Chapter 26: Apprentice Adventurers (1/2)
”So, let's talk about your goals -- namely, what are they?” Bracha said as she continued her lesson.
Agni seemed lost upon hearing the question. This was not something she really considered. Agni wouldn't really consider herself self oriented. In many ways she was more of a giver than a taker, thus it never occurred to her about what she actually wanted out of Adventia so far. Surprisingly, Katrin seemed to have an answer.
”I want to be a proper adventurer.” Katrin said decisively.
”And by proper adventurer you mean….?” Bracha questioned her in an attempt to better understand Katrin's declaration, though she had a hint that she understood already.
”Well, I want to be able to pull my weight in any situation. I want to be able to fight monsters, go on adventures and contribute to the party.” Katrin further explained.
”Ah, that's a noble goal and easy enough, but honestly it's the minimum requirement of being an adventurer. You see, there are absolutely three things you need to know as an adventurer. The first is how to feed yourself, because after all if you starve to death on the streets that would be a pretty embarrassing First Death, yes?
The second thing you need to know is how to fund your adventures. We adventurers don't generally have traditional jobs for various reasons, as an example -- many crafters must venture into the wilds to collect materials that they can then sell. This is a fairly common reason which leads to the final thing you need to know, how to defend yourself.
Adventia is dangerous, and while cities have rules and a measure of safety within the walls, the world is a place full of all types of creatures which could easily destroy two Rank 0 fledglings like yourself. When you can successfully do these three things then you have reached the status of 'Apprentice Adventurer'.”
”I wasn't expecting two special cases to enter the Trainer's Chapel, truthfully I don't have any mentors for you two to link with. Scribe is a class so valued that they usually work for entire cities. Grenvale is so small compared to other cities that Scribes tend to go where they can make more money. After all, the ability to create use based weapons, items and gear is basically how many adventurers manage to conquer high level areas.
As for Agni, your demonic class is rare. Specialists tend to have very unique methods required for growth. There is one other specialist in this city, but I've heard many terrible things about this individual. I can't, in good faith, introduce you to him as his presence casts a dark shadow. With this in mind, I'd like to ask you two if you'd mind me as your trainer for the next two weeks?”
”It's better than getting acquainted with someone else we've yet to meet.” Agni answered.
”I don't have a problem with it either. You seem knowledgeable.” Katrin replied, in fact she seemed quite pumped, Agni noticed a fire burning in her eyes.
”Great! Normally this isn't a task I take on, my job is sort of like a Tabernacle Guardian's in the sense that I watch over this place and help new adventurers. However, the Summoning Ritual only happens once every 3 months. Since all the other adventurers have been matched with trainers and this place is empty there's not much I need to do for that period of time.” Bracha explained.
”In return, as customary with trainers I would gain 50% of your XP for the next two weeks. You would live here rent free, food and board. And during that time I will train you up in as much as I possibly can in order to help you become an adventurer worthy of conquering your goals.”
*Ah, thank God. That guidance counselor question set me on edge. I guess I really should start thinking about what I'd like to do with my life. Again.* Agni thought to herself.
”Great. Let's perform the pact then, Systema : Trainer's Pact!” Bracha said as she lifted her hand, palm outwards. Her Systema mark began to glow, issuing forth a gentle light. She nodded for the pair to do the same.