How do I get started

Following this, Arlo left—not just the main residence, but the entire manor—covered in a black cloak and carrying a large backpack filled with the supplies he would need for the journey.

His goal was to acquire the A-grade mountain oar plant, a rare and highly sought-after herb.

From his research, he had learned that the mountain oar plant was last sighted growing in a place called the Stormcrest Highlands—a mountainous region notorious for its harsh conditions.

The herb was living up to its name by growing there.

The highlands were located a considerable distance from the manor, making this the first time Arlo had embarked on such a long journey. Most of his life had been spent lazing indoors, after all.

So, naturally, he needed a map for directions.

"I'll have to visit a guild to gather more information," he muttered.

---

After about three hours, Arlo arrived in a neighboring city.

It had the closest guild he knew of.

Since it was his first time here, he had to ask for directions, earning a few weird stares along the way.

Ultimately, after another hour, he found himself standing before a large guild called 'The Seekers Guild'.

"Not the best name," he mused, "but they should do just fine."

The guild building was an architectural marvel, towering over the bustling city streets. Constructed from reinforced stone and dark oak, its sturdy frame exuded both strength and longevity. Massive iron doors, engraved with intricate designs showcasing the guild's legacy, marked the entrance. Above them, the guild's insignia was carved into the stone—a symbol recognized far and wide.

Inside, the main hall stretched wide, its high ceilings supported by thick wooden beams. Chandeliers, adorned with countless candles, cast a warm golden glow over the space. The air carried the scent of aged parchment, oiled leather, and polished steel—a testament to the constant activity within.

To the left, a large quest board was filled with parchment, listing various missions ranging from simple deliveries to dangerous hunts. A group of guild members stood around it, discussing potential jobs. To the right, an open training area allowed recruits and veterans alike to hone their skills. The clash of steel rang out as fighters sparred, their movements sharp and precise under the watchful eyes of experienced instructors.

Further inside, long wooden tables and benches formed a common area where members could rest, eat, and share stories of their adventures. A counter stood at the far end, where guild clerks managed records, processed requests, and handled official matters.

At the back, a staircase led to the upper floors, where private meeting rooms, storage areas, and quarters for high-ranking members were located.

Arlo had no interest in anything but the clerk, so he headed straight for the counter.

"Good day. How may I help you?" a female clerk asked as soon as he arrived.

"Oh—yes. I need a map with directions to the Stormcrest Highlands," he requested.

"The Stormcrest Highlands?" she repeated, glancing at him more closely.

He didn't look strong. In fact, he barely looked fit.

Arlo raised an eyebrow at her skeptical expression. "Is there a problem?"

"Not at all," she said hastily. "By chance, are you the one going there?"

"Unfortunately, I have to go there myself," he muttered in dissatisfaction.

"You might be more unfortunate than you think. Are you aware of how dangerous that place has gotten these past few days?"

Arlo blinked. "What do you mean?"

She let out a sigh before bringing him up to date. "There have been sightings of several strong Nexoran beasts there. So it's not a safe place to be."

His gaze turned blank.

Nexoran beasts were creatures capable of handling nexora flow, granting them special and supernatural abilities. Much like humans, they grew stronger over time.

They weren't too common, especially around human settlements, yet somehow, they had started appearing in the one place he needed to go.

Why was the world constantly trying to make things difficult for him?

"Do you still want the map?" she asked.

"Huh? Oh—Y-Yes," he replied hesitantly.

Seeing this, a slight smile formed on the clerk's face as she made a suggestion. "If you aren't strong enough to handle yourself, you can always hire people to escort and protect you. We happen to offer such services."

"I see," Arlo responded, leaning forward. "And how much might that cost?"

"To hire a person or group strong enough to protect you in that place would normally be about 80,000 gold coins. But since you're a first-time customer, we can offer you a 20,000 coin discount. So you'd only have to pay..."

"HUHHHHH???" Arlo frowned.

To put it into perspective, that amount could buy two A-grade items—and still leave him with change.

'She must take me for a newbie.' There was no way he was making such a bad investment.

"That's way too much. Are you trying to rob me?"

"Of course not," she replied innocently. "That's just how it is. But if you insist, I can..."

"Never mind," he cut her off. "I don't plan on paying for any protection."

"Is that so?" She forced a smile, clearly annoyed.

"Thanks for your time," Arlo waved dismissively, about to take his leave when she stopped him.

"Or… maybe you can join a party."

He turned back to her. "What do you mean?"

"If I'm correct, there's a party that plans on going there soon. You can temporarily join them for whatever reason you have to go. Your safety would be ensured if you're with a group like that," she explained.

"You should've said so earlier," Arlo smiled in relief. "Is there anything else I should know?"

'He's smarter than I thought,' the clerk noted internally.

"Of course," she nodded. "Since you're not a member of the guild, whatever you make or discover while in the party will be split 80 to 20 between the guild and you, respectively."

It was still robbery, but he had no real issue with it.

"Fine..." he nodded. "How do I get started?"