Raven.

Salzar.

Rael's steps slowed as he recognized the man immediately. Jet-black hair, sharp features, and that same smirk that carried the weight of past confrontations. A former enforcer of the Ravens. Not just some random player—Salzar had been part of one of the most notorious organizations back in the pro scene.

The Ravens. Ruthless, calculating, and unrelenting. Unlike most teams that played for glory, they played for dominance. Their goal wasn't just to win—it was to make sure you lost. They specialized in psychological warfare, turning rivalries into grudges and breaking players before they ever set foot in a match. And in their prime, they had been one of the few groups that could go toe-to-toe with Remembrance of the Fallen (ROF)—Rael's former team.

But Salzar wasn't alone.

Two figures flanked him—both unfamiliar. One was a burly man with short-cropped hair and a deep scar running down his cheek, arms crossed as he observed silently. The other was leaner, with an unreadable expression, silver piercings lining his ears. Their presence was intentional, standing just close enough to reinforce Salzar's presence without speaking.

Salzar's gaze flicked over Leon before landing on Rael. The smirk widened.

"Well, well… Aureus."

Rael didn't react, but inside, something clicked into place. Solmora's avatars reflected real-life appearances to a degree—an eerie design choice that made it harder to hide. Hair and eye color could be altered, but facial structure? Bone structure? Posture? Those stayed. It wasn't a one-to-one replica, but close enough that someone with a sharp eye—someone who had studied him before—could recognize him.

And Salzar was nothing if not observant.

Leon tensed beside him. "Damn it. You again?"

Salzar ignored him, stepping closer. His eyes lingered on Rael's face, as if confirming his own suspicions. "Didn't think I'd see you here of all places. Thought you disappeared."

Rael's expression remained unreadable. "You're mistaken. The name's Noctus."

Salzar chuckled. "Right. And I'm the God-Emperor's chosen champion." He crossed his arms, tilting his head. "You know, I've been wondering where you ran off to after everything. No big announcements, no farewell tour—just gone."

Rael kept his tone flat. "I moved on."

Salzar studied him for a moment, then exhaled through his nose in amusement. "Heh. That so?" His smirk returned, but there was something colder beneath it now. "You know… some people weren't too happy about that."

Leon folded his arms, eyes narrowing. "Alright, what's your deal? You just here to stir shit, or are you actually up to something?"

Salzar let out a short laugh before gesturing to the two behind him. "You could say I'm rebuilding."

Rael's brows furrowed slightly. "Rebuilding?"

Salzar nodded. "The Ravens disbanded three years ago. But things change. You've heard the buzz, haven't you? About how Ascent might become the biggest game in competitive history? Full immersion, no skill ceiling, real-world stakes... It's going to redefine esports, and I intend to be at the top when it does."

Leon scoffed. "So, what? You're putting the Ravens back together just to ruin another scene?"

Salzar's smirk deepened. "That's a crude way of putting it. Let's just say… I see an opportunity."

He let the silence stretch before finally gesturing to the two beside him. "Let me introduce you to my new teammates," he said smoothly. "Silvershadow and Ragar."

The leaner of the two, Silvershadow, gave a half-smirk, his silver piercings catching the dim city lights. His gaze lingered on Rael for a moment longer than necessary, like he was committing his face to memory. "So this is the infamous Aureus," he murmured. His voice was sharp, measured, like a blade being tested before a duel.

The bulkier one—Ragar—just snorted. His scarred face twisted into something between amusement and disdain. "Didn't expect to run into a fallen legend so soon," he muttered. His posture was relaxed, but there was some edge to it.

Rael didn't bother responding. Instead, he looked back to Salzar. "And?"

Salzar chuckled, shaking his head. "And nothing. Just thought you'd like to meet some of the people who'll be shaping the future."

Leon scoffed. "Shaping the future? You mean ruining it."

Salzar ignored him. "Noctus, let's be real here. You and I both know where this is heading. This game isn't just some casual MMO. It's going to be the next proving ground. The next battlefield. And those who recognize that early will be the ones who come out on top."

Rael kept his expression unreadable.

Salzar spread his arms. "Look, I'm not here to dig up old wounds. I get it—ROF had its moment, and you walked away. Fine. But let's not pretend like you don't still have that hunger. A game like this? It's built for people like us."

"People like us?" Rael echoed.

"Competitors," Salzar said simply. "The ones who don't just play to win—we play to dominate. To leave a mark." His smirk returned, sharp and knowing. "And you, Noctus… you were one of the best at it."

Rael didn't respond.

Leon, however, had heard enough. "Alright, are we done here? Or do you have more bullshit to spew?"

Salzar chuckled. "For now? I'll leave it at that. But something tells me we'll be seeing each other again soon." He turned on his heel, Silvershadow and Ragar falling into step behind him.

As they disappeared into the crowd, Leon let out a breath. "Yeah, that's gonna be a problem."

Rael didn't disagree.

Salzar and his group were dangerous—not just because of their skill but because they already understood how to navigate Solmora's world at a deeper level than most. If they were planning something, it was only a matter of time before they clashed again.

But for now, there were other things to focus on.

He turned his attention back to the streets of Vash'kar. The city buzzed with life, a mixture of knights, scholars, and merchants weaving through its cobbled roads. Unlike the previous town where Rael started, Vash'kar had a raw energy to it. It was a frontier city, a place where ambition and opportunity thrived in equal measure. The architecture blended practicality with reverence—strong, fortified walls standing alongside towering spires adorned with holy insignias.

Leon nudged him. "Let's keep moving. There's still a lot to see."

The two ventured deeper, taking in the sights. Blacksmiths hammered away at enchanted weapons, the ring of steel filling the air. Alchemists peddled glowing elixirs that pulsed with energy. Spellcasters showcased arcane techniques for eager onlookers, while wandering merchants hawked exotic goods from distant lands.

But amidst all the marvels, one structure stood out.

The Church of Sonoros.

It loomed above the city, a grand cathedral of ivory and gold, its stained-glass windows casting kaleidoscopic light onto the plaza below. The air felt heavier here, as if the very ground pulsed with divine energy. Rows of statues lined the stairway leading up to the entrance—towering depictions of saints and warriors clad in radiant armor, their expressions solemn and watchful.

Leon let out a low whistle. "Subtle. Real subtle."

Rael's gaze lingered on the cathedral. The Order's presence was undeniable, but there was something more to this place. He could feel it.

As they made their way toward the entrance, they found themselves caught in the flow of robed priests and armored paladins moving through the courtyard. Discussions of faith and duty filled the air, blending with the distant echoes of hymns from within the cathedral.

A priest in embroidered white robes stepped forward, his eyes sharp with curiosity. "You walk the path of the divine, do you not?"

Rael hesitated. He wasn't expecting to be singled out.

Leon, however, smirked. "Oh, I don't know. What gave it away? The armor, the sword, or the general aura of righteousness?"

The priest chuckled. "A templar's path is unmistakable." His gaze shifted between them. "And your companion?"

"Not so righteous," Leon said with a grin. "I'm a mage."

The priest nodded thoughtfully. "Then your road lies elsewhere. But for you, templar… this place is more than just a house of worship." He gestured toward the cathedral. "The Church of Sonoros does not merely guide the faithful—it offers the devoted a path to ascension."

Rael's brow furrowed. "Ascension?"

"Those who dedicate themselves to Sonoros may transcend their limits," the priest explained. "A warrior who proves their devotion may become a holy warrior. A healer may ascend to a holy priest. Even those of other disciplines who embrace the light may find their path transformed."

Rael exchanged a glance with Leon.

"So this place is more than just a religious hub," Rael muttered. "It's a progression system for holy-based classes."

The priest nodded. "Those who walk the path of Sonoros may ascend beyond their station. A warrior may become a holy knight, a healer a blessed priest. Through faith and devotion, one may earn divine favor."

Leon raised an eyebrow. "And what? Just anyone can sign up and get a fancy holy upgrade?"

The priest smiled. "Faith is tested through trial. The Order watches closely, for only the worthy may ascend."

Rael remained silent, absorbing the implications. If the Church dictated progression for all holy classes, it meant they held significant control over an entire branch of power in Solmora. Anyone seeking divine strength would have to prove themselves on the Order's terms.

That level of influence reminded him of the God-Emperor. If the Church controlled the path of the faithful, where did that leave him? A ruler? A figurehead? Or something more?

"And the God-Emperor?" Rael asked.

The priest's expression darkened slightly. "To the faithful, the God-Emperor of Holy Grace is not merely a ruler—he is the will of Sonoros made manifest. His dominion is absolute because it is ordained by the heavens. To defy him is to defy divinity itself."

Leon let out a low breath. "That's a dangerous way of thinking."

The priest's eyes gleamed with something unreadable. "Truth and faith are one and the same in Solmora. You will come to understand this in time."

Rael exhaled. He wasn't here to debate theology.

* * *

As they stepped away from the towering presence of the Church of Sonoros, Leon stretched his arms above his head, exhaling loudly. "Well, that was intense. I feel holier already."

Rael smirked but said nothing. The church had given him a lot to think about, but right now, he was more concerned with getting a better grasp of what else Vash'kar had to offer.

Leon nudged him. "Hey, I saw an Adventurer's Guild on the way here. Might be worth checking out. They usually handle quests, and I'd rather be doing something than standing around basking in divine glory."

Rael nodded. "Lead the way."

The guild was a large stone hall, its entrance flanked by banners depicting crossed swords and a silver crest. Unlike the structured discipline of the church, the atmosphere here was lively and chaotic—mercenaries, hunters, and swords-for-hire filled the space, drinking, laughing, and haggling over rewards. The air smelled of ale, parchment, and sweat.

The receptionist, a kind-looking woman with auburn hair, greeted them as they approached the front desk.

"Newcomers?" she asked, glancing at their gear.

"That obvious?" Leon grinned.

She smirked. "If you're looking to register, it's five silver each. You'll start at E-rank and work your way up."

Rael fished out the coins without complaint. A small investment for future gains. Leon did the same, and within minutes, they were officially E-rank adventurers.

"Now what?" Rael muttered as they stepped away from the desk.

Leon motioned toward a massive wooden quest board where adventurers crowded around, scanning for jobs. Some were already being torn down by eager hands.

"Now, we pick a job."

Before Rael could answer, a ping sounded in his interface. He checked his messages.

[Gale: You in-game yet? Thinking of exploring.]

Rael typed a quick reply.

[Noctus: At Vash'kar. Catch up later?]

Gale's response came quickly.

[Gale: Got it. It'll take a while to reach you.]

Rael closed the interface.

Leon raised an eyebrow. "Who's that?"

"Gale, a guy I ran into earlier. Helped me train a bit," Rael replied. "We will catch up later."

Leon nodded. "More hands on deck. That works." He turned back to the board. "Alright, what's the play? Escort, bounty, or monster hunt?"

Rael scanned the postings. Most of the high-paying jobs were C-rank or higher, locked out to newcomers. But there were a few E-rank quests available. One caught his eye:

[Quest: Merchant Escort]

Rank: E

Details: A traveling merchant requires guards to escort his goods to a nearby outpost. Beware of potential goblin activity.

Reward: 60 silver per person

"Simple enough," Rael said, pointing at the listing. "We get some travel experience and maybe a fight."

Leon grinned. "Sign me up."

They took the quest slip to the receptionist, who nodded approvingly. "The merchant is already waiting at the east gate. Better hurry."

By the time they arrived at the eastern gates, a grizzled merchant stood beside a wooden cart laden with crates, tapping his foot impatiently. Two oxen were hitched to the cart, snorting in the cold air.

"You're the escorts?" the merchant asked, eyeing them skeptically.

Rael simply nodded.

The man grunted. "Fine. We're headed to Outpost Varin, about an hour's walk from here. Should be simple—unless goblins get any ideas."

The journey began smoothly. The forest-lined road leading out of Vash'kar was eerily quiet, save for the occasional rustling of leaves. The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows through the trees.

And then—movement.

Rael's instincts flared. He grabbed Leon's shoulder, stopping him mid-step.

A guttural chittering came from the underbrush.

Leon exhaled. "And here I was hoping for a peaceful walk."

The goblins rushed out from the treeline—small, wiry creatures with jagged weapons, their yellow eyes gleaming with hunger. There were five of them, their crude blades raised high.

Rael didn't hesitate.

Steel met flesh.

His sword flashed, cutting down the first goblin before it could react. Leon followed up with a blast of fireball, incinerating another in an instant. The remaining three hesitated, snarling uncertainly.

"Come on," Leon taunted, twirling his staff. "Let's make this fun."

The goblins lunged again. Rael parried, sidestepped, and slashed low, his blade cutting through sinew. Another goblin dropped.

The last two turned to flee.

Leon didn't let them.

A pulse of magic rippled through the air. Ice formed beneath the goblins' feet, locking them in place. With a casual flick of his fingers, Leon sent a final firebolt through their skulls.

The battle ended as quickly as it had begun.

Rael glanced at Leon, raising an eyebrow. "You also know ice magic?"

Leon smirked, flexing his fingers as traces of frost faded from them. "What, you thought you were the only one exploring?"

The merchant, who had been cowering behind the cart, peeked out. "Is… is it over?"

Rael flicked the blood from his blade. "Yeah."

Leon grinned. "Goblins aren't exactly a challenge."

They looted what little coin and scraps the goblins had, then continued on their way.

Back at the outpost, the merchant they had escorted greeted them with a relieved nod. "Well done, travelers. I was worried we'd run into worse, but you handled yourselves well." He handed them a small pouch of coins and a stamped parchment—proof of mission completion.

Rael checked the interface. [Quest Complete: Merchant Escort] flashed across his screen, followed by the rewards being added to his inventory.

Leon stretched. "Easy money."

As they left the outpost, Leon suddenly smirked. "You know… this reminds me of the old days."

Rael glanced at him. "How so?"

Leon shrugged. "Just us, running quests, taking down mobs, splitting rewards. Feels familiar." His tone shifted slightly, more thoughtful. "Have you thought about it?"

"About what?"

Leon gave him a look. "Starting a guild again."

Rael exhaled. The idea hadn't even crossed his mind—not yet, anyway.

"I don't know," he admitted. "Things are different now."

Leon raised an eyebrow but didn't push the topic. "If you say so."

As they walked back toward Vash'kar, Rael's vision suddenly flickered.

The game interface distorted for a fraction of a second—black and white static ripped across his screen, symbols flashing too fast to comprehend. A low, eerie whisper crawled through his ears, but before he could make sense of it—

It was gone.

Everything snapped back to normal.

Rael slowed his pace, frowning. That… was weird.

"Something wrong?" Leon asked.

Rael hesitated, then shook his head. "No. Just thought I saw something."

Leon shrugged. "Might be a fly. Anyway, I say we grab some food before taking another quest. You in?"

Rael gave the game interface another glance, but nothing seemed out of place.

"Yeah," he said, pushing the thought aside. "Let's go."