The air shimmered as Metatron crossed the colossal gate. Warm sunlight replaced Frostvale's icy gloom, and a sprawling city of steel and stone unfolded before him—the StoneDragon Empire. Towering spires pierced the sky, their banners fluttering crimson and gold. Crowds moved like flowing rivers below, a mix of players and NPCs filling the streets with the pulse of life.
Two imperial guards stood at the inner checkpoint, their armor plated in obsidian scales that glinted under the sun. One raised his halberd as Metatron approached.
"Traveler, state your business," the guard demanded, his tone formal yet curious.
Metatron deactivated his mask, revealing his face beneath the black hood. "Passing through. Registering as a traveler," he said evenly.
The second guard scanned his ID tag, eyes narrowing at the golden outline flashing across the interface—proof of high rank. "Registration approved. Entry fee—ten Ascender Coins."
With a flick of his fingers, Metatron transferred the payment. The massive inner gates parted, releasing a faint hum of magic as the system confirmed his entry.
> [New Region: StoneDragon Empire – Outer City Registered]
The capital was built in layers. The Outer Layer bustled with forges, trade halls, and crowded taverns where adventurers compared loot and rumors. Beyond it, shimmering walls marked the Inner Layer, where nobles and elite players resided. And far above, at the city's heart, the Imperial Layer loomed—its floating castle radiating energy that reached even the lower streets.
Metatron navigated the bustling marketplace, searching quietly through his interface. He found a listing in the Azure Crest Apartment Complex—a luxury area meant for upper-tier players. Without hesitation, he tapped Rent.
> [Transaction Complete – 450 Ascender Coins Deducted]
[Key Item Acquired: Azure Crest Apartment Keycard]
As he entered the marble-floored lobby, NPCs turned their heads. Whispered comments rippled behind him.
> "He actually rented one of those rooms…"
"Must've cleared something big."
"Rich players keep showing up from nowhere lately."
Metatron ignored them. He climbed to the second floor and slid the keycard into the lock. The door opened with a soft hiss, revealing a minimalist apartment: clean design, blue-lit walls, and a single neatly made bed.
He sat down, exhaling. The mattress adjusted automatically, and his visor pulsed once.
> [Respawn Location Automatically Set – Azure Crest Apartment, StoneDragon Empire]
The glow faded. Outside, the sun dipped behind the city's towers, and Metatron leaned back, quiet and calm.
He had arrived. And the empire had just gained its first ghost in the system.