BXBX NOVEL Chapter 124 Joining A Guild
As I declared my skill set as a Magic Swordsman, the receptionist's interest seemed to pique. She set aside her pen and looked up at me, her eyes searching my face for any signs of deception.
"Magic Swordsman, you say?"
She repeated, her tone laced with curiosity.
"We don't often come across individuals with that combination of abilities. What Rank are you?"
I kept my expression neutral, projecting an air of confidence, however, I could feel a slight annoyance rising in my voice.
"I'm an F+ Rank Awakener.."
Hearing that I was only an F+ Rank Awakener, the receptionist's eyebrows furrowed in disappointment. She redirected her eyes back to her paperwork as if suddenly losing interest.
"Very well. We have a few tests and evaluations to determine your suitability for our guild. Please follow me."
She stood up from her desk, leading me through a maze of corridors within the fortress-like building. The walls were adorned with Mana Lights that shone upon approaching hallways, casting a mystical glow upon the metal architecture.
We arrived at a spacious training hall that was basically empty. There were only a few people scattered about, each engaged in their own training routines.
The training hall exuded an air of quiet determination, the sound of footsteps echoing lightly against the polished floors. The receptionist gestured towards the center of the hall, where a tall figure stood, observing the surroundings with a discerning gaze.
"This is our training supervisor, Master Ryland..."
She explained, her voice taking on a respectful tone.
"He will assess your abilities and determine the appropriate tests for you."
I nodded in acknowledgment and approached Master Ryland, taking in his imposing presence. He wore a simple training attire, but his aura conveyed years of experience and wisdom. His silver hair cascaded down his back, contrasting with the intensity in his eyes.
"State your name and your intentions..."
Master Ryland commanded, his voice resonating with authority.
"I am Aiden."
I replied firmly, my tone steady.
"I seek to join the Serpent Guild as a Magic Swordsman."
Master Ryland's gaze sharpened, studying me intently. He seemed to analyze my every movement, searching for any hints of weakness or deception. After a brief silence, he finally spoke.
"Very well, Aiden. Show me what you're capable of."
I drew my Authority, feeling the weight of its hilt in my hand. The energy of the training hall seemed to hum with anticipation as I focused my mana, channeling it through my body. Shadows surged and started dancing along the blade, creating an illusion that the blade was invisible.
Swish...
With a fluid motion, I began my demonstration. Each swing of my sword was imbued with controlled power, the arcs of my strikes leaving trails of dark particles. I weaved through the air, executing precise strikes and evasive maneuvers, showcasing the seamless fusion of magic and swordsmanship.
Master Ryland observed my performance with an impassive expression, his eyes following every movement. As I finished my display, the training hall was filled with a charged silence. All eyes were on Master Ryland, awaiting his judgment.
After what felt like an eternity, Master Ryland finally spoke, his voice tinged with a hint of approval.
"Your skills are commendable, Aiden. Your command over magic and swordsmanship is well-honed, and your control over your mana is impressive."
A sense of relief washed over me, but I kept my composure, not allowing myself to show too much emotion.
"However..."
Master Ryland continued, his tone turning stern.
"Your rank as an F+ Awakener does raise concerns. The Serpent Guild is known for its rigorous standards, and we require members who can rise to the challenges that lie ahead."
I met his gaze, determination shining in my eyes.
"I understand the standards of the guild, Master Ryland. I may be an F+ Awakener, but I have the drive and the determination to surpass my limitations. I am willing to work hard and prove my worth."
A flicker of interest glimmered in Master Ryland's eyes. He seemed to appreciate my resolve and willingness to push beyond my current rank.
Master Ryland's gaze lingered on me for a moment, and then he nodded approvingly.
"Very well, Aiden. I appreciate your determination and your willingness to push yourself. The Serpent Guild values individuals who strive to exceed their limitations."
He motioned for me to follow him, and I trailed behind him as we made our way to another room within the training hall. The room was dimly lit, with a single sturdy table positioned in the center. Various weapons adorned the walls, testaments to the guild's history and prowess.
"Before you can officially join the Serpent Guild."
Master Ryland began, his voice low and authoritative.
"We need to assess your physical conditioning. Strength and endurance are just as crucial as your magical and swordsmanship skills."
I nodded, understanding the importance of physical prowess in complementing my abilities. I removed my outer layer of clothing, revealing a well-toned physique honed through all the adventures I've been through over the past few months.
Master Ryland examined me with a keen eye, evaluating my musculature and posture. His scrutiny felt intense, but I remained composed, radiating confidence. After a few moments, he gestured for me to step forward.
"Stand in front of the table."
He instructed, his voice steady.
I complied, positioning myself with my back straight and my feet planted firmly on the ground. Master Ryland moved around me, his movements deliberate as he analyzed my physique from different angles.
Finally, he stepped back and nodded approvingly.
"Your physical conditioning is impressive, Aiden. Your training has paid off, and it is clear that you possess the strength and stamina necessary to excel as a member of the Serpent Guild."
Master Ryland's gaze shifted from my physique to a nearby cabinet, and he retrieved a small box. Opening it, he revealed a gleaming silver guild sigil, depicting a serpent coiling around itself, symbolizing the unity and strength of the Serpent Guild.
Taking the sigil in his hand, he approached me with purpose. With a practiced motion, he pressed the cool metal against my bare chest, just above my heart. A tingling sensation spread through my body as the sigil made contact, and I could almost feel the magic within it resonating with my own.
"The Serpent Guild welcomes you, Aiden..."
Master Ryland declared, his voice infused with pride.
"By imprinting this sigil upon you, we acknowledge your commitment to our cause and your place among our ranks."
I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement and accomplishment. The weight of the guild sigil on my chest served as a constant reminder of the responsibility and honor bestowed upon me as a member of the Serpent Guild.
Master Ryland stepped back, a small smile playing at the corner of his lips.
"With this sigil, you are now officially a part of our guild. Wear it with pride and carry the legacy of the Serpent Guild wherever your journey may take you."
I nodded, a mix of gratitude and determination coursing through my veins.
"Thank you, Master Ryland. I will do my utmost to uphold the values and traditions of the Serpent Guild."
He clasped a hand on my shoulder, his grip firm but reassuring.
"I have faith in you, Aiden. You have already shown great potential, and with the support of the Serpent Guild, I have no doubt that you will soar to new heights."
With that, Master Ryland released his hold on my shoulder and stepped back, allowing me to dress myself once more. As I put on my clothes, the weight of the guild sigil on my chest served as a constant reminder of the responsibility and honor bestowed upon me as a member of the Serpent Guild.
However, as soon as Ryland left the room, a smile plastered across my face. I finally got here!
Throughout the 5 years of playing Leclentia, I've explored and discovered a lot of new things, hidden treasures, and fascinating lore.
However, one thing that never stopped to amaze me were Voids.
Voids were like Dungeon Portal that led to another realm entirely occupied by monsters, however, voids had one tiny but significant detail.
They didn't lead to realms occupied by monsters... They led straight to hell.
The Habitat of Demons!
While it might seem like a terrifying prospect for most people, for me, it was much more than just simply taking a risk fighting more intelligent beings.
It was an opportunity to get used to the chaos and hone my skills in the face of true adversity, the Demons.
Their fighting style was very different yet similar to humans. They have stronger bodies and more resilient minds which make them like unyielding forces of nature.
To fight one one has to be aware that cutting a single hand will not stop a demon - they will fight on with unmatched vigor and fury.
So why did I join this Guild?
Simple...
The Serpent Guild specializes in raiding such voids and diving into Hell to massacre the Demons!