The morning sun had barely risen when Hiroshi and Kaito arrived at the Wanderer’s Association to check the mission board.

  The hall was already bustling with new adventurers and experienced wanderers, each selecting missions suited to their rank.

  Kaito scanned the board excitedly. “Come on, give us something good…”

  Hiroshi spotted a mission labeled [E-Grade Dungeon Hunt] and pointed at it. “This one should be within our abilities.”

  Kaito read the details aloud:

  Mission Type: Dungeon Hunt

  Rank: E

  Location: Shadowfang Cavern

  Objective: Clear the dungeon and retrieve the mana crystal

  The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

  Requirements: Minimum 4 members

  Kaito groaned. “Ugh, we need two more people.”

  As if on cue, a familiar voice spoke up. “I’ll join.”

  They turned to see Lyara Aeloria, the elf girl from yesterday’s evaluation standing behind them. She still had her calm, composed expression.

  Kaito crossed his arms. “Huh? I thought elves don’t work with humans.”

  Lyara ignored his remark and looked at Hiroshi. “You passed the test like I did, so I don’t mind teaming up.”

  Hiroshi nodded. “Then that makes three. We just need one more.”

  A voice from behind them chuckled. “You guys need a fourth? Count me in.”

  They turned to see a young man with wild brown hair and a confident smirk.

  Name: Renji Kael

  Rank: C-

  Abilities: Earth Magic, Spear Combat

  Kaito raised an eyebrow. “You sure? You look kinda weak.”

  Renji smirked. “I may be C-, but I’ve cleared three E-rank dungeons before. You guys are the rookies here.”

  Hiroshi, sensing no reason to refuse, nodded. “Alright, let’s get started.”

  With their four-member party complete, they officially accepted the mission and prepared to enter their first dungeon.

  ---

  Entering Shadowfang Cavern

  After a few hours of travel, the group arrived at the entrance of Shadowfang Cavern, a dark and ominous dungeon located on the outskirts of the town.

  The cave emitted an eerie, chilling wind. A faint purple mist surrounded the entrance, a sign that the dungeon’s mana core was still active.

  Hiroshi tightened his grip on his katana. “This is it.”

  Kaito cracked his knuckles. “Finally, some action.”

  Renji tapped the ground with his spear. “Alright, listen up. We move together and follow the formation. I’ll take front, Hiroshi and Lyara will cover the middle, and Kaito, you take the rear.”

  Kaito frowned. “Why do I have to be at the back?”

  Lyara spoke calmly. “You’re a dual sword wielder. You need mobility, and the rear position allows you to react faster in case of an ambush.”

  Kaito huffed. “Fine, fine.”

  As they stepped inside, the temperature dropped, and the sound of dripping water echoed through the cavern walls.