Chapter 27 - Marith City
As the train rumbled on, the rhythmic clickety-clack of the wheels on the tracks created a soothing melody that seemed to lull the other passengers into a state of relaxation.
We had been traveling for four hours now, and according to the driver and conductor, our arrival at Marith was imminent – a mere thirty minutes away.
As I sat by the window, watching the rolling hills and verdant forests whizz by, I pondered my plans for the immediate future.
My primary objective was to grow stronger, to hone my skills and abilities until I became a force to be reckoned with.
And to achieve that, I needed to test my soul absorption skill – a unique trait that allowed me to absorb the soul, energy and abilities of others.
But to do that, I required test subjects – beasts, to be precise.
These fearsome creatures, remnants of the Great Transgression, now roamed the semi-secluded regions of each continent, known as the Beast Glades.
On this continent, the Beast Glades lay nestled between the northern and eastern regions, a vast and foreboding expanse teeming with untold dangers.
To explore this unforgiving landscape, I would need to register as an explorer – a bold and daring profession that required courage, wit, and a healthy dose of recklessness.
The thought sent a thrill coursing through my veins, and I felt a sense of anticipation building within me.
As the train hurtled toward Marith, the scenery outside my window began to shift and change.
The rolling hills gave way to denser forests, and the sound of the train's whistle pierced the air, echoing through the trees.
The conductor's voice came over the intercom once more, "Marith City, arriving in five minutes. Please gather your belongings and prepare for disembarkation."
The train began to slow, the wheels screeching softly as the brakes were applied. I stood up, smoothing my clothes and gathering my thoughts. It was time to begin my new life in Marith.
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As I stepped off the train and onto the bustling streets of Marith, the city's vibrant energy enveloped me like a warm hug.
The explorer's city, renowned for its fearless adventurers and daring expeditions, was even more breathtaking in person.
The classic medieval fantasy setting, with its cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and grand stone buildings, seemed to spring to life before my eyes.
But it was the subtle differences in architecture that truly set Marith apart.
The buildings seemed to lean in, as if sharing secrets, their intricate stone carvings depicting scenes of brave explorers vanquishing fearsome monsters.
The air was alive with the sound of laughter, chatter, and the clanging of swords, as explorers from all corners of the world congregated in this vibrant hub.
Everywhere I looked, I saw explorers – men and women of all shapes and sizes, clad in an array of armor, from leather jerkins to plate mail.
They moved with a sense of purpose, their eyes burning with a fire that seemed to drive them forward.
These were the brave souls who ventured into the rifts, those mysterious portals that still opened regularly, spewing forth monsters and mayhem.
As I walked through the city, I marveled at the towering skyscrapers that seemed to touch the sky, their peaks shrouded in a misty haze.
The streets were a tapestry of colors, with vendors selling all manner of exotic goods – rare spices, shimmering fabrics, and glittering gemstones.
The smell of roasting meats and freshly baked bread wafted through the air, enticing my senses and making my stomach growl with hunger.
My destination was the association building, the headquarters of the Marith branch of the adventurer's association.
This was the place where system holders like myself could register as explorers, gaining access to the resources and support needed to tackle the challenges that lay ahead. As I approached the building, I felt a sense of excitement building within me.
As I stepped into the association building, I was immediately immersed in a whirlwind of activity.
The air was alive with the hum of conversation, the clinking of crystals, and the soft murmur of computers.
Countless explorers milled about, their faces a testament to their varied experiences – some weary from their journeys, others exhilarated by their discoveries.
The interior of the building was a marvel of modern functionality, blended seamlessly with medieval charm.
The walls were adorned with intricate wooden paneling, while the floors were made of polished stone, reflecting the light of the gleaming crystal chandeliers.
The atmosphere was electric, filled with the promise of adventure and the thrill of discovery.
I made my way through the bustling crowd, navigating past counters where system holders bartered their loot – crystals, rare artifacts, and mysterious relics.
The air was thick with the smell of leather, metal, and the faint tang of magic. I passed by a weapons counter, where an impressive array of arms was on display – swords, bows, daggers, and exotic firearms that seemed to defy explanation.
As I approached the registration counter, a friendly face greeted me. The lady behind the counter, with her vibrant pink hair and piercing blue eyes, seemed to radiate warmth and efficiency.
She nodded as I expressed my desire to register as an explorer, her fingers flying across the keyboard of her computer – a sleek, black device that seemed to hum with a soft, blue light.
As she handed me a form and a pen, I felt a sense of excitement building within me. I scribbled down my fake details – James Ford, thirteen years old, born in a nearby town of Vermont – the pen scratching across the parchment with a soft, scratching sound.
The lady nodded, jotting down the information with a few swift strokes of her pen.
She then produced a globe-like object from her desk, its surface etched with intricate, swirling patterns. "Please put your hand on it and supply your constituent energy," she instructed, her voice gentle but firm.
As I placed my hand on the globe, I felt a sudden surge of energy, followed by a momentary prick of pain as a needle collected a blood sample from my finger. The process was over in an instant, leaving me feeling slightly dizzy but exhilarated.
The lady smiled, finishing up the paperwork with a few swift strokes of her pen.
"Great, James. You're now officially registered. Keep your explorer's badge and identity card safe; losing it will cost you a fine for a new one."
She handed me a small metal insignia with my fake name etched on it, along with a small writing of "iron" inscribed below to represent my current rank.
A small card with my information on it completed the set, and I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment as I accepted my new identity as an explorer.