After days of traveling—and getting lost more times than they could count—Hiroshi and Kaito finally arrived at their first town.

  It was nothing like their small village. The streets were lively, filled with merchants shouting about their goods, blacksmiths hammering away at weapons, and adventurers in rugged armor walking with pride.

  Getting Lost... Again

  “This place is huge,” Kaito muttered, looking around.

  Hiroshi sighed. “We wouldn’t have gotten lost so many times if you had a better sense of direction.”

  Kaito crossed his arms. “Hey! You were the one leading half the time!”

  This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

  They decided to ask for directions, stopping a kind-looking elderly man.

  “Excuse me,” Hiroshi said politely. “Could you tell us where the Wanderers’ Association is?”

  The old man stroked his beard. “Ah, looking to become official wanderers, huh? Head straight down this road, take a left at the big fountain, then go past the market. You can’t miss it.”

  “Thanks!” Kaito grinned.

  With that, they hurried off.

  ...And still got lost twice before finally arriving.

  The Wanderers’ Association

  The Wanderers’ Association was a massive building, its entrance guarded by two armored men. Inside, adventurers of all ranks were gathered—some registering for missions, others sharing stories of their travels.

  A woman with sharp eyes sat behind the front desk. As Hiroshi and Kaito approached, she gave them a quick glance.

  “New applicants?” she asked.

  “Yes,” Hiroshi nodded.

  She handed them forms. “Fill these out. Then, you’ll be tested.”

  The Power Test

  After filling out their names and basic information, Hiroshi and Kaito were led to a training arena behind the building. Several examiners stood watching, all of them seasoned warriors.

  One of them, a muscular man with a scar across his cheek, stepped forward. “Alright, brats. You want to be licensed wanderers? Show us what you’ve got. You’ll be fighting against our examiners.”

  Kaito grinned. “Sounds fun.”

  Hiroshi took a deep breath. This was it—their first real test outside the village.