Ethan straightened his jacket, feeling the weight of his promotion as he stepped into the Guild Branch Master's office. Word had already spread that Ethan Walker, barely a few months in as an E-Rank mercenary, was being promoted to D-Rank. And while it came with new privileges, he knew it would carry higher expectations and risks.
The office was quiet, its polished surfaces and dim lights reflecting the authority and discipline of the Valeris City guild branch. Kael stood to the right of the Branch Master, whose gaze was sharp, unyielding. He gestured for Ethan to sit, and as he did, Kael offered a nod of acknowledgment.
"Walker," the Branch Master began, his voice firm. "Your actions over the past few months have shown not only your skill but your commitment to our cause. Eliminating Xelthar and destroying his compound was no small feat, especially as an E-Rank mercenary, even with a D-rank mercenary as reinforcement." He paused, studying Ethan's face with an intensity that cut through any trace of formality. "Do you understand what it means to hold the D-Rank title in this sector?"
Ethan nodded, taking a steadying breath. "I understand it's more than just tougher missions, sir. D-Rank comes with responsibilities, both to the guild and to the mercenaries who work under me."
The Branch Master's expression softened, revealing a faint smile. "Good. D-Rank isn't just a title. It's a step toward the upper ranks of the guild, and while D-Rank is the highest level available here in the Ashen sector, it's a gateway. If you ever wish to reach C-Rank or higher, you'll need to travel to the higher galactic sectors in the Orion Federation, or beyond."
Ethan nodded, realizing that his progress wouldn't end here. The Ashen sector was a stepping stone. To move further up, he'd need to seek out more dangerous and complex missions elsewhere, in regions where the guild held influence among powerful factions and where the stakes were higher than anything he'd faced on Kynara.
"Understood, sir."
The Branch Master continued, "As a D-Rank mercenary, you're now eligible for specific resources that are standard across all guild branches in various galactic nations. This includes access to enhanced weaponry, advanced training modules, and specialized missions. And, of course, these upgrades come at a cost. It can be either galactic credits or points, earned through completed missions and rank achievements." He leaned forward, holding Ethan's gaze. "Every choice matters at this rank. D-Rank missions will test more than your strength; they'll test your strategic abilities and your understanding of the guild's objectives."
Kael tapped on his tablet, projecting a list of available resources and gear onto the wall. "Ethan, with your points earned from your progress from F-Rank to D-Rank, you can afford some of these upgrades now. Let's go through a few options you might want to consider."
The list was impressive, showing equipment Ethan had only heard of: precision laser pistols with variable output, cloaking modules for high-stakes infiltration, plasma daggers with enhanced durability, and even high-density body armor with resistance against plasma rounds and energy blasts. Each item had a credit cost or a point requirement, and he could see that while his points were substantial, he'd need to choose carefully.
"I'd recommend starting with the basics," Kael said, pointing to the plasma dagger upgrade and a reinforced tactical suit. "These will offer better protection and enhanced capabilities without blowing through your entire point balance."
Ethan looked over the options, selecting the plasma dagger with its increased blade length and plasma intensity. It would be invaluable for close-quarters combat, especially in tight corridors or against armored targets. He then chose a reinforced tactical suit, which offered flexibility for a range of mission types and a layer of defense against plasma attacks.
"These will do," he said, watching as Kael tapped on the tablet, deducting the points from his balance. Ethan could feel the excitement stirring within him, knowing these new resources would give him an edge on the Syndicate missions awaiting him.
The Branch Master turned his focus back to the holographic map, which showed Kynara and highlighted Syndicate activity. Red markers indicated key strongholds, and two particular points stood out in former Xelthar territory. "Our intel suggests the Syndicate is moving to retake some of Xelthar's former bases near his compound. They've likely sent forces to reclaim what they lost, particularly resources they deem essential for their weaponry development."
Ethan's eyes narrowed as he studied the markers. The outposts were positioned along crucial trade routes, perfect for intercepting supplies and imposing control over the surrounding regions. Reclaiming them would mean re-establishing the Syndicate's influence and revenue in that part of Kynara.
The Branch Master continued, "At D-Rank, you're expected to think strategically. We're not simply asking you to engage in combat. We need you to assess the situation, determine their strengths and weaknesses, and disrupt their efforts. These missions require precision."
"I understand," Ethan replied, a new sense of responsibility settling over him. He realized that D-Rank missions would demand more than physical strength. They would require him to think and adapt quickly, using strategy over brute force.
Kael added, "These new resources you have access to will be critical. You can test out the VR combat simulations tailored for D-Rank and above, which will allow you to prepare for different scenarios and develop your tactical awareness." He brought up another screen, showing a series of training modules Ethan hadn't seen before. Each module simulated combat scenarios, including stealth infiltrations, ambush tactics, and large-scale skirmishes. The training would be invaluable, especially now that the missions he faced would be significantly more dangerous.
"You'll also want to plan each mission with greater attention to detail," Kael said, his gaze serious. "With the Syndicate mobilizing, it's possible they've anticipated our moves. These aren't simple skirmishes anymore; they're planned operations. Think through every angle before you proceed."
Ethan studied the training options, absorbing the advice. The last mission he'd taken before had shown how perilous D-Rank really was. The Branch Master's words echoed in his mind: D-Rank wasn't just about him; it was about the guild's reputation and the safety of his allies.
The Branch Master leaned back, his expression less formal. "Walker, I don't give promotions lightly. I've seen other promising mercenaries rise through the ranks quickly only to fall because they grew reckless. You're here because you've shown the guild that you're willing to put in the effort, but D-Rank is often where things become real."
Ethan met his gaze steadily. "I understand, sir. I've come this far to do what needs to be done, not to get cocky. And I'm not here just for rank; I'm here to put an end to what the Syndicate is doing on Kynara."
The Branch Master's faint smile returned. "Good. That's what I wanted to hear. D-Rank is an honor, but it can also be a target. Don't let pride blind you to that. Your enemies are watching, and the Syndicate knows your name by now."
The weight of his words settled over Ethan, a sharp reminder of what he faced. The Syndicate's presence ran deep, with layers of influence and resources, and now, as a D-Rank, he'd face higher-profile targets and be subjected to the scrutiny of powerful enemies.
Kael looked at Ethan with a firm nod. "Your missions will be observed by other mercenaries, and you may need to coordinate with D-Rank mercenaries. The Syndicate's operations here on Kynara are just one piece of a larger plan. Remember that as you carry out your duties."
A sense of resolve filled Ethan. His journey in the Ashen sector was only beginning, and the path before him was growing more treacherous. But he was ready. He'd fought to make it this far, and he wouldn't let the Syndicate or anything else stand in his way.
As Kael processed his point deductions and issued the newly equipped weapons to his account, Ethan felt the excitement of his new capabilities mixed with the understanding of the responsibility they represented. This wasn't about being flashy or powerful, t was about using every tool at his disposal to protect those who depended on the guild and to undermine the Syndicate at every turn.
"Walker," the Branch Master said as he dismissed him. "Report back after your second D-Rank mission. And remember, strategy, caution, and resolve. You have the talent; now let's see if you have the wisdom."
Ethan left the office, the door sliding shut behind him as he walked through the hallways, drawing glances from other mercenaries who had heard the news. There was a quiet, knowing respect in their eyes. He wasn't just Ethan Walker, the E-Rank newcomer. He was now Ethan Walker, a D-Rank mercenary of the Valeris guild branch. And this promotion was his entry into a much larger world.
He passed through the main hall and entered the armory, selecting his new equipment: a laser pistol with enhanced accuracy, a plasma dagger with an extended blade, and a reinforced tactical suit. Each item was a reminder of his new role and the tasks awaiting him.
With the suit secured, he moved toward the VR training area, ready to test his skills in the new D-Rank simulations. The walls shimmered as the training simulation loaded, and Ethan's muscles tensed, his instincts sharpening. The missions ahead would be unlike anything he'd faced so far, but he was ready to meet them head-on.
He took a deep breath, activating the simulation as his mind honed in on the Syndicate's threat. The future was uncertain, but he'd fought hard to get to this point, and he'd do whatever it took to see this through.