After a few minutes of walking, we reached the town square.
Everyone beside me went in different directions, heading toward their respective guilds. I was not interested in joining one. Instead, I began looking around to see if anyone needed a temporary member for a mission.
After walking here and there, I noticed a board for freelance members.
I smiled to myself.
I hurried and entered the guild office.
I walked up to the reception desk and inquired about the notice. The receptionist looked up and said,"Oh, I'm sorry. That position was filled recently by someone. I was just about to order its removal."
She looked me over from head to toe and added,"You look strong and experienced. Why don't you join our guild permanently? You'll get a fixed salary and many other benefits."
"Thanks for the offer, but I'm a traveler," I replied.
I exited the guild office.
As soon as I stepped outside, I heard a commotion near the statue.
My interest was piqued.
I walked toward the statue through the crowd. A large number of people had gathered around the fountain. Suddenly, I noticed a group of royal knights walking toward the center of the crowd, a scroll in their hands.
I realized it was going to be one of those boring announcements.
My interest died.
I tried slipping past the people to leave the crowd, but after a few angry looks and firm refusals, I gave up and decided to wait until the event was over.
Suddenly, the sound of a horn echoed through the square.
All attention shifted toward the royal knights.
The captain standing at the center raised his hand, ordering silence. He opened the royal scroll and spoke.
"Our great King has been poisoned.The royal physicians have tried every known medicine and failed.They have declared that the only way to save His Majesty's life is an elixir brewed from Azure Tulips.Any who bring these Azure Tulips within the next three days shall be rewarded with gold, gemstones, and land, by decree of the Crown."