glowing emerald eyes were brimming with determination, reflecting a heart filled with joy.

  “Good day to you, my name is Drake Antos.” He announced, voice steady and calm. “I’ve come to take on the qualification test and join the ranks of the Adventurer's Company.” Finally saying the words, he could not believe the time had already come. As an adult, there was no way he could be denied, and not on the Commemoration Day.

  No answer followed as everyone stood there frozen while the young aspirants had their eyes wide.

  Slowly, Drake looked around. He recognized every tile on the floor, noting the few that were changed. The tapestries on the walls were just as in his memories, vivid like from yesterday.

  As a young boy, he tried a few times and failed. So he could hardly fathom passing that rigorous test. In fact, his initial evaluation deemed him totally unfit for the company due to his lack of potential.

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  Back in the day, all his aspirations of becoming a member had felt like broken glass beneath his feet. Yet, his parents had always stood firm beside him, providing comfort, guidance, and a path forward, their sacrifices etched in his heart. Now, his resolve was unwavering. He would not allow himself to fail.

  Three years… It’s already been three long years since... The place is as lively as I remember, maybe even more so with so much stuff going on. One thing is left: I have to prove myself.

  “Hah, just you look at that. So it is him, the boy who disappeared three years ago. Who would have thought? He seems like a capable young boy. We need to keep an eye on him. This might be our lucky charm.” Helena murmured to herself, drinking from her mug. A hint of a smirk covered her lips. While Valentina did not even touch hers, she continued to marvel at the frame and face of a captivating young man.

  The atmosphere was once again palpable with thick tension. Everyone waited for the next move. As if time itself had paused, leaving many jaws on the floor. A wave of disbelief swept across the hall, rendering everyone speechless at the revelation. Some were pointing fingers at others, showcasing they were right about it.

  All eyes were now fixed on his youthful yet experienced visage. His boyish face bore the marks of tough struggles. Smooth and rough features were mixed with the strong flow of his face, adorned with notable scars. Most prominent was a deep gash slicing across his right cheek and a burn mark that marred his left cheekbone. He had a strong, pointy chin. While thick eyebrows framed his piercing emerald green eyes, which seemed to reflect a deeper inner world of their own.

  Beneath his small, tightly-set mouth, which revealed barely any trace of emotion, lay the essence of a warrior who had seen far too much. His long, pitch-black hair flowed just past his shoulders, adding a wild, untamed charm that was both captivating and too intriguing. A rugged, short beard accentuated his fierce demeanor, which only served to deepen the intensity of his gaze.

  There was a striking, unsettling contrast in his appearance. Youthful vitality radiated from him, yet his physique, marked by scars and a seasoned warrior demeanor, whispered of countless battles fought on the edge of life and death. Most of the adventurers could feel the slips of it, while only the seasoned, high-ranking, experienced ones could truly tell that the young man was not fake.

  Yet, this puzzling combination left everyone to ponder the stories of hardship and triumph hidden behind that boyish exterior. What had truly shaped this paradox of a young man? Was the only question on everyone’s mind.

  The young clerk girl finally snapped out of her trance by the vibrant green piercing gaze. She finally acknowledged that she had been staring at the man for at least a few minutes without a response.

  “Oh, I’m so sorry. Yes, yes, of course! Please, follow me to do the necessary paperwork.” She said with a somewhat shaky voice, feeling uncomfortable. “I’ll provide you with the application form and assist you in completing it if needed.”

  Drake settled himself at the desk, flashing a quick smile. “I need to refresh my memory before we start. Please remind me, do I have to pass the qualification before I am allowed to trade spoils to the Company or at its market?”

  “Yes, that's correct. Unfortunately, we can’t purchase anything from you unless you are a fully-fledged member.” The girl replied, her tone businesslike and polite, as she finally settled her nerves.

  “Ah, right, right. I was just checking if I recalled everything correctly. Let’s waste no time, then!” He took a black quill provided and got right into filling out the forms and questionnaires.

  But as soon as he started, he could sense two exceptionally distinct gazes drilling into him. He turned his head ever so slightly, just enough to peek from the side of his eye. All to discover two young, beautiful women seated at a far table. Hmm, I wonder who those adventurers are. They seem to be gazing at me nonstop. While others just occasionally throw their gazes. Will handle it later. Right after I pass the test. Will it be a challenge now?

  Drake filled the forms with impressive speed, not making it much of a thought. He remembered everything quite well from his past attempts. Only this time he had much more to fill in.

  The young clerk departed to send the papers for evaluation before choosing the appropriate test environment.

  A process of evaluation revolved around your initial application. After it was thoroughly analyzed, the appropriate ranking test was selected based on the skills descriptions provided. To measure if they actually meet the expectations and the potential recruit did not exaggerate.

  While every potential adventurer still reserved the right to select the test level by themselves, ranking from the lowest grade to the highest possible if they felt like it. Taking on the lower level did not require anything. It only meant your grade would be lowered too. But taking on the higher level than proposed would require you to fill out additional documentation in case of your possible demise.

  Initial registration, though, allowed one only to partake in a maximum B-grade test, meaning that was the maximum rank one could receive from the get-go. If you wanted to grow your rank higher, you would have to accomplish quests and feats within the company ladder.

  Even if your initial level of power was beyond B-rank, you still had to prove yourself as a reliable and valuable companion. There was a great initiative for adventurers to climb the ranks and earn favors and fame, especially substantial monetary rewards. Everyone loved gold coins, it was the ultimate motivator.

  While everyone was still buzzing and gossiping around, no one dared to come and talk. So Drake was left to his devices, sitting there waiting for the clerk to return. The young man was sad about not having the opportunity to walk around the city. He went straight to the company right after visiting the graveyard, and the plot of land.

  But from that short stroll he made, he could already tell. This was his one and only beloved home. The streets of Vellos were just as lively as he recalled in his dreams. With the main square filled with joys of everyday life. Adventurers, nobles, knights, rich merchants, and ordinary townfolk were flowing in the streets like rivers. The sight he fell in love with long ago.

  Drake’s heart was filled with joy, excitement, and bitterness. He was finally back. He was about to finally show his newfound strength to the world. But there was no proud father to witness that. No mother to be worried about him getting hurt…

  Flashes of battles and years of training danced within his mind as he wondered. Well, at least I have Jake and Calamari. Not fully alone. There’s no place for such bitter thoughts right now. I know you will be proud, Mom and Dad, wherever you are now. Please, look after me!

  The clerk’s concerned voice dragged him out of his daydreaming. “Hey, hey! Are you sure about this? You can still change your mind!” The timid girl asked him as soon as she tapped him on the shoulder. Her hand was trembling.

  “Yes, there is no need to worry. It was decided long before I came here. Let’s just get this over with. There are plenty of valuable exploits to trade. I barely have any money.” He opened his humongous bag slightly, just enough for the girl to see part of its contents. Her face turned into one single sign of surprise.

  ”So you see, I want to get my license fast with the best possible rank. Looking at this, you can believe me when I say that I'm more than capable.” Drake added in a calm, confident voice. He smiled warmly to dispel the concerns the clerk girl showed towards him.

  The girl visibly blushed and blurted. “Okay, I understand. Please, follow me then!” Awkwardly hurrying the formidable young warrior.

  Everyone at the company stood riddled. The very unusual sight was to see someone called out by the clerks after their initial application. Speculations started rolling in one by one. There were various theories that he somehow tampered with his application, was a son of a lost noble, or had preferential treatment because he was the known citizen of the town or Welbeg Dan was somehow involved.

  But everything became clear quite soon. Another tall clerk returned with an announcement that left everyone baffled.

  “Adventurers, travelers, citizens! I’m here to make an important announcement. One of the evaluation applicants has chosen the Legendary Arena Aptitude Verification. In accordance with the Empire laws and rules of the Adventurers Company, we are hereby obliged to fulfill the request! Everyone interested in the occasion can visit the Vellos Arena tomorrow at midday to witness this brave adventurer's attempt. The tickets for the event will be limited. Additional announcements will be made on the city square tomorrow morning!” As soon as he finished, the hall filled with cheers and cries of raw excitement mixed with awe and disbelief.

  Everyone, of course, knew about this special test's existence. But nothing like that had happened for quite a long time. Dozens of years. This could indeed be an event of once in a lifetime.

  Young Drake was nowhere to be seen right after he departed with the clerk. But the gossip spread through the town like wildfire. Literally everyone knew about the boy who returned.

  The streets of Vellos were only filled with chatter and speculations about where he had been all that time. Nevertheless, the main topic was, of course, the special qualification test he decided to undertake. It was groundbreaking news, so much so that even the knights and the lord himself were said to attend the event at the Arena.

  This special test was an unusual option exclusively reserved for the Adventurer's Company of Vellos. Both as an old tradition and as a practical showcase.

  The town's proximity to the border and basically the Land of The Beast allowed multitudes of beasts and monsters to be captured at any time. So those were available for fighting and training purposes. This was both an entertainment and skill-sharpening possibility for most prominent adventurers.

  Back in the day, the town's arena was used for the barbaric men-on-men fighting, numerous times ending in death. The time has long passed, but the current company’s headmaster, Falorg Kriegrock, has revived the tradition in the revised form of fighting strong monsters.

  That only added to the town's appeal, literally for everyone, from adventurers to come and test their might to the rich nobles from the safe parts of the Empire to witness true unfiltered violence. Those fights were well supported by both the lord and the council and especially now have become regular occurrences. Many rich nobles were ready to fill, or usually spill, their pocket contents on bets, food, and alcohol.

  Still, it was at least over ten years after the previous time anyone had decided to take a special test. This was a fundamentally different level event in itself. Success in this endeavor allowed you to immediately get an A-rank evaluation with the full benefits, support, and affirmation from the Company.

  But it was indeed challenging and truly cruel. The reason it was such a rare occurrence spoke for itself. At least half of the challengers had died in the process, and one-fourth were traumatized for life or mangled, becoming crippled.

  The test consisted of a single participant in an arena combat against a swarm of monsters in three stages gradually increasing their ranks. It required the competitor to demonstrate their understanding of the battlefield, ability to overcome pressure, power play, and proper application of skills and traits.

  All that in a real life-threatening situation. This made it possible to witness their decision-making process and adaptability on top of evaluating their actual power level, capabilities, and battle prowess.

  So this was an extraordinary event for the town and its proximity. Drawing a crowd so vast that the colosseum seemed on the verge of bursting at the seams. Every stone seat was occupied, the atmosphere crackling with fervor and excitement. The spectators leaned forward in their chairs, breaths held in eager anticipation.

  Among the attendees, everyone noticed the esteemed Lord Adonis Groodberth and his legendary trio of knights. Their presence was a mark of prestige that drew even more nobles from across the county.

  Helena and Valentina had secured their exclusive seats, boasting one of the finest views, positioned closely next to the stern and enigmatic Company's headmaster himself.

  “Do you think he's that special?” Valentina questioned her voice blend of curiosity and excitement. Her red eyes glimmered with interest as she scanned around the bustling arena.

  “Can you honestly say you don’t see it yourself?” Helena retorted, her tone smoky and confident, as her gaze remained fixed on the arena's center.

  “Yeah, I agree, he does seem capable and handsome too.” The girl replied with a hint of a frown, a shadow of doubt crossing her features. “But don’t you think this is stretching it a bit too far? I think that even you would struggle in the final stage.”

  “Struggle? Ha, too much alcohol yesterday, Val? I must say that I would probably be annihilated in the final round!” Helena's face showed bitter dissatisfaction and deep contemplation right after.

  She slightly sighed and added. “For starters. I’m barely on the lower tier of A-grade! This test, my dear, is far closer to the midpoint of an A-grade. Surely, even you can understand how huge that gap in power truly is?” The long-haired woman’s eyes sparkled with fervor as she envisioned a mighty clash.

  “Oh, well… Should I be worried then? Do you think he’ll survive?!” Valentina’s voice was filled to the brim with genuine concern. She was frowning intensely as she thought it over.

  “Well, honestly, I can’t say for sure. But I believe he must have some hidden tricks up his sleeve. He does not look stupid at all, and his aura is undeniable. The boy wouldn’t even consider this endeavor without something like that. A person could die only from the amount of paperwork one has to fill out even to enter.” The girl slightly chuckled at the thought.

  “What a shame! I suppose there’s only one way to find out.” Valentina finally slumped onto her seat, throwing her hands in the air.

  “Yup, all we can do now is wait and see. Earning extra coin with bets could be nice. The odds are insane. But he’s too unpredictable, a dark horse in a race.” Helena remarked, shaking her head.

  “Hmm, that’s unfortunate. An extra handful of gold would be quite welcome, getting us closer to our goal. So what are those odds, anyway?” The mage girl inquired with perky curiosity.

  “Sixty to one against him.” Followed the reply with a grimace on her friend’s face.

  “Good heavens, that’s quite a lot! Why not wager a hundred gold coins on him?! Imagine the returns!” Valentina jumped from her seat, excitement filling her like burning fire.

  “Are you really suggesting we blow our entire hard-earned fortune out of the window?!” Helena shot back incredulously.

  “Damn, yeah, yeah… You’re right; it is far too risky. It would be a bit stupid after all that grind we had to go through.” The other woman conceded, her expression thoughtful. In a moment a clever smile flickered across her lips.

  Somehow she did not intend to stop.

  “But, we can still play it safe with a great possibility of return. Why don't we bet half? I’ll contribute twenty-five, and you match it. Just think about it. If we win, it’ll be a fortune. And if we lose, at least we won’t be completely broke. Should we pass on such a change? Aren’t we adventurers?!” The massive smirk covered her smooth demonkin face from ear to ear.

  “Hah, wow! Now we're talking! You’re as cunning as always, I’ll give you that. And this time you are even good at convincing. Make sure to remind me about it from time to time. This sounds pretty reasonable. Let’s do it!” Helena grinned, her eyes glimmering as the girls started counting gold.

  Yet when the time came to finally part with the shiny, hard-earned coins, it was not as easy as they anticipated.

  Ultimately, with much hesitation and trembling hands, they passed the gold to the dealer. The two women put their bet on the mysterious boy. Now they had no other choice but to cheer him on and pray that he would overcome such insurmountable odds.

  The final revision and update for RR of this chapter was done!

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