A Brush with Power

Liam's mind raced.

A guild invitation?

From someone as important as Vance Eldrin?

This wasn't just an opportunity—it was a lifeline.

But before he could answer, Captain Rainer scoffed, folding his arms. "Guilds have no authority over law enforcement, Vance. He used unregistered magic. He still needs to be investigated."

The gathered townsfolk whispered among themselves. Some looked at Liam with newfound curiosity. Others, with fear.

Vance chuckled, unbothered. "And yet, you have no proof he did anything wrong. No summoning sigils, no forbidden runes. Just a unique talent that deserves recognition." He turned back to Liam, his eyes gleaming. "Unless you'd rather rot in a cell?"

Liam swallowed hard.

He glanced at the Brush of the Architect—his only proof that he wasn't useless.

Was he really about to throw everything away?

"…What would joining the Silver Veil mean?" Liam asked cautiously.

Vance smiled. "It means protection. It means resources. And most importantly—it means you won't be shackled like some common criminal." His gaze darkened slightly. "The city of Ardentia has many eyes, Liam. Not all of them are friendly."

That sent a shiver down Liam's spine.

Captain Rainer grunted, clearly displeased. But in the end, he sighed. "Fine. Take him, but the guild is responsible for him. If he causes trouble again, he won't be walking free."

Vance inclined his head. "A fair deal."

Liam barely breathed before Vance placed a hand on his shoulder. "Come. Let's get you somewhere safe."

And just like that, his life changed again.

---

The Silver Veil Guildhall

The streets blurred as Liam followed Vance through the heart of Ardentia.

The city at night was alive—paper lanterns swayed, casting golden hues over cobblestone streets. Merchants still peddled their wares, while adventurers laughed boisterously over drinks. Despite the looming monster threat, life went on.

Finally, they arrived at a tall, obsidian structure. Unlike the grand castles of noble factions, this place was sleek, built for function rather than display.

🔹 [Silver Veil Guildhall]

Vance pushed open the heavy doors, revealing a vast interior bustling with activity. Adventurers gathered in clusters, discussing missions and bounties. Magic orbs illuminated towering bookshelves, while enchanted maps hovered over a long central table.

Liam barely had time to take it in before Vance led him to a private chamber.

"Sit," Vance instructed, motioning to a chair. Liam hesitated before complying.

The guildmaster leaned against a desk, studying him. "You've had quite a night."

Liam scoffed. "That's an understatement."

Vance chuckled, but his eyes were sharp. "Tell me—how much do you know about your class?"

Liam hesitated. He'd only recently awakened as an Architect, and yet, nothing about it had felt normal. His brush had power. It defied the rules of ordinary crafting classes.

"…Not much," Liam admitted.

Vance smirked. "Then let's start with the basics."

He snapped his fingers.

A glowing scroll of light materialized between them. Liam's breath hitched as he saw the words etched across it:

🔹 [Class Analysis: The Architect]

🔸 A unique subclass categorized under Artisans.

🔸 Possesses the ability to materialize ink-based constructs.

🔸 Potential for Reality Alteration—further progression unknown.

Liam's eyes widened. Reality alteration?

Vance nodded, noticing his reaction. "You're not just any Architect, Liam. Your class has the potential to rewrite the battlefield."

Liam exhaled sharply. This was more than he'd expected—more than he'd ever dreamed.

Vance leaned closer, his voice lowering.

"But power like this doesn't go unnoticed. Some people would kill to control it."

Liam felt his stomach tighten.

"Which is why," Vance continued, "you need training. And allies." He extended a hand. "Join the Silver Veil properly. Learn to harness your gift."

Liam looked down at his brush.

This was his chance.

To grow stronger. To prove he wasn't useless.

Slowly, he reached out—

And clasped Vance's hand.

🔹 [Quest Accepted: The Architect's Path]

The road ahead was uncertain. Dangerous.

But for the first time, Liam wasn't walking it alone.