Adrian followed Jana down another corridor, the low hum of the Adventurers' Guild fading slightly as they moved deeper into the building.
"Well, Nyxal, that was quite a performance back there," Jana commented, glancing at him with a knowing smile. "Guild Master Borin doesn't often give such... restrained praise. You certainly made it look effortless."
Adrian chuckled softly. "Restrained praise sounds about right for Master Borin. I just focused on getting the job done. Those tests are designed to push you, aren't they?"
"They are, absolutely," Jana agreed. "He's seen more than his fair share of adventurers. He can spot genuine talent, and genuine bluffing, from a mile away. Most new recruits struggle with the strength gauntlet, or they tire out quickly on the endurance spar. You handled it all with... composure." She tilted her head slightly. "You mentioned 'extensive experience.' Is that from a previous guild, or just a lifetime of adventuring on your own?"
Adrian gave a noncommittal shrug. "A bit of both, I suppose. The wilds of Aethelgard have many lessons to teach, and I've been fortunate enough to learn quite a few of them." He decided to keep it vague, leaning on the mystique of a seasoned, solitary traveler. "So, the written exam next. What should I expect?"
"It's not a trick, if that's what you're worried about," Jana reassured him as they approached a door marked with a quill and an open book. "It's simply a comprehensive test of your knowledge. We need to know that our adventurers understand the world they operate in, not just how to swing a sword."
Jana opened the door to a quiet room lined with shelves of scrolls and books. Several small desks were set up, each with a fresh sheet of parchment and a quill. "Here we are. Take any seat. I'll leave you to it, but feel free to call if you have any questions about the instructions." She handed him a scroll. "This contains the exam questions.
There's no time limit, but most people take about an hour or two. Just write your answers clearly."
Adrian sat down, unfurling the scroll. His eyes scanned the questions, and a wave of almost dizzying familiarity washed over him. This was it. This was where his years of dedicated game-lore absorption would pay off.
The exam covered a vast array of topics:
* Geography: "Name the five major mountain ranges of Aethelgard and their most prominent natural resources." "Describe the typical flora and fauna found in the Whisperwood and the Dragon's Teeth."
* Monster Lore: "List three common weaknesses of Ghouls." "What are the tell-tale signs of a lurking Shadow Behemoth?" "Differentiate between a Greater Fire Imp and a Lesser Fire Elemental."
* Aethelgardian History: "Summarize the 'War of the Sundered Peaks' and its lasting impact on Dwarven society." "Who was King Theron the Unifier, and what was his greatest accomplishment?"
* Faction Politics: "Outline the current relationship between the Elven Court of Silverwood and the Human Kingdom of Eldoria." "What are the primary grievances of the fragmented demonic factions, and what is their stated goal?"
* Survival & Trade: "Describe three methods of purifying water in the wilderness." "What are the common trade routes between Oakhaven and the capital city?"
Adrian didn't just know the answers; he knew the nuances, the popular theories, the often-overlooked details that only a true loremaster would possess. He wrote with fluid precision, his quill scratching steadily across the parchment. He recalled obscure lore entries, hidden in-game books, and the meticulous details of every NPC's background story. He even remembered the specific weaknesses of the Shadow Behemoth – the very creature his original raid party was meant to face.
When he finished, an hour and a half later, he felt a quiet satisfaction. He'd not just answered the questions; he'd provided comprehensive, almost encyclopedic responses. He carried the scroll back to Jana at the main counter.
"Done already, Nyxal?" Jana's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "That was quick! Most people need far longer." She took the scroll and began to read, her polite smile slowly transforming into an expression of utter astonishment. Her eyes widened, scanning furiously, then went back to the top, re-reading sections.
"By the Ancestors' breath!" she finally murmured, looking up at him, her mouth slightly agape. "Nyxal... this isn't just a pass. This is... incredible.
Your knowledge of Aethelgard is beyond anything I've ever seen. You know the exact composition of the Obsidian Citadel's outer shell, the precise migratory patterns of the Crimson Griffin, and the third cousin once removed of King Oberon's grandmother!"
Adrian suppressed a triumphant grin. "I've always been a keen observer," he said modestly. "And I have a good memory for details."
Jana shook her head in wonder, a genuine, astonished laugh escaping her lips. "A good memory? Nyxal, you practically wrote these history books! You've aced it, of course. Not just passed, but... flawless. This is certainly a new record for the Oakhaven Guild. Guild Master Borin will be... very intrigued." She gave him a look of newfound, almost awestruck respect. "Alright, then. One down, two to go. The combat trial is next, usually after a short break. You can rest or prepare, or we can head to the arena now if you're ready."
Adrian felt a surge of exhilaration. He had proven his intellect. Now, for the real test of his controlled power. "I'm ready, Jana. Let's head to the arena."