Eldric walked towards the library counter with the book in his hand. His mind was still filled with the various information he had read, and his desire to learn more about Elythra's history grew stronger. When he arrived at the counter, he asked the clerk if the book History of Elythra: Regions could be purchased or borrowed. The clerk, a young woman with neatly tied black hair and wearing a beige library uniform, smiled kindly and explained that the original book was not for sale, but there was a copy that could be purchased for five coins.
Without thinking twice, Eldric took out five coins from his pocket and placed them on the wooden table. The clerk nodded slightly, then walked to the back to get a copy of the book. After a while, she returned with a new, clean and tidy book, and handed it to Eldric. "Thank you for visiting and for your purchase," she said in a warm tone. "It's rare for someone to spend time in this library." Eldric nodded and put the book carefully in his bag before leaving the library.
Exiting the old building, Eldric decided to buy some food. He found a vendor selling honey buns on the side of the road. The sweet aroma of honey wafting out made his stomach hungry. After buying and tasting the bread, he thought about his next plan. The adventure that lay ahead required thorough preparation. He decided to find a supply store to buy decent armor before finally registering with the guild. This new world was full of dangers, and Eldric knew he had to be ready for whatever awaited him.
Eldric didn't walk too far from the library until he finally found a blacksmith shop. From the outside, the shop looked sturdy with slightly blackened stone walls, probably from being exposed to smoke and heat for years. Above the entrance, hung a wooden sign that read "Garun Blacksmith" in boldly carved letters.
When Eldric stepped inside, a warm air immediately enveloped him. His eyes swept across the room filled with small, medium, and large swords neatly lined up on the walls, along with axes, spears, and various other war equipment. The light of the fire blazing at the back of the shop added to the dramatic feel of the place.
Behind a large wooden counter, a burly man stood with a confident smile. His head was bald, and his skin was dark brown, looking rough, probably from years of working near fire and hot metal. The man greeted with a deep but friendly voice, "Do you need equipment, sir? I guarantee that all the items here are not only strong, but also satisfy you."
Eldric nodded as he looked at the items on display. There was a sense of awe in him seeing how neat and sturdy the weapons were. "I need armor and maybe some equipment for my adventure," he replied as he stepped closer to the counter. The blacksmith nodded enthusiastically, then began to show off the armor collection he had.
Seeing the enthusiasm of the shop owner, Eldric felt happy, although in his mind he began to worry about finances. The equipment on display looked very good and attractive, but he knew that he didn't have much coin left. After thinking for a moment, Eldric voiced his concerns. "Is there any lighter and cheaper armor?" he asked in a cautious tone.
Hearing that, the shopkeeper laughed lightly, a wide smile plastered on his confident face. "Don't worry, sir. I have something that will suit you," he said. He then turned and walked towards the back of the shop, returning with several sets of light armor. On the table, he placed several armors of different colors and designs.
Eldric examined each one carefully. His hands felt the armor's material, trying to feel the balance between its weight and strength. Finally, his eyes fell on a black armor that looked simple but sturdy. After carefully analyzing it, he decided, "I'll take this one."
Seeing his choice, the shopkeeper laughed in satisfaction. "Sir, you have a good eye. The armor is light, but strong enough to protect you on your journey. I will give you a special price—40 coins only."
Eldric, with a faint smile, tried to bargain, "How about 35 coins?"
However, the shopkeeper kept his smile broad and shook his head. "That price is very fair, sir. In fact, I have given you a discount since I know you are a newcomer who wants to be an adventurer. Consider it a little gift from me." As he said that, he rubbed his nose confidently.
Eldric could only smile wryly and scratch his head, realizing that his offer was rejected in such a friendly manner. Finally, he handed over his 40 coins. "Alright, here's the money," he said, accepting the packed armor. "By the way, can I borrow a room to put on this armor now?" he asked.
The shopkeeper nodded as he pointed to a small door on the side of the shop. "Of course, sir. Please use that room, it's free for my customers."
Eldric put on his new armor in the room provided by the shop owner. When he came out, he looked a little more dashing. The black armor fit perfectly on his body, giving off a mysterious and reserved impression, like someone who hid his strength and fighting intent behind his calm demeanor.
The shop owner laughed when he saw it. "It seems to suit you very well, sir. I guarantee you will be satisfied!" he said confidently.
Eldric just smiled faintly and nodded. "Thank you very much. If this armor is damaged, I will definitely come back," he said.
The shop owner returned his smile while waving his hand. "Of course, sir. Just come whenever you need my help."
After leaving the shop, Eldric felt quite excited about his preparations. However, when he counted his coins, there were only 20 coins left. Eldric felt a little sad seeing his money running low. Even so, he felt that his preparations were quite mature for the initial stage.
He remembered Theo's information about where to buy basic fighting skills. Although it was in his plan, the remaining coins forced him to reconsider. Eldric took a deep breath but remained optimistic. He was confident in the skills he had learned in his previous world. The martial arts he had mastered, even though a little, were enough to give him the confidence to face the next challenge.
Eldric walked towards the guild, a large and sturdy building stood before him, emanating a strong aura from the adventurers who came in and out cheerfully. The sound of their laughter, chatter, and enthusiasm could be heard outside. Several groups gathered in their parties, sharing stories, and planning their next journey. Eldric's heart was pounding, whether from anticipation or nervousness. He swallowed his saliva, steeled himself, and finally stepped inside.
Once inside, the atmosphere of the guild immediately greeted him with a bustling atmosphere. The room was filled with all kinds of people—big muscular men joking loudly, adventurers shouting for new members for their parties, to those showing off their weapons or telling stories of their achievements with pride. Eldric stood for a moment, looking around, taking everything in.
"So this is a guild," he thought, his mouth slightly open in awe. "And this is where I will begin my journey as an adventurer." Nervousness and excitement mixed within him, like a small flame that had just been ignited in the midst of a storm of challenges that awaited.