They stopped a little distance from the dungeon's mouth. The stone entrance loomed, quiet and imposing. Kael's eyes burned with focus, scanning the group.
"Listen carefully," Kael said, voice low but commanding, "this dungeon is dangerous. The more dangerous it is… the faster I can rank you up."
Lyra's hands tightened on her bow. Riven shifted his stance, alert. Taren Vale and Calen Vire exchanged tense glances, anticipation buzzing through them.
"All of you already hold F-rank licenses," Kael continued, "but to enter this dungeon as E-rank hunters, you need to apply for an E-rank license through the guild."
The four hunters froze.
"Apply?" Riven asked, eyebrows furrowed.
Kael nodded. "Exactly. Surviving as F-ranks isn't enough. The guild evaluates every hunter. Only those who prove their skills, reflexes, and judgment get E-rank approval."
Lyra's hands trembled, but she straightened. "So… we have to prove ourselves again?"
Kael's gaze swept over them. "Yes. Step by step. Show the guild that you're worthy. This isn't about scraps or favors. This is your chance to rise above the F-rank you've been trapped in."
Riven's eyes gleamed with determination.Lyra's chest rose steadily, her bow gripped tight.Taren Vale's fists clenched like iron.Calen Vire's trembling hands steadied, determination shining through.
Kael's lips curved faintly. "Good. Step by step, we'll get your E-rank licenses. Once the guild approves them, the dungeon will be open to you. And from that point, the world will have no excuse to ignore us."
The dungeon hall lay ahead, silent and massive. Inside, their evaluation trials awaited—tests designed to push every skill they had to the limit.
Every step toward the hall echoed with anticipation. Every heartbeat carried the promise of growth, power, and recognition.
The world outside might still overlook them, but once the guild approves their E-rank licenses, nothing will stop them.