Chapter 1: The Traveler (Part 1)

In the inn far from the main road, the innkeeper was reading the newspaper she held. And before her was a patron sitting by the edge of the counter. 

 “To think this happened when we are facing the dungeon’s emergence. Do you think this has to do with it?” the innkeeper asked.

 “It could be. The relics are weapons of power that all adventurers desire. It wouldn’t be a stretch for anyone to cull someone from the race.” The patron replied, his face a bit flushed from the mug of ale. 

 “If that’s the case, they should have done this inside the dungeon.” The innkeeper hummed. “Did the guy fight them in the open for a message so the others would back away?” 

 The headline showcased the adventurers who were found dead in the Wellstone village. And one notable detail of the news was that a relic holder was subdued along with A-rank adventurers. Most of them were dead, while those who survived are still in detention. 

 “What was surprising was that all of them were beaten without much of a fight. And another adventurer also found in the ruined village of Elyong."

 “I read that they tried to mug the guy, but it backfired. The drunkard said, tilting his mug for the last drop of ale. “I’d say… They deserved it, but if that’s the case… that was strange, wasn’t it?”

 “Indeed… why in the world would a relic holder rob a random traveler? Plus, it’s not like those Rank A’s are so poor that they’re desperate to rob someone.

"Well, it might be revealed at a later date after further investigation.” 

 The innkeeper nodded. And whispered, “Surely you have more information.” 

 “My contact in that village said he was a young man in a white coat, wearing a mask…”

“A young man? That’s impressive. To be able to defeat people like them… we only have a handful of young S ranks here…do you think it’s one of them?”

“I don’t think so, there’s no news of those S-rank leaving for their bases aside from the daughter of the earl, who is now investigating this case.” The patron stated.

“But I have a hunch that he could be the one they called— “ 

 “Good morning, sir, welcome to the Stonehand Tavern. What do you need?”

The patron’s words trailed off. His thoughts broke as the innkeeper’s bright tone cut through the chatter. Turning halfway, A young man in a black academic robe stood beside him.  

The innkeeper evoked her usual business smile just as she had done so far to her previous customers. Her eyes move slowly from top to bottom, appraising her customer. The elegant black robe he wore was tailored for mages.

“Do you still have room available?”

“It’s 1 silver a day, includes breakfast and dinner.”

"Nice!…” the young man pumped his fist in satisfaction. The innkeeper’s lips curved slightly, practiced and polite. The young man jolted up, awkwardness written all over his face.

“Oh, right…”He said awkwardly.” Give me 3 three nights… and a fruit juice and a sandwich, please.”

 “Right away, sire.” The innkeeper retreated to the kitchen.

Meanwhile, the traveler sat on the stools beside the patron even though the row of stools was empty.

“Spring really brought new faces to this town.” The drunkard started. “Here for that newly emerged dungeon too, ain’t ya lad?”

“So I’ve heard. And I’m listening…” The young man answered, sliding a gold coin towards him. The patron knowingly grinned.

“Hehehe… Right, But… If you are heading to the dungeon, it would be wise to find a party first. You can never be too careful inside the dungeon, not to mention… the trip is probably more dangerous than the dungeon itself.”

“…ok.” The young man said flatly.

“…right.” The patron relied lamely.

“With the emergence of the dungeon, the forest became restless… monsters from the innermost depths of the forest were spotted in the middle region. However, what’s surprising is that there were sightings of new species of monsters that could corner even the B and A ranks. Reports were flying everywhere. So expect getting more frequent attacks from high-ranking monsters on the way there.”

The young man lowered his head in thought. “Who’s the current frontrunner? And what level did they reach?”

“Triblades, a thee-man rank-A party… I think they’re on their way to the 5th floor boss… but that’s the least of your concerns since they’re having a hard time prowling again. Since there’s still no victor, guilds from distant lands have arrived here, so the race is getting tough. And just this morning, a famous young party from the capital. They are—"

The jolly chatter receded and was replaced with a boisterous murmur. What’s this commotion? The patron turned halfway and looked over his shoulder. 

“Woah… who are these guys?”

“Judging by the armor, they seem pretty strong.”

“I see they must be the party that’s been talking in the capital, crimson capes."

“Idiot, that’s a different party. And they’re too young even!”

“She’s beautiful.”

“What?”

“I wonder what they’re doing here?”

“Recruitment, I guess…”

Curious gazes followed the group of dignified adventurers as they strode to the counter. Two swordsman, a mage, a paladin, and a priestess. Though different in professions, they wore uniform beige cloak with emblems depicting a rising sun. Young faces, but they exuded a veteran aura, supported by tags hanging on their necks speak which only high-ranking adventurers can have.

“These guys are…?” the young man asked, not pulling his gaze off the group.

“It’s them.” The drunkard muttered before taking a swig of the ale, “First Dawn. “Their mage and swordsman hailed from here but earned quite a reputation at the capital by taking down a pack of dire wolves in the Enaden forest. They are a Rank A party, but individually, they’re all Rank B. Students from the Triumphiem academy.

“They seem pretty popular, huh… especially the ginger… constantly attracting the gaze of the guys.”

 “Ah- that red-hair beauty right there is Esvele, a daughter of the duke of Edelweiss, the leader of the party. Rumors have it that she is actually stronger than her rank suggests.”

“…”

“What? Falling for her charm, lad?” the patron smirked, eyes narrowed teasingly. But the young man kept his calm face and replied.

“It’s not that. Just wondering why someone of their status would visit this kind of inn.”

“A cozy inn, you mean.” The barkeeper corrected him, coming back from the kitchen with the dishes he had ordered.

“Here’s your order.”

“Thanks…”

“Aunt Meya! It’s been a long time!” The male swordsman approached and greeted the innkeeper. He wore a light armor over the lime colored coat, peaking out of his cloak. His face gives off a dandy expression.

“Ruy! What a surprise. You came back! I heard the news of your achievements.” Meya went out of the counter and approached them.

“Yeah… well, I was blessed with a good party.” Ruy sheepishly scratched the back of his head. “Oh, here’s my leader, Esvele. Emma, our mage, and rudel, and Neia. Guys, this is Aunt Meya. She had taken care of me when I was a rookie adventurer.”

“Greetings, ma’am.” Said the mage, Fenma. Her violet hair was tied in twin tails, dripping over her cloak. Underneath was a robe tailored for mages.

“Hello.” the paladin Rudel greeted Curly and bowed. A black haired man with a large build, supporting the large shield on his back.

“Nice to meet you, madam.” Neia, the priestess, bowed, holding her staff. Her blond hair only reached her neck. She wore a white robe underneath the cloak, giving off a pristine atmosphere.

 Then finally,

“It’s pleasant to meet you, ma’am Meya. Esvele, the other swordman, bowed with her hand on her ample chest, greeting Meya in a manner casual for nobles. Her flocks of red hair fell over her shoulders. The air surrounding her exudes elegance that makes the onlooker awe.

“Oh no, the pleasure is mine…” Meya returns her greeting with a bow of her own. Then she whispered to Ruy, “You sure got yourself a fine lady, eh?”

“No, we’re not in that kind of relationship.”

Ruy flustered and denied vehemently. He thought Meya might disrespect her further since she was a noble. Ruy sighed and started.

“Anyway… is Reyun here? We’re looking for a scout to navigate us to the dungeon; we’re hoping he’s free.”

“Oh, he was summoned by the guild to help investigate the crime scene at Wellston village.”

“Wait, was that the relic holder that was beaten down by a passing traveler?”

 By those words, the young man paused with his drink.

“I’ve heard it as well. They say he is eliminating all possible competitors for the relic.” Esvele said.

 “Probably, or it can just be that he was trying to protect himself from getting mugged; he’s not the one who started it after all,” Meya said.

“right… It could be the relic holder was the one doing the culling all along.” Ruy supported meya.

“Foul play always happens in the dungeon, even more so if it involves the relic. You guys should be careful. Meya said.

“Don’t worry, Aunt Meya. We’re stronger than we look.” Ruys grinned flexing his silver tag with a letter A carved on it.

“Yes, you've grown.” She said with a warm smile.

“But this incident just made his presence known, and he’s definitely after the relic. There are other guilds as well we need to keep an eye on.'

"This is going to be tough.” Esvele sighed.

“We really need to hurry and find a scout.” Ruy said.

“Oh-hoho, looks like you have competition, kid.” The drunkard guffawed.

 Esvele's eyebrow raised as she stared at the young man at the counter.

“Huh?” The young man let a word out from his blank face.

“You… you’re also going to the dungeon?” Ruy asked.

“Yeah,” the young man said after wiping his mouth with a tissue.

Finding it curious, Esvele looked up and down, assessing him. “A mage, huh… what guild are you from?”

“I’m not an adventurer, so I don’t have a guild… I’m just a humble traveler.”

“But you’re going to the dungeon?” Ruy clarified.

“Yes, there’s no rule that prevents me from doing so, is there?

 “…”

Some dungeons are managed by either the guild or the local lord to restrict people from going in haphazardly, as well as for economic control over the resources found within. But since the dungeon was already in the forest, a well-known monster’s nest, no one had the capacity to control it. So any adventurers can prowl in. The same goes for anyone.

“For you to go alone… You sure think so little about the dungeon, huh?” Esvele commented, eying him sharply. The subtle foul mood never escaped Ruy’s notice, so he interjects to calm her down, “Easy there, captain, I’m sure sir knows what he’s doing.”

“Yeah, no one is insane enough to go there without knowing the danger.” Rudel said, supporting Ruy. “But if you’re still going there, you must be quite capable yourself. Why don’t you join us for the time being?"

““Huh!?”” The sudden invitation made the four exclaim with disbelief. 

 “…” The traveler kept his composure, observing them.

“Well, I mean, you can never be too careful with the dungeon, so an additional hand doesn’t hurt, right?”

“I know we’re short of numbers, but for a party of our caliber, we can’t just invite someone to our party willy-nilly. We need to assess their skills if it’s a good fit for us.” Esvele said. 

 “That’s correct… What you need is someone who matches your skills and creates a good synergy. I don’t think I’ll fit in your group.” The traveler said.

“Hmm…” Fenma turned to the young man. “I don’t sense much mana from him despite being a mage.”

“Oh… so he’s a novice mage?” Rudel said, 

“Probably—“ Emma paused for a moment.

“But that robe isn’t meant for a novice.”

“That’s true…” Rudel knew a bit of magic since he was a paladin and could sense subtle magic enhancements from the robe.

“Oh… so you’re a high-ranking mage?” sounding impressed, Esvele asked.

“Well, I know a bit of magic… that includes scouting and faraway detections.” The traveler smiled.

 “That’s great! Then how about joining us?” Esvele beamed and offered. The complete opposite of her first impression.

“I’m sorry, I don’t plan to join any party. I’m also aiming for that relic.” He said coolly.

“I see… however, I heard that the forest is dangerous right now, that even the leading party, the triblade, is having a hard time going back to the dungeon. It would be even more dangerous for a lone mage. So, how about we go together only until the dungeon, what do you say?“

“Hmm…”

“If he doesn’t want it, let us do it.”

A wild voice intruded, grabbing everyone else’s attention. The thumping of boots echoed amid the fleeting silence before another wave of murmurs spread in the inn.

A guy with a large stature, towering 2 meters in height with large sword hung on his back. It’s evident he’s no common adventurer with the imposing aura he is exuding. Behind him were two others with a similar profession.

The young man sent an inquiring look to the surprised patron.

“Triblades…” the drunkard muttered.

“So that’s them.” The young man said in a low voice before he turned his back to them. 

“Triblades, huh…” Esvele whispered, staring cautiously at the three before them. The man in the back stepped forward. He had sharp eyes behind eyeglasses, possessing a rather intellectual vibe. 

“I heard the rising star of the capital has visited our town. It would be rude if we didn’t come out of our way to greet them.

“My name is Elbard from the Ogreshark guild. And the leader of the Triblade. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Esvele, as well as the rest of your party.” Elbard nodded respectfully.

“I never thought our fame had reached far enough to bring the attention of one of the prominent elite parties of ogreshark.” Esvele coolly said. “So… what can I do for you?”

“You might have heard this from others, but we reached the farthest floor of the dungeon. But with the current state of the forest, we have never managed to return since then. Elbard started, which solicited an inquiring stare from Esvele.

“Those Monsters from the misty region are now flooding the middle region. Some… B ranks, but mostly A ranks. There are even unique and unknown monsters that're thrown into the mix; it’s hellscapes there. Many adventurers suffered casualties that others have already given up… but we are not, and so are the other guilds coming here.” Elbran’s gaze met Esvele. “Just like what you propose, how about we work together to reach the dungeon?”

“After that, we’ll be on our separate ways. Is that right?”

“That’s right. Once we reach the dungeon, we’ll be on our own. By the rules, the final boss is always first-come, first-served. No interference,” Elbard affirmed.” It’s not a bad deal for your party.”

Esvele gazes at the Triblades for a moment before looking at her friends, nodding. “Very well… we accept.”

“Excellent! How does the day after tomorrow sound? Sorry, we are pressed for time since we have a lot of competitors.”

“Even better, we can use tomorrow for resupplies. What about you, Sir Traveler? You coming?”

The traveler drank his juice and replied casually. “Sure, I’m in.”

“Wait… Miss Esvele, do we really have to include that guy? No offense, but I cannot just agree to include a random person in a fine team.”

“That’s right, Lady Esvele. We’re heading to a dangerous place. We can’t just drag someone to a place beyond their level.” Ortiz wedges in, pushing Elbard’s protest.

“I can handle myself. Thanks for the concern, though.” The traveler said, not bothering to look towards them.

“Just curious, what’s your rank, sir?” Elbard asked in a cold tone.

“…Well…The young man paused for a moment, then a thin smile formed on his face. It was then that he turned towards him and answered, “Yes.”

“Wha...” The hint of annoyance in his eyes betrayed his calm demeanor.

Esvele sighed and explained on the traveler’s behalf.

“He’s not an adventurer, but a traveling mage. And he can use detection magic. He can help us traverse the forest.”

“I get your point, but our alliance is only until we reach the dungeon. After that, he doesn’t have a vanguard to protect him. He’ll be on his own in the dungeon.” Elbard said curtly, then he turned to the young man.

“I don’t mean to dump on your resolve to compete with the relic, but you should sit this one out for your safety. There are parties here with multiple high-ranking mages, and still, they failed to tackle the dungeon. don’t you think you’re overestimating yourself, believing you can handle the threat of the dungeon on your own?”

“I will find it out when I get there. With or without you.” The traveler voiced his resolve clearly. Faint smile on lips, but the eyes evoke seriousness.

“Hmph, suit yourself.” “Elbard,” Ortiz called out with his face a hint of worry.

“You heard him, as long as he doesn’t drag us down. Right traveler?”

“Yep.” He said before turning his back on them again. Ortiz clicked his tongue softly, a fleeting sound lost in the chatter.

“If there’s nothing more, then I’ll see you in the forest.”

The young man said casually with his hand interlocked atop the counter. A smile crept on his face.