[9] Latest reforms

The world had undergone significant changes in the adventuring system. The most striking transformation was the emergence of clans—a new system that had replaced the old concept of ordinary adventurer parties.

In the past, a party consisted of just a few individuals working together for hunting and exploration. But now, a clan was a much larger and more organized version of that. Clans were no longer just small groups hunting monsters together—they had become massive organizations with clear structures, official headquarters, and members spread across various regions.

Each clan had its own hierarchy—starting from the leader, combat commanders, down to regular members who worked in different fields such as intelligence gathering, monster hunting, and artifact research. Some clans even had ties to kingdoms, nobles, or merchant guilds, making them more than just adventurer groups—they had become political and economic powers in the modern world.

More interestingly, clans often competed against each other for dungeon exploration rights, hunting grounds, and city protection contracts. Some were famous for their military strength, while others specialized in magic research or alchemy.

However, not all these changes were positive.

As the major clans grew more powerful, independent adventurers found it increasingly difficult to survive. Many dungeons were now under the control of certain clans, forcing unaffiliated adventurers to pay hefty fees just for entry permits. Even monster material trading was monopolized by clan networks, making it harder for individuals to sell their own loot.

In Fallrun City, tensions were at their peak.

Amid the cobblestone streets filled with merchants and old buildings, a group of adventurers gathered in front of the town hall—a massive building that had been temporarily turned into a defense coordination center against the upcoming wave. There, several major clans had taken control of strategic planning, preparing for the anticipated monster assault that would strike within hours.

However, the atmosphere was far from peaceful.

"This is ridiculous! The battle hasn't even started, and you're already talking about loot distribution?!"

A burly adventurer in worn-out armor stood in the middle of the crowd, his voice filled with fury. Before him, a well-dressed man from one of the major clans stared back with a neutral expression—as if he considered the protest nothing more than the complaints of an insignificant insect.

"The rules are simple," the clan member said coldly. "Clans like ours are the ones handling strategy, providing equipment, and taking the greatest risks. Naturally, we have the right to the largest share of the loot once the wave is over."

The independent adventurers erupted in outrage.

"Bullshit! We're fighting too! Without us, this city's defense wouldn't even hold!" someone shouted.

"Stop monopolizing all the monster materials!" another voice added.

The clan members, however, merely smirked, as if they were used to such disputes.

"If you don't like it, don't fight. No one's forcing you."

That remark ignited even more fury. Some of the independent adventurers were already gripping their weapons, fingers tightening around the hilts as if ready to draw at any moment. Anger burned in their eyes, especially among those who felt exploited.

On the other hand, the clan members remained unfazed. Despite being outnumbered, they had authority, resources, and influence. They were not just ordinary adventurers—they were part of the system that controlled this world.

One of them, a well-groomed man wearing a black robe with golden accents, stepped forward. He was more than just an adventurer—he was a public figure from a major clan. His smile was warm, his demeanor calm, yet every word he spoke cut like a dagger into the pride of those around him.

"Enough…" he said gently, as if soothing a group of stubborn children. "We all know this wave won't be easy. According to our informants, an Alpha-class monster will be leading the attack. If we weren't here, this city would be reduced to rubble."

Silence fell over the crowd.

Some of the independent adventurers exchanged uncertain glances.

The man continued, "You must understand why we take the largest share of the spoils. This isn't about greed—it's about responsibility. We take the greater risks, provide the strategy, and ensure victory. Without us… you would all just be monster fodder."

For a moment, no one spoke.

But the unspoken message was clear—

'You are nothing without us.'

The adventurers who had been furious moments ago now looked uneasy. Some still wanted to argue, but there was truth in the man's words. The major clans had access to information and resources that ordinary adventurers did not. If there really was an Alpha-class monster, the situation would be far worse than they had anticipated.

However, not everyone was convinced.

"Nonsense!" someone from the crowd shouted. "We're all fighting on the front lines—not just you! If we die, you die too! Why is the distribution still unfair?!"

The tension flared again. Several people stepped forward, while the clan members remained calm. They knew they held the upper hand.

But before the argument could escalate into physical conflict, a commanding voice echoed through the air, silencing the entire plaza.

"Enough!"

The voice carried authority and weight, forcing everyone to turn toward its source.

Standing on the balcony of a large building at the center of the city was a man in his fifties, his noble robes fluttering in the night breeze. A crest on his chest signified his status—he was Lord Ferrand Valtherion, the ruler of Fallrun City.

His piercing gaze swept across the crowd, and with his mere presence, the rising conflict slowly subsided.

"You are adventurers. Not street thugs brawling over a few coins," he declared, his voice calm yet carrying an undeniable sense of command. "I don't care if you are part of a major clan or an independent fighter. This city needs all of you."

Silence hung in the air.

Lord Ferrand continued, "The wave hasn't even started, and you're already fighting like this. If you continue, then when the monsters arrive, you won't fight as a unified force—you will die as divided individuals."

Several adventurers clenched their teeth, but no one dared to argue.

"We will discuss the loot distribution after the battle," he stated. "For now, focus on one thing—survival."

His words were final. No more room for debate.

The clan members retained their thin smiles, knowing they would still secure the biggest share of the rewards. But even they understood they couldn't openly defy the ruler of this city.

The independent adventurers, still feeling the injustice, reluctantly backed down.