After one year…
Where is that monster?
This place holds one of my most painful memories. It has been a long time since I returned here again… that day when I was on the brink of death.
This is not the time for memories. I must find that monster. This is a dangerous mission assigned to me by the Commander. Despite his insistence that I take support with me, I refused. No matter how much I try to adapt, I have never wanted anyone to accompany me.
My sword is my only companion…
I looked at the sword with deep sorrow—not because it is broken, and not because I do not love it, but because it is a painful reminder of my weakness and my continuous failure until now.
I looked at the tattoo on my hand… it has never changed despite all this time passing. Is the flaw in it?
No… I must be the weak one. Despite the development of my physical abilities and my use of weapons, I still do not understand myself or the nature of my power.
But I will continue. I will never disappoint the Commander. Without him, I would have been lost in a deep darkness of helplessness, weakness, and loneliness.
Whenever I remember it, it feels as if it happened only yesterday…
Returning to the past…
What?!!!
Are you sure about my joining an important squad like yours? I am a weak person without any power. How will I accomplish missions? I am truly unqualified to join the Storm Guild…
I spoke in complete shock and astonishment at his request. I never expected him to invite me to join his squad. I would only be a burden to them.
My thoughts were interrupted by Mr. Grace's loud laughter…
"Ha ha ha ha… excuse me, boy. I never said I accepted you yet. Look, I will explain.
To be able to join any squad across the kingdoms, you must obtain a recommendation for acceptance.
It is a submission that shows your skills and level through the academies, and people there are recommended to join our trial squads.
What we do is test them in a real battlefield, but only experimentally.
For example, we take members of the trial squads and allow them to hunt monsters in one of the legendary forests, such as the Shrine of Monsters, but we leave them only in safe zones… places under our control so we can protect them.
I am only recommending you to join one of those squads. The rest depends on your hard work and talent to join us."
Alright… I am trying to understand everything you said. Not because the situation is complicated, but because I am thinking about something else that prevents me from fully understanding.
Really? And what is that thing?
Well… how will I fight without my tattoo ability?
"Not everyone in this world is tattooed, you know. But your solution is simple… there are weapons designed to kill monsters with abilities, such as swords, spears, or any other weapon.
I will train you in the weapon you choose, so you can kill monsters during the recommendation exam."
I understand… So when do we start?
(Grace thought internally)
This boy's determination is truly remarkable… but he is like fragile glass. What happened to him since he awakened is not easy at all… therefore, the slightest damage could shatter him into pieces.
I think he will have a difficult time forming friendships or dealing with others…
Alright then, I will let you rest today, and we will start tomorrow. Also, so you can get to know the kingdom and explore it.
I looked at the mirror in front of my face and saw my reflection clearly… I truly do not want to see people out there. A deep fear inside me that I cannot understand.
I never liked dealing with anyone except Mr. Grace.
Signs of sadness appeared strongly on my face…
I will live alone. I do not want to deal with anyone or let them see how empty I am inside. I will serve Mr. Grace loyally and help him with his missions to repay my debt for helping me…
He noticed the change in the boy's expression. He seemed worried and saddened. His violet eye concealed pain and deep darkness that no one but him could understand.
I will try to ease things for him a little…
"Boy… what do you want your name to be?"
I looked in shock and astonishment… I fell silent for a moment, trying to comprehend what he said, but the shock was overwhelming.
Wait… can I really have a name?
"Of course, yes. Names are merely titles our families gave us to distinguish us among people. Just names to differentiate ourselves from what surrounds us… so what do you think?"
Well… I truly do not mind, but I cannot find something suitable. Could you choose one for me?
"Alright, with pleasure… what do you think of the name Mark?"
Hmm… honestly, I do not like it. Any other suggestion?
"Look… I will think of something that resembles you a little. You are a person with black hair with violet strands matching the color of your eyes.
You are neither too short nor too tall… your height is perfect.
What do you think of the name Zack? I feel it suits you a little."
Zack… alright, it is a nice name. But why this name specifically?
"It is the name of an old friend of mine who resembled you a little… and you reminded me of him. His name was unique among us.
We built this guild together, but unfortunately… life always takes away what you cherish the most."
I felt Mr. Grace's disturbance. He hid his sorrow behind a calm smile that concealed his true emotions.
I am sorry, Mr. Grace, for reminding you of that…
"No problem, boy… what matters is that you prove your worth and show me your ability to endure and deserve this name."
I had forgotten… the Commander's emotions made me forget my joy at finally receiving a name… a name I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Thank you, Mr. Grace… I will never disappoint you. I promise to become someone worthy of carrying this name.
He smiled faintly…
"I trust in your ability… and I believe you are capable of achieving something great in the future.
Alright, I will leave you now. I will ask the assistants to fulfill any request you have, and you can go anywhere and take a tour of the guild or the kingdom."
Thank you, Commander… I will never forget your help as long as I live.
"Do not worry… see you later."
(Sound of the door closing)
Alright… I am alone with my thoughts again, but I will be in control this time.
Wait, tattoo… I will awaken you soon.
This is truly the beginning of new horizons…