The sun was already high when Alex returned to the Adventurer's Guild. The energy from his recent victory and his renewed power drove him on. The encounter with Sayaka had been a whirlwind of emotions, but now it was time to focus on his adventuring career. He had thousands of HP, new levels, and the need to test his improved skills.
The Guild's quest board looked different this time. The "Bronze" quests seemed too simple. His eyes, boosted by his Intelligence of 10100, quickly scanned the Silver and Gold categories.
* [Quest: Patrol the Northern Roads]
* Rank: Silver
* Description: Patrol the road connecting Oakha to Valerius Village. Reports of bandits and wild beasts.
* Reward: 2,000 HP, 20 silver coins.
* Notes: Requires stamina and combat skills.
* [Quest: Investigation of Disappearances in the Shadowwood]
* Rank: Gold
* Description: Several travelers have disappeared in the Shadowwood. Investigate the cause and, if possible, rescue the missing or recover their belongings.
* Reward: 5,000 HP, 50 silver coins.
* Notes: High-risk mission, recommended for those in a group or with experience in combat against undead or magical creatures.
The Gold mission tempted him. Five thousand HP was a considerable sum, and the excitement of a high-stakes challenge was palpable. However, his common sense, now sharpened by his Intelligence, told him that a "Gold Rank" was too much for his first Guild mission, even with its multiplier.
He knew nothing about "undead or magical creatures." Not yet. He decided to opt for the Northern Highway Patrol mission. It was Silver rank, a good intermediate step. It would allow him to test his skills against more common threats and gain valuable experience.
He approached the reception desk.
Genesis, the voluptuous receptionist, gave him a warm smile upon seeing him.
"Back so soon, Alex," she said, her blue eyes shining with undeniable interest.
"Looks like the gathering mission was successful. I got the apothecary's report. And I heard about your little run-in with the wolves. Impressive for a rookie."
[Affection level with Genesis has increased to 20/100.
Alex felt the familiar notification. His reputation was beginning to spread. "Thank you, Genesis. Just a little practice." He pointed to the Patrol quest scroll. "I'd like to take this quest, please."
Genesis nodded, his smile widening. "A wise choice for rising in rank. The road north is sometimes a nest of bandits or beasts larger than wolves. Make sure you're well prepared, Alex. And if you run into something more than you can handle, don't hesitate to retreat."
"I'll keep that in mind," Alex assured. He took the signed quest scroll and headed for the exit.
As he headed for the Guild door, the figure of Elara, the half-beast innkeeper, stood in his way. She carried a small basket of fresh bread and a pair of empty tankards. Her lynx ears twitched nimbly, and her amber eyes watched him with playful intensity.
"So, Alex. Rumors of a new hero in Oakha. It seems my recommendation wasn't in vain," she purred, her voice soft and seductive.
Alex smiled. "I only did what I had to, Elara. The rats were no match, and the wolves... well, they were a good way to warm up."
Elara took a step closer, close enough for Alex to smell her scent of musk and wild sweetness. "I like your confidence, Alex. It's a rare thing these days. And I hear you've become very... efficient. Why this sudden change?"
Her eyes bored into his, and Alex felt her trying to read beyond his words.
"I've just found my way, Elara," Alex replied, maintaining a calm expression. With her Intelligence of 10100, she was able to maintain her composure. "This world has shown me what I can do."
Elara gave a low laugh, a vibrant sound that resonated in her chest. "The world is a cruel teacher, but generous to those who understand it. I'm glad you're understanding. Are you going to the Inn? I was on my way."
"Yes, I was heading there," Alex said. "I need to prepare for a patrol mission on the northern roads."
"A patrol? Boring," Elara commented with a grimace, but then a mischievous smile appeared on her lips. "Although... perhaps we could make it less boring. I know of some shortcuts along those roads, and some traps you could use against the bandits. If you want, of course."
[Optional Quest: Elara's Advice on the Patrol.]
[Objective: Accept Elara's offer for advice on the northern roads.]
[Reward: Increased Patrol mission efficiency, increased Affection Level with Elara.]
"Of course, Elara. Any advice would be welcome," Alex agreed immediately. It wasn't just the reward from the system; the local knowledge was invaluable, and the opportunity to spend more time with her was irresistible.
As they walked together toward the Oak Inn, Elara told him about the weak spots of the bandits who often operated in the area, their escape routes, and their hiding places. She gave him details on how to spot traps and how to use the terrain to his advantage. Her knowledge of the forest and the roads was profound, a reflection of her animal nature and her experience.
Alex listened intently, absorbing every word. Upon arriving at the inn, they sat down at a secluded table. Elara leaned across the table, her eyes fixed on him, and Alex felt the sweet scent of pheromones, even though he hadn't used them on her. It was her own natural attraction, or perhaps the aura the system was giving her.
"Look, Alex," Elara said, lowering her voice. "The roads are dangerous, but the true danger lies in the shadows. In the way bandits think, and in how beasts move." She leaned a little closer, her breath warm on Alex's ear. "If you truly want to rule this world, don't rely solely on your strength. Rely on your instinct. On the way you move in the dark, on how you feel the air before a storm."
Her hand rested on Alex's on the table, and their fingers intertwined. Their skin was surprisingly soft. "I know you're different, Alex. I can feel it. There's a latent power in you that isn't common. And a curiosity. I'd like... to help you explore it."
[Affection level with Elara has increased to 40/100.]
Alex squeezed her hand, feeling the intensity of her gaze. It wasn't a crude courtship, but an invitation to a deeper connection, one that went beyond the superficial. Elara wasn't just interested in his body, but in its potential, in the mystery surrounding it. It was a more dangerous proposition, but also a more exciting one.
"I would like that, Elara," Alex replied, her voice deep. "I want to learn everything. From you. From this world."
Elara smiled, her fangs flashing slightly. "Then tonight, after your patrol, if you'd like... you could tell me more about your 'far lands.' And I'll show you some secrets only the night knows." Her gaze was a veiled promise, a challenge Alex couldn't ignore.