This is the story of how the Dark Mage died.

"Have you heard? Word has it that someone saw The Dark Mage!"

"Are you a moron? Nobody has any idea what they even look like."

Talking about an entity that might not even exist is another common topic of conversation. That has been the case for the past seventy-plus years that the gateways have existed. Since he was a young child, Cyrus has heard these kinds of tales, and to be honest, he does not believe them to be true. He does not even believe in the existence of the Dark Mage.

A young man's voice said, "It looks like another talk about the Dark Mage." Glancing up, Cyrus spotted Roman, his close friend, settling into a chair in front of him. Smiling, Roman crosses his arms and reclines in his seat. Everyone is enraged by the enigmatic Dark Mage. They are still quite popular, even though no one knows who they are or even what they look like."

With wrinkled brows and a sour face, Cyrus urges his companion, "They should quit talking about a being who might not exist." "At least it is better than getting criticized for being an F-rank," Roman grinned boyishly and smiled at his friend's statement.

Cyrus could only give Roman a stern look while sulkily clicking his tongue. Roman continued, his unruly red hair flowing in the wind, "But I could have never predicted that someone like you would be an F-rank," as he glanced up at the sky. Although Cyrus had no desire to pursue a career in hunting, he never would have imagined himself as an F-rank. "Cyrus. The guy who seems like he could kick your ass and may have anger management problems. Roman teases, "When in reality you are a man who can not even injure a puppy."

That was accurate. Despite his outward appearance, Cyrus was more of a person with a gap in his life than a troublemaker. A frightening look belied a truly kind individual who never really hurt someone or even started a quarrel. Even though he was born into this body, he was not particularly powerful, and he detests those who make fun of the week.

If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it's taken without the author's consent. Report it.

"However, that is unfortunate. How can you not be a B-rank with a body like yours? perhaps an A-rank as well?" Roman was surprised beyond belief that his pal is an F-rank instead of being in any of those courses. With a smile, he answers, "Well, at least you are not changing. You will always be my buddy, whether you are in the F or A rank."

At least someone respects Cyrus like a normal person and not just some weak F-rank, and for that Cyrus is thankful. He just murmured, "Thanks," and Roman smiled proudly at him. "Of course, buddy! I will be your ally and supporter no matter what. Roman winks at Cyrus, who could not help but give him a dejected expression.

"Now, please do not give me that face," chuckles Roman. "To be honest, you ought to locate a lovely woman to develop romantic feelings for. It should not be too difficult to locate one because you are attractive." Cyrus merely sighs and says, "You know that I am too busy to even look for love," as Roman informs him friend. Furthermore, they become uninterested as soon as they realize I am an F-rank hunter." He crosses his arms and informs Roman.

At that, Roman could only laugh and say, "Nevermind that. I totally forgot that this was my purpose for coming to speak with you." With a raised eyebrow, Cyrus inquires, "Tell me about what?" Cyrus was shown the screen by Roman as he pulled out his phone. Telling him that a dungeon requires a few people, "would you like to come along? It is a D-rank dungeon, and I know you might not want to enter." Cyrus asked his friend, "Why are you asking an F-rank to go in a D-rank dungeon?" as he turned away from the phone. Cyrus was compelled to inquire.

"I understand your perspective, but I believe this has potential. I understand that fighting in a D-rank dungeon would be difficult for an F-rank, but I will be here to support you!" Roman continues, putting his phone aside, "I also think you will discover good armor and mana crystals over there." Cyrus is aware that Roman is merely attempting to support and strengthen him.

Cyrus gets up from his seat and says, "Thanks, Roman. Maybe I should accompany you to this D-rank dungeon. Roman chuckles at him when he jokes, "Better try and keep me alive though."

"Obviously, man! Come on, let us get there before it becomes too late!" Roman gets up from his chair and says, grinning like a child.

As the two start to leave the table, Cyrus hears them say, "Even if the Dark Mage was spotted," and grins. Exercise caution. If not, you will perish and be reduced to their servant status." With a start, Cyrus glanced back, only to realize the two individuals had vanished into thin air. "Hey, man, are you okay?" Cyrus answers Roman's question with a nod of his head and a simple "Yes" before returning to strolling beside Roman.