NOVEL NEXT Chapter 6: Anomalies
When the apocalypse descended, monstrous creatures spawned from mysterious gates swept across the globe, wiping out approximately 60% of the human population in a catastrophic wave of destruction. Meanwhile, a fortunate 30% of survivors discovered they possessed extraordinary abilities, awakening to confront and fight back against the horrors that now threatened humanity's existence.
Using the massive, battle-scarred bodies of the defeated creatures, humans erected towering walls to enclose and protect the twelve surviving metropolises. These formidable strongholds, forged from the very monsters that had once threatened humanity's existence, now stood as testaments to resilience and determination, shielding the last bastions of human society from the ongoing onslaught.
In response to the unrelenting monster onslaught, elite guilds had formed under the leadership of the world's most skilled fighters. United against a common enemy, these guilds fought to reclaim lost ground and restore hope. However, the Association – a mysterious, influential organization – stood at the crossroads, directing the flow of resources, information, and strategy.
As the central authority, the Association distributed key missions and skillfully managed the inter-guild dynamics, ensuring no single entity dominated the landscape. Its own strength, though veiled, was speculated to be on par with – or perhaps even exceed – that of the most powerful guilds, fueling both admiration and apprehension.
Ryker Gates, the Association's reclusive president, held court from the shadows. His unyielding grip on power allowed him to orchestrate the intricate dance of guild politics and monster-hunting expeditions with precision. A single whispered command or subtle gesture from Gates could make or break guilds, forge alliances, or spark wars.
High atop the imposing Golden and black stronghold, marked by the ominous crimson "A," Ryker Gates sat enthroned, his piercing gaze sweeping across the thriving city. This was the fruit of his labor, a beacon of hope built alongside courageous guilds.
-Knock! -Knock!
The sharp raps on the door shattered Ryker's reverie. "Come in," he replied, his voice even and composed.
As the door swung open, a vision of warrior elegance entered. The blonde-haired woman's athletic physique was accentuated by her fitted red and black armor, its metallic sheen muted in the dim light. Her gaze locked onto Ryker, her bright blue eyes sparkling with purpose.
"Mr.Ryker," she said, her husky voice laced with urgency.
Ryker's eyes narrowed slightly, intrigued by her tone.
"What brings you here, Mona?" he asked, his tone measured.
Mona inhaled deeply before briefing him. "Sir, we've received disturbing intel regarding the recent activities of monsters and gates. It appears some low-ranking gates have been housing monsters of significantly higher ranks than their classification, posing a catastrophic threat to guilds. The resulting hunter casualties have been substantial."
Ryker muttered, his expression darkening for an instant before he regained his composure. "Have we uncovered any underlying reason or connection behind these anomalies?" he asked, his eyes boring into Mona's with intensity.
"No, sir," Mona replied, her voice measured. "However, our research has yielded an interesting observation." She paused, awaiting Ryker's nod to proceed.
"And that is?" Ryker asked, his brow arching in curiosity.
Mona's eyes locked onto his, her voice taking on a note of significance. "Our research indicates a disturbing trend, sir. An increasing number of monsters, particularly high-level ones, are attempting to exit the gates. It appears they're being drawn out by an unseen force."
Ryker's expression turned grave. "Tsk, we can't delay. Effective immediately, all gates ranked above C+ will require hunters at least two levels above the target gate."
Mona nodded decisively. "Understood, sir. I'll implement this new protocol across all guilds immediately."
Ryker's nod acknowledged her response. "Keep me informed of any developments regarding the gates. We cannot afford complacency in this matter."
"I understand, sir," Mona replied, awaiting Ryker's dismissal.
Ryker nodded curtly. "You may go."
Mona bowed slightly and exited the room, leaving Ryker to his thoughts.
Ryker's gaze drifted toward the window, his eyes lost in the darkness beyond the panes.
Meanwhile, Noah stood at the outskirts of the city, before a gate site. His eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for potential allies. As a hunter notorious for being a dead weight, no one bothered taking him on expeditions. He had resolved to find someone reasonable to team up with, but fate seemed to have other plans.
[Ding! You have received a quest!]
[Quest Title: Overlord's Path]
You've recently become the Monarch of Beasts, but the title is hollow. Prove to the system you're worthy.
[Quest Details]
Clear a gate with a team consisting only of you and your tamed beasts.
Kill 10+ beasts within the dungeon.
Time Limit: None
Reward: Unknown
Punishment: Death
Noah's eyes widened at the quest notification. "Prove myself? Even when I never asked for this title?" His anger-filled expression shifted to determination. "Okay, then. I'll show them... I'll prove myself."