Shadowbound Ascension: The Necromancer's Journey

The next day, Aiden stood in front of the towering structure of the Hunter's Association, his mind focused on one goal: securing Ethan's future. He had spent the entire night planning how to approach Lord of Shadows, one of the most influential figures in the hunter world. If anyone could help Ethan grow into his potential, it was him.

As Aiden entered the association's headquarters, he made his way to the front desk where a manager stood, busy with paperwork. The manager glanced up at him, clearly unimpressed.

"State your business," the manager said, not bothering to hide the boredom in his tone.

Aiden remained calm, understanding the man's position. "I'm here to request a meeting with Lord of Shadows. It's urgent."

The manager raised an eyebrow. "Lord of Shadows is a busy man. You can't just walk in and request a meeting without a solid reason."

Before Aiden could reply, a commotion stirred behind him. The doors of the association swung open as a group of high-ranking hunters entered, led by none other than Lord of Shadows himself. Clad in his signature black and gold robes, he moved with an air of authority, his presence instantly drawing the attention of everyone in the room.

Lord of Shadows spotted Aiden immediately. A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he approached the desk.

"Let him in," Lord of Shadows said, his voice calm but commanding. The manager's expression shifted to one of surprise as he quickly nodded.

"Of course, Lord of Shadows," the manager stammered, stepping aside to allow Aiden through.

Aiden followed Lord of Shadows and his group into a private room within the association's headquarters. The room was luxurious, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. Once inside, the other high-ranking hunters dispersed, leaving Aiden alone with Lord of Shadows.

"I expected you to return soon, Aiden," Lord of Shadows said, his piercing eyes fixed on Aiden. "But I didn't think it would be this soon. What brings you here?"

Aiden took a breath and spoke confidently, knowing this was his moment to convince the most powerful hunter in the association. "I need your help, Lord of Shadows. There's someone I want you to train—a boy named Ethan. He has immense potential, far beyond what most hunters could dream of. I've already helped him awaken, but I need your resources and guidance to help him reach that potential."

Lord of Shadows raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What makes this boy so special? There are many hunters with potential."

Aiden met his gaze, unwavering. "Ethan is destined to reach God Rank. His class is 'All Weapons Master,' a unique class that gives him the ability to wield every weapon known to humanity. But right now, he's only a C Rank hunter. With your guidance and support, I believe he can grow into one of the strongest hunters humanity has ever seen."

Lord of Shadows remained silent for a moment, considering Aiden's words. Then, he smiled—a small but knowing smile. "You're asking a lot, Aiden. But I've seen enough of you to know that you don't make requests without reason. If you're this confident in Ethan's potential, then I will accept your request."

Relief washed over Aiden, but he kept his composure. "Thank you, Lord of Shadows. I won't let you down."

Lord of Shadows nodded. "Bring him to me, and we'll begin his training immediately. But understand this—if he's to become as powerful as you claim, his training will be rigorous. I won't go easy on him."

Aiden nodded in agreement. "I wouldn't expect anything less."

With the meeting concluded, Aiden left the association, his next destination clear. He returned to the park where he had met Ethan the day before. As he approached the familiar spot, he saw Ethan sitting on the same bench, watching his sister play once again.

"Ethan," Aiden called, catching his attention.

Ethan looked up, surprised to see him so soon. "Aiden, you're back."

Aiden smiled, taking a seat beside him. "Have you thought about my offer?"

Ethan hesitated for a moment but then nodded. "I've been thinking about it all night. I want to give it a shot. I want to become a hunter."

Aiden's smile widened. "I'm glad to hear that. I've already made arrangements for you. But first..." He pulled out the Awakening Restoration Potion (Rank C) from his coat pocket and handed it to Ethan. "Drink this. It's going to hurt, but this will awaken your power."

Ethan took the potion, his hands trembling slightly. "Will it really work?"

"It will," Aiden assured him. "But be prepared. The process is painful."

Ethan nodded, steeling himself before uncorking the potion and downing it in one go. Almost immediately, he doubled over in pain, his body convulsing as the potion took effect. Aiden watched silently, knowing this was necessary. He could feel the surge of energy radiating from Ethan as his dormant power awakened.

After several agonizing minutes, Ethan's body began to stabilize. His breathing was ragged, but when he finally looked up, Aiden could see the change in his eyes. There was a spark—a new fire burning within him.

"You're a C Rank hunter now," Aiden said, placing a hand on Ethan's shoulder. "But this is just the beginning. Unlike most people who take years to rank up, you'll reach higher ranks in a fraction of the time. I estimate you'll be able to rank up within a month if you train hard."

Ethan nodded, still catching his breath. "What do I do now?"

"First, you need to register as a hunter at the association," Aiden instructed. "After that, go meet Lord of Shadows. Mention my name, and he'll take care of your training and provide the resources you need."

Ethan's eyes widened. "Lord of Shadows? You... you know him?"

Aiden chuckled. "Let's just say I have some connections. He's agreed to train you, but it won't be easy. Are you ready for that?"

Ethan nodded, determination filling his expression. "I'm ready."

With their paths clear, the two of them parted ways—Ethan heading toward the Hunter's Association, and Aiden turning back toward his own journey. As he walked away, the familiar chime of the system echoed in his mind.

"System message: Congratulations. You have reached Rank A."

Aiden's heart skipped a beat. He had finally crossed the threshold into the higher ranks, and the power that came with it filled him with excitement. But he knew this was only the beginning. His goal was to form his own guild, to stand against the growing threat he had seen in his visions. And for that, he needed more power.

"I'm not done yet," Aiden thought, his eyes narrowing with resolve. "There's still much to do."

He decided to push himself even further. Training his talents, skills, and stats to A Rank would be his next priority. He knew that every bit of power he gained would bring him closer to his ultimate goal.

With newfound determination, Aiden dove back into his training, knowing that the path ahead would be long and filled with challenges—but he would face them head-on.

The rise of a new force had only just begun.