"Before you can take on any missions, Nyxal, there are a few standard procedures for all new applicants," Jana explained, her smile unwavering. She pulled out a few parchment scrolls and laid them on the counter. "To become a full Guild member, you'll need to pass three distinct exams: a physical assessment, a written examination, and a combat trial."
Adrian raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his amber eyes. "Exams? Even for someone with 'extensive experience'?" he asked, a subtle challenge in his tone. He thought of Nyxal's true form, of the raw power contained within his human facade. A physical exam for the Primordial Apex Devil? The irony was not lost on him.
Jana chuckled, a pleasant sound amidst the din of the Guild hall. "Especially for those with extensive experience, Nyxal. These aren't just formalities. They're vital for both your safety and the safety of the realm. We need to accurately gauge a new member's capabilities to ensure we assign them appropriate missions, prevent avoidable deaths, and maintain the Guild's reputation for competence."
"Fair enough," Adrian conceded, his inner strategist already at work. "Tell me about them. What does the physical assessment entail?"
"The physical assessment is conducted by Guild Master Borin, a retired warrior known for his keen eye," Jana began. "It measures your raw strength, endurance, agility, and reflexes. Think of it as a series of tests: lifting heavy weights, navigating an obstacle course, timed sprints, and sparring against a Guild trainer. It's not about winning the spar, but about demonstrating your control and physical prowess. It tells us if you can handle the rigors of travel, carry heavy loot, or react quickly in a dangerous situation."
Adrian nodded. This would be easy. His 'human' form, while concealing Nyxal's true power, still possessed superhuman attributes. He'd simply have to temper his output to appear incredibly strong, rather than impossibly so. "And the written exam?" he prompted, intrigued. This was where his game knowledge would truly shine.
"The written exam is a test of your knowledge about Aethelgard," Jana continued. "It covers a wide range of topics: local geography, common monster types and their weaknesses, basic survival skills, first aid, the major factions and their history, even some common magical theory. It's a fundamental check to ensure you understand the world you're adventuring in, know how to identify threats, and can generally avoid making foolish mistakes that might get you or your party killed." She gave him a knowing look. "Given your claims of 'extensive experience,' I imagine this section will be a breeze for you."
Adrian smirked. "You might be right there." He had devoured Aethelgard's lore for years. He knew every monster, every faction, every hidden ruin. This was his territory. "Lastly, the combat trial. That sounds like the most straightforward."
"It can be, for some," Jana agreed, her voice growing a touch more serious. "The combat trial is a live-fire exercise in our training arena. You'll face a series of controlled encounters against various magically simulated monsters, increasing in difficulty. It's not just about how hard you hit, but about your tactical understanding, your ability to adapt, your defensive capabilities, and how you manage magical resources, if you're a spellcaster. It determines your actual combat rank and what kinds of missions you're immediately qualified for. Borin often oversees these personally, too. He's looking for composure under pressure, efficient use of skills, and whether you can handle yourself when things go wrong."
Adrian felt a flicker of genuine anticipation. This was his chance to unleash some of Nyxal's power, even if restrained. He could demonstrate skill, precision, and overwhelming force without revealing his true nature. "When can I take these exams?" he asked, a newfound determination in his voice.
Jana smiled. "We can schedule them for tomorrow morning, if you wish. Most new applicants take a day or two to prepare, but if you're ready, we can proceed."
"Tomorrow morning it is," Adrian confirmed. He needed to prove himself, to earn the Guild's trust, and to begin navigating this terrifyingly real Aethelgard. The game had just become very, very serious.