The Lightbearer’s Invitation

Zaren was walking through the streets of Elyria, deep in thought. Should I go to our guild and clear another dungeon? he pondered. I have to be stronger, or I will be thrown away just like in my previous life. He clenched his fists and then whispered, "Teleport."

In an instant, he was teleported to Arcunam Guild's gate. As soon as he arrived, he noticed a luxurious carriage parked right in front of the guild. The golden trims and intricate designs on the carriage hinted at the high status of its owner. Has someone important come to our kingdom? Zaren thought.

He stepped forward and pushed open the massive wooden doors of the Arcunam Guild. The moment he entered, the entire guild fell silent. Hunters of all ranks—B, A, and even the formidable S-rank Maria—stood up in attention. The atmosphere was heavy with tension. In the center of the hall, seated leisurely with a glass of wine in his hand, was Finn. His right-hand man stood behind him, exuding a strong presence.

Zaren furrowed his brows as he observed the scene. Who is this man that even Maria and the other hunters are reacting this way?

Maria stepped closer to Zaren and leaned in to whisper, "He is the second SSS+ rank hunter, Finn, from Doryos Kingdom. He can control light magic."

Zaren smirked slightly. "Don't worry. I'll handle this."

Maria's eyes widened in surprise as Zaren confidently stepped forward. Finn, noticing Zaren's approach, stood up and smiled. "So, you are the new hunter? Zaren, was it?"

Zaren nodded. "Yes."

Finn's smile widened. "What do you think about joining our guild?"

Maria's heart skipped a beat. No… He is my hunter… No, actually, he is our guild's hunter.

Zaren's gaze remained steady. He tilted his head slightly downward before responding, "Sir, I've already told someone that I don't wish to join another guild. I'm sorry, but I have to reject your offer."

A flicker of curiosity passed through Finn's eyes. This is the hunter who defeated Jaxon? he thought. He must be quite skilled.

Finn chuckled. "I see. No problem. But if you don't mind, would you care to have some tea with me?"

Zaren evaluated Finn's demeanor and concluded that he didn't seem hostile. I guess this SSS+ rank hunter is kind-hearted, he thought before replying, "Yeah, why not?"

Maria let out a silent sigh of relief. She quickly stepped between them. "Sir, I will arrange tea in our official guest room so you two can wait there. The waiters will serve you shortly."

Both Zaren and Finn nodded, and they proceeded to the guest room.

---

Meanwhile, in the royal palace, King Alaric received the news of Finn's arrival. He leaned back in his throne, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Another SSS+ rank hunter in our kingdom? First, Jaxon, and now Finn…"

For a brief moment, he was alarmed. But then he relaxed and smiled. As long as we have a loyal hunter on our side, we should be fine.

At the same time, word spread quickly across Elyria. In Celestis Guild, Guild Master Varric sat at his desk, deep in thought. "First, the ruler of lightning, Jaxon, an SSS+ rank hunter. Now, another one who controls light magic?"

He sighed and shook his head. "I suppose Zaren has truly become popular. I guess our guild's title as the strongest in Elyria Kingdom is slipping away…"

Varric leaned back in his chair and smirked. "But then again, Arcunam Guild has lost their guild master, Mario. I suppose I shouldn't feel too jealous of them."

Over in Aetheris Guild, Noric was equally shocked. "What the hell? Zaren has really become that popular and powerful? Even the strongest guilds are trying to recruit him?"

He smirked. "Nice job, Zaren. I wish I could have recruited you into our guild." He let out a sigh before leaving his office, deep in thought.

(Chapter 25 Fin)