Tension hung thick in the air as Rey released his aura, a force so potent that the nobles around him instinctively recoiled. The sheer pressure of his presence pressed down on everyone in the square, making their movements hesitant, their gazes wary. For a moment, time seemed to slow, and even the bustling sounds of the city faded into a distant murmur.

  From a gilded carriage nearby, a figure finally emerged. Clad in an immaculate ensemble befitting his station, he exuded authority and command with every measured step. The crowd instinctively parted as he approached, and the aura surrounding him radiated an intimidating familiarity.

  He introduced himself simply, yet with the weight of centuries behind his name: "Helberg Arden, Level 89. One of the Elders of the Arden family."

  Rey, retracting his aura with a subtle movement of his hand, watched closely. Around him, Willson, Drax, and Tristan stiffened. Recognition flashed in their eyes. They knew him.

  It was a name etched into memory, a shadow from their past. Five years ago, when they had been part of the same adventuring team, they had faced Helberg in a mission granted by the Guild. At that time, Eris, Vincent, Evelyn, and Emily had stayed behind, and the trio—Willson, Drax, and Tristan—had struggled against a level 65 monster. Their strength had nearly failed them. Only a devastating strike, unleashed in desperation, had obliterated the creature in a blaze of fire. That victory had been costly and unforgettable.

  And now, that same figure—Helberg Arden—stood before them. Older, more imposing, and unmistakably formidable.

  Helberg’s gaze swept across the crowd before settling on Willson. His voice, smooth but edged with steel, cut through the tension.

  "Willson… long time no see. So… what you announced—is it true?"

  Willson swallowed, a hint of fear betraying his composed exterior. "Y-Yes… it’s true."

  A thin, mocking smile spread across Helberg’s face, his eyes glinting with calculated amusement. "Do you really think a new Clan like that can last here in Christope? Don’t make me laugh."

  Willson straightened, trying to match Helberg’s gaze, though his heart raced. "The six of us are reunited… that’s enough to strengthen Clan Origin."

  Helberg threw back his head and laughed—a sound both rich and menacing, echoing through the square. "Hahahahaha… Willson… Willson… you still don’t understand, do you? Never mind… I’ll give you some time to feel comfortable. But…"

  His eyes darted around, sharp and searching, as if tracking a hidden presence. "I want to know… who had the audacity to threaten the Arden family with that aura?"

  A silence fell. It wasn’t the normal kind of silence; it was the suffocating kind that pressed against the chest, where every inhale seemed louder than the last. No one dared answer.

  Helberg’s brow furrowed, anger simmering just beneath the surface. "I asked you… who dares challenge the Arden family?!"

  He repeated the question two more times, each shout growing in intensity. The crowd trembled under the weight of his voice, yet the elusive figure he sought remained hidden.

  Frustration tightened Helberg’s jaw. Without hesitation, he activated his Appraisal skill—a brilliant display of arcane energy that swept across every person in the square. Levels, abilities, and hidden strengths were laid bare before him. He scanned with meticulous precision, yet no one present possessed the power capable of challenging him.

  A frown creased his face as he tried to comprehend the anomaly. "That aura… it vanished all of a sudden. Has the person left? But who…? I need to report this to the head of the family…"

  Helberg’s gaze swept over the assembled nobles one final time before he spoke, his voice carrying the weight of command and authority.

  “Return to the Arden Family Mansion immediately. There is a matter we need to discuss.”

  The crowd parted obediently, every member of the Arden family moving in perfect formation, the respect—and fear—they held for their elder evident in every step. Helberg’s eyes lingered briefly on Willson and the others, a cruel, knowing smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

  “Willson… I will watch the strength of your Clan Origin. Let’s see if it can survive for one year… or…” His eyes glinted with mockery as he glanced at them all, and a chilling laugh spilled from his lips, sharp and scornful. “Shattered to pieces… hahahahaha.”

  With that, Helberg and his family began to leave, their presence dominating the square even as they receded from view.

  Willson exhaled shakily, his fear barely restrained. “Helberg’s power… he’s almost Level 90 now. Rey… have you exceeded Level 90? The aura you unleashed—it even suppressed Helberg’s.”

  Alex, grinning with excitement despite a slight tremor in his legs, added, “Hahaha… don’t you know? My friend’s strength is far beyond Level 90. As for the nobles’ families… we fear nothing.”

  Rey shot Alex a sidelong glance, a smirk tugging at his lips. “Ermm… you can barely stand. Are you planning to attack them with that power right now?”

  Alex’s face flushed with embarrassment, but he stood his ground, a spark of pride in his eyes. “Rey… I’ve only been in dungeons a few times, so I’m not beyond Level 50 yet. Naturally, I was overwhelmed by his aura. But it’s fine… I’ll raise my level quickly over the next month, and then I’ll show those nobles who I really am.”

  Rey laughed, a warm, amused sound that eased some of the tension. “Hahahaha… okay, okay… I believe you. Let’s head inside first. Eris… are you certain about what you said earlier?”

  Eris’s voice was steady, resolute. “Yes… Clan Origin will replace Clan Rose. All members and territories of Clan Rose are now under Clan Origin.”

  A smile spread across Rey’s face, relief and pride mingling together. “Eris… thank you. I will ensure that every territory of Clan Rose is protected. And for your younger sister… I promise, I will avenge them, reclaim what is on Floor 7, and give your friends a proper, honorable burial.”

  Eris’s eyes glistened with tears, emotion choking her voice. Around her, Tristan, Willson, Drax, and the others felt a complex mix of grief and hope. Sadness lingered for the friends they had lost, but there was also a flicker of joy—the opportunity to finally step into the dungeon and avenge them.

  Rey’s expression hardened with determination as he laid out the plan. “Within one to two months, every top-ranking member must surpass Level 60. By the third month, we will prepare to enter Floor 7 and resolve what has been left unfinished. After that… we will participate in the upcoming Clan Tournament. Clan Origin will secure first place, and that victory will earn us a spot in the tournament between nations of the Northern Continent, happening two years from now.”

  The group moved toward the Grand Hall of Clan Rose, now symbolically becoming the headquarters of Clan Origin. The massive doors opened with a reverberating echo, and Willson stepped forward, holding a document carefully in his hands.

  "This... is the Clan's Original Letter. It has been officially approved."

  Rey nodded, turning to the team. “Every member will relocate to Clan Rose, which is now rebuilt and rebranded as Clan Origin.”

  In the following two months, the clan dedicated themselves to rigorous training and a staged clearing of dungeons. Every encounter became a lesson in strategy and coordination. Alex’s growth was meteoric—he soared to Level 61. Tristan pushed himself to Level 78, Eris reached Level 72, Vincent achieved Level 68, Evelyn climbed to 64, and Luna neared the levels of Melvin and Elysa, reaching 51 and 48 respectively.

  Each battle was grueling, testing not just their strength, but the cohesion of their team. The lessons learned on the field honed their skills, forming a unit that was disciplined, synchronized, and dangerous. By the end of the training period, most members had reached the thresholds of Class B, A, or even S, demonstrating a newfound depth and versatility in combat that few could rival.

  With these accomplishments came a symbol of their unity and power: the Clan Origin emblem. At its center was the golden head of a dragon, representing courage and dominance. Surrounding the dragon were symbols denoting each member’s role—daggers for assassins, staves for mages, books for support, and sword-and-shield icons for warriors. In the very center, emblazoned boldly, was a “W,” a mark of the clan’s ultimate strength.

  The emblem was more than just decoration; it was a warning to all who might challenge them. It represented a clan that was not only powerful but united, resilient, and well-trained—a force that could not be shaken easily.

  This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

  Rey stood at the forefront, looking at his team, pride and determination reflected in his gaze. “Two months of preparation… that’s all we need to build the foundation. And once we enter Floor 7, we will not only reclaim what was lost but also show the world the might of Clan Origin.”

  Tristan clenched his fists, a mix of grief and motivation coursing through him. “We will make every effort count, for those who fell before us. Their sacrifice will not be in vain.”

  Willson nodded solemnly, still feeling the weight of Helberg’s earlier threat. “The strength of Helberg… almost Level 90. But now… we are no longer the same team we were five years ago. We’ve grown, and our strategy is tighter than ever.”

  Alex leaned forward, a spark of mischief in his eyes. “Just wait until I show them my real power. Level 61 now, but by next month… they’ll see the real me.”

  Rey laughed, a rare, genuine laugh that lifted the spirits of everyone present. “Hahahaha… fine. I trust you. Let’s move forward together. Every territory, every member, every battle—we will forge our future.”

  The members of Clan Origin felt a surge of pride and determination. The path ahead was dangerous, filled with powerful foes and deadly dungeons, but they were no longer alone, no longer inexperienced. Each had grown, both in power and in spirit. And together, they formed a team that could rival any force in Christope.

  The emblem on the walls of their new headquarters glimmered in the sunlight, a golden reminder of what they had become. It was not just a mark of power—it was a statement. A declaration that Clan Origin was here, united, prepared, and unstoppable.

  As the training days passed, the team pushed themselves harder, clearing dungeon after dungeon, fighting increasingly formidable monsters. Rey’s leadership guided them, not just with power but with strategy, foresight, and a careful plan for each member’s growth.

  Luna, who had once struggled to match Melvin and Elysa, now fought with confidence, her spells precise and calculated. Evelyn’s support abilities ensured the group’s survival in the toughest battles, while Vincent and Tristan’s strength anchored the team’s frontline. Eris coordinated logistics and training drills, making certain no weakness went unaddressed.

  The synergy between them grew palpable. Every fight, every dungeon clearing, every new level gained was a testament to their resilience and unity. Clan Origin was no longer just a collection of strong individuals—they were a cohesive force, ready to dominate the coming tournaments and protect the territories they now commanded.

  By the end of the two months, the transformation was undeniable. The members had matured, the clan’s emblem became a symbol of hope and power, and the legend of Clan Origin began to spread. Their training was complete, their resolve unbreakable, and their eyes fixed firmly on Floor 7 and the tournaments beyond.

  Rey’s plan was clear: reclaim lost glory, avenge fallen friends, dominate the upcoming competitions, and secure a place in the larger stage of the Northern Continent’s tournaments. And with every step, every level gained, Clan Origin inched closer to becoming the unshakable powerhouse they were destined to be.

  The people on Christope had begun to take notice. Clan Aegis, Clan Obsidian, and even the Guild of Adventurers now eyed Clan Origin with wariness, regarding them as a rising threat. Ever since Helberg’s visit to Clan Rose—now under Clan Origin’s banner—the Arden family had maintained a careful distance. Rumors spread quickly: Clan Origin had individuals with power surpassing Level 90.

  That night, under a silver-tinted sky, Rey summoned Luna to meet him. She arrived, her presence ethereal, adorned in a flowing gown that shimmered with elegance.

  “Rey… did you call for me?” she asked softly, a hint of curiosity and caution in her voice.

  Rey’s eyes widened slightly, momentarily distracted by her beauty. “Yes… I wanted to ask you something about yourself.”

  Luna blushed faintly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Oh… okay. What do you wish to ask?”

  Rey’s expression grew serious. “Luna… what I want to ask is about the skill you obtained when you arrived in this world. If you’re not ready… or don’t want to tell me… that’s fine.”

  Luna froze. Such matters were usually deeply private; no one could know another player’s skills, particularly in a world like this, where all were outsiders from another realm. She hesitated, then, after a deep breath, made her decision.

  “Rey… just ask. I’ll answer honestly,” she said, her voice trembling slightly.

  Rey blinked, surprised by her forthrightness. “Very well… then. Does your skill relate only to your MP? Because I noticed your INT and EXP have been increasing rapidly… nearly catching up to Melvin and Evelyn.”

  Luna nodded, her gaze steady. “The skill I possess… it depends on the effects of those around me. If I fight monsters with a party of mages, my MP and INT increase by 30% each time I level up. If I’m near an assassin, my SPD and AGI increase by 30%. If near a warrior, STR and END increase by 30%. When the party has all roles… every stat of mine increases, though slightly reduced to 18% per stat.”

  Rey’s mind raced, astonished. “This is almost identical to my passive skill, Overgrowth… but conditions must be met to activate hers.”

  He tilted his head. “And… This is your passive skill?”

  Luna’s voice was calm, informative. “That’s correct, Rey. But I don’t understand why Melvin and Evelyn don’t have passive skills. Shouldn’t every player have one? Even Alex has a passive skill, but he hasn’t shared it with us.”

  Rey’s surprise deepened. “Wait… so you’ve all been discussing your passive skills?”

  Luna nodded. “Yes… but it was only the four of us at the time.”

  System notification blinked. Host… you must conceal your passive skill. Do not tell anyone, even candidates selected by the system.

  Rey frowned slightly. “So even if the three of them are married and have activated the ‘Bond of the Strong’ title, I still can’t reveal it?”

  System: It is recommended to hide it for now. When the host reaches Level 95, the system will notify if disclosure is permitted.

  Rey exhaled, nodding. “Very well… system. I will continue to train using the Simulation afterward.”

  System: Acknowledged, Host. Instruction received.

  He then asked Luna to keep this information confidential, and she nodded in understanding. With that settled, Rey retreated to his training chamber—the Simulation Room.

  Inside, he selected a Level 87 Minotaur, the strongest opponent he had previously faced. Gradually, he increased their numbers from ten to twenty. At this stage, he could still control the battlefield. Swiftly, he moved through the simulated horde, striking down monsters one by one.

  A misstep nearly cost him—a Minotaur’s attack grazed him—but Rey blocked it with his dagger, then spun, delivering a decisive strike that split the creature’s head. Stamina still high, he dispatched fifteen monsters in under fifteen minutes, grinning at his progress.

  Rey initiated a rapid combo, targeting the remaining five monsters, and swiftly brought down all twenty in less than twenty minutes. He continued, adapting as the number of monsters increased. When he requested forty Minotaur’ s to spawn, the battle became far more challenging.

  Initially, he handled the first twenty with ease, but the remaining twenty forced him into mistakes. His movements missed several attacks, and at the twentieth minute, a blow cracked the bones in his arm. Another Minotaur appeared behind him, swinging its axe. Rey braced against the strike despite his injury, focusing his strength in his legs, kicking the monster ahead and slicing it cleanly.

  Minutes passed, and by the thirty-fifth minute, thirty-five monsters were defeated, leaving only five. Utilizing the same combo he had perfected earlier, he overcame the final five, finishing the Simulation in a record thirty-eight minutes.

  Exhaustion weighed heavily on him; cuts, fractures, and bruises covered his body. The Simulation had nearly defeated him, yet he had learned, adapted, and strengthened.

  “Forty Minotaur… incredibly strong. I nearly lost… but my control over my abilities has improved,” Rey muttered, catching his breath.

  System: Congratulations, Host. Your control and strategy have increased significantly. You are now prepared to face stronger monsters.

  Rey sat up on the Simulation bed, noticing how energized he felt despite the exertion. He then heard a commotion outside. Rushing toward it, he found a Division 17 member gravely injured—broken arms, bruised, barely standing—alongside two others. Luna, using high-tier potions and her healing skills, worked quickly to stabilize them.

  Rey approached, finding the Division 17 leader, along with Vincent, Evelyn, Eris, Melvin, and Elysa, gathered near the injured members.

  “What happened? How did your members get hurt so badly?” Rey asked, concern lining his tone.

  The Division 17 leader gave a respectful bow. “Lord Rey… after you go to training, our members encountered subordinates from Clan Obsidian and Clan Aegis while transporting materials to the currency exchange. They were attacked, resulting in these injuries.”

  Rey frowned deeply. “Clan Aegis and Obsidian? Did your subordinates provoke them?”

  Leader shook his head. “No, Lord Rey… the opposing members provoked Clan Origin. Our subordinates acted to defend the clan’s reputation.”

  Rey’s expression softened slightly, though his voice remained serious. “I see… And Willson? Where is he?”

  Tristan and Drax arrived at that moment. Drax explained, “Willson and Alex are handling the matter. The Guild requested that Clan Origin take responsibility for the incident after the injuries occurred.”

  Rey’s lips curved into a small smile, a mixture of amusement and understanding. He knew Alex well—the cunning and calculated nature that would allow him to resolve matters like this efficiently. Calmly, he addressed the group.

  “Do not worry… consider this resolved. Three of you have made the right decisions. You may rest. Drax will train with you to ensure you can defend yourselves in the future.”

  The others exchanged glances, surprised by Rey’s composure and confidence. Tristan voiced the question on all their minds. “Ace… are you really sure about leaving it like this? The Guild and the two clans are already in motion.”

  Rey’s smile widened, calm and assured. “Just wait and see… you’ll understand that my words will come true.”

  Soon after, the injured members were attended to, and Willson and Alex returned to the clan. Willson’s expression was weary but smiling faintly at Alex’s antics.

  “Hey, you’re back,” Rey greeted them.

  Alex grinned, unbothered. “Hey Rey… hahaha… finally awake. I thought you were dead in that room.”

  Rey shot him a look, annoyed but amused. “Hey… I was training, okay? It took time. You think I’d just sit around like you?”

  Alex laughed. “Hahaha… relax, friend. I was joking.”

  “Everything resolved then?” Rey asked.

  Alex nodded confidently. “Ah… that matter? The Guild and the two clans couldn’t do anything. All handled.”

  Rey’s eyes swept over Tristan and the others. “See… I told you. Nothing to worry about.”

  Understanding dawned on the group; they realized Rey’s confidence stemmed not from arrogance, but from trust in his team and awareness of Alex’s cunning negotiation.

  Drax glanced at Willson, concerned. “Are you alright?”

  Willson, looking drained, replied, “Yes… I’m fine. Don’t worry about the Guild or the clans. I just need time to process what happened. Don’t ask me about it… I need to rest.”

  Rey turned to Alex, his expression serious. “Alex… all preparations complete?”

  Alex’s grin widened proudly. “Oi oi… don’t you know me? Everything’s ready, Rey. I’m just waiting for your orders.”

  Rey’s gaze was sharp, but a small smile touched his lips. “Then… it’s time. Clan Origin will move. We enter Floor 7.”

  His words echoed in the ears of every member. None expected their high-level mission to commence in just a few days. But Rey knew… what awaited them on Floor 7 was not just a dungeon—it was the beginning of a real war.