The sun rose gently over Ula Town, casting warm golden light across the sandy streets. The town was already alive with the sounds of merchants opening their shops, children running in the alleys, and guards making their patrols. For the Rising Heroes, this morning promised to be different from the many they had spent traveling through the desert.
They walked together toward the Adventurer's Guild of Ula Town. The guild building stood tall at the center of the town, its walls decorated with banners of the Cero Kingdom. Inside, the atmosphere was lively, wooden tables filled with adventurers of all kinds, their weapons laid beside them as they ate, laughed, and discussed quests.
The group chose a table near the center and soon had their breakfast served. Plates of honey toast, golden and dripping with sweetness, were placed in front of them. Alongside it came bowls of fresh fruits, slices of melon, apples, and oranges. After weeks of dried rations and desert hunting, the sight alone made Fizzle nearly cry.
"Oh, look at that toast," Fizzle said dramatically, her fork already raised. "This is the food of the gods!"
Doran chuckled, already biting into his share. "Eat before someone else finishes it."
The group laughed and began enjoying their meal. The warm toast melted in their mouths, and the sweet fruits refreshed them from their tiring journey. As they ate, the lively sound of other adventurers' conversations drifted through the hall. Most were just casual talk, but one nearby caught Lila's attention.
"For the past few months, the number of beasts has just kept increasing," said one man in a low, concerned voice. "Not to mention, they keep getting stronger."
Another adventurer added quickly, "Yeah, and they've been seen closer to town than before. It feels scary, doesn't it? Like one day they'll be right at our doorsteps."
"Don't be so scared," a third said, laughing nervously. "You know who's on this case, right? They'll take care of everything. Still… since the quest is open to all, I think we should help out. Take down a few beasts here and there. Every little bit helps."
Lila had stopped eating, her attention completely drawn to the conversation. She leaned closer to her group and whispered, "Did you all hear that? There are beasts out there… and strong ones too."
Adrian looked at her, raising a brow. "And where are you going to take this?"
Lila's eyes sparkled with determination. She grinned. "I have a plan. Why not we accept this quest too? This way, not only will we help the town, but it will be good training for us as well."
Adrian thought for a moment, then gave a small nod. "You do have a point. So you're suggesting we stay in this town for a while, right?"
"Yes, yes!" Lila said, almost bouncing in her seat.
Sera, more cautious, tilted her head. "But won't your father be worried? You've already been away long enough."
Lila waved her hand, trying to ease her friend's concern. "Don't worry. I'll send him a letter. He'll understand."
Doran slammed his cup on the table with a grin. "Well, I can't wait to kick some beast butt. Count me in!"
Their decision seemed clear, and they all returned to their breakfast with renewed energy. Even Fizzle, who had been focused only on food, nodded while chewing.
After the meal, Lila and Sera quickly went to the front desk of the guild. The receptionist, a kind-looking woman with tied-back hair and a welcoming smile, greeted them.
"Good morning, how can I help you?" she asked politely.
Lila leaned forward eagerly. "We wanted to ask about the beast quest. The one where adventurers can help defend the town."
The receptionist's smile softened into a more serious expression. "Ah, yes. That quest has been going on for some time now. The number of beasts in the area has been rising strangely fast. Many adventurers believe something is driving them closer to human towns, though no one knows the exact cause yet. But what we do know is this, everyone who can fight is being asked to contribute. Even small efforts help."
Sera asked gently, "Has it been dangerous for the town?"
The receptionist nodded. "Yes. Many caravans traveling through the desert have been attacked, and patrol guards have reported stronger beasts than usual. Without the help of adventurers, the situation would be worse. It's thanks to people like you that the town is still safe."
Lila's eyes grew firm. "Then we'll do our part. The Rising Heroes accept this quest."
The receptionist smiled again, grateful. She handed them the quest papers and said, "Thank you. May the goddess guide you all."
With the quest accepted, the group began preparing themselves. Lila and Adrian stayed behind in the hall for a little while, walking up to other adventurers to gather information.
They spoke to a group of older hunters who had been patrolling the south desert for months.
"Watch out for the Sand Howlers," one of them said. "They travel in packs and attack quickly. Weak spot is the neck."
"Then there are the Ironclaw Beetles," another added. "Their shells are tough, but their legs aren't as strong. Aim low."
"And don't forget the Desert Vultures," a third warned. "They attack from above and can carry off prey if you're not careful. Their wings are powerful, but fragile if you can strike them."
Adrian carefully noted each detail, his mind already planning strategies. Lila listened closely, nodding, her excitement growing with every word.
After thanking the adventurers, the Rising Heroes gathered their supplies, checked their weapons, and left the guild. The streets of Ula Town buzzed with daily life, but beyond the gates, the desert stretched endlessly once again.
They chose to head south, following the advice they had heard. After some hours of travel, they found themselves near the ruins of an old structure. The crumbling stone walls half-buried in sand hinted at a civilization long gone. The ruins gave off a quiet, eerie feeling, perfect for beasts to lurk around.
"This is a good spot," Adrian said firmly. "If the beasts are nearby, they'll pass through here."
The group spread out slightly, finding places to watch and wait. The desert sun lowered slowly, casting long shadows over the ruins. The air grew still, heavy with silence.
The Rising Heroes prepared themselves, their eyes scanning the horizon. Sooner or later, the beasts would come.
And when they did, the heroes would be ready.