After claiming that quest, Muriel advised:
"I suggest you leave the rest for now. Until after we've settled our primary goal, at least."
"No problem," Ruel said.
On the lower shelf, he saw a box that held a weird red and blue crystalline heart that was heavy with mana and it was wrapped in a paper that held runes.
"That's a beings soul fragment and blood sealed within its heart. The ritual main requirement," Muriel said. "The paper seals the Ritual Circle made of divinity years ago."
"I see," Ruel said less, and pushed it into his inventory.
"There's still one more thing…"
His voice trailed as they both stared at the sole door on another wall.
The door looked strong as it reflected the light of the room and exuded a strong wave of energy.
Ruel stretched his hand to the handle, making Muriel say, "It's locked."
But Ruel touched the door handle nevertheless, feeling the repelling force, confirming Muriel's words.
"Is the key related to that Quest, Obtain Key?" he asked.
"You are correct. It holds treasures and has been sealed until you have proved worthy."
Ruel pondered for a second and said:
"It's like you said, I should focus on my primary goal. Where to now?"
"We need to find a shop that sells the materials needed. Most can be gotten from the System Shop, but a few can't."
"Do you know the way?"
Muriel shook her head in denial.
"Probably not. The memories I have are from years ago, I don't know how much has changed. However, it won't be hard to find."
"Alright then."
"Also, why not dress looking better?"
Ruel didn't see a problem with that but he was still asked, "Why exactly?"
"It garners respect," Muriel said.
Ruel remained silent, implying he wanted more explanation.
"It's related to the explanation I have for how you suddenly appeared in a Haven, owning a house that has been sealed for ages and has money.
"I want you to act like you have been in this world for a long time, but you were in the Wild—the regions beyond the safety of havens. It was a quest reward that led to you being here."
"I had no idea things were this complex," Ruel admitted, a glimmer of understanding in his eyes. "You are very helpful."
With another slight smile, Muriel led him to the wardrobe in the room, opening it to reveal normal outfits and a few sets of armor.
He changed into a fitted black shirt and high-quality black pants. He put on armor of mainly beige color with green patterns.
He put his low-end dagger in his inventory as it was not rare to move around unharmed.
After that, he walked out of the streets with Muriel turning into a tiny ball of green light in case someone was skilled enough to perceive her.
In a corner of the wardrobe, Ruel also saw a chest holding multiple circular silver coins, prompting Muriel to tell him that not everyone could transact with the System.
With preparations complete and purpose renewed, Ruel stepped into Enma's civilization.
He left his home and stepped onto a street that was nearly empty, most likely because people were working now.
Why were they working? Because it was daytime here!
'Likely around 10 hours behind where I stay! Good thing it was like that though, leaving that home might have attracted attention.'
After a while, he reached busier streets.
The further he walked, the more vibrant and alive the city became, with sounds of chatter and movement filling the air.
He could have called one of the carriages pulled by monsters or horses, but he chose not so he could observe a little more.
He silently darted his eyes around as he observed everyone and everywhere.
Humans, Beastmen, Elves and even Goblins—they were all gathered here.
He was surprised that Muriel had to telepathically tell him to stay composed. He hadn't realized how visibly shaken he was, until Muriel's words grounded him.
'All in one place? Elves are rarely seen back in Talia and Beastmen are treated like barbarians… Truly, one is only limited by what they have seen.'
The diversity here defied the boundaries he'd grown up believing in.
This region was most likely meant for mid-to-high class residents so he had to walk a while before he saw stalls and shops.
He reached a stall that sold accessories and looked at the middle-aged woman standing behind with a smile.
Seeing his attire, she welcomed him with a warm smile, "Young man, welcome, welcome."
Ruel bowed lowly as he said, "Good day, ma."
"Is there anything I can help you with?" the woman said, gesturing towards the rows of items facing him.
"Actually, I'd like to ask for help with directions. I am looking for a store that sells…"
'Adventurer-related items.'
Muriel whispered and he completed.
"...Adventurer-related items."
"Oh," The woman said.
"You must be new here then! Welcome! I advise you to take a carriage because it's more direct, it only costs a few coins. But if you want to walk, you just need to…"
'So there are two options: a guild or a private company…' Ruel thought as he thanked the woman.
"I am glad to help," she chuckled. "If you ever need jewelry, just remember me! It's pretty enough for any female relationship you have. See for yourself!"
Ruel was drawn back to the items on the stall shelf. "I'll come back, ma."
"Great!" The woman beamed with joy, "See you soon then!"
Saying his goodbye, Ruel walked away, asking Muriel what option he should choose.
"A Guild. That will help build reasonable associates now," she said.
Ruel saw her point instantly.
Nodding to himself, he raised his hand and hailed a nearby horse-drawn carriage. He wasn't quite ready to deal with monster carriages yet.
After sorting money transactions, he told the carriage driver to take him to the guild building near here.
Seated within the carriage, Ruel passed by the familiar building structures he had seen during his previous visit to the city for his Talent Awakening.
"This just feels like a normal city—just larger. So why is it called a Haven?"