GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Vol 2 - Chapter 24.2: Hidden Parameters

Snippets of conversation drifted toward them from passing adventurers as they moved deeper into the complex.

"I'd rather take that quest in the Symalas River than go into the portal," a rugged man in leather armor said to his companion. "The guild can no longer guarantee our safety these days."

"I heard Xania's party nearly lost a member," his companion replied with a grimace. "That is, if he'll ever wake up at all."

The conversation struck an eerie chord with Vel. His thoughts immediately traveled back to Clara. How many others had been lost or left in similar conditions?

He glanced at Celia, whose expression had hardened. She'd heard them too.

They continued forward, crossing under a sky bridge that connected the east and west sections of the complex. The bridge cast cool shadows over them, offering momentary relief from the sun that had emerged after the rain.

From above, fragments of another conversation floated down.

"Alchemist guild and merchant guild seem to offer more stable jobs these days," a younger voice said, tinged with uncertainty.

"Suit yourself," another man cut in harshly. "I didn't expect more from a bronze rank. This line of work isn't for a jumpy scout like you."

Vel and Celia finally reached the main building door. The massive oak panels were reinforced with iron bands, and the handles were worn smooth from countless hands pushing them open in search of fortune, adventure, or simply the next job.

Stepping inside, they were greeted by cool shade and the mixed scents of leather and weapon oil. The clatter of armored boots echoed off the polished marble floors and stone arches, where more adventurers gathered on upper balconies, observing the bustle below.

One of the receptionists' voices carried through the hall. "Please, next time use the east door to hand in monster's materials. This area is for personnel process only."

As they walked toward the reception area, Vel noticed how organized everything was. Wooden benches and tables created orderly waiting areas, while three reception desks handled different queues with clear purpose.

Celia took charge without hesitation. "This way," she said, gesturing toward one of the lines. "We need to join the general inquiry line."

Vel felt many adventurers' stares as they walked. They were clearly too young to be here on their own, and their Academy uniforms did nothing to help them blend in. Every step they took seemed to draw more attention, some curious, others dismissive.

They joined the general inquiry line, and Vel glanced around while they waited. In the line next to them, which appeared to be specifically for registered adventurers, stood a person in full plate armor and helmet. Vel couldn't tell their gender beneath all that metal.

When they reached the front, Vel stood behind Celia as she approached the receptionist. Her name tag read "Mori," and something about her eastern features seemed familiar, though he couldn't place why.

"How may I help you?" Mori asked, her tone professional but not unfriendly.

"We're looking for part-time job, 'minor requests' to be exact," Celia replied confidently, taking the lead as Vel had expected she would.

Mori's eyes flicked between them, taking in their Academy uniforms. "Have you ever registered with the guild before?"

"No, this is our first time here but...we have Graham's recommendation," Celia said, producing a small paper card from her pocket.