After their evaluations, Hiroshi and Kaito sat in the main hall of the Wanderer’s Association, waiting for their official licenses to be processed. The hall was filled with adventurers, mercenaries, and wanderers of different levels, chatting, boasting about their past missions, or reviewing job requests.

  A receptionist approached them, holding two metal plates with engraved letters.

  “Hiroshi and Kaito, here are your official Wanderer’s Licenses. Congratulations on becoming registered members.”

  Both of them took their licenses, examining them carefully.

  Name: Hiroshi

  Rank: C

  Abilities: Wind Magic, Swordsmanship

  Name: Kaito

  Rank: C-

  Abilities: Lightning Magic, Dual Swordsmanship

  Kaito sighed. “Man, it still stings seeing that minus next to my rank.”

  Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

  Hiroshi smirked. “Just means you have room to improve.”

  Kaito groaned. “Tch. You and that elf girl got a better grade than me, huh?”

  Speaking of the elf girl, Lyara Aeloria had received her license as well. Unlike them, however, she had left without a word.

  The receptionist smiled. “Since it’s your first time as licensed Wanderers, I suggest you take a mission that matches your rank. You can check the request board tomorrow morning.”

  Hiroshi nodded. “Understood. Thanks for the help.”

  Kaito stretched his arms. “Alright! We’ve got our licenses. Now let’s find a place to sleep.”

  ---

  Finding a Motel

  The town was still lively as they stepped outside the association building.

  Lanterns lit up the streets, and the smell of freshly grilled meat drifted from nearby stalls. The sight of vendors selling food made Kaito’s stomach growl.

  “Dude, let’s eat first!”

  Hiroshi laughed. “You never change.”

  After a quick detour to a street food stall, they grabbed some grilled skewers, crispy bread, and a bowl of hot stew before heading toward a motel recommended by the receptionist.

  The motel, "Moonlit Haven," was a small yet cozy establishment run by an old woman and her granddaughter. The entrance had a soft glow from magic lanterns, and the scent of fresh herbs filled the air.

  A young girl at the counter greeted them. “Welcome! Will you be staying for the night?”

  Hiroshi nodded. “Yes, just for tonight.”

  They paid a few silver coins and received a key to their room.

  ---

  A Moment of Peace

  Their room was simple but comfortable—a wooden interior with two beds, a small table, and a window overlooking the town.

  Kaito immediately dropped onto the bed. “Finally! A real bed after so long.”

  Hiroshi sat on the other bed, looking at his Wanderer’s License again. He felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

  Tomorrow, their real journey would begin.

  Kaito, still munching on his food, turned to Hiroshi. “Hey, what kind of mission do you think we’ll take?”

  Hiroshi shrugged. “Something simple. A scouting mission or escort job, maybe.”

  Kaito grinned. “I hope we get something cool, like hunting a beast or exploring ruins!”

  Hiroshi shook his head. “We’re C-rank. Don’t get ahead of yourself.”

  The night outside was peaceful. The town lights flickered gently, and a cool breeze drifted through the open window.

  For the first time in a while, they could finally rest without worry.

  Tomorrow, the real adventure would begin.