The sun had barely risen when Rey and his entourage arrived at the grand Adventurer's Guild. The moment they entered, the atmosphere erupted with cheers. Voices rose in unison, echoing off the high stone walls.
"Clan Origin has arrived!"
The sound was deafening. Adventurers from all corners of the guild looked toward them with admiration and excitement. Among them, some even bowed slightly, acknowledging the reputation of the legendary Clan Origin.
From the shadows of the main hall, a tall figure emerged. His presence was immediately commanding, radiating an air of authority and disdain. It was Zeldric, the leader of Clan Obsidian. His eyes fixed on Willson, who had stepped forward as the representative of their clan.
"Willson," Zeldric began, his voice sharp and deliberate, "you dare show your face here without bowing? Do you truly believe the leader of Clan Origin deserves my respect?"
Willson, flanked by Drax and the others, stepped down from the carriage as Alex had instructed. "Zeldric," he said calmly, "I am here only to sign the treaty. Once that is done, we will leave. Do not make this difficult."
Zeldric's lips curved into a smile, but it was the kind of smile that could chill a man's blood. "Ah… Willson," he said, eyes narrowing, "ever since you cleared Floor Seven, your arrogance has grown. Tell me—should I remind you what must happen when we meet?"
Willson remained silent. His stoicism only fueled Zeldric's irritation.
Eris, standing beside him, sneered, her tone cold. "You have no authority to command us."
Before the tension could escalate further, another voice called from inside the guild. "Zeldric, have you finished?"
A figure clad in gleaming golden armor stepped forward. He exuded the aura of a war king, his presence commanding the space around him. This was Mercury, leader of Clan Aegis.
Mercury's gaze swept over Clan Origin's arrival, and he clapped slowly, mockingly. "Well… well… it seems the clan who has contributed most to this nation has finally shown up. I thought you all were still sleeping comfortably in your little hideout."
His eyes lingered on Eris, a sly, almost predatory smile tugging at his lips. He stepped closer to her, his voice smooth yet dangerous. "Eris… leader of Clan Rose, yes? I have a proposal: become my woman, and I will make you the most influential person in this country."
A flash of fury ignited in Tristan's eyes. With a roar, he drew his massive sword, stepping between Eris and Mercury. "Do you think I am not here?"
Mercury's laughter was cold, almost venomous. "Ah… so the loser of Clan Glory finally returns to rekindle old affections, do you?" he sneered, sharing a glance with Zeldric.
A dark, oppressive aura emanated from Mercury. The atmosphere itself seemed to thicken. His presence alone pressed down on Tristan, forcing him to his knees. Mercury stepped onto Tristan's shoulder, his voice dripping with contempt. "You dare unsheathe your sword in front of me? Insolent and foolish."
As he raised his own weapon, ready to strike, Eris, Willson, and Drax tensed, panic flashing in their eyes. Mercury's aura immobilized them all. Evelyn and Vincent, sensing the danger, joined forces, combining their magic to resist the oppressive force. They tried to neutralize it, but the backlash threw them both to the ground, blood trickling from their mouths.
Mercury's expression was calm, almost bored. "You think this is all I have?"
His blade descended toward Tristan's neck in a deadly arc. But suddenly, a sharp metallic clang rang out. Another sword had intercepted Mercury's strike, halting it midair. He froze, momentarily thrown off by the audacity of the attacker.
A gentle voice rang out, clear and unwavering. "Do not think Clan Origin lacks formidable warriors."
From the shadows, Floryn stepped forward, her stance graceful yet deadly, halting Mercury's relentless assault. Mercury's lips curled into a faint, appreciative smile. "Another beautiful warrior… it seems Clan Origin is coveted by all."
Zeldric's face betrayed a rare flicker of uncertainty. "Mercury, your words are… perhaps accurate. I, too, have seen someone remarkable—someone desired by your sibling, yes? A mage named… Melvin, if I am not mistaken."
Before either Mercury or Zeldric could respond, a sudden wave of immense power slammed into them. Zeldric coughed up blood, staggering backward, while Mercury dropped to one knee, sweat pouring down his forehead. In his mind, he trembled. "This… this power… who is… who?"
The aura dissipated as abruptly as it had appeared. Helberg emerged from the crowd, his expression dark and unreadable. "Mercury! Zeldric! What do you think you are doing?"
He turned to the Clan Origin members, bowing slightly in respect. "Welcome, Clan Origin. Willson, are you here to sign the treaty on behalf of your clan?"
A voice, calm and confident, came from the carriage Rey had been riding. "No. We will handle the treaty ourselves."
Rey and Alex stepped down, leaving the carriage behind. Mercury and Zeldric glanced at them, but neither detected any significant aura from the newcomers. Mercury's attention, however, was immediately drawn to a figure standing nearby—Luna. Her beauty was breathtaking, and desire flickered in Mercury's eyes. "This woman… I must have her."
Helberg gestured for Clan Origin to follow him inside. The grand hall was already filled with important figures. Edric and King Carlos were present, but two other figures stood near the center, observing Rey as he made his way to the chair reserved for him.
"You are Duke Ace?" one of them asked, his voice carrying weight.
"That is correct," Rey replied evenly. "And you are…?"
"I am the Grand Elder of the Arden Family," the man introduced himself, and the moment he exuded his aura, the entire hall went silent. The sheer force of his presence pressed down on everyone, even King Carlos himself.
Yet one figure dared to challenge the pressure: a member of the royal family. With a forceful gesture, he halted the Grand Elder, speaking with authority. "Hey! Do you intend to kill the king in front of me?"
The Grand Elder's gaze flicked toward him, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Forgive me, Silver Spear. I was only teasing our new acquaintance." His eyes then rested on Rey, dark and unreadable, as if attempting to peer into his soul.
Silver Spear, the royal commander and King Carlos's personal guardian, stood tall. His presence was commanding, his level an impressive 138. He strode forward, extending his hand toward Rey.
"Welcome, Duke Ace," Silver Spear said. "I have heard of you and Clan Origin. I am proud of your accomplishments."
Rey clasped Silver Spear's hand firmly. "Thank you for your words. May I ask—who exactly are you?"
As he spoke, Rey activated his Invisible Sight Function, his eyes scanning, analyzing. The stats of Silver Spear came into view, each number telling a story of strength, discipline, and lethal capability.
The room fell silent, tension lingering like a thick fog. The Guild, the leaders, the royalty—all were present, each aware that a storm had arrived in the form of Clan Origin. And at the center of it, Rey stood composed, confident, the weight of his aura subtle yet undeniable, promising that the coming negotiations would not be taken lightly by anyone present.
Rey's eyes lingered on the stats displayed before him. The system had revealed the profile of Nolan, a warrior of unparalleled strength.
Name: Nolan
Level: 138
Race: Human
Role: Warrior
Title: Silver Spear
Stats:
HP – 13,250 (×80%)
STR – 1,024 (×120%)
AGI – 895 (×75%)
SPD – 905 (×75%)
INT – 899 (×102%)
END – 857 (×85%)
MP – 937 (×40% mana capacity ×15% mana regeneration)
Unique Item: Light Armor (35% cooldown reduction, crowd control and slow duration reduced by 40%)
The presence of a "Unique Item" struck Rey as odd. He frowned, raising a question to the system. "Hey… why is Nolan's Unique Item even visible?"
The system's calm, mechanical voice answered. "Host is currently Level 70. The system is entering an update phase; Version 3.0 will unlock in ten levels."
Rey froze. Just a moment ago, he had been Level 67. How had he jumped to 70? He blinked, perplexed.
"The increase in level," the system continued, "is due to the effects of the 'Regeneration Core.' It grants a hidden bonus: Aura Manipulation. The Core absorbs and converts ambient aura into experience points. The effect is minor but continuous."
Rey's eyes narrowed. "When did this effect activate?"
"Since the acquisition of the Regeneration Core," the system explained, "though the ambient aura near the host is usually weak, rendering the effect negligible. During your confrontation with the Divine Beast Draconar, however, the purity of its aura amplified the conversion of energy into experience, resulting in rapid leveling."
Rey leaned back slightly, digesting the revelation. The implications were staggering. Not only had the Core granted him a hidden method of accumulating experience, but the same effect had subtly boosted his power without his direct intervention. He studied Nolan's stats again, his mind racing. If Nolan fought seriously, there was no doubt in Rey's mind: he could overwhelm Katarina without much difficulty. The numbers did not lie.
As Rey contemplated, the Grand Elder of the Arden Family rose from his seat. His movements were deliberate, commanding, each step heavy with authority. A dense, dark aura radiated from his figure, pressing down on everyone in the room. His eyes, sharp and calculating, fixed on Rey with an intensity that sent a chill down the spines of those nearby.
"You are… impressive," the Grand Elder said, his voice low but resonant. "I did not expect a newly ascendant clan to receive such recognition from the Royal Family."
The aura behind him pulsed, a silent intimidation. "However," he continued, his tone darkening, "do not rejoice too quickly. What you have achieved so far… is merely a small beginning."
Rey said nothing, keeping his composure outwardly. Yet within, a fire ignited, a slow-burning anger he fought to suppress. Before it could flare, a hand rested lightly on his shoulder. He turned slightly to see Alex, expression grave, silently shaking his head. The message was clear: control your emotions. This was a formal negotiation, and any rash action could compromise their position.
King Carlos, seated at the head of the grand table, raised his hand to silence the murmuring in the hall. "Today marks a historic day for both Clan Origin and the Arden Family," he began. His voice carried across the hall, authoritative yet measured. "This gathering represents the formalization of a treaty, sanctioned by the Kingdom of Christope, with the endorsement of the Chriss family, and supported by the noble families of the entire realm."
The Grand Elder's eyes flicked to Helberg with a sharp, unspoken warning, as though daring him to intervene. Helberg's jaw tightened imperceptibly, yet he remained silent.
King Carlos continued, spreading a formal scroll across the polished table. "The treaty confirms that Clan Origin and the Arden Family will participate jointly in the upcoming tournament. Stakes have been set for both parties, with clear consequences for failure."
He gestured toward the scroll. Rey leaned slightly forward, examining the precise wording.
"For the Arden Family," King Carlos recited, "should they lose:
They shall never interfere with Clan Origin again.
Compensation of 25 Mana Stones will be provided to Clan Origin.
The territory of Clan Glory shall be restored to its rightful rulers."
A faint ripple ran through the hall as nobles whispered among themselves.
King Carlos then turned to the representatives of Clan Origin. "And for your clan, should you fail:
Compensation of 25 Mana Stones must be surrendered to the Arden Family.
Clan Origin will be dissolved.
All assets, territories, and forces of Clan Origin shall be placed under the control of Clan Aegis and Clan Obsidian.
The title of Duke shall be stripped from your leader, and they shall be made a subordinate to the Arden Family."
The room fell into silence. The weight of the terms was palpable. Rey's jaw clenched imperceptibly. He glanced around the hall, noting the faces of Mercury and Zeldric, both of whom masked their interest with forced neutrality. Mercury's eyes, however, lingered on Luna, betraying his personal desires, while Zeldric's gaze swept over the assembled nobles with subtle calculation.
Helberg stepped slightly closer to Rey, his presence reassuring. The man's expression remained unreadable, but the slight tightening of his fists signaled readiness. Beside Rey, Alex's posture was rigid, eyes scanning the room for any sign of hostility or manipulation.
Rey straightened his back, his mind analyzing the situation. The stakes were monumental. Not merely a competition, but the very survival and legacy of Clan Origin hung in the balance. One misstep, one poorly timed reaction, and they could lose everything—their clan, their lands, their honor.
The Grand Elder's gaze softened, though his aura remained heavy. "Clan Origin," he said slowly, "your accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. Yet understand this: the tournament will not be decided by reputation or past deeds. Strength alone will determine victory."
Rey's eyes narrowed slightly, and though his lips remained neutral, a subtle aura began to radiate from him. It was not the full power he could unleash, but a faint signature of his presence, almost imperceptible to casual observation. It served as a quiet warning: underestimate him at your peril.
King Carlos nodded, as though acknowledging the silent tension. "This is not merely a test of skill. It is a demonstration of loyalty, strategy, and endurance. All parties must recognize the seriousness of the agreement they are about to enter. Clan Origin, are you prepared to proceed under these terms?"
Rey inhaled deeply, steadying his thoughts. He allowed his eyes to sweep across the hall once more, lingering on the most dangerous elements: Mercury, Zeldric, and the Grand Elder himself. Each posed a potential threat, yet none could intimidate him further than the stakes themselves.
"We are prepared," Rey replied, his voice calm but carrying a weight that resonated through the hall. "Clan Origin will honor the terms of this treaty, and we shall prove our worth in the tournament."
A hush fell over the room. Even King Carlos seemed slightly impressed by the certainty in Rey's tone. The Grand Elder's dark gaze lingered, appraising him.
"Very well," the Elder said finally, stepping back. "The treaty shall be executed. But remember this—success or failure, every action from this point forward will be watched. One misstep, and consequences will be absolute."
The moment Rey's eyes fell upon the terms of the treaty, a surge of anger erupted within him. His aura, subtle at first, began to spread like wildfire, filling the grand chamber with a palpable, suffocating pressure. Every noble, adventurer, and soldier present felt it pressing against their very souls. Even Nolan, the formidable Silver Spear, instinctively wiped sweat from his brow, sensing the overwhelming force around him.
Yet no one could pinpoint the source; Rey had withdrawn his full strength, keeping the majority of his aura contained. His voice, calm but laced with underlying steel, cut through the oppressive silence.
"This treaty… is unfair."
The Grand Elder slammed his staff onto the polished floor. The sound reverberated like thunder, accompanied by a surge of oppressive energy that pressed down upon Rey. "You insolent child!" the Elder bellowed. "How dare you speak to me in such a manner?"
Rey's gaze remained unwavering. "I am telling you, old man… this treaty is invalid. I will not sign it."
The Elder's fury flared instantly. He rose to his full height, and as he did, brilliant runes of magic ignited in the air around him, radiating a blinding, almost divine light. Gasps and murmurs filled the hall as observers instinctively recoiled. Evelyn and Vincent exchanged glances, both frozen in awe. Vincent muttered under his breath, "This… this is Advanced-tier magic."
(Magic, as the system defined, was categorized into five tiers: Basic, Intermediate, High, Advanced, and Supreme.)
The Grand Elder's hands crackled with searing flames of Advanced-tier power, the heat and radiance pressing against every person in the chamber. Just as the first spark of fire began to form, Nolan stepped forward, unwavering. His massive sword gleamed as he raised it in a defiant stance.
"Hey, old man," Nolan barked, his voice firm, echoing across the chamber. "You better stop right there!"
The Grand Elder's eyes narrowed, a faint sneer forming. "Nolan… do you wish to die over this brat?"
Nolan's lips curled into a determined grin. "Don't assume everyone acts like you. Consider this your warning—stop your attack now!"
The Elder's expression hardened, but a faint amusement lingered. "Do you truly think you are my equal, Nolan?"
"I don't know now," Nolan said, chuckling low, "but ten years ago… you couldn't even defeat me."
A vein of anger surged across the Elder's forehead, his eyes blazing like molten gold. His aura intensified, threatening to overwhelm all within the room. Sparks danced across the runes etched in the air, the heat of his power becoming almost unbearable.
Then, cutting through the escalating tension, a calm but commanding voice resonated through the chamber. It carried an aura of authority so strong that even Nolan felt chills creep down his spine.
"GRAND ELDER, CEASE YOUR ATTACK! GIVE HIM WHAT HE DESERVES!"
The room fell silent, as if the very walls themselves had frozen. The Elder's eyes widened, and slowly, he retracted his flames. Nolan exhaled sharply, relief washing over him as the oppressive energy finally dissipated. At Rey's side, the entire Clan Origin contingent sank into their seats, exhausted from the sheer intensity of the magical display. Even Alex, usually unshakable, struggled to draw a steady breath.
"Rey… that power," Alex whispered, his voice tight. "It's… stronger than yours."
Rey remained silent, his mind racing. Who is the head of the Arden Family? he thought, intrigued despite the chaos.
The Grand Elder, now controlling his previous display of fury, straightened himself. His eyes, dark and piercing, returned to Rey. "Boy, I will grant you the opportunity to amend this treaty. Speak your terms."
Rey's expression hardened. He moved swiftly, quill in hand, ready to inscribe the changes that would define the fate of two powerful clans.
"I accept," he said with cold certainty. "I will draft a new treaty."
The revised terms, precise and unyielding, were laid out:
For the Arden Family, if victorious:
1. They shall never interfere with Clan Origin again.
2. Provide compensation of 25 Mana Stones.
3. Restore the lands of Clan Glory.
4. All titles and the Duke status held by the Arden Family must be relinquished, and they shall leave the Kingdom of Christope.
For Clan Origin, if defeated:
1. Provide compensation of 25 Mana Stones.
2. Dissolve Clan Origin.
3. All assets, forces, and territory of Clan Origin will be placed under the control of Clan Aegis and Clan Obsidian.
4. The title of Duke will be stripped, and the leader shall serve the Arden Family.
The chamber fell into a tense silence as everyone absorbed the audacity of Rey's additions. The Grand Elder's face turned crimson with fury, veins throbbing in his neck. His hands clenched, trembling slightly, yet he radiated a dangerous composure.
"Ace," he thundered, "do you intend to declare war on the Arden Family?"
Even as he spoke, the invisible, powerful aura Rey had felt earlier surged once more. It pressed upon him, relentless and intimidating, demanding acknowledgment. "YOU ARE ARROGANT! IF THIS IS TRULY WHAT YOU WANT… I WILL ACCEPT! BUT IF YOU LOSE, I WANT YOUR HEAD DISPLAYED BEFORE YOUR PEOPLE!"
Alex flinched. The thought of Rey facing such a threat sent shivers down his spine. He whispered urgently, "Rey… are you certain about this?"
Rey's eyes met Alex's. Calm, unyielding, and radiating unspoken power, he responded to the voice with measured determination, sweat forming at his temples from the pressure of the Elder's aura.
"Very well," Rey said, his voice carrying across the hall. "I accept your challenge!"
With that, the new treaty was inscribed and formalized. Rey and Alex, as leaders of Clan Origin, signed their names with solemnity. The scroll was then handed to King Carlos, who nodded in approval, declaring it an official decree of the kingdom—binding, historic, and monumental.
Meanwhile, in the quiet chambers of the Arden Family, Loid sat alone, two artifacts cradled in his hands. His expression was calculating, composed, and filled with a cold intent. Before him stood two subordinates, waiting patiently.
"You must erase them from existence," Loid instructed, voice calm but imbued with authority.
The two-subordinate bowed in unison, their own aura radiating discipline and lethal intent. "Understood, Master," they said, their voices steady, unwavering. "This task will be completed."
Loid nodded, motioning for them to leave. They vanished into the shadows, leaving him alone in the dimly lit chamber. His eyes then fell upon a swirling portal at the far end of the room.
Stepping forward, he bowed respectfully to the figure within the portal. "Master," he said, voice reverent. "Everything will be handled. The artifact will be obtained immediately."
A deep, commanding voice echoed from the portal, sharp and urgent. "GOOD. YOU MUST ACQUIRE IT QUICKLY. FAILURE IS UNACCEPTABLE!"
Loid lowered his head, replying with utmost respect, "Yes, Master."
In that moment, the weight of the kingdom, the families, and the impending conflicts pressed down like a storm on all sides. Within the Guild Hall, Rey's aura simmered beneath control, a quiet yet unmistakable declaration that Clan Origin was prepared for whatever came next.
Outside, the Arden Family's machinations stirred. Loid's artifacts gleamed ominously, hinting at hidden power and schemes yet to unfold. The threads of fate were being woven, and every decision, every challenge, promised to reshape the balance of Christope itself.
And Rey… stood at the center of it all, calm, resolute, and ready to seize destiny by the reigns.