The celebration in the City Square was at its peak, but Sufiyan's mind was elsewhere. He couldn't shake off the feeling of that dark gaze from the rooftop.
[System Alert: An encrypted message has been received.]
[Source: Unknown - Shadow Frequency.]
As he entered his private cabin in the new salon, a black envelope was lying on his golden desk. It wasn't made of paper; it felt like frozen smoke. When Sufiyan touched it, the envelope dissolved into a holographic projection.
"Congratulations on your little victory, Master Sufiyan," a distorted voice spoke. It wasn't Luna or Kuro. This voice sounded much older and more powerful. "The Guild was just a distraction. If you want to know the true origin of your 'Divine System', meet me at the Whispering Woods tonight. Come alone, or Mysore will burn."
[New Danger Quest: The Forbidden Origin.]
[Warning: Your current Level (21) is below the recommended level (30) for this area.]
[Suggestion: Upgrade your Silver Comb to 'Celestial Grade' before leaving.]
Sufiyan looked at his Silver Comb. It had served him well, but against this new threat, it felt light. He opened the System Shop.
[Shop Item: Celestial Essence. Cost: 8,000 Gold.]
He had just earned 10,000 Gold from the Trial. Without wasting a second, he clicked 'Buy'. The comb in his hand began to vibrate violently as a blue diamond-like crystal merged with the silver.
"I don't know who you are," Sufiyan whispered to the empty room. "But I'm not afraid of the dark anymore."