Fantasy Realm — Naruto: Blood-Mist

Alex carefully studies the four prominent characters walking onstage.

One is an intelligent, charismatic man, slightly older, but still exuding a youthful atmosphere and charm. He is tall, with brown skin, has long black hair, a short beard, and exudes strength, fitness, and confidence. He wears a bright, practiced smile and is obviously used to events like this one.

Hmmm… damn guy looks like a damn superhero. He honestly looks exactly like I'd imagine one of the top guild leaders to look like. Still… he doesn't seem very honorable. He's the kind of guy I'd suspect is a crazy psycho in private. Just too perfect.

Next to him is an older Black man, likely in his late fifties, with gray hair. He wears a black ornamental robe and a large cross around his neck.

I respect most religious people… but I really don't want to get involved in that myself. I'd rather binge anime, play games, or train. The Realm comes first. Philosophy and religion? Not really something I care about, when my survival is on the line and the very secrets of reality lie before me. Better stay away from that group…

Then, two women step onto the stage.

One appears to be in her early fifties, with brown hair slightly touched by gray. Her demeanor is calm and kind. The other is younger, seemingly in her early thirties, tall and muscular with dark brown skin and black hair. She is visibly taller than Alex.

The older woman has that warm "good neighbor" vibe… which honestly screams scammer. Probably CHA-focused. She looks weak. These are the ones who manipulate you—gotta be careful with that type.

Alex glances at Rishi, who returns the look with a mildly insulted glare.

I'll take that as an insult… but I agree with you, the older woman does not fight with her body or her magic, but with her mind and intelligence, he hears Rishi say mentally.

Then he looks at the younger woman.

That other woman looks strong. Rough, with quite a few scars on her body. Probably a melee fighter—skilled, maybe well-balanced. Then again, looks can be deceiving. Despite having 31 STR, I don't look like a musclehead either, because many of these STR stats come from items. Stats are stats—they don't shape the body. Even a bodybuilder could dump all his points into MNA and secretly be a genius mage. Low STR, ripped physique. Well, in my case, I am balanced as well, but I think looks are just a rough way to gauge someone's character and stats. She could be a snake and just act like an honest fighter.

Damn… I'm becoming cynical. I immediately think everyone's hiding something and is up to no good. Might be time to check my own attitude….

"Hello and welcome to the main Realm, my fellow players," the middle-aged man begins to speak.

"My name is Samir. I'm the charming, beautiful, strong, genius leader of the Seekers. Surely even the most introverted one of you has heard of me, right?"

Never heard of this guy!

Princess Jewel hasn't heard of this Peasant either!

Alex looks to the others—each of them shakes their heads with a smile.

"Today, I have the honor of leading this event. Next to me is Archbishop Samuel, one of the highest-ranked players in the God's Children guild. Aren't we all children of God, though? I won't comment further to avoid causing a disaster like last time. I've learned to keep my mouth shut. I'm pretty nice, right? Ladies, feel free to stay a little later—I've got so much to share with you."

Really? Aside from that last joke, he just low-key insulted the religious guy. He acts all funny—which honestly makes me trust him even less.

"The two beauties next to me are Samantha, from the Trade Alliance—a guild focused on contracts and commerce—and Tierra, from the Mercenary Alliance. Her guild focuses on combat strength, carrying weaker players through missions… for a fee, of course. Oops—guilds are supposed to introduce themselves. Guess I'm just a little too eager and helpful."

All three other guild leaders stare at Samir, obviously displeased about his antics.

I don't know why, but I'm starting to like this Samir guy. Bold style. Looks like they hate each other… wonder why they're even keeping up this alliance, or charade, or whatever this is.

"Now then—what are the Seekers?" Samir continues. "Each Seeker has their own individual goal. We support one another, team up when it makes sense. We're a big family. While we value freedom, we come together when it counts. That balance makes us the perfect guild for players who want to pursue their own ambitions, but still want the security and familiarity of a group of players that actually cares about them. We only accept players that fit into our guild. Everyone can join as trial members, but if we feel you lack a goal, an ambition, or only care about yourself, you will be forced to leave very soon."

Okay. Seekers are out already. That sounds good for your average guy, but we don't have time to carry wild dreamers through the Realm.

Alex listens with one ear, but his thoughts are already shifting to the other guilds.

As Samir wraps up, many in the crowd clap. A few women cheer—Samir responds with a wave, smiling at them.

Then, Archbishop Samuel steps forward. His voice is calm but firm, filled with conviction and authority.

"Faith… What is faith? This Realm is a test—a test from God Himself. If you have faith, you can overcome its trials. These worlds—pointless, violent, fictitious—are evil. They are the sins of mankind made manifest, in their most vile and juvenile forms."

He pauses, allowing the weight of his words to settle.

"It is our duty, as players chosen by God, to endure this test. We must face these manifestations of sin… and defeat them. That is the only road to salvation."

His voice strengthens.

"Join us—if you are a man or woman of faith. We promise: these trials can be overcome. And salvation does lie at the end. We welcome every man and woman of faith. Our guild isn't tied to a single religion. In fact, we welcome discussion. Our guild includes Imams, Priests, and Rabbis. These leaders not only support our members but also offer spiritual guidance. This Realm—God's test—has united all three Abrahamic religions. That alone… is a miracle and proves our guild's divine approval."

He nods slightly.

"Simply put, God is watching you, and your next decision will not only decide your remaining future on god's earth, but the fate of your very soul. You need to take this very seriously. Choose god and choose our guild!"

Some people in the audience look confused, some skeptical, a few even smile or openly laugh at him. However, Alex notices several players staring at Samuel with quiet intensity, seemingly agreeing with every word he spoke.

That guy won't win over most of the players, but there's a… niche, I guess. Looks like at least a few will join without asking any more questions.

The older woman steps forward confidently, gently nodding at Samuel, who takes a step back.

"Samantha Williams, leader of the Trade Alliance. I'll keep it short so as not to bore you. We won't coddle you, nor will we take advantage of you. The Trade Alliance is all about contracts. By joining, you agree to certain rules and save yourself a lot of FC, since formal contracts won't be necessary for most standard interactions with your guildmates. Looking to join a group of equals? Need combat specialists to help with a task? Want to trade or exchange services without inflated costs? The Trade Alliance is based on rules, mutual benefit, and logic.

Even if you don't have much to offer at first, we provide you with at least certain opportunities to get you started. You can also count on us to buy and sell the most important items at fair prices. We advise members on optimal playstyles. If you join, you'll receive access to information, opportunities, and security. The rest depends on your goals, ambition, and—most of all—your skills. However, please be aware that everyone contributes one way or another. That's all."

Doesn't sound too bad… actually. A bit of contribution to the guild is expected. This might be the most realistic and fair guild I've heard of.

Finally, Tierra steps forward. Alex looks around and sees most of the men in the room ogling her. Tereza and Menchi both shoot suspicious glances his way.

"Why are you staring at me?" Alex asks, slightly annoyed.

"She seems like your type," Menchi jokes.

"Exactly. She's beautiful, taller, and more fit than you. I figured you'd be gushing over her like most other men," Tereza adds in a serious tone.

"… Jewel is my type. Begone, you evil, malicious women!" Alex snaps back, irritated by their teasing.

❤️❤️❤️

Soulmate… you better remember that there are some words that can't be taken back. ❤️. Princess Jewel can barely hold herself back after hearing this passionate confession of her Soulmate's undying love!

"…"

Jewel, I love you, but you tend to overreact sometimes. Please calm down!

"I am Tierra. If you want to join the Mercenary-Alliance, you'll need to pass our test. Unlike others who may promise you the world, we only make promises to the select few of you, who are willing to prove their worth to us first. We value combat strength above all else. Even if you're a mage or a supporter—if you don't have at least 10 PHY, 8 AGI, and 8 STR at level 5, you can leave, there is no need for further questions. Even if you're a genius mage with a unique innate skill, we don't want you. We don't need liabilities or weaklings who need to be protected during missions.

Our main focus is offering contracts to weaker players outside our guild, mostly crafters, but really anyone who can pay. We also maintain a few internal groups that challenge the toughest worlds for the highest rewards. We value strength, camaraderie, and ambition. If you're interested, stay after this presentation and I'll explain our test in more detail.

If your focus is on combat ability—and surviving without relying on anyone—the Mercenary-Alliance offers the fastest and straightest path forward. It all depends on your skill, your willingness to take risks, and your attitude."

Hmmmm… not bad either. But why would I need a guild for that? Well… they probably run raids too, in addition to their special groups.

"Now," Samir says with a smile, "you've heard a few facts about our guilds. Three of us—excluding God's Children, who will now leave but have provided plenty of contact cards—which are placed on a small table near the exit, will share some universally agreed tips. You can consider this your reward for sticking around and listening. Even if you don't join any of us, feel free to contact our guilds for services."

He turns slightly. "Now, Samuel, as agreed, you get the final word before leaving."

Samuel steps forward again.

"These tips you're about to hear may sound useful, but they will, in fact, harm you. Your morals, your soul, your faith—they will all suffer. While I can't deny that there's some logic in what will be said, our guild strongly disagrees with these practices.

You may listen, but if you are a believer, please visit our guild headquarters. We've built a unique house of God, and you may very well find a home there. Don't risk your soul… or your place in God's kingdom."

With that, he steps down and leaves the hall. All the members of his guild follow him. Most of the men wear long robes, while the women are dressed modestly—habits, niqabs, burqas, or other coverings that leave almost no skin visible.

To Alex's surprise, a few new players immediately stand up and follow them. The female guild members warmly welcome the new women, while the male members shake hands with the interested men.

Hmmm. Well. Whatever. Bye.

"Now that our holy allies have left—let's begin," Samir says with a grin.

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