Adrian stepped out of the Adventurers' Guild, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows down Oakhaven's main thoroughfare. The detailed explanation of the Guild's trials had given him much to consider, but for now, he wanted to simply be in this world. He ambled down a side street, drawn by the lively chatter and the colorful stalls of local peddlers.
He stopped at a stall laden with exotic fruits, their vibrant hues a stark contrast to the rustic village. "Never seen anything quite like these," he remarked to the stout, jovial woman behind the counter.
"Ah, these are Sun-Kisses from the southern valleys!" she beamed, holding up a plump, orange fruit. "Sweet as summer, with a tangy bite. Perfect for a long journey."
Adrian bought a couple, marveling at their genuine scent and texture. He moved on, pausing by a blacksmith's stall where a burly dwarf hammered rhythmically on a glowing piece of steel. Further down, a young human lad was selling intricately carved wooden figurines. "These are beautiful," Adrian complimented, picking up a miniature griffin.
"My father carved 'em," the boy mumbled, his cheeks red with pride. "Says they bring good luck to travelers."
Adrian bought the griffin, a small gesture of appreciation for the boy's craft, feeling a warmth that was entirely Adrian's, not Nyxal's. The easy interactions, the genuine expressions on their faces—it was a far cry from the predictable responses of NPCs. He was truly among living, breathing people.
The inviting glow of The Wary Wolf Inn beckoned as dusk began to fall. As he pushed open the door, the familiar scent of hearty food and roasted meats embraced him.
"You're back, Nyxal!" Elara's voice, as bright and welcoming as before, floated from behind the counter. "Just in time! The food's ready. Want to eat now?"
Adrian smiled, a genuine one that reached his eyes. "Perfect timing, Elara. I'd love some dinner. Whatever's smelling so delicious."
Elara gestured to a cleared table in the corner, already set. "Coming right up!"
Soon, a steaming bowl of stew, thick with chunks of tender meat and root vegetables, along with a crusty loaf of bread, was placed before him. The aroma alone was intoxicating.
"This looks and smells incredible, Elara," Adrian said, taking a generous bite. The flavors exploded on his tongue – rich, savory, and wonderfully comforting. "Seriously, this is amazing. Far better than anything I've tasted in... well, a long time." He almost slipped and mentioned his old world, but caught himself.
Elara beamed, clearly pleased. "Thank you! Cook's been extra busy today. We try to use only the freshest ingredients from the local farms. It's a simple stew, but hearty enough for any adventurer." She leaned against the table, her hands clasped. "So, did you make it to the Adventurers' Guild?"
Adrian nodded, tearing off another piece of bread. "I did. Met Jana, the clerk. She was very helpful." He paused, deciding how much to share. "Seems I have a few 'tests' to pass before I can take on any missions."
Elara's eyes widened playfully. "Oh, the trials! Don't worry, they're not too bad, especially for someone with your... 'experience.' Just Borin trying to scare off the faint of heart. He's a gruff old bear, but fair." She lowered her voice slightly. "Did they tell you about the gnolls? And the whispers from the Whisperwood?"
"They did," Adrian confirmed, his expression growing more serious. "It sounds like Oakhaven, and perhaps the whole realm, is in a more precarious state than I initially thought."
Elara nodded, her smile fading. "It is. We all feel it. But knowing that experienced adventurers like yourself are here... it brings a little peace of mind." She offered a hopeful look. "Will you be staying long, Nyxal?"
"Perhaps longer than I planned," Adrian admitted, finishing his stew. The warmth of the food, the simple human connection, was a stark contrast to the immense power thrumming beneath his skin. This world was real, and he was in it for the long haul. "I have a lot to learn about Aethelgard, and it seems the Guild is the place to do it."