The scent of finely roasted meat and exotic spices filled the air as a silver-clad waiter set down a lavish dinner before Blue. A meal fit for a king—no, fit for someone who had finally made it.
Leaning back in his chair, he savored every bite, indulging in the richness of his newfound life.
Then, a system message appeared.
[SYSTEM MESSAGE]
Your powers are not meant for indulgence.
You are destined to grow, to leave your mark.
Blue barely spared it a glance.
"Yeah, I'll pass," he muttered, sipping his tea. "I'm finally rich. I'm gonna enjoy it. No interest in ruling the world or anything like that."
The system remained silent, as if annoyed by his response.
After finishing his meal, he stretched, yawned, and crawled into his luxurious bed, sinking into its softness. Life was good.
---
The Next Morning
A sharp knock at the door jolted him awake.
Groaning, Blue rubbed his eyes. He hadn't ordered room service.
Swinging the door open, he found three armored figures standing before him. Their polished armor gleamed under the morning sun, and their sheer presence radiated authority.
The man at the front, a towering figure with sharp eyes, spoke first.
"I am Surge, a Royal Guard of King Fen," he said firmly. "His Majesty has summoned you."
Blue blinked, still groggy. "Summoned? Why?"
Surge's gaze flickered to the platinum coin resting on Blue's nightstand.
"You possess a platinum coin," Surge stated. "That alone demands the King's attention." He paused, then added, "Had you not, we would have taken you forcefully. I am an S-Rank Level 3, after all."
Blue chuckled, amused. "That so? Not possible."
Surge frowned but said nothing.
"Can I at least eat first?" Blue asked, stretching. "This place is expensive, and I haven't had breakfast yet."
Surge glanced at his fellow guards. After a moment, he nodded.
"The King instructed us to treat you with respect. Go ahead."
---
Breakfast in Luxury
The inn's grand dining hall bustled with wealthy travelers and nobles, their gazes quickly shifting toward Blue as they noticed the Royal Guards shadowing him.
The manager, sensing an important guest, sent the finest waiters to serve him. Blue took his seat, ordering a hearty breakfast—fluffy omelets, smoked meats, fresh pastries, and an exquisite tea blend.
As he ate, whispers spread.
"Who is he…?"
"Royal Guards personally escorting him?"
"A noble in disguise?"
Blue ignored them, finishing his meal in peace. Once done, he stood, stretched, and followed Surge to the palace.
---
Meeting King Fen
The royal palace of Restoria was breathtaking—a towering masterpiece of marble, gold, and sapphire accents. Intricate carvings decorated its walls, and magical energy pulsed through its very foundation.
Inside the grand throne room, seated upon an ornate golden throne, was King Fen.
He exuded power. Clad in regal attire, his piercing gaze examined Blue with curiosity.
"Welcome," Fen said. "Now, tell me—who are you? From which noble family or kingdom do you hail?" His eyes narrowed. "A platinum coin is not something a common wanderer possesses."
Blue shrugged. "I'm just a traveler. Powerful, yes, but a noble? No."
Fen observed him closely, then muttered a command.
[The skill "Truth Finder" has been used on you.]
Would you like to counter it?
Blue smirked. "No, let it through."
The truth-seeking magic confirmed his words.
Fen leaned back, intrigued. "Interesting. And yet, you do not have an aura." His voice sharpened. "You claim to be powerful, but I sense nothing."
Blue, amused, casually adjusted the ring on his finger.
[Skill Added: Aura Generator]
Instantly, an overwhelming S-Rank Level 4 aura erupted around him, filling the throne room with a crushing presence.
The guards tensed. Surge's eyes widened in shock. Even Fen raised an eyebrow, impressed.
"You're only eighteen," the King mused. "Impressive."
He rested his chin on his hand. "So, tell me, what are your intentions in my kingdom?"
Blue gave a carefree smile. "To live peacefully, hang out with friends, and make a name for myself."
Fen studied him. Then, he smirked. "If you cause trouble or betray us, I will eliminate you."
Blue grinned. "That won't happen. I'm too fast."
He was fully aware that his ring's passive effect kept him calm and confident—perhaps too much so.
Fen chuckled. "Since you now consider Restoria your home, let me ask—what would you do if my kingdom were attacked?"
Blue leaned back. "This is my home now. I'll protect it."
The King's smirk grew into a full smile. "Good answer."
His fingers tapped the armrest of his throne. "I assume you won't flee because of your two C-Rank friends?"
Blue raised an eyebrow. "Ah, you know about them? Well, you are the King, after all."
Fen gave a slight nod. "I look forward to what you will accomplish."
Blue crossed his arms. "Before I go, I need a favor."
Fen arched a brow. "What is it?"
"You see, I'm new here and technically just an F-Rank hunter. But since you know my strength is S-Rank Level 4, can you give me a badge proving it?"
Fen hummed in thought. "I could order the Hunter's Guild to grant you an S-Rank badge, but they operate independently. They only comply in times of war or national emergencies."
He leaned forward. "Instead, I offer you something better. Since you've declared this kingdom your home, why not become a Hunter under my banner instead?"
Blue raised an eyebrow. "Kingdom Hunter?"
Fen nodded. "It comes with benefits.
• Guards won't bother you and will treat you with respect.
• You'll only be called for missions when necessary—maybe once or twice a month, or not at all.
• Unrestricted access to most areas of the kingdom.
• A direct line of contact with me if needed.
• Better pay—not that you need it."
He smirked. "And most importantly, an S-Rank badge recognized by Restoria. Other kingdoms won't dare look down on you, and if they do, it's as if they're disrespecting me."
Blue thought it over. Less work, more benefits.
"Sounds good," he said, accepting.
The King gestured to Surge. "My men will deliver your badge within a day."
With the matter settled, Blue turned toward the exit.
Then, with a smirk, he muttered, "Later."
In an instant, his body shimmered—and vanished.
The guards froze.
Even King Fen's eyes slightly widened.
"…He teleported," one of the guards whispered.
Surge clenched his fists. "Instant teleportation… with no chant or preparation?"
Fen leaned back, taken aback. "A space ability… instant teleportation… interesting. Almost unheard of in today's world."
A slow, amused smile crossed his face.
"Interesting little fellow."
His gaze shifted toward Surge. "Have spies keep an eye on him. Just in case."
Surge bowed. "Understood, Your Majesty."