Rehan had just finished his purchase when a notification beeped on his wrist communicator. He glanced at the screen and saw a message from the Warrior Alliance.
[Warrior Alliance Notification]
To all newly promoted warriors,
The annual Faction Selection Competition is about to begin. This event allows new warriors to showcase their strength and gain the opportunity to join one of the three primary factions.
Military Faction Institutional Faction Martial Hall Faction
The competition will be held among the 10 normal base cities under Major Base City 2. All warriors who obtained their license this year or last year are eligible to participate.
Prepare accordingly. The competition will take place in two days.
Rehan's eyes gleamed with excitement.
"A competition... and an opportunity to join a faction?"
He had been hunting non-stop for the past ten days, feeling his strength surge, but he knew he was still lacking in proper guidance and resources. This was the perfect chance to find a master and gain access to even greater opportunities.
Without hesitation, he put on his combat jacket and headed straight to the Alliance Hall to gather more details.
The Alliance Hall was a massive structure, standing at the heart of Base City 17. It was always bustling with warriors, merchants, and officials. The moment Rehan entered, his sharp eyes scanned the area, looking for someone who could answer his questions.
"Rehan!"
A familiar voice called out.
Turning around, he saw John walking towards him, his eyes filled with curiosity.
"You've been improving at an unbelievable pace, kid," John said, crossing his arms. "What brings you here?"
"I saw the message about the Faction Selection Competition, and I want to know more about it," Rehan replied.
John nodded. "Figured you'd be interested. Let's sit down."
They moved to a nearby lounge area where a digital map of the world was displayed on a massive holographic screen. John pointed at the Base City hierarchy.
"Listen carefully, Rehan. The world is now divided into Base Cities. There is one Supreme Base City, which is the absolute center of human civilization. Then, there are Nine Major Base Cities, each overseeing ten Normal Base Cities. Base City 17, where we are now, is under Major Base City 2."
Rehan nodded as John continued.
"This competition isn't just among the warriors of our city. It's among the ten normal base cities under Major Base City 2. There will be over 1000 competitors—all new warriors who got their licenses in the last two years."
Rehan's expression hardened. 1000 competitors meant a brutal battle for the top spots.
John then shifted the topic. "More importantly, you need to understand the three factions."
John leaned forward, his eyes serious.
"Military Faction: This is for those who want to become soldiers. The Military offers the best resources—top-tier training, powerful weapons, and the best techniques. But in return, you'll have to fight the most. The frontlines are dangerous, and missions are often deadly. However, if you survive and rise through the ranks, you'll have unparalleled power and authority."
Rehan imagined the brutal life of a soldier—constant battles, endless training, and orders from superiors.
"Institutional Faction: These are universities and research institutions. If you join them, you'll become a student. Their resources are slightly below the military faction, but you'll be safe and will have time to focus on development. Many top scientists, strategists, and powerful warriors come from here. It's a stable and respectable path."
This faction seemed appealing—he could take his time, develop steadily, and still grow strong.
"Martial Hall Faction: This is for those who want freedom. Martial Halls are established by powerful warriors above Rank 9. These warriors take in disciples and operate like mercenary groups. They don't have as many resources as the Military or Institutions, but they have the most freedom. However, survival is difficult, as they don't get the same protection as the other two factions."
Freedom was tempting, but the lack of resources made it a risky path.
John finished his explanation and looked at Rehan.
"You need to choose wisely. If you don't join any faction, you'll become a Rogue Warrior. But that life is harsh—no support, no resources, and no protection. Most Rogue Warriors don't survive long."
Rehan took a deep breath, processing everything. He had always fought alone, relying on himself. But even he had to admit that resources mattered. If he wanted to grow stronger faster, he couldn't rely solely on hunting monsters.
The competition in two days would decide his fate.
"What faction are you thinking about joining?" John asked.
Rehan smirked. "I'll decide after I see how strong the other participants are."
John chuckled. "Bold. I like it. Get ready, then. In two days, we leave for Major Base City 2. Until then, make sure you're at your best."
Rehan left the Alliance Hall with burning determination. He needed to consolidate his new breakthrough and push himself further.
Returning home, he grabbed his sword and went straight into the wilderness to hunt again.
For the next two days, his routine was simple but brutal:
Slaughtering beasts nonstop to refine his skills.Practicing Sword Speed Level 2 to increase his attack speed.Testing his flying knives to improve spirit energy control.
His A-grade flying knives turned out to be a huge advantage. With six knives under control, his attacks became even deadlier.
By the end of the second day, he had made significant progress:
His Sword Speed Technique Level 2 was nearly perfected.His spirit energy control improved, allowing him to attack with six knives effortlessly.He earned another 1000,000 credits from monster hunting.
He felt stronger than ever.
"Now, I'm ready."
The competition would determine his future.