Reingard City Square was filled with people, the sun casting its rays on the huge skyscraper. From above, the crowds resembled like a sea of ants crossing the road. The ads displaying on the huge LED screens plastered on the buildings added to the urban bustle. Amidst the throngs, Zarek crossed the road.
"It's been two days since I met with the doctor," he thought, frustration simmering within. "At this training rate, I can hardly stand my ground in a C-rank dungeon – even with support. I'm in over my head; I need allies. And getting into an S-rank portal? That's a whole different story. Only S-rank hunters have access, or those in their party. Every S-rank hunter leads their own guild, and the entry requirement is steep: B-rank, at minimum. In my case, as a D-rank hunter, I have no chance."
Zarek ground his teeth, frustration boiling over.
"Citizens of Zolack Nation," Kael's voice boomed from all directions, as the huge LED screens simultaneously turned to broadcast the news of his press conference.
"Isn't he the head of IHA?" someone whispered in the crowd.
"That's Mr. Kael," another voice replied. "He usually comes on TV when he has something important to announce."
"I think it's about the S-rank portal," a hunter speculated.
Zarek heard the whispers from the crowd. Everyone, every hunter, knew Kael as the head of IHA, an exclusive organization for all hunters in the nation. Everyone was eager to hear what he had to say, their eyes fixed upward on the screens.
"I'm here to announce an important matter," Kael continued. "A portal higher than S-rank is about to open."
As Kael dropped this bombshell, camera flashes intensified, illuminating his face. Reporters on the scene began firing questions, filling the atmosphere with chatter.
"Please let me continue," Kael's voice boomed, calming the reporters.
"We are declaring an Omega Level-1 threat on this dungeon," Kael announced.
"Does the Mana King know about the situation?" one reporter asked, referencing the esteemed title given to the most powerful hunter in the nation.
"The Mana King is well aware of the situation," Kael responded.
The questions continued unabated.
"Since you've declared an Omega Level-1 threat, does that mean the situation is as dire as it was five years ago?" another reporter pressed.
Kael's eyes opened wide, his expression grave.
"It will not turn out like five years ago, I assure you," Kael said firmly.
"That's why we've formed a strategic alliance with 'The Arrow Guild' and 'Terra Guild'. Both guilds will participate in the raid, with their leaders at the helm."
"Are you saying two S-rank hunters from the Six Pillars will be participating in this raid?" a reporter asked, her voice laced with excitement.
"Yes," Kael confirmed, his voice firm and resolute.
"Both guilds will select their finest hunters for this mission, ensuring our triumph."
With that, Kael concluded the press conference, his expression steadfast.
"That's all for today, thank you for your time," he announced, turning to exit.
Reporters swarmed around him, flashing cameras and shouting unanswered questions as Kael departed the scene, leaving a trail of anticipation and speculation in his wake.
As everyone was left in awe, Zarek stood there, excitement reaching his head that now he had a close opportunity to save his mother and obtain that crystal.
As the crowd dispersed, still reeling from Kael's announcement, Zarek stood transfixed, his mind racing with the prospect of saving his mother and obtaining the crystal.
Meanwhile, Kael exited the press conference room and spotted Cain Locke, a towering figure in his mid-30s, exceeding 6 feet tall, with a chiseled physique. His tattered clothes, worn and faded, belied his imposing stature, giving him the air of a homeless person. However, the massive red sword strapped to his back starkly contrasted with his ragged appearance, radiating an aura of power.
Cain stood lost in thought, gazing out at the cityscape from the skyscraper's window, his reflection in the mirror showing a hint of introspection.
"I wasn't sure you'd come," Kael said, approaching him.
Cain's attention shifted, his eyes locking onto Kael.
"Why did you call me, Kael?" he asked, his voice low and even, his gaze still fixed on the outside view.
"Have you heard about what I just announced?" Kael inquired.
Cain turned, facing Kael, his expression unreadable.
"Yeah, I heard."
"Cain, what's happening now might be your chance to reclaim what's lost," Kael said.
"I lost everything five years ago in that dungeon, Kael," Cain retorted, his voice intensifying. "There's no taking back what's gone. I quit being a hunter; those days are behind me."
Kael's face darkened, fury burning in his eyes.
"To become a drunk?" Kael's tone dripped with disdain. "Do you think any of your fellow hunters would be happy to see you in this state?"
Cain's eyes blazed as he grabbed Kael's shirt, his grip tightening.
"Let him go!" the guards shouted, surrounding Cain with guns drawn.
"Put your guns down!" Kael commanded. "Do you have a death wish? He's an S-rank hunter."
The guards hesitated, lowering their weapons.
Cain released Kael, his expression still smoldering.
"Goodbye, Kael," Cain said, turning his back.
"I really hope you'll be there, Cain. Don't forget," Kael called out.
Cain walked away, oblivious.
*****
Zarek pushed open the creaky door of the local bar, immersing himself in the chaotic atmosphere. The air was thick with the smell of alcohol and the cacophony of drunk patrons' chatter and screams. Yellow lamps cast a warm glow, illuminating the darkness.
Roland, the bartender, caught Zarek's eye as he entered. They exchanged a brief nod, and Roland discreetly beckoned him over.
"Here's the thing you asked for," Roland said, sliding a dual blade onto the wooden table.
Zarek's eyes sparkled as he inspected the blade's finish and sharpness.
"Don't forget to pay me, Zarek," Roland reminded him with a smile. "Since this is your first time asking me for a favor, I won't charge interest... this time."
Their transaction was interrupted by a sudden commotion. A man crashed to the ground, sent flying by Cain's powerful punch.
The bar fell silent, patrons stunned by the sudden violence.
Cain stood tall, his eyes blazing with intensity, as he was encircled by a group of rugged men.