"Slash!" The sound of a sharp weapon cutting through echoed across the silent field.
"Thud, thud, thud."
"Gasp!"
Hurried footsteps rang out as someone ran for their life, followed by the low growls of beasts in pursuit.
"Plop, plop, plop."
Lowell fastened his pace, glancing back at the three carnivorous beasts chasing him.
Though he was already used to encountering dangerous creatures, he had never faced beasts with such intelligence. These wolves were far too coordinated, using their grey fur and speed to strike in unexpected ways.
They had tested him at first, observing his movements. And when they found his weakness, they exploited it. Whenever Lowell sliced forward, his back remained vulnerable—his focus always on the enemy in front, never on his surroundings.
"Kyaa!" His desperate shout resounded as he scarred one of the wolves' faces with his blade.
"Krik, krik!"
With a feral snarl, the beast launched itself toward Lowell, its eyes burning with fury.
It had been a month since Lowell and Gabriel left the cave, their journey marked by countless steps and silent reflections. They had traveled through dense forests, across rolling hills, and finally arrived at Eldoria, a bustling town known for its local guilds that managed dungeon explorations.
Eldoria was alive with activity. Adventurers filled the streets, exchanging tales of their exploits and planning new quests.
The guild hall, a sturdy building of stone and wood, stood at the heart of the town, its doors adorned with intricate carvings depicting legendary battles and mythical creatures.
Lowell and Gabriel entered the guild hall, greeted by the clamor of adventurers negotiating contracts and reporting their findings.
The guild master, a seasoned warrior with a grizzled beard and a stern expression, greeted them with a nod.
"Welcome, travelers. What brings you to our guild?"
"We seek to enter the Whispering Caverns," Gabriel replied, his tone calm and measured. "We wish to test our skills and gather resources."
The guild master's brows furrowed. The Whispering Caverns were dangerous, home to formidable creatures.
"The fee is substantial, but the rewards are great," he said. "We do not just let anyone in—you must be an official member of the guild."
Gabriel's patience thinned. "And why is that?"
The guild master sighed. "Because if something were to happen, the guild would be held responsible. Membership ensures the guild is not accountable for your actions. It is the law."
Gabriel remained unmoving, his expression unreadable. Lowell, sensing the guild master's meaning, suggested they reconsider. But Gabriel did not hesitate.
"We don't have enough money," he admitted. "We'll sign under the guild."
The guild master raised an eyebrow, surprised by the straightforwardness. "You wish to sign under our guild?"
"Yes," Gabriel said simply.
The guild master motioned for an attendant to bring the registration parchments. "Very well. You will need to sign with your blood to confirm your membership."
Gabriel and Lowell stepped forward, pressing their fingers against the parchment as their blood marked the contract.
The parchment shimmered faintly, revealing their Sigil Path.
Sigil 8.
The guild master glanced at the result, his expression unchanged. He had seen countless initiates at Sigil 8 before. Being Sigil 6 himself, he knew how common it was for newcomers to start at the lowest stage.
"Very well," he said evenly. "You are now officially members of Eldoria's guild."
The attendants handed them their guild badges. Gabriel took his without hesitation.
"Now, about the Whispering Caverns," the guild master continued. "Since you are official members, you may enter. But be warned—it is not a place for the weak."
Gabriel's fingers tightened around the badge, his gaze unwavering. "We'll manage."
The guild master sighed, then motioned for an attendant. "Take them to the dungeon portal."
Gabriel and Lowell followed through a secluded area, reaching a garden. At its center lay a pond, its surface fluctuating unnaturally, indicating it was a portal.
The servant nodded. "Young lads, it is here that we must part. May fortune favor you."
Gabriel stared at the portal, his fingers tightening around the necklace hidden beneath his clothes.
This was not just a test—it was a command. If he failed, the consequences would be severe. Without hesitation, he stepped forward, crossing into the unknown.