"This is the guild's bulletin board. The job of a wizard is to complete the various commissions posted here and earn rewards," Mirajane explained as she led Ken to the side wall.
"Different commissions have varying levels of difficulty and reward amounts. You can choose any job you like. Just bring the commission to me," she continued with a friendly smile.
Ken nodded and took a moment to scan the postings.
D-level Mission: Patrol the streets of Magnolia at night. No special requirements. Reward: 3,000 J.
C-level Mission: Light the sacred fire of Anuba Village (Fire Mage required). Reward: 20,000 J.
B-level Mission: Chase down two thieves from the Thieves Guild and recover the stolen magic crystals. No special requirements. Reward: 88,000 J.
A-level Mission: Defeat the vicious Vulcan beast in Hakobe Mountain and obtain the King of Vulcan's top horn. No special requirements. Reward: 400,000 J.
The missions seemed fairly standard, but Ken couldn't help but feel that something more fitting to his abilities was required.
"Since it's your first time, I recommend starting with a simpler commission," Mirajane suggested.
Ken raised an eyebrow, looking at the available jobs. "The highest reward for an A-level mission is to conquer Vulcan... While it's a powerful creature, it's still just an ape-like monster. But... I suppose I could handle that. It's not like it's magic-powered."
Ken sighed as he mentally assessed his options. "Though S-level missions are far more rewarding, they require approval from Master Makarov, and the next assessment won't be until half a year from now... So, for now, I'll settle with Vulcan."
Just as he made up his mind, a familiar voice echoed from the door.
"I heard the Master is back from his meeting, and he brought a new person with him?" The voice was bold, unmistakable. It belonged to none other than Erza Scarlet.
A hush fell over the guild as a striking woman with long crimson hair walked into the room, clad in her battle armor.
"Erza..." Ken murmured.
Erza's presence caused a stir as everyone quietly went about their business, trying to avoid eye contact with her. She scanned the room, her gaze cutting through the silence.
"Cana, are you really drinking straight from the bucket?"
"Visitar, if you want to dance, do it outside."
"Wakaba, clean up your cigarette ashes."
"Get to work, everyone! The guild's work doesn't do itself!"
Everyone scattered, knowing all too well what Erza was capable of.
Natsu and Gray, who had been in the middle of a fight earlier, now appeared like model guild members, side by side, smiling at Erza's orders.
"Erza, we've been getting along just fine!" Natsu said.
"Yeah, no fighting today!" Gray added.
Ken watched, a little amused at how the two had suddenly become the best of friends at Erza's command.
Erza looked around, her gaze landing on Ken. "You must be the new recruit, Ken. I'm Erza Scarlet. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me."
Ken nodded, grateful for her offer. "Thank you, Erza."
She smiled, though her smile carried a weight of authority. "Since this is your first mission, I suggest you team up with someone. It would be safer, and I've just finished my last job. I can accompany you."
Ken blinked in surprise. "You want to go with me?" he asked.
The guild members nearby looked at each other, exchanging worried glances.
"Poor guy..." one whispered.
"Erza's not someone you want to cross," another muttered.
Ken chuckled nervously. He had admired Erza's strength and beauty since he first watched the guild in action, but now that he was in the middle of it, he wasn't sure what to expect.
Erza, unfazed by the whispers, gave him a warm smile. "It's not about being strong or weak. I just want to make sure you're safe."
Ken felt a bit overwhelmed. He could tell that joining Erza on this mission was not going to be a walk in the park.
Before he could respond, Erza gestured for him to follow her.
"I'll take care of the paperwork. Let's get going," she said, turning to Mirajane.
Ken was about to say something, but before he knew it, Erza's hand was on his shoulder, and he felt his body suddenly being pulled toward her.
"Ah—!"
Ken's face turned bright red as he found himself with his face pressed into Erza's chest, her armor digging into his forehead.
"Erza..." Ken mumbled, trying not to let the awkwardness get to him.
Erza didn't seem to notice his discomfort. "Don't worry. It's just my habit."
As Ken followed her, he couldn't help but laugh nervously to himself. "This is going to be a long day..."