*The rise of the God of Death
*Chapter 18: Out of the City*
The scene opens in a distant land—the *City of the South*, the greatest rival to the City of the North. Tension brewed as news of the Northern hero's death spread like wildfire. Taking advantage of the moment, the City of the South began preparing for war. At the head of their force stood a Vice General, commanding three experienced Commanders and their elite squads. The date of their attack was set—total invasion was imminent.
Back in the North, the next morning started peacefully. Lucy wrapped her arms around Daimon's waist, hugging him tightly as she wished him farewell. Daimon had formed an official squad with Nil—allowing Nil to complete quests under Daimon's leadership, earning them both credits.
When Daimon entered the guild, he was met with unexpected cheer. For a moment, he was confused—until he remembered: this city respected power. His growing fame had begun to show.
He took a quest to eliminate monsters terrorizing *Sirvana Village*—Lucy's home village. He chose this quest for more than just clearing monsters—there was something else waiting there.
He left the city through an isolated path and arrived at Sirvana within thirty minutes, conserving his strength during travel. Upon arrival, Daimon quickly eliminated the monsters, destroyed their nests, and stabilized the village.
But he didn't leave yet.
He made his way to the local trading outpost. Word had spread of an old merchant selling *Transferral Rings* for absurd prices—causing many to label him a scammer. Daimon found the merchant's modest cart and approached. The old man looked up and said calmly, "Seems the one I waited for has finally come."
Confused, Daimon replied, "What do you mean?"
The old man explained that he lived near Lucy's former home. When smoke rose during the monster attack, he rushed to help—only to witness Daimon's incredible strength. Since then, he'd tried to find Daimon, setting up shop and overpricing weak items to draw him out. At last, it worked.
He revealed a *Transferral Key Ring*, passed down from his ancestors. It carried the mana signature of its original master and had the ability to bind to a new one after the original's death. "I've waited for someone worthy," the merchant said, handing it to Daimon.
Daimon infused the ring with his mana—and it responded. The ring opened, accepting him as its new master. It was no ordinary ring—it was of high quality, the kind that even generals sought after.
He paid the old man generously and left.
The whole journey took a day and a half.
But by then… the army of the South had already begun marching. They would reach the City of the North *seven hours* before Daimon's return.