Night settled over the world like a velvet curtain.
In the far mountains, where jagged peaks tore at the sky, Aurel worked in quiet secrecy.
He stood within an ancient cavern lit by blue fire. Symbols glowed across the stone floor — symbols older than any kingdom now standing.
Around him, representatives from many races knelt: elves, wolfkin, goblins, dwarves, scaledfolk, and even the silent shadow-clan.
Each of them had sworn loyalty.
Or so they believed.
Aurel stepped forward, cloak whispering behind him.
Aurel Veyron
"Rise, my allies. Today marks the birth of a future worthy of us all."
The wolfkin leader lifted his head, sharp teeth gleaming.
Rakhul
"Say the word, Aurel. My warriors stand ready. Who must we hunt?"
Aurel smiled warmly — the perfect hero's smile.
Aurel
"No hunting tonight, my friend. Tonight, we build."
The goblin scholar tapped his staff nervously.
Zibbit
"Build… what exactly? A guild? A council? A kingdom?"
Aurel clasped his hands behind his back.
Aurel
"A structure that guides the world. A system of hunters, explorers, protectors.
A place where every race may grow stronger."
The word system made several leaders exchange confused glances.
The elf representative stepped forward, elegant and suspicious.
Elandra
"A noble idea. But you speak as though you alone know the path."
Aurel met her gaze with calm patience.
Aurel
"Someone must hold the map. Someone must prevent chaos."
Internally, his thoughts curled like smoke.
And that someone will be me. Through this guild, I will shape kings, armies, nations… without ever raising a sword.
He activated the glowing circle beneath his feet.
Panels of light rippled outward like windows — each showing abilities, talents, potential growth for the races present.
Gasps filled the cavern.
Scaledfolk Captain Vorax
"What… is this power? You can see our strengths?"
Aurel
"I can help you grow beyond them. Imagine… leveling your talents.
Becoming more than what fate planned."
Zibbit slammed his staff excitedly.
Zibbit
"Then we follow you! This 'System' of yours… it will change everything!"
Elandra frowned slightly, as though sensing a distant danger.
Elandra
"Power such as this always has a cost."
Aurel stepped close, lowering his voice to a soft whisper.
Aurel
"Only for those who misuse it."
But inside…
Every talent they upgrade, every skill they unlock, ties them deeper into my design.
By the time they realize who truly controls their fate… the world will already kneel.
He raised his hand.
The flames surged.
The cavern shook as a new symbol carved itself into the stone floor:
The mark of the Hunter Guild.
Aurel
"Tonight, we plant the seed that will guide the future."
The leaders bowed — some willingly, some cautiously.
Aurel closed his eyes, letting the moment settle.
My organization begins. My influence spreads. And soon… even the strongest kings will call me their hero.
Outside, thunder rolled across the mountains, heralding a new era.