"Duo Adventure Quest: Lila's Problem Solved I"

Snake Calendar, Year 2025

22nd Day of September, Monday Noon

Unity College of System Studies, Cafeteria Nexus

Accel sat with his friends in the bustling Cafeteria Nexus, enjoying lunch and casual conversation. However, amidst the lively chatter, one thing nagged at his mind. Lila Merritt—a kind, soft-spoken classmate—had been absent for several days. Her empty seat in their classes had not gone unnoticed, and curiosity about her well-being lingered in Accel's thoughts.

"Have you heard anything about Lila?" Accel asked Ewan, who sat across from him. Ewan nodded, his expression clouded with concern.

"Actually, yes. She's handed in a formal document explaining her absence," Ewan said. "Her family's small business went bankrupt. They're struggling to pay off their debts, and things have only gotten worse. Her dad collapsed from overwork and had to be hospitalized in the Outer City of Nova Asta. Public hospitals are cheap, but even then, it's eaten into their funds. Her older sisters are working hard to support the family, but it's just not enough."

Accel's brows furrowed. He set down his fork, his appetite diminishing with the weight of this news. "That's awful. Where is she now?"

"She's taken on part-time jobs at local stores in the Outer City to help out," Ewan replied.

Accel's mind raced as he considered Lila's predicament. Her absence made sense now, but the situation was more dire than he had imagined. He thought about the toll this must be taking on her and her family. Then an idea struck him. "Ewan, why don't you tell her to consider becoming an adventurer?"

Ewan's eyes widened slightly. "You think that's a good idea? She's never trained for combat."

Accel nodded, resolute. "I know it's dangerous, but adventurers earn good money. If she's willing to take the risk and her family agrees, it could help her support them faster. Plus, with the right preparation, she can manage the risks."

Ewan hesitated but eventually agreed to pass on the suggestion. The two parted ways, heading to their respective classes, and Accel couldn't shake the thought of Lila and her struggles.

27th Day of September, Saturday Early Morning

The Outside City of Nova Asta, Main Adventure Outpost

Reception Hall

Ewan's message had reached Lila, and after a long conversation with her family, she had made her decision. Her parents, though hesitant, gave their approval on the condition that her safety came first. Lila had decided to register as an adventurer and take her first step into this dangerous yet rewarding path.

Accel stood in the Main Adventure Outpost's bustling reception hall, waiting. The space was alive with activity—adventurers haggled over equipment, others gathered in groups to discuss quests, and clerks processed registrations and mission reports. Despite the noise, Accel's focus was on the entrance.

When Lila walked in, she looked both nervous and determined. Her glasses framed her anxious eyes, and she clutched a small pouch tightly in her hands. She wore simple clothes, not yet equipped with the armor or tools of an adventurer. Still, her presence carried a quiet strength that Accel couldn't help but admire.

"Lila," he called, stepping toward her.

She looked up and smiled faintly. "Accel, thank you for coming."

"Of course. I'm glad you decided to give this a try. How are you feeling?"

"A little scared," she admitted, her voice soft. "But I want to do this for my family. They've done so much for me, and it's my turn to help."

Accel nodded, his respect for her growing. "That's a good reason. Don't worry, though. I'll help you get started."

Together, they approached the registration counter. The clerk, a middle-aged man with a gruff demeanor, raised an eyebrow as they approached. "New recruit?" he asked, eyeing Lila.

"Yes," Lila said, her voice steady despite her nerves. "I'd like to register as an adventurer."

The clerk nodded and began the process. "Name?"

"Lila Merritt."

"Age?"

"Eighteen."

The questions continued, and Lila answered them all. Once the paperwork was complete, the clerk handed her a small badge—the mark of a Trainee Adventurer. "Congratulations. You're officially registered. If you're smart, you'll stick to the easiest quests until you've got some experience."

Lila nodded. "Thank you."

Accel turned to her. "Now that you're registered, let's get you some basic equipment. You'll need at least a weapon and some light armor."

They made their way to the equipment vendors, where Accel guided her through the options. Given her class as a Gardener, Accel suggested tools that suited her abilities. They decided on a sturdy garden spade with reinforced edges, doubling as both a tool and a weapon, and a lightweight outfit designed for mobility—a green tunic reinforced with leather patches for light protection. The gear emphasized practicality and comfort, perfect for her class and budget.

As they left the vendor stalls, Lila looked at Accel. "Thank you for helping me. I'm not sure I could've done this alone."

Accel smiled. "You're not alone. If you want, we can take on a quest together. It'll give you a chance to see what it's like, and I can make sure you're safe."

Her eyes widened. "Really? You'd do that?"

"Of course. Everyone needs help when they're starting out."

Lila hesitated, then nodded. "Okay. I'd like that."

They returned to the quest board, where Accel picked out a simple mission—one involving the collection of medicinal herbs from a nearby forest. It was low-risk and perfect for a beginner. As they set out together, Lila's nervousness began to fade, replaced by a growing sense of determination.

Accel glanced at her and smiled. "You've got this, Lila. One step at a time."

And with that, the duo embarked on their first adventure together.