Alex sat at the kitchen counter, focused on his work in an attempt to keep his tired mind moving. The morning light shone through the glass wall behind him and shone off of the fresh ink in his leather-bound notebook.

Gabby had woken some time before, and seeing that he was busy, went about her morning cooking without disturbing him, only flashing a smile as she came in.

His mentor, on the other hand, had no such compunctions. “That line should be more gradual,” Maelis’s deep, gravelly voice cut through his thoughts. “I don’t think this rune is going to do what you want.”

Alex absently adjusted The Magician’s Cap on his head and pushed the brim back slightly. The weathered brown wizard’s hat was an odd look, and even though it fit well, Alex had never been one to wear hats.

I’m getting tired of ignoring you. Can’t you go back to sleep yet?

“I’m just telling you, it’s not going to work, brat.”

I get that. I already have the theory worked out for the small barrier spell I want to use. This is just me messing around. Let it go.

The spirit grumbled a response, but Alex could swear he heard something like, “He gets a new hat…” and, “…too big for his britches.”

Alex rolled his eyes and pushed himself to activate his [Mana Thread] skill. It pained him to do so, but with the System controlling his mana, he just needed to push through the pain, and the skill would continue to work.

“Hey, come on, kid. You don’t need to do that.”

Ignoring the spirit, Alex stared at the page in front of him while attempting to form the circle. He grunted in pain and winced as he lost concentration before even getting to the point where he could form the rune.

“Fuck,” he said as the spell circle shattered.

Gabby looked up and glanced at Edwin nervously, but Alex waved them both on with a tired smile. “I’m fine.”

It wasn’t long before he could hear slow footsteps descending the stairs, followed by the flapping of wings. His companion entered first and attempted to settle on his shoulders, though the movement of his wing slapped the back of the hat and caused it to fall forward on Alex’s head.

“Mana?” Val chirped while nudging his cheek.

Alex grumbled, fixed the hat, and looked sternly at his companion. “What do you say?”

“Can I have mana?”

“Hey, that was great!” Gabby said from beside the stove.

“What else…” Alex said while fishing a Mana Stone from his pouch.

“Can I have a mana, please.”

Alex chuckled at the fact that it still came out as a demand. He held the stone between his fingers and gave it to Val as Sam shambled into the kitchen, rubbing his half-lidded eyes.

He mumbled something, slumped onto a stool next to Alex, and lay his head on his arms.

Alex got the urge to ruffle his hair, but felt he needed to stop treating Sam like a kid. Instead, he closed the notebook he’d been working in and accepted the refilled cup of coffee from Edwin. He felt that the barrier spell was complete, and he just needed to wait on his mana channels to recover before he could begin practicing with it.

If the sun elves showed me anything… It’s how a strong defense can go a long way.

Mark joined them a few minutes later. He paused after entering and made eye contact with Alex before his eyes slowly moved up to the top of his head, and a grin spread across his face.

Hoping to cut off the ridicule, Alex raised his hand. “It was a reward from my title, and you better get used to it. Honestly, the bonuses from it are just too good to pass up. Function over form, and all that…” The phrase made him think back to his talk with Jonathan Reeves and the logic of the words.

“Sure, sure,” Mark snickered as he took his seat.

Sam sat up quickly and looked at Alex for the first time, surprised that he hadn’t noticed a large hat. A sleepy smile crept onto his face as well. “Heh, that’s funny.”

Edwin returned and set a packet of papers on the counter in front of him. “Thanks,” Alex said. He flipped through the top papers and saw a list of their skill manuals. There was a short list of consumable ones and then a long, multi-page list of printable versions Edwin had bought. Alex raised an eyebrow at the length of the list.

“How you doin’, buddy?” Mark said as he walked past Sam and sat at the far stool. As he passed, Mark ruffled his hair and grinned at the mumbled protest.

Sarah entered last and asked Edwin politely for a cup of tea.

Sam finally sat up as Gabby set plates of breakfast in front of them. It all smelled delicious, and Alex dug in with all three of his friends. “Where’s Liv?” Sam asked. “She coming down later?”

He clenched his jaw and set down the coffee mug. “She left last night. She went to the Celestial Rift.”

“What?” Sarah fumbled her fork. “Why would she do that?”

“She left a note saying that she needed to do something to help Nox. Something about the sun elf’s spell infecting him and getting worse, so she went to the Rift to try and get information to cure it.”

“Alone, though?” Mark’s voice rose. “Why didn’t she just wait for us?”

Alex lifted his shoulders in a helpless gesture and sighed. “No idea, but my only guess is that it was really urgent. If she could have just waited a few hours, then I’m sure she would have.” He paused and looked at his friends. “I want to go after her. I’m going to need a few days to try and get supplies and line things up here for the house, but I’m going to go.”

The reactions were very different for each of his friends.

Gabby and Sam both froze. Alex could see the color drain from his young friend’s face. “Go back into the Celestial Rift?”

“Three days? That’s not much time to prepare,” Sarah’s analytical mind already working through logistics as she reached for her work tablet.

“Three days? No way, dude. Shouldn’t we be leaving right now? Every hour that she spends in the Rift—”

“Is eight for her in there… trust me, I know.” Alex finished Mark’s sentence, feeling like he’d swallowed something sour. “There are just things that need to be set up here, and if you guys want to come along, we need to prepare properly.”

“All of us?” Sam asked quietly while still looking at his plate.

Alex looked at him seriously. “Look, this will be dangerous. A lot has changed in the Rift from when you and I were there, Sam. The… the Celestial sect fell, and Eura is gone.” Sam’s head snapped up, but Alex continued. “The Guild had some notes on the Rift’s current state, but we have no way of knowing if they contributed to the fall or just watched it happen. Either way, Liv is in there looking for answers, and I want to go help her.

“I want all of you to come, but there are reasons for each of you to stay. Aside from Olivia, one of the biggest reasons for you to go is the need to gain levels. You all saw the System Event that was announced yesterday. We have a year to get into C Rank and be ready to face the elves. I’m choosing to accept that challenge. I don’t want to stay comfortable like we were in the Guild. I’m going to push myself, and I’d like for you guys to join me…”

There was barely a pause before Mark spoke up. “I’m in. I’m not going to be left behind again when I could help. The System is a dream come true for me, and being lower level is the only thing holding me back right now.”

“I want to go,” Sam said. His complexion was still a bit shaky, but his face seemed serious.

Sarah nodded as well. “I want to go.”

“Are you sure, Sarah?”

“What? Why question me but not either of them?”

"Well, we're going into a D rank Rift, and there will probably be a lot of fighting, especially to get them caught up and find Olivia. I know you don't really like combat…" He paused and organized his thoughts, even though he'd played through his conversation multiple times through the night. "I want you all to come, but I want to be clear that we're going to be pushing ourselves really, really hard. That's part of why I want to wait. I want to make a training plan and list out some skills for each of you for us to focus on getting while we're in there. So, not just fighting, but even our downtime will be filled with combat. I'm happy to organize everyone and be there to cheer you on, but I'm not some kind of drill sergeant. I don't want to force you to do something you don't want to do."

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Sarah sighed. "Yes, of course, I'm sure that I want to go. Even if for no other reason than to help Olivia. Why does it feel like I'm slowly getting pushed from the group? I tried not to let it bother me at first, but… what do I need to do here? Do I need to leave my job with the Hunters Association to be with the group the entire time? I am a part of this team, and I want to be a part of this team. I might not like killing, but that doesn't mean I can't support you guys in combat."

He was a bit surprised by her strong stance, but not disappointed. "All right, then." He gave her a genuine smile. "Like I said, we're going to push hard in there. Especially the two of you," he said while gesturing to Mark and Sarah, "are still really underleveled. We're going to need to keep you safe and see if you can't get participation in some easy kills. From my own experience, if there's anywhere that we can get you some quick levels… it'll be in a D rank Rift."

An amused snort broke him from his serious talk, and he looked over to see Sam covering his mouth with his hand. "Sorry, sorry. This is serious, and I'm really nervous… I just— it's hard to take you seriously with that hat on. It looks like it'll open its mouth and shout out your house name any second now."

Alex grumbled a bit while touching the underside of the brim self-consciously. Overall, the talk wasn’t nearly as bad as he’d been dreading. Sam was nervous to enter, but was surprisingly calm despite his past experience. Mark seemed excited to level, and Sarah seemed happy to have said something and be included in the group.

“All right,” he said while clapping his hands once. “There is a ton to get done. I want to split up tasks. If you’re coming, then you’re helping. Edwin. Gabby. You guys aren’t coming, but I still need your help.” He gave them his most charming smile and couldn’t help but wonder how goofy it looked with the hat on his head. He pulled out a small notepad from under his laptop. “I’ve outlined what I think we need. Equipment, training regimens, and camping equipment for the Rift.” He turned to look at Edwin. “I’ll need you to take on some more responsibilities for the next few weeks while we’re gone. I’m going to help get things started, but you’ll keep going with the interviews if needed, and you’ve got the authority to hire staff if needed. Also, I want you to get an apprentice or assistant, whichever you prefer. But… I’m leaning on you a lot, and I think you need to get some help of your own. Gabby, I’d like for you to meal prep and freeze some meals for us that have stat boosts, specifically a few sets for Mark and Sarah that have an Intellect Boost.”

Edwin just took it all in stride and nodded. Gabby responded with a bright smile and a loud, “Right, boss!”

“Mark, you’ve got training. We need to work on our physical development, and I’ve got a plan for one skill in particular to get on everyone’s status sheet.”

Before Alex could continue, Sarah cleared her throat. “Uhh… I have some bad news,” she said with a tense expression. “I just got a memo from The Hunters Association. Apparently, they seized control of all of the Guild’s holdings before dawn this morning and even detained some of the moderators. Elana included… look.”

(U_FOUO) INTERNAL MEMO

TLP: GREEN

FROM: Deputy Director Michael Sullivan

TO: All Senior Field Leaders, Division Chiefs, and Special Assets

SUBJECT: GUILDFALL - IMMEDIATE ACTION

As of this morning at 0300, Hunter teams executed a joint operation to secure all Adventurers Guild facilities across the country. Primary targets apprehended include Guild Moderator Elana Voss, Terrance Walsh, Derrick Holloway, and several known associates of Rylan Voss. They were detained for questioning and potential collaboration with the Sun Elf incursion.

The Guild’s main branch was in possession of a Tier 1 strategic asset, which has been quarantined and placed under the highest level of control while we continue to evacuate those within. All civilian access is suspended for the time being without explicit permission and adherence to protocols set forth by the administration team.

Current combat-ready Hunters should prepare for deployment rotations into the Rift as a necessary resource to prepare for the coming Continental Event. With limited slots, priority will be distributed to high-level Hunter teams and to specifically designated research teams.

All field assets should be prepared and stand by for the potential deployment. Leadership will coordinate with those who will be going on the first rotations, and future iterations will be set up once the time dilation effect is factored into expected training growth.

This information is Unclassified and For Official Use Only, not for public dissemination. Unauthorized sharing of this information will result in swift disciplinary action.

TLP: GREEN

Alex’s fingers tightened around his mug as he read the memo. “Shit,” he muttered. “That changes things… Should you even be sharing this with me?”

Sarah shrugged. “It says it’s being sent to ‘Special Assets.’ I’m sure that’s the only reason I’m getting it, and they’re very aware that we’re a team, more now than ever. I would guess it was sent to me with the intent to show it to you. Matthews might grant us access, given that we just helped work with them as contractors.” Sarah offered.

“This is definitely going to make it harder for you to talk with Elana…” Mark said as he skimmed the tablet himself.

“No kidding…” Alex tapped his fingers on the counter and looked down at his notes. “Okay then, Sarah, call the director and see if we can’t have a video or phone call as soon as possible.” He scribbled a few names on a sheet of paper and handed it to Sam. “I need you to call these people. Tell them we’re recruiting for the team and the house staff, and if they want to join, they can come tomorrow and talk with me.”

“Really?”

“Can’t hurt to ask.”

“Why— why me, though?”

“Because people like you, Sam. They like you and respect you. I’m pretty sure more people know you than know me, and they know how great of a healer you are. I think you’re the best option we have to reach out to people. But even then, you’ll recognize everyone on the list, they’re people we know.”

Sam beamed, already pulling out his cell phone as he stood to leave the room.

“Mark, you’re still on workout duty. Get with Edwin, and he’ll help you get all of the manuals we have on physical training and acclimating the body to higher physical stats. Try to create a plan that all of us can get into immediately and continue in the Rift.”

“Got it. What about you? Need anything else?”

Alex shook his head and tapped the packet of papers that Edwin had brought him. “I’m going to go through the skill list here. I want to pick skills to help fill everyone’s slots on the team. Some might be consumable, but most will be manuals for everyone to begin working toward training and obtaining as soon as possible.” He adjusted his hat. “The timeline was already tight. Now, it’ll depend on the HA if we can keep our plan of getting in there within three days. I’ll keep you guys updated. Jump on those tasks and keep your phones near you.”

Val chirped from his shoulder.

“You’re with me, Noodle. Sarah, just let me know whenever Director Matthews is free, and I’ll take the call no matter what I’m doing.”

The group dispersed quickly, and Alex pulled the packet closer. He scanned the skill options while half of his mind worked through contingencies. The fact that entry access into the Rift was blocked off had taken a stressful timeline and jumped it up to a potential crisis.

Maelis, if you’ve got any advice on skill builds for the four of us, now is the time to speak up.

“What do you think I am, brat? I’m here to teach you runes, and that’s it.”

Mhmm. I’m just going to start picking what I think works best. Feel free to chime in if my ignorance is bothering you.

With absolutely no hesitation or tonality in his voice, Maelis instantly said, “Your ignorance is bothering me.”

There was a long pause as Alex sat with his finger hovering in midair as he processed. Then he burst out laughing so hard he thought tears might stream from his eyes. It was one of those instances where, when Edwin came to check on him, and he attempted to describe what was so funny, it just made him laugh harder.

Maelis grumbled for a while, but Alex could swear he heard a smile in the insults that followed.

The day passed in a blur, and Alex moved to the large dining room table to spread out papers. His main focus was on sorting through the long list of skills and finding ones that could fit each of their builds. He was able to find several print manuals that could be repeated for each of them. He wanted to create a minimum base for each of them, just as Jon had done with his team.

Alex mumbled to himself, and Valtherion watched sleepily from a perch nearby, with the only change in his behavior being when Alex read a skill’s name out loud. Only then did he swoop down, wind from his wings causing several papers to scatter as he landed.

“What that? Taste is good.” He watched Alex with intelligent, golden eyes.

“[Taste Refinement]? It says that it enhances flavor perception. Not really what we’re looking for, buddy.”

Valtherion flapped his wings, causing more papers to scatter. “Want that one!” The chirp turned into something of a screech that caused Alex to cover his ears.

“All right, fine!” he laughed. “You just want cookies to taste better,” he said, not bothering to hide the accusation in his tone. Shaking his head, he wrote a note on the list for Edwin: “High Priority (Val said so).”

*“*But— hey, if you get this, then you have to learn the other one that I wanted, okay?”

The small blue creature seemed to give it thought before excitedly wiggling on the dining room table in acceptance.

Throughout the day, updates flowed in through his phone. Mark sent photos of the manuals he had settled on and was putting together a more comprehensive plan for ordered training. Sam reported positive responses from everyone on the list and lined them up for the following afternoon with some scheduling help from Edwin.

Sarah’s news came last and was delivered with an apologetic smile. “Matthews can’t meet today. It seems like there's a ton going on in the Safe Zones, and he’s got a bunch of logistics or something to deal with. He offered first thing tomorrow morning.”

Alex agreed and rubbed his eyes beneath the brim of his hat. “Tomorrow morning works. Thanks, Sarah.”

By the time evening rolled around, Alex was exhausted. He’d only slept a handful of hours in the last three days, and even with his [Sleep Resistance], he was feeling the strain. He trudged up the stairs, and the empty feeling in his room sent a pang through his chest.

Flopping down onto the bed, he reached his arm out to Olivia’s side and let out a long sigh. “Eight days for you already.”

Sleep claimed him quickly, though it felt like he’d only just closed his eyes when a gentle knock on his door pulled him from it. Edwin stood in the doorway, concern on his face.

“Master Moore, I apologize for waking you. Samuel’s parents have returned to the house and are quite distressed about the damage to the second floor.”

Alex blinked groggily, though the second half of his mind hadn’t been sleeping, so he allowed it to take over the majority of his functions. He swung his legs over the side of the bed. “Sam’s parents? What time is it?”

“Just past midnight, sir. They’ve been speaking with Samuel, but the conversation got quite heated as they discussed his returning to the Celestial Rift.”

“Tell them I’ll be down in five minutes.”

As Edwin departed, Alex stared at his reflection in the bedroom mirror. He looked at his hat sitting on the table next to his bed and thought for a moment about pushing through the pain and activating the [Mirage] combo. Then, he could send the mirage to talk to Sam’s parents, and he could continue to get some rest. It only took a moment’s thought to push the idea away and force himself to wake up all the way.

If I’m asking Sam to come back into the Rift with me, it’s not too much to talk them down and explain why…

Walking to the bathroom, he flicked on the light and water to splash his face. He didn’t anticipate the conversation to be easy, not when both of his parents were so caring.