The morning sunlight filtered softly through the windows of their small room, casting warm streaks across the wooden floor. Yoshiya stretched, muscles stiff and sore from yesterday's escape. Despite the exhaustion, a flicker of excitement remained within him—the discovery of the Barrier spell still fresh in his mind.
Omina stirred beside him, yawning softly as she stretched her arms. "Morning," she murmured, her voice hoarse but tinged with amusement.
"Morning," Yoshiya replied, smiling faintly. "You'll never guess what I tested last night."
They shared a quiet breakfast, the scent of fresh bread and warm tea filling the room. Between bites, Yoshiya recounted the escape from the goblin fortress—not the loot, not the map, but the hazardous chase through the horde.
"We barely made it," he said, his fingers tracing the rim of his cup. "We crossed that raging river, letting the current carry us, dodging goblins at every turn. And the shaman… he almost cornered us."
Omina shivered at the memory. "It was insane… but we made it."
A short while later, a guild runner arrived with a summons: they were needed at the guild outpost immediately. Without delay, they set out, walking along the familiar forest path toward the outpost, their minds still replaying the previous night's events.
At the outpost, Lia greeted them warmly, guiding them into a chamber where several guild officials awaited. Yoshiya began recounting their reconnaissance and escape: the crowded corridors of the fortress, the horde chasing them, and the desperate crossing of the raging river that had nearly swallowed them. The officials listened intently, jotting down notes while Lia's brows furrowed with concern and interest.
Once he finished, Lia took over, her tone grave. "While you two rested last night, the guild launched a raid expedition. Scouts reported that the goblins were scattered throughout the forest, no longer in their formations. Because of this, the forces easily overcame them."
She paused, letting the words sink in. "And yes… the goblin shaman was defeated. Their leadership is fractured. Still, we cannot grow complacent."
After the briefing, Yoshiya quietly led Lia aside. He revealed the map from the fortress, showing the marked strongholds. Lia's eyes widened, concern flickering across her face. "This… could be very important," she said softly. "But for now, it must remain a secret."
Before they left, Lia gave them a small smile. "Return this afternoon. You are now eligible for promotion."
By mid-afternoon, Yoshiya and Omina returned to the outpost. The room buzzed with anticipation. In front of their peers and guild officers, their badges were updated: 3-star adventurers. Applause filled the chamber as congratulations poured in. The weight of responsibility settled comfortably yet firmly on their shoulders—they had proven themselves, but the world remained as dangerous as ever.
After the ceremony, Lia spoke privately, outlining the next steps. "As 3-star adventurers, you are now eligible to participate in Class Change Exams."
She looked at Yoshiya first. "In two days, an exam will take place in Reflynne. As an Aide, you may attempt to become a White Mage—a renowned class for supporting and strengthening allies."
Turning to Omina, she continued, "In five days, an exam in Korvath will be held. From your Combatant class, you may choose one of three paths:
Blade Master – a master swordsman with superior skill in close combat and rapid attacks.
Archer – a skilled marksman with precision at long range and swift shooting.
Rouge – expert in stealth and surprise strikes, adept at acquiring valuables discreetly."
Excitement sparkled in their eyes as they exchanged playful banter, imagining the possibilities. The road ahead promised growth, danger, and new challenges.
As the day faded, Yoshiya and Omina walked home together to Orleaf, the stars on their badges shining brightly in the afternoon sun. Yet, in the back of their minds, shadows lingered—reminders that even as they rose in rank, greater challenges awaited them.
Three stars may shine brighter… but they also draw the shadows closer.