In the streets of Monterra, a new rumor had emerged, spreading from mouth to mouth like wildfire.

It was about the 'lunar sculptor', a new mercenary who was said to have an infallible record in the missions he undertook.

It was said that his combat skills were high and his magic very versatile.

It was said that he had emerged from the central desert, the one nobody dared to cross, full of monsters and extreme weather conditions.

It was also said that... he was seeking revenge, although nobody knew yet who his target was.

The young three-star mage had crossed territory after territory for three weeks, gathering companions as he solidified his fame.

His momentum seemed unstoppable and was met with curious eyes that wondered what his destination was.

But when his group finally reached the Goldenglow viscounty, they stood before a city in partial ruin.

Just a few days before, at the new year's celebration, a huge monster had ravaged most of the inhabitants, raising their blood above the snowy sky before vanishing without a trace.

Everyone was busy working on the reconstruction, and the local mercenary guild where the group was staying was no exception.

A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

"Hugo, what do we do now?"

A young man of sturdy build, carrying a large claymore on his back, asked the aforementioned 'lunar sculptor' as he placed a hand on his shoulder.

Behind him stood two other young men with serious faces, each equipped with their own weapon.

Hugo turned to look at them before responding:

"...Let's choose a mission that allows us to travel around the area."

"Alright, let's do that."

The group approached the guild counter. Shortly after, they settled on a mission to clean up the monsters surrounding the viscounty.

The duration was indefinite, allowing them to abandon the mission at any time, and the pay was decent.

The receptionist smiled at them, bidding farewell to the four who were already preparing to leave.

Just as they crossed the entrance, Hugo glanced sideways at the bounty board.

He stopped abruptly and began to tremble.

"What's wrong?"

The young mage ignored his companions and approached the wanted posters.

Among them was the face of a man with a very familiar beak-like mask.

[Derick Montse, the 'lava hound'.]

Next to him was a portrait of a young, innocent-looking blond.

Hugo grabbed that poster and stared at it intently.

The description read...

[Wanted.]

[Dead or alive.]

[Fabio, the 'instigator'.]