The hooded man's words hung in the air long after he had finished speaking. His eyes, twinkling with a mix of amusement and caution, left a chill that seeped into the very bones of Rayan and his friends. They sat in the warm glow of the restaurant's lantern light, still savoring the lingering aftertaste of the marvelous feast, but their minds were elsewhere—on the curious rumor of the Wandering Hermit.
Rayan leaned back, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
"An S+ Demon General and an A-Rank Frost Dragon, all by one guy? That's insane," he murmured, his voice low with excitement.
Yeon's eyes sparkled with defiance and wonder.
"Imagine that kind of power... It's the sort of legend we should chase. I mean, what if we could learn a thing or two from him?"
He tossed his napkin carelessly aside and scanned the room, as if expecting the mysterious hermit to reveal himself at any moment.
Tonio, ever the cautious one, folded his arms.
"But his feats seem almost... unreal. If one person can do all that, we need to be sure we're not biting off more than we can chew."
He cast a worried look at Cezar, who just grinned broadly.
Cezar's laugh was light and teasing.
"Come on, guys! If we can survive a run from a magic bear—and a battle with that shadowy figure—we're already S rank rated. Besides, think of the stories we'll tell!"
He patted his stomach as if to emphasize his hearty resilience.
The stranger didn't pay much attention to Cezar's word and continued with his own. He sipped the rest of his glowing mug and then inclined his head.
"Listen well," he said, his tone suddenly serious as he leaned closer. "If you seek the guild, head east to the Fountain Square. Follow the giant sword that pierces the morning mist. As for your ambitions—keep your eyes open. In these lands, legends walk among us. Some even say the Wandering Hermit can be found where the old ruins meet the frozen peaks. But be warned, the path is perilous, and his presence is shrouded in mystery."
A long pause followed. For a moment, they all stared at the worn map scribbled on a scrap of parchment he handed them—a rough guide to various landmarks of this vibrant realm.
Rayan folded the map, his mind racing with possibilities.
"Alright, then," he declared, his voice resolute. "We find the guild first. Once we're settled, we can set our sights on this hermit. Who knows? Maybe we'll follow in his footsteps someday."
Yeon, still fuming slightly about the endless bickering that had become their trademark, grinned and clapped him on the back.
"Yeah, but first, let's make sure we can actually keep our heads on straight for more than five minutes!" he joked, winking.
Tonio offered a small, knowing smile.
"Sometimes it's the chaos that makes you stronger. But let's not be too hasty. We have a town to explore and secrets to uncover."
He glanced out the window at the bustling streets outside, where remnants of the celebration still echoed in laughter and music.
The group stepped out into the cool night air of Arcania. The city was alive with celebration—fireworks still burst intermittently in the dark sky, and lanterns floated above the crowded streets. Market stalls flickered with the promise of exotic wares and local delicacies, and the distant hum of a festival filled them with a strange sense of belonging, as if they had finally found a temporary refuge.
As they ambled through the lively streets, conversation turned to plans.
"I say we head to the guild tomorrow morning," Cezar suggested. "Find a base of operations, meet some local adventurers, maybe even earn our first coin."
Rayan nodded. "Yeah, let's settle in for a bit here. Rest, gather information, then decide our next steps."
Yeon sighed dramatically. "Sure, but if we run into trouble, I expect everyone to remember who's The True Dark Lord around here—and THAT IS ME!"
Even as they teased each other, the memory of their earlier battles—it all still felt like a surreal dream—reminded them that danger lurked not just in the unknown, but sometimes in the very nature of friendship turned wild.
Walking through the winding lanes of Arcania, they passed grand facades and secret alleyways filled with whispering legends. Every corner seemed to pulse with life, stories of ancient magic, and the echoes of battles fought long ago. The map and the stranger's words stirred a spark of purpose within them.
For the first time since their chaotic arrival, a quiet determination began to take root. Their journey was no longer just about surviving or even fighting—they were now driven by the promise of something greater. A goal hung in the crisp night air: the quest to join the guild, to learn from the heroes of Arcania, and perhaps, to cross paths with the enigmatic Wandering Hermit.
As midnight approached, the four friends gathered on a quiet rooftop overlooking the glittering city. The lights of Arcania twinkled below like a constellation brought to earth. Rayan looked at his companions—Yeon, Tonio, and Cezar—the bonds of their shared struggles and victories still glimmering behind tired eyes.
"In this crazy, unpredictable world, one thing's clear," Rayan said softly, his gaze unwavering. "We're all in this together."
His voice held both the weight of their battles and the fragile hope of a better tomorrow.
Yeon chuckled and ruffled Rayan's hair. "Even if we fight like headless chickens half the time, we always find our way back."
Tonio smiled, glancing at the map once more. "Tomorrow, the adventure continues. For now, let's just enjoy the peace—and maybe dream about what it means to truly be heroes."
Cezar raised his makeshift mug in a silent toast. "To new beginnings, to legends waiting to be written, and to never, ever giving up."
As the night deepened, the city's festivities mingled with the gentle murmur of the wind. And as the stars shone down upon Arcania, the four friends found solace in each other's presence—a quiet promise that in this world of magic, chaos, and unfathomable wonders, their story was just beginning.
When dawn finally broke over Arcania, the city awoke with a gentle hum—a stark contrast to the previous night's revelry. The streets shimmered in early light, and the festive echoes quieted into soft murmurs. One by one, Rayan, Yeon, Tonio, and Cezar stirred from their rooftop vigil.
Rayan stretched, still half-dreaming of past battles and future legends. "Alright, team," he said with a wry smile, "today we start our real adventure. Time waits for no one, and neither do we."
Yeon, sporting a rebellious smudge of sleep in his eyes, grumbled good-naturedly, "I expect you all to remember that I'm the True Dark Lord once we step off these roofs—even if you have to drag me there." His tone was playful yet determined.
Tonio pulled the worn map from his satchel, his face thoughtful. "According to this, the guild outpost is just past the Fountain Square on the east side. That giant sword sign should guide us." He tapped the map as if it held the key to destiny and survival alike.
Cezar, ever the optimist after a night of chaos (and free food), grinned widely. "Imagine the stories we'll have once we join a proper guild. There'll be no more running from oversized bears or bickering over chocolate bars—okay, maybe a little bickering, but at least we'll be on the winning side." He clapped Rayan on the shoulder.
The four friends set off through the bustling streets of Arcania. Morning vendors hawked steaming pastries and enchanted trinkets while children chased bubbles that glowed with a faint magical light. Every corner of the city whispered secrets of ancient magic and hidden legends, as if Arcania itself was alive with mystery.
Their journey soon led them to Fountain Square—a magnificent area dominated by an ornate fountain adorned with sculptures of mythical beasts and angels. At its center, a giant sword—etched with glowing runes—pierced through a veil of mist. It was unmistakable: the sign the stranger had mentioned.
"This must be it," Rayan murmured, his eyes shining with anticipation. "Our gateway to new beginnings."
At the Guild Outpost Reception
Before entering the main hall of the Arcania Adventurer's Guild, the group was directed to a reception area. An elegantly carved counter, adorned with intricate runes and symbols of ancient magic, bore a sign: "Arcania Adventurer's Guild – Status Check Required." The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation.
A bespectacled receptionist—a middle-aged woman with keen eyes and a knowing smile—greeted them warmly. "Welcome, travelers," she said as she slid a small, enchanted card toward them. "Before you proceed, please place your hands on this panel."
One by one, Rayan, Yeon, Tonio, and Cezar pressed their hands against the softly glowing surface. In an instant, holographic data burst into life above each hand, projecting their entire statuses in vivid detail:
Cezar (Shoyo Murata):
Title: Emperor Of The Beasts
Race: Humanoid Beast
Rank: S
Creator Skill: Precision & Accuracy
Legendary Skill: Beast Form (Wolf)
Unique Skill: Instant Transmission
Uncommon Skill: Flash Step
Attribute Skills: Earth, Water
Yeon (Jin Yenchun):
Title: Royalty, Self-Proclaimed Dark Lord
Race: Humanoid Vampire
Rank: S+
Creator Skill: Blood Manipulation
Legendary Skill: See Through
Unique Skill: Overdrive Mana
Uncommon Skill: Telepathy
Attribute Skills: Lightning, Ice
Rayan (Azrael Aeternus):
Title: Emperor
Race: Angel
Rank: S+
Creator Skill: Time
Legendary Skill: Heavenly Light Judgment
Unique Skill: Disrupt Mana Zone
Uncommon Skill: Mobility
Attribute Skill: Wind, Light
Tonio (Daichi Kimura):
Title: Royalty, The Hope of Life
Race: Dryad
Rank: S+
Creator Skill: Full Resurrection with Random Blessings
Legendary Skill: Binding Thorns
Unique Skill: Area Detection
Uncommon Skill: Survivability
Attribute Skill: Earth, Nature
The entire reception area fell into a hushed awe as the holographic displays shimmered with vibrant colors and arcane symbols. Whispers quickly spread among the onlookers:
"Look at that—an Angel titled 'Emperor' with control over Time and Light! Light is so rare and sacred in Arcania..."
"Creator skill??" as he asked the nearby receptionist, she replied "I believe its a magic where you're the only one who possess it since you are the one who created it or inherited. That's what I read in the History Book."
"... I thought Vampire race are just mere legend?!" as he whisper to his friend
"Oh.. it's Humanoid Vampire, I was just seeing" But then he realize "Oh It's basically the same thing!"
"I'll report this to the higher authority!" said by someone who wears in a black cloak and completely hidden its face
"And here we have a Self-Proclaimed Dark L-O-R-D with S+ ranking! His blood magic must be something out of legends!"
"No wonder they call him the Emperor Of The Beasts—Cezar's ability to channel both raw power and swift movement with his wolf form is phenomenal."
"Uh.. What's accuracy and precise?" she asked the nearby adventurer and replied, "Stupid it's something that hits so accurately, well something like that" as he laughs
"Royalty, The Hope of Life—that Dryad, Tonio, seems touched by nature itself."
"That Dryad is basically a walking legend here.."
Some veterans murmured in admiration, their voices filled with respect for these remarkable statuses. A few skeptical whispers filtered through the crowd, hinting, "They're impressive, but such power rarely comes from this world," although none knew the true origins of these four.
The receptionist, noticing the mix of wonder and secretive murmurs, cleared her throat. "Your skills speak for themselves. Here in Arcania, it's not just about where you come from—it's what magic you wield that matters. Your creation skills, especially the rare control of Light that this Angel possesses, set you apart." Her eyes rested on Rayan's holographic display, which shimmered with an ethereal glow.
She continued in a more measured tone, "Welcome to the Arcania Adventurer's Guild. However, be advised: while our halls celebrate magical prowess, corruption has seeped into some corners of our administration. Should you ever witness injustice or favoritism, be bold and speak out."
Yeon exchanged a knowing look with Rayan. "Figures. Even here, power breeds envy and old grudges."
Cezar leaned forward with a teasing smirk. "So, what's next? Do we undergo a rite of passage right now, or is there more to this status magic?"
The receptionist tapped her desk with a few runes that flickered over the holograms. "You will begin with tasks to prove your mettle, earn coin, and resolve disputes with local authorities who govern parts of Arcania. Please report to the captain at the guild hall for your first assignment."
Tonio accepted the parchment detailing their first bounty—a pack of corrupted beasts haunting the outskirts—with a serious nod. "This isn't just about fighting monsters—it's an opportunity to make a difference."
Rayan's eyes burned with determination as he looked at his friends. "We may come from another world, but here, we carve our own destiny. We're not only survivors; we're here to leave our mark, challenge legends, and perhaps even heal a fractured system."
Yeon added with a playful, sincere grin, "And if we succeed, maybe one day we'll even earn our own place in Arcania's history—chasing that elusive Wandering Hermit along the way."
After the impressive display of magical prowess, the receptionist handed them their official guild membership scrolls. "Welcome to the Arcania Adventurer's Guild. May your courage light your path through these troubled times."
With murmurs of admiration and a few envious glances still lingering, the four friends stepped out into the bustling corridors of the guild hall. Outside, the vibrant lights of Arcania beckoned—this city was a beacon of magic, legends, and even hidden corruption waiting to be unraveled.
Beyond the Outpost
After bidding farewell to the old traveler who had set their path in motion, the group merged with the lively crowd streaming through the massive archways of the guild hall. The streets of Arcania pulsed with an energy unique to the city—a mixture of old-world magic and modern ambition. Lanterns floated above, casting shifting patterns of light on cobblestone roads; market stalls bristled with enchanted wares; and the soft hum of conversations intermingled with the distant sound of street performers.
Rayan led the way, his eyes fixed on the horizon, where the early morning sun painted everything in hues of gold and amber. "Today's the day," he declared with a determined smile. "We have a bounty to complete and a guild to prove ourselves to."
Yeon, still recovering from the awe and scrutiny during the status check, muttered under his breath, "I hope they don't start questioning my title—I'm the True Dark Lord, after all. They'd never understand." His tone carried both pride and the weight of lingering doubts.
Tonio, clutching the well-worn map once more, observed the streets with practiced caution. "The parchment says our assignment is on the outskirts, where a pack of corrupted beasts has been spotted," he explained, his eyes scanning the bustling crowd as if searching for hidden signs of danger. "But first, we need to get acquainted with this city. Every story here holds clues to our destiny."
Cezar laughed heartily as he adjusted his satchel. "Get ready, team—we're about to experience the real taste of Arcania. Who knows? We might stumble on a secret market or an ancient relic while we're out there. And remember, every step brings us closer to our first mission and maybe even to that elusive Wandering Hermit."
Their journey through the city wasn't merely practical—it was an immersion in Arcania's vibrant culture. As they wandered along narrow alleys and wide boulevards, they encountered friendly shopkeepers who praised the newcomers' unique style and impressive magical auras, despite never knowing their true origins. Some locals whispered excitedly when they saw the holographic displays of their statuses on public holo-boards—revering the high S+ ranks and the incredible abilities, like Rayan's rare command of Light, an attribute so potent it was often spoken of in hushed, awe-filled tones.
In one lively square, a group of seasoned adventurers clustered around a magical bulletin board, reading out new bounty notices. One of them, a grizzled veteran with silver hair, turned to his comrades and whispered, "I've never seen such a display before—an Angel with the power of Time and Light. That's something you only hear about in legends." His voice was filled with a mix of admiration and incredulity, and the others nodded in agreement.
As the four friends continued their stroll, they began to absorb the palpable mix of optimism and caution that permeated every corner of Arcania. They passed grand facades draped with banners displaying the emblems of old guilds and secret societies—symbols of power, unity, and sometimes, the corruption that had long tainted the establishment.
By midday, the bustling cityscape gave way to quieter, more mystical quarters, where ancient stone walls and overgrown ivy hinted at secrets from a bygone era. Here, the air was heavy with the whispers of forgotten magic, and the very ground seemed to shimmer with possibility.
"We're here," Tonio declared, pointing toward a faded sign that read Fountain Square in elegant, flowing script. "This is the heart of the city where tradition meets progress—and where our guild lies just around the corner."
The quartet paused in the square, taking a moment to absorb the beauty of Arcania—a city that boasted a legacy of legends and yet remained open to newcomers with genuine potential. At that moment, Rayan's mind drifted back to their earlier encounter with the hooded stranger and the mysterious parchment. The promise of the Wandering Hermit, the whispers of an S+ Demon General and an A-Rank Frost Dragon, all mingled with the promise of adventure that every corner of this city offered.
Yeon broke the reflective silence with a confident laugh, "Next, we'll report to the captain at the guild hall for our assignment. And trust me—if the corrupted beasts are as feisty as they say, we'll need every ounce of strength in this city to keep the title of True Dark Lord intact!" His playful tone belied the underlying excitement.
Cezar joined in, "I'm ready for whatever comes our way. With a bit of luck, maybe we'll even find that Wandering Hermit along our journey—and learn a thing or two about how to stop running from giant bears."
Rayan nodded, his resolve hardening. "We're not just here to survive—today marks the beginning of our legacy. Let's make every moment count."
Emboldened by the open streets and the promise of new challenges, the four friends melded into the lively crowd, each step carrying them further into Arcania's grand tapestry of magic, adventure, and hidden history. Their journey was just unfolding—a story yet to be written in the annals of legends.
End of Chapter 4