Chapter 32: Diamond Ranked Hunter
Elysia and Maribel exchanged glances, unsure of how to react to the unfolding scene. They had never seen Yorn so agitated before, and it was clear that Vecna's rating had shaken him to the core.
They tried to hold onto their laughter, already figuring out this brat thought that Vecna was some pretentious somebody who couldn't even get into the eyes of the Guild Hall if not for Alistar's letter.
Vecna sighed inwardly. He knew that this young NPC was simply overwhelmed by the unexpected result and was struggling to come to terms with it. Still, he had no patience for Yorn's hesitations.
He was actually satisfied with only a Gold, thinking that there might be additional upper levels, and he wouldn't attract too much attention.
"We won't be redoing anything," Vecna said firmly, his voice cutting through Yorn's anxious babbling. "The Magic Sphere's judgment is final, and I have no reason to question it. You have seen my power, and it is not your place to challenge the assessment."
Yorn's eyes widened, and he seemed taken aback by Vecna's assertiveness. But he quickly composed himself and squared his shoulders, trying to regain some semblance of authority.
"As a receptionist of this Guild, it is my responsibility to ensure the accuracy of the assessments," he retorted, trying to stand his ground.
'What the fuck? Kid, just leave me be. I don't want to stand out too much. I only activated Potence, which doesn't do much.'
'Don't test my patience, brat.'
Vecna's gaze hardened, and an icy aura seemed to emanate from him. "Then trust in the Magic Sphere's accuracy and my capabilities," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "I have no time for doubt or hesitation. If you have any further objections, take it up with your Guild Leader, Toric."
Yorn swallowed hard, his bravado wavering in the face of Vecna's unwavering confidence. He glanced nervously at Elysia and Maribel, who was watching the exchange with curiosity. Realizing that he was in no position to challenge Vecna further.
Nonetheless, Yorn wasn't going to give up now, showing a crooked perseverance and stupidity at trying to get himself killed.
"Just another try? I wasn't sure if the Device was calibrated or not. This time I'm sure of it."
-- Cough-- "It also takes a couple of tries when it first starts to get an accurate response."
The girls tried hard not to laugh, but this compelling response made Vecna think a bit.
'You know what. This brat is itching to know more about me? Then let him have a taste of it.'
'The Quest implied that I should do my best. Better assessment, the better would be my rewards.'
"You know what, kid? Fine, you have this one. Make sure this time it's a legit check."
"For sure. Everything is in check. Only you're missing."
After the brief confrontation with Yorn, Vecna decided to humor the young NPC and agreed to retake the assessment. However, this time, he had a different plan in mind. As he placed his hand on the Magic Sphere, he activated one of his powerful skills which confused his vitality.
'Blood Corruption.'
[You have chosen to sacrifice your HP]
The crimson aura once again enveloped the entire room, swirling around the Magic Sphere like a tempest of darkness. The arcane symbols on its surface glowed with an intensity that surpassed the previous assessment, reacting to the overwhelming power Vecna was channeling.
The chamber seemed to vibrate with an unprecedented force, and even the most experienced guild members observing from afar were taken aback by the display of energy.
"What is going on here? Who is that blonde guy? An Archmage Disciple?"
"Gosh if I know. But that's some magic power. I don't have to stand there to feel it."
Yorn's eyes widened in astonishment as he stared at the Magic Sphere, which now displayed an unprecedented result.
[The capability of the wielder is Diamond]
"..."
"No way... this can't be real!" Yorn exclaimed, his voice trembling with shock and awe.
Vecna withdrew his hand, and the crimson aura slowly receded. He looked at Yorn with a hint of satisfaction in his eyes. "As I said before, the Magic Sphere's judgment is final," he stated calmly.
Elysia and Maribel were equally astonished by the incredible display of power. They had seen Vecna's strength in action before, but this was on a whole new level. It was clear that Vecna was no ordinary person, even among the elite ranks of the Guild.
"You truly are a remarkable individual," Elysia said, her voice tinged with admiration.
Maribel nodded in agreement, her eyes shining with respect. "I have to agree. I've never seen anyone with such magic. Well, there was one guy, but it was in the past."
"Braham."
"Miss, have you by chance had the occasion to meet the Legendary Archmage, Braham Eshwald?" asked Elysia with a shocked expression, already forgetting of Vecna's achievement and being captured by an interesting story.
"Hmph. I'll rather not talk about that bastard. But, yeah. I've met him in the past. One might say we were acquaintances."
Vecna acknowledged their praise with a nod and registered the new lore bits that Maribel dropped involuntarily. She was truly a source of knowledge with regards to the history of the previous Legends.
He kept his expression stoic and composed while facing Yorn. Under his Vampire Persona, it was normal to be labeled exceptional, and such accolades didn't faze him.
Meanwhile, Yorn was still trying to process the extraordinary result. "Diamond... that's a rating reserved for the most prestigious Monster Hunters of the Guild," he muttered in disbelief.
"Indeed," Vecna replied. "I am not one to boast, but it seems I have surpassed the expectations of this assessment."
Yorn nodded, a part of his mistrust over Vecna slowly dissipating, still in awe of Vecna's prowess. "You have indeed. With a rating like this, you'll have access to quests and opportunities that even the top elites of the guild can only dream of."
"Not to talk about the privileges one can enjoy."
'Go on. Make me not want to kick your ass by telling all those interesting pieces of info.'
Vecna's eyes gleamed with interest. "Tell me more about these opportunities," he said, his curiosity piqued.
Yorn took on a professional stance as he was about to rain down all sorts of information he learned by the book after being forced by Toric to shove all that information in his beggar brain.
As Yorn continued to explain the privileges and benefits of being a Diamond-ranked adventurer in the Guild Hall, Vecna listened attentively, his crimson eyes never leaving the young receptionist's face.
"With a Diamond rating," Yorn began, "You'll have access to the most challenging and rewarding quests available in the Quest Wall. These quests often involve high-level monsters, rare treasures, and valuable resources that can greatly enhance your power and abilities."
Vecna nodded, his interest piqued. The prospect of facing powerful foes and obtaining rare rewards appealed to his desire for strength and dominance.
"In addition," Yorn continued, "You'll gain recognition and respect among the guild members. Your status as a Diamond-ranked adventurer will make you a sought-after ally for group quests and raids."
"Especially the outlanders will be eager to join forces with you, knowing that your presence greatly increases their chances of success."
"I see." Vecna replied, his mind already calculating how he could use this position of power to his advantage. Being a valuable asset in group endeavors could open doors to various opportunities and connections within Satisfy.
And above all else, bring many chances of stealing valuable gear that could be far more useful in his hands.
"Furthermore," Yorn added. "As a Diamond-ranked adventurer, you'll have access to exclusive guild facilities and services. This includes access to the best equipment and items available, special training areas, and priority access to Guild Resources."
Vecna's eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of exclusive facilities and resources.
He was thinking about Alistar's intentions at sending him here, and immediately a light bulb switched on in his rapid-firing mind.
'Heh. You send me here to take everything of what they're worth. Not just because you were lazy, but you might also lack resources to help me increase my growth.'
'Well, it comes in handy that you have on your finger the Guild Leader. Otherwise, you wouldn't have called him "Old Guard".'
"And that's not all," Yorn continued with a smile, "your achievements as a Diamond-ranked adventurer will also draw the attention of important figures in the Saharan Empire."
"Lords, nobles, and influential individuals often commission quests through the guild, and with your status, you'll be the first to receive such opportunities."
"Lastly," Yorn said, "You'll have the privilege of joining the Guild Hall Gathering. This is a gathering of the elite adventurers where the decision-making process of the Guild happens."
Vecna's expression remained unchanged, but inwardly, he felt a surge of satisfaction. Being part of an inner circle would give him access to valuable information and influence over the guild's direction. It was a position of power that he intended to use to further his own goals.
Looking at Yorn with his predatory crimson eyes, the youngster could feel that they mellowed down a bit, as if silently telling him that he was safe around this Monster.
"Good. However, for now keep it down. You've talked too much. Since we're done with this Assessment, let's return to Leader Toric."
"You do your report as you've seen it, and better not lie about something because we have witnesses that can verify the true story."
"Ahem. I'll not lie about such an important matter. With your addition the Guild will get stronger, therefore we will be having more resources at our disposal. The richer … I will be."
'This kid, I bet his backstory is complicated. A bit of greed for money, which reminds me of … myself.'
The tense atmosphere gradually dissipated as Yorn apologized and attempted to make amends with Vecna. The young receptionist was well aware of his mistake in misjudging the powerful Vampire Player, and he didn't want to further provoke someone who could easily overpower him.
"Apology accepted," Vecna replied coolly, his crimson eyes still holding a hint of danger. "Just remember not to underestimate others based on appearances."
Yorn nodded nervously, not daring to make eye contact with the imposing figure before him. "I'll keep that in mind, mister."
"Good. Now, let's get going. I don't enjoy being the center of attention," Vecna said, dismissing the matter with a wave of his hand.
The young receptionist hurriedly led them away from the curious onlookers who had gathered during the assessment. He instructed the guild members to return to their activities, reminding them that loitering around could result in fines.
The guild members who had gathered during the assessment couldn't help but stare in awe and bewilderment at the mysterious blonde man with the dignified aura and the two enchanting girls by his side.
"Alright, everyone, show's over!" Yorn called out, trying to disperse the crowd. "Back to your activities! No loitering around, or you'll be fined!"
The guild members, still dumbfounded by the spectacle they had witnessed, slowly dispersed, though many of them stole glances back at Vecna and the girls as they returned to their tasks. Vecna's Diamond rating had certainly stirred up a buzz among the adventurers, and everyone was curious about the newcomer who had achieved such a feat.
"Is he really a Diamond-ranked adventurer?"
"Did you see how the Magic Sphere reacted to him? It was incredible!"
"Who are those girls with him? They look like angels!"
Yorn rolled his eyes at the chatter but continued leading Vecna, Elysia, and Maribel through the busy corridors of the guild hall.
As they walked through the guild hall, Yorn explained to Vecna the next steps they would take. He needed to report to Guild Leader Toric and provide a detailed account of what had happened during the assessment.
The guild leader would want to know about Vecna's remarkable Diamond rating and what transpired within the assessment room.
They arrived once again at Toric's lavishly furnished office. Yorn hesitated for a moment before knocking on the grand wooden door. A muffled voice from inside granted them entry, and they stepped in.
"Come in." Toric's voice called from within.
Yorn took a deep breath and stepped inside by himself, soon to receive a simple question from the elder that was akin to a grandfather.
"Well, how did it go? Has that Vampire created a mess out of the Assessment Grounds?" Toric inquired, his curiosity piqued.
Yorn took another deep breath, trying to steady his nerves before relaying the events that had unfolded during the assessment.
"Sir, it was... unexpected," Yorn began, hesitating slightly. "That monster, no… that mister,Vecna, he... he achieved a Diamond ranking."
Toric's eyes widened a bit in surprise, and a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Diamond, you say? That's impressive. From first glance I could say he was Gold or Platinum. I knew there was something special about him if that old Knight took interest in him."
Yorn continued, recounting the events of the assessment, making sure to include all the details and Vecna's impressive Diamond rating. He left no room for ambiguity, and his voice conveyed a sense of urgency, aware that the guild leader was a man who valued information.
"And the girls with him?" Toric asked, curious about the two women who had accompanied Vecna, taking a deep interest in the cloaked woman whose silver hair and purple eyes struck for unique beauty.
It felt as if he had seen such a woman in his past when he was far younger and in his prime, where he could court any woman of his desire, less it was the Empress of the Saharan Empire.
"They seemed to be his companions, sir. They didn't say much, however, there was a point where one seemed to try to help me."
"Ahem, I kind of upset the Vampire by trying to have him redo the assessment." Yorn explained while coughing a bit in embarrassment.
"How come? You usually don't care about others, and just focus on your job."
"Well, I thought that monster wasn't much apart from his sharp eyes, and he for sure would get a Silver. Yet it was Gold, so I thought the old thing went crazy."
"Hahaha, and in the end the guy showed more than he was thinking. From Gold to Diamond that's a large step and the potency of one's Aura and Mana takes another note."
Saying that, Toric's expression hardened a bit while his body started exuding a pressuring aura that wrapped around Yorn for only a second, but it was enough to have the young receptionist go pale.
"Don't forget young Yorn. You have to show face to all guests who step inside the Guild Hall, regardless of what you think. Certain beings might like to disguise themselves, and fool the human senses. You might stumble upon a dragon in a humanoid form, and fuck up by insulting it."
"Not even this old man could lift a finger against a Dragon. Let this incident be a lesson for you."
Yorn kept quiet, taking in the information passed by Toric and still in awe that only a fragment of this old man was enough to kill him. This was what a Sovereign of the Guild Hall looked like.
The Upper Echelon of the Saharan Empire.
"Yes, sir."
Toric leaned back in his chair, considering all the information he had received. "Very well, Yorn. You've done well in providing this report. I will personally meet with Vecna to discuss the opportunities he has within our guild. Return back to your station and call Vecna inside. Only him."
Yorn bowed slightly, relieved that his report had been well received. "Thank you, sir. I will arrange the meeting immediately."
Stepping out of the office, he was met with Vecna, Elysia, and Maribel seated on a couch placed for guests waiting to be summoned inside Toric's office. He saw the three standing there in silence, which confused him. Maybe that's how their relationship worked.
What the youngster missed was that Vecna was already staring at him with his predatory crimson eyes, as if he knew he would come.
"Vecna, the Guild Leader is waiting for you." Yorn said, his voice respectful but tinged with a hint of nervousness.
"I know." replied the Vampire coolly.
Turning to look at Elysia and Maribel, the girls nod at him and get up, following Yorn who was breathing out relieved.
Yorn turned to face Elysia and Maribel, who had followed him since they weren't invited to the meeting, Yorn managed a weak smile. "Well, that was quite an experience," he said, trying to make light of the tension he had just experienced. "I hope I didn't make a complete fool of myself there."
"You were about to get hurt by Vecna, but it seems he withheld his power from seeping out. What could you little humans know about power? He is someone who even defeated an Archdemon by himself." remarked Maribel with a sense of admiration for the Vampire.
"... What did you say? He defeated what?"
"Archdemon." replied Maribel, holding a laugh from seeing Yorn's expression as he got scared shitless.
"I don't believe it. An Archdemon is the stuff of myths. The evil beings that were imprisoned in Hell by the Great Goddess Rebecca. May light shine upon us." saying that Yorn made a cross as if to symbolize that he believed in Goddess Rebecca.
"Kid, you better start opening up those ears of yours before they drop or get chewed by some Kobold."
"Regardless, you'll for sure learn more about his exploits as he Hunts for your Guild." ended Maribel, not feeling like wasting her breath on this ignorant human child.
Both girls exchanged glances, understanding the significance of Vecna's achievement. It was clear that their path might be laid with a lot of challenges for both of them.
Back to Toric's office, Vecna, who stepped inside, held a scoff as he heard Yorn's complaint about having it hard.
"Ah, Vecna. Please, have a seat," Toric said, motioning to the comfortable chairs across from his desk.
Vecna took a seat, his posture relaxed but attentive. He knew that despite Toric's seemingly friendly demeanor, the guild leader was a shrewd and calculating man. No way in hell Alistar would align himself with "easy" people.
Besides, Toric's golden nameplate was a sign that couldn't be overlooked.
[Toric - LV.???]
'I guess, I'm too low level to check on his level and health. Maybe only if we get into combat would they be revealed.'
"I must say, your performance in the assessment was quite impressive," Toric remarked, steepling his fingers and studying Vecna closely. "To achieve a Diamond ranking is no small feat."
"Among your people, there's a handful who I know to be registered as Diamond Rated Adventurers. A young promising swordsman called Kraugel who was first to be rated so high, followed by an Aura Master called Hurent. You're the third of your kind to achieve this feat."
'Among those who stepped inside the Guild Hall. So, this means this Guild Hall is just a Branch of a Greater Hall? Might be possible.'
'Let's continue this play.'
Vecna remained composed, his expression unchanged. "I simply used the skills I possess. It's nothing more than that."
Toric chuckled softly. "Modest as well. That's a rare trait to find in adventurers these days. Most are all too eager to boast about their accomplishments."
"I find it unnecessary. Actions speak louder than words." Vecna replied coolly.
"Indeed, they do." Toric agreed, leaning back in his chair. "That's why I'm interested in seeing what actions you're capable of, Vecna."
Vecna arched an eyebrow, intrigued by Toric's words. "What do you mean?"
"I see potential in you, Vecna. I don't mind assisting Alistar's plan in Grooming you to be his Successor."
"With your Diamond ranking, you have access to privileges and benefits within the guild that most can only dream of. You'll be able to take on the most challenging quests, gain favor with nobles and important figures within the Saharan Empire, and have the opportunity to amass great wealth and power."
"Impressive as it sounds, I'm not one to be easily swayed by such promises." Vecna replied, his voice steady and unyielding.
"I understand." Toric said, nodding. "But consider this. The Saharan Empire is the Center of this World, everything that surrounds our Empire looks up to us."
"As an adventurer for the Guild Hall of the Saharan Empire, you have the opportunity to carve your own path, to shape the destiny of this world."
'Trying to fish me out with smeared words? If I play on your conditions I would just be a brainless player that does as the NPCs tell him to do.'
'Where would my freedom be? Sure, I agree that there is a progression part for in the end Satisfy is a game. But you're not part of the Main Storyline.'
'At most you're a Side-Quest of my Grand Journey.'
"I have my own goals, and I won't be used as a pawn in someone else's game," Vecna stated firmly.
Toric smiled, his eyes glinting with approval. "Good. You're not as naive as some of the adventurers who come through these doors. I respect that." In a way, Toric's tone when mentioning adventurers shifted a bit, enough for Vecna to notice with his Keen Senses.
'I don't consider myself as one of the Sheeps. Try all you want to stir me up, it will not work.'
"But I do believe that we can help each other," Toric continued. "I can provide you with the resources and support you need to achieve your goals, and in return, you can become an invaluable asset to the guild and the Saharan Empire."
[Ding!]
[You have cleared the quest <Sudden Assessments(B)>]
[The Quest Rewards are being put on Hold. The user needs to give a definitive answer to Toric's offer.]
'In the end, the System is in the support of the NPCs. However, let me consider it.'
Vecna considered Toric's proposition carefully. He knew that aligning himself with the guild could provide him with opportunities and advantages that he wouldn't have on his own. But he also understood the risks of getting entangled in the politics and power struggles of the Saharan Empire.
'Would I profit heavenly if I grow deep roots in the Empire? Once I grow in power, and my Vampiric powers reach a higher stage, I might be able to turn the important Pawns of the Empire into my soldiers.'
'Spread the Vampiric Gift to those who want to bask in Darkness.'
[User's answer is expected.]
Vecna frowned, and with his predatory eyes, that even gave a reaction from Toric based on ancestral instincts of being stared down by the natural predator of Humans would generate.
"Let me make one thing clear." Vecna said, his voice firm and unwavering. "I will not be anyone's puppet, not even yours. If we are to work together, it will be as equals, each with our own goals and ambitions."
Toric chuckled, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "I wouldn't have it any other way, Vecna. I admire that you know what you want to achieve, unlike many of those Adventurers that step on my door, only interested in blindly chasing "Quests"."
"Consider this a partnership of mutual benefit."
Vecna nodded, accepting the terms. "Very well, Toric. I will work with you, but only if it serves my interests as well."
[You have accepted entering inside the Guild Hall, Branch of Valoria City]
"Agreed," Toric said, extending a hand across the desk. Vecna shook it firmly, sealing their agreement.
[The rewards of the Quest <Sudden Assessments(B)> will be handed to the user.]
"Now that you became a member of my Guild. It's only correct that I present you with your Identification Badge."
[You have gained 15.000 EXP; Guild Hall Identification Badge, 200 Reputation with Valoria City.]
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