The first light of dawn crept over the horizon as Ayzek walked in silence.The cool wind brushed across his armor, carrying the scent of pine and wet earth.After three long days of travel, the city was finally within reach—but he slowed his pace when he heard the sound of running water.
A narrow stream wound its way through the forest.Its surface shimmered like liquid glass.When Ayzek knelt to drink, the water rippled—and a faint light rose from its depths.
From that light, a figure emerged.It was the shape of a woman, her hair flowing like water, her eyes deep and calm like the sky.Ayzek took a cautious step back, but her voice was soft, soothing.
"Traveler… what brings you here?"
He hesitated for a moment before answering."I'm just passing through. I only wished to drink."
The spirit smiled gently."Water refreshes the body… but it also cleanses the heart."She lifted her hand, and a droplet hovered in the air before him, catching the morning light like a crystal.
SYSTEM NOTICE:New species detected.WATER SPIRIT (Elemental Class)Power Level: Mid–HighStat analysis: Insufficient data.
Ayzek muttered quietly, "So even the natural beings of this world register in the system…"
The spirit tilted her head."The energy within you… it does not belong to this world."
Ayzek's eyes narrowed slightly. "Maybe not."For a while, neither spoke. The sound of the stream filled the silence.
At last, the spirit nodded."You should go, wanderer. Downstream, you'll find humans. Blend in with them."
Ayzek gave a small nod. "Thank you."Her body dissolved into light, scattering into the water.Moments later, the stream was calm again, as though nothing had happened.
He took a deep breath and continued on his path.By noon, the stone walls of the city came into view.
At the gate, he handed his guild card to the guards.They scanned it, nodded, and stepped aside.The massive gates creaked open, welcoming him with the sound of civilization—the noise of merchants, blacksmiths, and laughter filling the air.
After days of quiet, it was almost overwhelming.
Ayzek made his way straight to the Adventurers' Guild.Inside, the hall was busy and loud.He approached the counter and placed a small sack on the table.When the attendant opened it, hobgoblin heads rolled out.
The woman froze, her eyes wide."T-these are hobgoblins?! You're a new registrant—how…?"
Ayzek simply nodded. "Mission completed."
She fumbled with her crystal tablet, scanning his guild card.A mechanical chime echoed from the walls.
SYSTEM MESSAGE:Quest completed successfully.Unexpected achievement detected.Contribution Level +2.
The attendant blinked in disbelief, then smiled awkwardly."For a newcomer… that's impressive."
Ayzek took the card back and turned away."Thanks."
Outside, he followed the familiar road to the blacksmith's shop.The rhythmic clang of hammer against metal rang through the air.The blacksmith's son looked up, spotting him immediately.
"Sir Ayzek! Your spear is nearly finished. My father completed the forging this morning—it's being polished and balanced in storage. You can pick it up in a few hours."
Ayzek nodded. "Good. I'll return later."
The boy smiled proudly. "Father will be pleased."
Ayzek left the shop and walked toward the tavern near the guild.Inside, the air was thick with smoke and chatter.He sat by a window and ordered a simple drink.As he sipped, his eyes scanned the crowd.
Most adventurers here were between level 5 and 30.Their armor gleamed, but their movements betrayed inexperience.The strongest among them was Alya, a swordswoman whose single-handed sword mastery reached level 100—impressive for an ordinary human, yet still far below him.
Ayzek smiled faintly to himself.This world… truly has no ceiling for me.
Then, a notice board near the bar caught his eye.A five-member party was looking for one more adventurer.
He set down his drink, dropped a few coins on the table, and stood."Maybe," he murmured to himself,"the best way to know this world… is to walk beside it."
He stepped toward their table.The faint sound of laughter and clinking glasses filled the air as Ayzek introduced himself—a new journey quietly beginning.