There was something in the wine

Roderick was feeling utterly dejected; it seemed like his luck had hit rock bottom. 

While strolling down the street, he inexplicably received an invitation to Mist Instance. Though reluctant, Roderick, considering himself astute, thought he might survive in Mist Instance and perhaps even reap some benefits. 

After all, tales were rife in Horror World about ghost kings breaking cycles and stepping into the realm of the Ghost Emperor through opportunities found in Mist Instance.

As someone who prided himself on his cleverness, Roderick left nothing to chance. He spent nearly all his fortune consulting several participants of past Mist Instances and even traded a special treasure to seek advice from a legendary figure who had broken two cycles and become a Ghost Emperor. 

Believing he had grasped the nuances of Horror World, Roderick confidently boarded the airship to Mist Instance.