Chapter 212: The Wandering Merchant’s Quest (1)
“It seems each of us has come here with our own wish concerning the dragon,” the mercenary observed, scanning the faces around him. “Whether we like it or not, we’re all in the same boat now, so it would be best to start by introducing ourselves.”
He took the initiative, as if volunteering to be the first. With an air of confidence, he declared, “I am Bloodedge, an S-Rank mercenary. I’m here for the dragon’s treasure hoard.”
Even among the vast numbers of mercenaries across the continent, S-Rank mercenaries were exceedingly rare. For most, reaching the level of A-Rank was the ultimate ceiling, as only a handful in history had ever surpassed that to become S-Rank. The very title meant wielding power far beyond the ordinary.
A middle-aged man with a neatly groomed beard, dressed in the distinctive robes of a mage, stroked his chin thoughtfully.
“Even I have heard your name,” he said to Bloodedge. “I never imagined I’d meet the famed Mercenary King here, of all places.”
“Oh?” Ketal let out a soft exclamation, eyes bright with genuine interest. The title Mercenary King was not one given lightly. It was an impressive reputation to carry.
A woman, who appeared to be a devout priestess, stepped forward next. She was middle-aged and wore the vestments of her order.
“I know you as well,” she added, her voice calm but firm. “The S-Rank Dungeon, the Monster’s Nest... You challenged it alone and returned alive. That’s what I’ve heard.”
Bloodedge replied with a wry smile, “I only survived by sheer luck, that’s all.”
“But nobody else has ever managed to do it. Even the mages who served under me have tried and failed, never to return,” the middle-aged man replied.
Bloodedge had reached the absolute pinnacle of human strength, possessing power that made him legendary even among legends. Stories about his feats were told across the continent, and his name was whispered with a mixture of awe and envy in every guild.
With Bloodedge’s introduction setting the tone, the next to step forward was the mage. He looked to be in his fifties, his eyes sharp and filled with keen intelligence. “I am Spellweaver, Master of the Void-Reflected Shadow School. I came here seeking the dragon’s magic.”