TRAPPED IN GREAT HERO ONLINE

CHAPTER 11

The three of them had arrived in the Kingdom of Finias—a starting point that Eldric and Rylan wished to investigate regarding the existence of humans unrecorded in this world's history. Ever since they arrived in the world of GHO, they had gathered significant information, albeit through numerous challenges that nearly cost them their lives.

The Kingdom of Finias appeared grand and majestic. Despite the many guards patrolling around the kingdom's towering walls, the grandeur of Finias was evident even from the outside. Eldric and Rylan briefly thought they might encounter numerous renowned noble families here. However, remembering their primary objective in Finias, neither of them could afford to be careless or deceived by the kingdom’s inhabitants.

As they reached the front gate leading into Finias, Firtania suggested that they report to the front guard post. She approached a Wolfkin stationed there—a figure clad in white attire with long, furry ears atop their head. Unlike the heavily armed guards patrolling the area, this individual appeared more akin to a front-desk administrator.

"Excuse me, Sir," Firtania greeted the Wolfkin politely.

"How can I assist you?" the official responded courteously.

"Yes. I’d like to file a report regarding the forest territory, and these two beside me wish to seek residence in the Kingdom of Finias," Firtania explained.

"Understood. You can file your report in Zone 2 later. As for these two, they simply need to provide their real names and make an immediate payment. I appreciate your cooperation," said the Wolfkin officer with a polite tone.

"I understand. Rylan, Eldric, I'll wait for you inside. Take care of the registration, okay?" said Firtania.

"Not a problem. Thank you, Firtania," Eldric replied, bowing slightly.

"I should be the one thanking you both. Without you, I might not have survived the forest. Alright, I’ll head in first!" Firtania waved at them before walking away.

Eldric and Rylan knew one thing: Firtania was kind and understanding. If they could meet her father, they might uncover more valuable information. The fact that Firtania’s father had lived in this world for over two years raised more questions for the two of them. Having only recently arrived in this world themselves, they wondered if there was a deeper mystery behind Earth’s destruction and humanity’s presence in this unrecorded world.

For now, Eldric and Rylan needed to complete their registration and payment to reside in the Kingdom of Finias.

“Now, state your names,” said the officer, holding a sheet of paper and a pen.

“My name is Eldric, and my companion is Rylan,” Eldric answered politely.

“You don’t look like Elves. Are you from another kingdom or race seeking refuge?” the officer asked with a sharp gaze.

“No. We traveled from Aldora City and happened upon Firtania, who was defenseless against a Plantazel. She brought us here as thanks. We were also intending to come to Finias to find shelter,” Rylan explained convincingly.

“Very well. You can enter after paying 500 ald each,” the officer said, recording the information.

Standing behind Eldric, Rylan quickly accessed his [Menu Bar] and retrieved 1,000 ald from his storage. His and Eldric’s swift movements while operating the [Menu Bar] showcased their agility. Eldric discreetly covered Rylan’s actions to avoid drawing attention. Moments later, Rylan stepped forward and handed over the money to the officer.

The officer counted the ald and handed them a sheet of paper and two blue rings.

“This document contains general information about the Kingdom of Finias. You may study it during your stay. These rings, embedded with [Magic Stones], are inscribed with your names. Wearing them is another requirement,” explained the officer.

“What are these rings for?” Rylan asked.

“They have tracking and other magic embedded within. If you commit any crimes or similar actions, the ring will inflict pain on its wearer. As newcomers to Finias, we cannot accept individuals from other races without proper supervision,” the officer clarified.

“Understood. Thank you very much,” Eldric responded courteously.

“You may now enter the Kingdom of Finias. Please refrain from causing trouble,” the officer advised.

“Understood,” Rylan replied.

Eldric and Rylan stepped into the Kingdom of Finias, reading the informational sheet as they walked. It resembled a theme park brochure. Having completed their first task—entering the kingdom—they now needed to search for vital clues.

According to the document, Finias was divided into three zones, separated by circular walls for protection. Zone 1 comprised residential areas and marketplaces, Zone 2 housed military facilities and magical academies, and Zone 3 was reserved for the Wolfkin and Elven nobility, including King Finias himself.

As they proceeded, their attention was caught by the bustling activity in Zone 1. Elves and Wolfkin mingled in the marketplace. The cleanliness of the area surprised them; there was no litter in sight.

“This is... Zone 1 of the Kingdom of Finias,” Eldric said, impressed.

“Yes. This world is truly remarkable. It’s my first time seeing a kingdom like this—I’ve only ever seen such places in games,” Rylan added.

“For now, our priority is to gather information about Firtania’s father. If he is human, he might know the secrets of this world,” Eldric said.

“And if he comes from Earth like us, it will confirm the existence of other humans here,” Rylan added.

“You’re right. But how could Firtania’s father have been here for two years already?” Eldric wondered aloud.

“We’ll find out directly from him. But we must be cautious with the information we share,” Rylan warned.

Their conversation was interrupted by a loud voice.

“Hey! Eldric! Rylan! Over here!”

They turned toward the source of the voice and saw Firtania waving at them near the main gate. Without hesitation, they made their way to her. The first step of their journey in the Kingdom of Finias had been accomplished, but their quest for answers had only just begun. The mystery surrounding Firtania’s parents will provide new evidence for Rylan and Eldric. When the two finally meet Firtania’s father, all these enigmas will become clear.