Ryker stepped out of the lavish bedroom, the soft glow of the candles and the warm light of the fireplace casting a golden hue on the opulent furnishings. But despite the grandeur of the room, Ryker couldn't shake the feeling that it wasn't home. He had grown up on the streets, sleeping under bridges and scrounging for scraps. This luxurious bedroom was a far cry from the poverty and hardship he had known.He walked out of the room, leaving the maids and manservants to their duties. As he passed by, they looked up at him with scorn, their eyes flicking over his rough-hewn features and his worn, ill-fitting clothes. Ryker was used to it. He had grown accustomed to the disdain and contempt of the wealthy and powerful. He didn't let it bother him.He made his way to the dining hall, the sound of clinking silverware and muted conversation filling the air. The table was set with fine china and crystal glasses, and the aroma of roasting meat wafted through the air, making his stomach growl

returned to his room, exhausted and still trying to process the events of the day. He had just been cleared by the nurse, and he was looking forward to finally getting some rest. He collapsed onto the bed, feeling a wave of relief wash over him.But before he could even relax, two guards stormed into his room, their faces stern and unforgiving. They grabbed Ryker's arms and held him down, their grip like a vice."What's going on?" Ryker demanded, trying to struggle free. But the guards were too strong, and they easily overpowered him.They handcuffed Ryker's wrists and dragged him out of the room, down the hallway and into the courtyard. Ryker tried to resist, but the guards were too powerful, and he was forced to submit.As they reached the courtyard, the King appeared, his face cold and calculating. "Ah, Ryker," he said, his voice dripping with disdain. "I see you're still causing trouble."Ryker struggled against the guards, but they held him firm. "What are you doing?" he demanded

Ryker's thoughts raced as he considered how much to reveal about his identity. The merchant's genuine gratitude and the guards' respect made him hesitant to disclose his royal connection."I'm just a traveler," Ryker said with a humble smile. "Glad I could help."The merchant nodded, his expression thoughtful. "You're no ordinary traveler, sir. You've got skill and bravery. We could use someone like you in our caravan."Ryker's instincts whispered caution, but Kairos's systems remained silent, offering no guidance."I appreciate the offer," Ryker said, "but I've got my own path to follow."Ryker's cautious nature prevailed, and he declined the merchant's offer. Trust was a luxury he couldn't afford, especially after being betrayed by his own father.With a nod, Ryker bid the merchant farewell and returned to the fallen bandits. Their lifeless bodies served as a grim reminder of the danger lurking in these unfamiliar lands.Ryker methodically searched their belongings, uncovering:17 g

Ryker's gaze drifted from the quest board to the bustling market outside."Time to diversify," Ryker thought.He approached a merchant, Elric, known for shady dealings."Elric, I need a lucrative opportunity," Ryker said.Elric smiled."I have just the thing. A caravan carrying valuable goods will pass through Wandering River. Bandits plan to ambush it."Ryker's eyes narrowed."I'm listening.""Eliminate the bandits, and the caravan's contents are yours," Elric whispered. "But be discreet. No guild involvement."Ryker's mind raced."Personal loot," Ryker thought."I'm in."Elric handed Ryker a map with the caravan's route."Be quick. The caravan arrives tomorrow."Ryker nodded.Current Status:Quest: None (Personal Venture)Rank: D-RankFunds: 328 silver coins, 27 gold coinsEquipped:Short swordLeather armorBackpack provisions, waterRyker lay in wait near Wandering River.The caravan approached.Bandits emerged from the shadows.Ryker charged forward.The battle raged on.Ryker el

Raven sipped ale, collecting thoughts."The Shadow Guild's local operative is Guildmaster Thorgrim's advisor, Victor."Ryker's eyes widened."Victor? I've met him. Seemed loyal to Thorgrim."Raven nodded."Deception is Victor's specialty. He manipulates trade agreements, funneling profits to the Shadow Guild."Ryker's anger grew."I'll confront Victor."Raven cautioned."Patience, Ryker. Victor has guards and informants everywhere."Ryker planned."I'll gather evidence, then strike."Raven handed Ryker a parchment."Encrypted documents detailing Victor's transactions. Decode them to build your case."Ryker accepted."Thanks, Raven. Your information will bring down the Shadow Guild."Raven vanished into the night, leaving Ryker to ponder his next move.Ryker sought Elara's expertise in decoding the documents."Elara, can you help me decipher these?" Ryker asked, presenting the parchment.Elara's eyes sparkled."Cipher scripts are my specialty."Together, they unraveled the encryption.