I was finally in a secure region.
A place where I could slow down and actually think.
I had money, but I didn't know how to use it. First, I needed to understand this world's value system. After paying the five-coin entry fee at the gate, I was left with twenty-one copper coins.
At least I knew the language. That probably came with the privilege of being a transmigrator.
So what should I do first?
For knowledge, the library was the best option. But the main problem was money.
Still, knowledge came first. Then I would deal with the system and finally earn money.
I had just entered the town and was still near the outer area. To reach the library, I needed directions. The guards knew this town better than anyone, and it wasn't like random people would trust me enough to explain things properly.
I turned back toward the gate and walked up to one of the guards.
"Hey, can you tell me the direction to the guild and the library? I need some information."
"Go straight to the plaza," he said. "From there, find the shops. There's an alley beside them. Walk for about five minutes, and you'll find a place with basic information."
"Okay, thanks."
"And the guild is also connected to the plaza. You won't miss it."
I thanked him and headed off.
After walking for about five minutes, I reached the plaza. It was crowded with people, confirming it was the center of the town. Six roads merged here, dividing the town into sections, with a large fountain standing proudly at the center.
The town itself was well developed. Brick houses, proper pathways, and a sense of order. After admiring the scenery for a moment, I found the alley the guard had mentioned.
Walking deeper inside, I soon reached my destination.
Rivermark Record Hall
I entered the building. It was almost empty. I walked up to the reception desk, where a young woman—around my age—was busy with paperwork.
"Hi. How do I enter the library?"
"You need to pay the library fee."
"How much?"
"Three copper coins for one hour."
She didn't even look up during the conversation.
I checked my pocket. Eighteen copper coins remained. I could read the numbers and letters in this world, but I still didn't fully understand the currency's real value.
I placed three coins on the counter. She took them and handed me a faintly glowing pass.
"You can stay while this pass is glowing. When it fades, you have to leave."
"Okay. Can you tell me where I can find books about the kingdom's history and geography?"
"Eighth rack."
"Thanks."
I entered the main book area and quickly found the eighth rack. I picked up basic geography and history books. First, I needed to know where I was—and whether there was a war, demon invasion, or some world-ending disaster going on. That felt like basic survival knowledge.
I found an empty table and sat down. The library was quiet.
Kingdom History
I opened the book and began reading.
This world was called Velmora. It contained six major empires, divided mostly by race. Humans, elves, dwarves, beastkin, and others coexisted, though not always peacefully.
One empire stood out. It wasn't known for its military strength or territory, but for its academy, famous worldwide. It accepted students of any background, lineage, or power, as long as they cleared its test.
The Mage Academy.
A simple name, but the book mentioned it more than the empire itself.
That alone told me how important it was.
This was enough for now.
As for money, the currency system was straightforward:
1 platinum = 100 gold
1 gold = 100 silver
1 silver = 100 copper
So yes. I was broke.
I took a blind guess when paying the library fee, and thankfully it worked.
Now, about the system.
Its name was the Observe System. I wasn't sure if I had to observe something manually or if it worked on its own. So far, it only allowed appraisal when I focused on something for a while.
I tested it.
[Name: Selene Voss]
[Type: Human]
[Level: 54]
Level 54.
She definitely didn't belong in this small town. I would need to appraise others to confirm that theory.
Magic was another issue. If I wanted to learn it, the academy was the best option. But I wasn't sure if I was going to join it or not.
But before any of that, I needed an identity card. Without one, moving between towns would be difficult, especially with guards.
I glanced at the clock. My time was almost up. The time system here was the same as in my previous world.
I returned the books and walked back to the reception desk. Selene was free now.
"Hi, I want to ask something."
"You returned the books properly," she said. "So you know basic library rules."
"Yeah. It's not my first time in a library," I lied. It was common sense anyway.
"You look new. Did you enter the town recently?"
"Yes. I arrived today. Can you tell me how to get a guild card?"
"You don't have one?" She paused. "It's not a big deal, but it helps when traveling. You can get it at the guild."
"How much does it cost?"
"Ten copper coins."
"One more thing," I said. "Where can I learn basic magic?"
She took a moment before answering.
"Learning magic is easy. Advancing in magic is hard. You can learn basic magic by reading books here and then applying the theory."
"I didn't see any magic books on the shelves."
"That's because those need to be purchased. We don't want people experimenting here and burning the library down."
"That makes sense. By the way, I'm Ray."
"Well, past mistakes shape present rules," she said lightly. "I'm Selene."
"How much do the books cost?"
"One silver for basic magic. Five silver for Tier 1 magic."
Tier 1 must be the first level.
"One hundred copper coins…" I muttered.
After paying for the guild card, I'd only have eight coins left. I needed a way to earn money fast.
"Thanks for your help. I'll come back when I have enough money."
"I'll be waiting."
I left the building and headed toward the Adventurer's Guild.
'Who was he?' Selene thought.
He's new, and his clothes aren't from around here.
He doesn't belong in this town.
Well… if he comes back, I'll find out who he really is.