Eternal Shadows: The Black Blade Chronicles

Chapter 1: The Shadow's Veil (Part 1)

Part 1: The Departure

The morning sun cast a soft glow over the quiet suburbs of The Eternal Shadow Guild Territory. Enryu stood by the large window of his modest home, gazing out at the peaceful surroundings. His crimson hair fell just above his shoulders, a striking contrast to the dark, simple clothing he wore. Here, in this small house, he was just an A-Class adventurer-a rank just below the elite SS and S Classes-preparing for another mission.

In the kitchen, Ryuji, his loyal servant, was preparing a light breakfast. Ryuji appeared as a calm and composed man, his sharp features softened by the friendly demeanor he adopted. "Your breakfast, Enryu-sama," Ryuji said, placing the tray on the table. His voice carried the faintest hint of deference, a remnant of the centuries of service he had given.

Enryu nodded his thanks, taking a seat. "Thank you, Ryuji," he replied, his tone polite but distant. They both understood the need for caution, even in the privacy of their own home. The mission required them to maintain their roles at all times.

Miyu quietly entered the room, her expression serene. She was more than capable of handling herself in any situation, but here, she was simply Miyu, a quiet and unassuming companion. "I've prepared your gear, Enryu-sama," she informed him softly, her eyes showing a subtle mix of respect and concern.

"Thank you, Miyu," Enryu responded, finishing his meal. "I'll be heading to the Adventure Bureau shortly."

Ryuji and Miyu exchanged a glance. Though they both knew he was more than capable of handling whatever lay ahead, there was always a lingering concern when their master ventured out alone. However, they respected his need for solitude in these missions.

After a quick but efficient preparation, Enryu donned his attire: a dark, hooded jacket that fell just above his knees, lightweight armor beneath, and a magical sling-bag designed with spatial magic, capable of storing much more than it appeared. His black Japanese sword, with its sleek design, hung at his waist, and a smaller adventurer's knife was sheathed at his back. His boots were sturdy and practical, and a pair of unique glasses rested on his nose-tools that were far more than they seemed.

"Ryuji, Miyu," Enryu began, turning to face them as he prepared to leave, "I'll handle the investigation alone. However, keep an eye on any developments here. If anything unusual arises, contact me immediately."

"Understood," they both replied in unison, bowing slightly.

With that, Enryu stepped out of his home, his demeanor shifting instantly. As he walked through the quiet streets of the suburb, he was a solitary adventurer with a mysterious past. The streets were just beginning to stir with life, the early morning light bathing the stone pathways and modest houses in a warm glow.

The Adventure Bureau stood near the center of the city, a grand structure that served as the heart of the adventuring community. It was an impressive blend of old-world architecture and modern magical enhancements. Large windows allowed light to flood into the main hall, where adventurers of all ranks gathered. The atmosphere was always lively, filled with the clamor of voices and the occasional burst of laughter.

Enryu walked through the large double doors, his presence immediately noticeable despite his attempt to blend in. The staff behind the front desk greeted him with polite smiles, clearly familiar with his face, if not his true identity. They knew him as an A-Class adventurer-quiet, skilled, and somewhat of a loner.

"Enryu-san," one of the clerks, a young woman with bright eyes, addressed him as he approached the counter. "We've received word about increased monster activity near the western border. It seems like a mission that fits the specifications you gave us to search and provide to you, right?"

Enryu nodded, his expression neutral. "I'll take the mission. I need to see what's happening out there."

The clerk handed him a scroll, detailing the mission's specifics. "We've had reports of abnormal activity, possibly a gathering of monsters. Given the area, it's affecting trade routes and might escalate if not addressed quickly. But before that, I still don't understand why you sought a mission like this, Enryu-san."

"Understood. Maybe it's a story for another time," Enryu replied. He glanced around the bureau, noticing a few other adventurers watching him curiously. There was always a sense of mystery surrounding him-whispers of noble connections, or perhaps ties to the city's upper echelons. No one knew for sure, and he preferred it that way.

"Huff. Safe travels, Enryu-san," the clerk said as he turned to leave.

Enryu offered a brief nod and exited the bureau, the scroll now tucked away in his magical bag. As he stepped outside, the bustling city streets greeted him, but his mind was already focused on the mission ahead. The western border of the territory was a few days' journey by traditional means, but he knew the teleportation portal could get him closer in a fraction of the time.

However, he chose to travel by more conventional methods this time, blending in with the merchants and other adventurers who frequented the roads. There was something about this mission-an undercurrent of unease-that made him wary. It felt connected to the greater mystery he was investigating, one that the World System had forbidden the 13 heroes from touching.

As he made his way through the city and toward the gates leading to the western routes, Enryu felt the weight of his power, the Watch-Guard of Darkness, gently pulsing beneath the surface. It was a comforting reminder of who he truly was, even if the world could not know it yet.

With a final glance at the city he quietly protected, Enryu set out on his journey, the shadow of the Eternal Guild's true master hidden beneath the guise of a solitary adventurer. The road ahead was uncertain, but Enryu was ready to face whatever awaited him.