An Extra’s Rise in an Eroge

As we approached the city of Avalith, I was struck by the sheer size and grandeur of the capital. A line of caravans stretched far along the castle gate, with armored knights inspecting each one. The knights were meticulous, scrutinizing every detail—understandable, given the city's status. Avalith's security was bound to be rigorous.

Our entourage veered towards a smaller gate marked for noble entry, which was relatively empty. Ahead, I noticed a sleek, dark carriage engraved with the crest of the Mystic family—a silver crescent moon with an open deep purple eye at its center. Even the guards wore that emblem proudly on their armor.Nôv(el)B\\jnn

I could guess who was inside: Nadia Mystic, daughter of Duchess Ophelia Mystic, one of the main cast in this world. Nadia was rumored to be a prodigy—a talent in magic that hadn't been seen in centuries.

As the Mystic knights spotted our carriages, they gave a curt nod to the Ludwig knights—a polite acknowledgment among nobles. Soon, it was our turn to be inspected. After a quick exchange with the guards, we were allowed into the city, and I was immediately mesmerized by Avalith's vibrant life.

The sights and sounds were captivating. Unlike Ludwig Duchy's quiet towns, Avalith was alive with energy, filled with people from all walks of life. Beastmen, dwarves, demi-humans, elves—all mingled together. Flags and banners hung across the streets, and stalls lined the cobbled pathways, with merchants loudly hawking their goods. The Academy's entrance ceremony was close, and it seemed like the whole city had turned out to celebrate.

I convinced our driver to wait at the gates while we explored the market. With Lily, Lira, Lyra, and Kaela, we dove into the bustling streets, all of us eager to experience Avalith's magic.

The market square was a tapestry of colors, sounds, and scents. Merchants of every race and kingdom proudly displayed their specialties: dwarven blacksmiths selling intricately crafted weapons, elven artisans with delicate jewelry and glasswork, and beastmen with exotic animal pelts. Food stalls wafted delicious aromas—savory skewers of meat, freshly baked breads, and pastries topped with glistening fruits.

Kaela's eyes widened at everything around her, awe and excitement radiating from her.

"Look at that!" she exclaimed, pointing to a beastman merchant selling colorful stones and charms. "We don't have anything like that in the Wolf Tribe."

Lira smirked, nudging her. "Careful, Kaela. If you buy too much, you'll be carrying it all back yourself."

Kaela pouted. "I'll manage, thank you very much."

We strolled deeper into the market, sampling the local delicacies. A dwarf offered us a slice of spiced bread with an unfamiliar berry jam, which Kaela immediately loved, declaring it the "best food she'd ever tasted." Lily looked equally enchanted as she took small bites, savoring each flavor.

"Here, try this!" I said, handing Kaela a pastry topped with a delicate swirl of cream and fruit.

She bit into it and her eyes lit up. "Humans make such incredible food," she said, laughing. "How do you not eat like this all the time?"

Lyra chuckled. "Believe it or not, city food can get tiresome. I'm sure you'll miss hunting boars soon enough."

The streets were packed with other Academy candidates, easily distinguishable by their confident stances or the nervous energy in their steps. Conversations filled the air as everyone chattered excitedly, speculating on the Academy's entrance exams. Some of them traveled from faraway lands to seize their chance, and I could feel a subtle current of rivalry as our eyes met theirs.

Kaela paused at a booth selling small trinkets and souvenirs, her eyes lingering on a carved wolf figurine. It was made from polished wood, capturing a wild, untamed beauty.

"It's like a piece of home," she murmured softly.

I watched her as she picked it up, gently brushing her fingers over its surface. She looked hesitant, clearly drawn to it but unsure if she should spend her limited coin.

"Consider it a gift," I said, handing the vendor a few coins before she could protest. "To remind you of your tribe while you're with us humans."

Kaela's eyes widened in surprise, then softened. "Thank you, Arthur," she whispered, carefully tucking the figurine into her pouch. "I'll treasure it."

Lily grinned. "And here I thought Arthur was bad at making friends."

I shrugged, playing off the moment. "I'm full of surprises, Lily."

We continued walking through the vibrant streets, occasionally stopping to examine trinkets or sample treats. An elven woman sold delicate bottles of fragrant oils and lotions, which Lily and Lira gravitated towards immediately.

"Oh, this one smells like the forest after rain!" Lira said, inhaling deeply from a small bottle.

"Look at these scarves!" Lyra pointed to a stall displaying beautiful woven fabrics with intricate patterns. She picked one up and draped it over her shoulder. "Maybe I'll wear this to the Academy ceremony," she joked, striking a pose.

Kaela laughed, giving her a thumbs-up. "It suits you!"

As the sun dipped lower, casting a warm golden glow over Avalith, we realized we'd been exploring for hours. Reluctantly, we returned to the city gate, where our driver was waiting patiently.

The carriage set off, taking us from the bustling commoner's area to the noble district, a quieter area reserved for the city's elite. Here, manors belonging to different noble houses were established for their stays in the capital. We were heading to Ludwig Manor, where we'd spend the night before heading to the Academy.

At first, Kaela hesitated. "I… I don't want to be a burden. I could find an inn nearby."

Lily crossed her arms, giving Kaela a playful glare. "It's hardly a burden. Besides, the inns are likely all booked. You're coming with us, and that's final."

Kaela sighed in defeat, clearly touched but trying not to show it. "Alright, but I'm not sharing a room with any of you."

I laughed. "Don't worry. We wouldn't dream of it."

The carriage rolled on as we made our way through the noble district. The long day of traveling and exploring was catching up to me, and I felt my eyelids growing heavier.

With the faint sounds of Avalith still lingering in my mind, I drifted into sleep, excitement bubbling within me for the new journey awaiting us at the Academy.