The "Fire Kingdom," a nation founded by the Flame Master—the Ascendant Sovereign of flames. It also houses the world’s Adventurers’ Guild headquarters.
Unlike the Nation of Life, established by Tini, bearer of the Blessing of Life—which operates with the Academy of Life Magic at its core under a Sage’s guidance—the Fire Kingdom functions through the seamless integration of the Adventurers’ Guild and state institutions.
Where the Nation of Life relies on Tini and only one other Sage for stability, the Fire Kingdom boasts three Sages besides the Flame Master: the president of the Adventurers’ Guild, the central minister overseeing national affairs, and the dean of the Academy of Fire Magic.
Truly, the Fire Kingdom’s power runs deep. The entire region pulses with fervent passion—like an unquenchable, roaring flame.
Known for his militant spirit, the Flame Master deliberately founded the nation on a plain perilously close to a Colossal Beast’s territory. As he declared at its founding:
"We will vanquish that beast through relentless magical research and adventuring."
Those words drew countless daring souls. Here, the Adventurers’ Guild took root.
Now, Wude and Alreis strolled down the capital’s bustling main street.
"Master, why not go straight to the Flame Master?" Alreis had planned to take him directly. After all, Lingyue was elusive, but the Flame Master would surely be in the capital—especially with Lingyue’s motives unclear and his nation to protect.
"Alreis, Lingyue hasn’t appeared yet. Seeking the Flame Master now is pointless," Wude replied. He admired the man deeply, but knew the timing was wrong.
"Let’s check out the Central Adventurers’ Guild!" Wude finally revealed his true goal.
"...Fine," Alreis sighed. Seeing the fiery determination in his eyes, she knew resistance was futile. *He is the master*, she reminded herself.
Wude took her hand, asked a passerby, and quickly located the Guild.
Contrary to his tavern-style expectations, the Central Adventurers’ Guild stood massive and imposing—more like a government service hall. Impeccably organized, formally staffed. Elegant guides greeted newcomers at the entrance.
"Welcome!" one said warmly.
Though both dressed plainly, they received genuine hospitality. This was the Guild headquarters—staff were rigorously selected. No snobbery, no dramatic "scorn-then-comeuppance" tropes.
As noted before, Wude had never registered as an adventurer due to his former Level 3 strength. Alreis, an Ascendant Sovereign, had never needed to. But now at Level 6, Wude burned to join. Registering here meant streamlined procedures—certification upon approval.
Alreis followed silently. She saw little purpose in it, but respected his drive. To her, this was growth—and she supported that.
Following directions, they reached the registration area.
"This feels just like a bank," Wude murmured, watching queues form at each counter. He couldn’t help recalling holiday bank lines from his past life.
"So many adventurers?" A pang of dread flickered—but no complaint. Worth it.
"Master!" Alreis leaned close, voice hushed. Wude bent down. She whispered into his ear, "I can use spatial magic to skip the line."
"Alreis, there’s a sign: *‘Maintain order. No unauthorized magic.’* And that red device below detects breaches." Wude pointed.
"That thing can’t detect me," Alreis scoffed.
"...If so, then—" They exchanged a sly glance, grins spreading.
*Ahem!*
A cough froze them mid-smirk.
Alreis spun around, spiritual energy flaring—but sensed nothing.
Behind them stood a girl slightly taller than her, with ocean-blue hair (a stark contrast to the Fire Kingdom’s name), a gentle smile, and a presence as vast and calming as the sea itself. Most striking: her figure rivaled adult-form Tini’s.
"Who are you?" Alreis asked, wary.
"I’m Lopera, staff here!" She smiled, tapping the badge pinned proudly on her chest: *Central Adventurers’ Guild*.
"Um… what brings you to us?" Wude asked, voice slightly tight.
"I overheard… questionable plans. Just a friendly reminder: no rule-breaking," Lopera said lightly. As she shifted, her chest swayed gently.
Alreis stepped back, glanced down at her own flat chest, then at Wude’s wide-eyed stare. She eyed Lopera—a girl her age, yet so… developed—with sharp caution.
Wude, though momentarily captivated, stayed clear-headed. He shot Alreis a look:
*How did you not sense her?*
*I don’t scan constantly!* her eyes shot back.
…When had silent communication become this effortless?
"Ah, Miss Lopera, misunderstanding!" Wude stammered. "We’d never break rules!"
"Really? You’re not lying?"
"Of course not! Law-abiding citizens!" he nodded earnestly.
"Then I misjudged you," Lopera said, tilting her head with a radiant smile. The motion sent gentle ripples across her chest.
"Mmph! Let go, Wude!" Alreis hissed. He’d just restrained her—she’d nearly summoned a spatial blade at that *distraction*.
"Alreis… disobedience requires *discipline*," he whispered.
"Eep! Master, I’m sorry," she surrendered. Public shame was preferable to his… creative punishments. A hard-earned lesson.
Lopera’s smile vanished. Her eyes darkened.
"Sir… did she just call you *Master*?" Her tone turned icy. Wude had stepped squarely on a landmine.
"Uh… is that a problem?" he hedged, not denying it.
Instantly, her warmth returned. "You’re here for adventurer registration, yes? This way—priority lane skips the queue. Follow me!"
"Really? Then why so many waiting?"
"A small fee applies, but reasonable. Priority registrants gain minor privileges," she explained, smile unwavering.
"Alright," Wude agreed. Assistance saved time, fee was low. *He absolutely would not admit* that Lopera—a girl with a childlike face and mature figure—landed perfectly in his preference zone.
Wude and Alreis followed Lopera down the hall.
