The next morning, Rayan returned to his routine gate guard duty, standing tall with his spear and observing the passing townsfolk and carts. He greeted the regular merchants and kept a close eye on unfamiliar faces, just like always. Though it was a simple job, he took pride in it—because it was the life he had rebuilt with his own two hands.
After completing his shift, he hurried back to his small room. Lina had already prepared a light snack for him. He thanked her and quickly dove back into his training. As always, he studied the old swordsmanship manual, following each stance, swing, and form with growing precision.
Then, in the middle of his routine, a soft glow pulsed from the back of his hand.
Rayan froze, staring in disbelief.
The sword-shaped marking on his hand had changed—its outline was sharper, glowing faintly.
[Sword Crest: Level 1]
His breath caught in his throat. "I... I did it," he whispered.
He had finally unlocked the first level of his Sword Crest. His hard work had paid off. His path to the academy was no longer a dream—it was now a reality.
Grinning from ear to ear, Rayan grabbed his cloak and rushed toward the Adventurers' Guild. He wanted to see if his level had also risen. The guild hall buzzed with activity as usual, but Rayan headed straight for the counter.
"I'd like to register as an adventurer," he said, trying to keep his excitement contained.
The receptionist, a stern-looking older woman with glasses, looked him over. "Fill this form. Then we'll conduct your appraisal."
He filled out the form with care, and soon he was led to a small crystal pedestal for his appraisal. When he placed his hand on it, glowing runes swirled, revealing his adventurer information on a nearby slate.
Name: Rayan Stormheart
Sword Crest: Level 1
Split Skill: Crest Analysis – Level 2
Status: Civilian (Pending License)
He stared at the result. Split Skill: Crest Analysis – Level 2? That had risen as well?
"Looks like you've got some interesting potential," the receptionist said, updating his Adventurer's Book. "You're not licensed to take missions just yet. It takes about a week to issue your official adventurer license. After that, you can take quests that match your level."
"Thank you," Rayan bowed gratefully, tucking the book close to his chest.
He returned to his small inn room, bursting with news. Lina greeted him at the door, a towel in her hand.
"You look like you've just won a tournament," she teased.
"My Sword Crest finally became Level 1!" he said, grinning.
Her eyes widened. "You can join the academy now, right?"
"Yeah. I'll enroll soon."
That night, they sat together on the floor and shared a warm dinner—plain rice, stewed vegetables, and a bit of dried meat. It wasn't a feast, but for Rayan, it was more satisfying than any banquet from his noble past.
Because now, every step forward was truly his own.