The Wakers Guild !

A few days back, Klauss met Maria outside his old dorm, dropping the bombshell that he needed a break from their relationship.

The announcement left Maria in total shock; she couldn't fathom the words coming out of his mouth. What irked her most was his nonchalance and casual demeanor. 

After delivering the unexpected news, Klauss simply walked away. Prior to this incident, Maria had been enjoying a rather good day.

She collected a reward at the association for her participation in an expedition, shared lunch with some newfound friends from the team, and engaged in rigorous training. 

Eager to share the details of her day and discuss the preparations she and Roger were making to create their guild, Maria had hoped to find Klauss. However, her night took a bitter turn.

Walking home, she felt distraught, collapsing onto her bed. She questioned how things had taken such a negative turn, why she became a hunter, and pondered how she would move forward. 

Maria realized that all questions and answers seemed to start and end with Klauss.

Despite the abrupt shock, Maria, being mature, attempted to see things from Klauss's perspective, though she, too, found it challenging to comprehend.

Ending the somber night with a solitary reflection, Maria entertained a glimmer of optimism, whispering to herself, "Maybe this break could be good for everyone. We're new hunters, and the stress must be playing a part."

Hoping for a positive turn, she retired to bed earlier than usual.

Back to the present day.

Roger and Maria found themselves in a meeting with a representative from the guild management department under THA.

This department handled the overall management of guilds, from creation to personnel management of guild roles, and took charge of all paperwork related to establishing a new guild.

The meeting took place at their office, conveniently located near The Hunters Association headquarters, scheduled for 2 pm. 

Eager, nervous, and anxious, the duo arrived an hour early. The anticipation was palpable as they navigated through prepared documents and notes, ensuring everything was in order for the inception of their guild, the Wakers Guild.

The moment had arrived for their crucial meeting.

Stepping into the guild management building, Roger and Maria were warmly greeted by a receptionist. Maria informed her about their scheduled appointment, and the receptionist nodded, providing directions.

"Take the elevator, stop on the 5th floor, and your advisor will be on the door to your right. Thank you."

Following the instructions, they found themselves seated across from Mr. Edwin Hoffstead, a seasoned guild advisor responsible for guiding them through the registration process.

Mr. Hoffstead, an older gentleman with graying hair and a neatly trimmed goatee, exuded an air of wisdom accentuated by his oval glasses.

"Good afternoon," he greeted them politely, shuffling some papers on his desk. "I understand you two are interested in registering a fledgling guild under the Hunter's Association?"

"Yes sir," Roger responded eagerly. "We've dreamed of having our own guild since forever. My friend Maria and I finally feel ready to take that step."

Mr. Hoffstead smiled warmly. "Excellent. Guild creation is no small feat but can be deeply rewarding if done properly." He retrieved a leather folder and opened it, uncapping an expensive looking pen.

"Now then, in order to formally register with the Hunter's Association, all new guilds must meet a specific set of criteria..."

Roger and Maria leaned forward, hanging onto his every word intently. Lives were about to change.

"First and foremost, you'll need a minimum of five founding members to fill essential combat roles," Mr. Hoffstead began, jotting down notes as he spoke. "Namely—one primary tank to absorb damage, one dedicated healer for support, one offensive mage contributor, and two general damage dealers. The order isn't rigid. Now, do you currently meet that threshold?"

Maria nodded eagerly. "Yes, sir! In our last gate expedition, we forged connections with a warrior spearman named Cyrus, an archer named Veliry, and Daemyn, a healer. We have their consent, and they've agreed to join our guild once it's formed!"

"Excellent!" smiled the advisor. "And I presume Mr. uh...Muscle here-" he glanced at Roger "-intends to be your tank?"

Grinning, Roger flexed one bulky arm. "You bet! Been training my whole life to be the strongest and now for this job." The subtle show of bravado elicited a small eye roll from Maria.

"Right. Well rounded combat capabilities are critical for survival," continued Mr. Hoffstead. "Now, onto the second criteria - you'll need an official guild name registered in our database. I understand you already have one selected?"

"We do - the Wakers Guild!" announced Maria excitedly. "Our friend Klauss actually suggested the name a while back. It represents rousing each other's potential."

Nodding, Mr. Hoffstead carefully printed the guild name on his paperwork. "Interesting selection...very well, Wakers Guild it is!"

He adjusted his glasses before proceeding. "The third condition relates to criminal background checks. I can assume neither of you have a criminal record that could endanger your eligibility?"

Roger shook his head vehemently. "No sir! We abide by all Hunter Association rules and code of conduct. We were even model citizens before awakening." Beside him, Maria affirmed the statement.

"Glad to hear it," Mr. Hoffstead said. "We strive for integrity amongst our affiliated guilds. Now, onto the most critical criteria..." He steepled his fingers, eying them seriously.

"A newly registered guild must provide an upfront capital deposit of $7,000 under the guild's name to establish financial stability and unlock certain privileges along the way. Do you have the means to furnish such funds?"

Gulping nervously, Roger and Maria exchanged anxious glances. This would be the highest hurdle by far. $7,000 was a small fortune for rookie hunters! Seeing their hesitation, Mr. Hoffstead cleared his throat.

"There are certain approved loan options should you require-"

"Wait!" Roger interjected. "If we can pool our rewards from hunts these past weeks and from the expedition, combined with our personal savings...I believe we can meet the $7,000 deposit."

Beside him, Maria nodded supportively.

Mr. Hoffstead nodded approvingly and said "Excellent. Now then, while you've met the initial four criteria - combat roles, naming, criminal records and capital funds - there is one final stipulation."

Maria and Roger leaned forward intently, the final milestone within reach!

Adjusting his glasses, Mr. Hoffstead explained, "Every sanctioned guild under THA must have an established base of operations, essentially headquarters. The Association helps subsidize buildings and facilities in time of course. But initially most new guilds begin by designating an existing site secured by the founders."

Roger and Maria exchanged glances, a touch nervous. Real estate in the capital was enormously expensive for C and B rank hunters, not to mention a D ranker in Roger.

Sensing their trepidation, Mr. Hoffstead smiled reassuringly.

"Not to worry. For fledgling guilds, even unconventional locations like a basement in a house or apartment works fine, temporarily. The criteria is merely having a designated venue you officially control for administrative purposes and hosting members."

Relieved, Maria quickly responded, "That's perfect! My family owns a house in Emerald District with an unused basement. If we clear it out a bit, it would actually make an ideal first headquarters."

Emerald District, nestled among various districts in the country, boasts a calm and sophisticated atmosphere, making it an ideal temporary location for a guild headquarters.

"Yeah, we can deck it out real nice over time too!" added Roger enthusiastically. "Central location, private access - works great for us!"

Mr. Hoffstead chuckled at their eagerness. "Very good. I'm sure with a bit of young motivation, you'll shape it up into a respectable guild hall."

He stamped a paper decisively. "Given you've now met all five criteria - combat roles, name, records, capital AND operational headquarters - I hereby officially approve the registration of your guild."

He extended his hand which Roger shook excitedly. "Do try and furnish the basement within 30 days. We will also discuss recruitment targets and provide you a guild license very soon."

Beaming widely, Maria couldn't contain her exhilaration. "Oh my goodness! I can't believe we will officially have our own guild!" Elated, Roger and Maria high-fived each other gleefully. This was really happening! 

As Mr. Hoffstead filed the administrative paperwork, Maria's mind raced excitedly, picturing converting her basement into their dedicated guild command center. Cozy meeting lounge, job request boards, trophy displays - together they would build Wakers reputation from scratch!

After profusely thanking the kindly guild official, Roger and Maria made their way across town feeling as though they walked on clouds. The first major step was complete but now came the real work in building up their ragtag group!

Their three comrades - Cyrus, Veliry and Daemyn - awaited them at a nearby cafe. The bright sun shone down on the lively open air establishment bustling with patrons. Spotting their friends at a table, Roger and Maria hurried over.

"Well, what's the news?" asked Cyrus eagerly.

Grinning widely, Roger proclaimed, "Wakers Guild is officially registered folks! We just gotta pretty up the basement headquarters, receive our official license and we'll be in business!"

The table erupted in excited cheers and laughter. Maria smiled joyfully as they toasted with a round of drinks. In mere days, their dreams would become reality!

Commanding their very own guild along with friends connected by bonds deeper than simple camaraderie. United by common purpose! 

Throughout the next week, the founding members labored intensely preparing their headquarters. Maria's parents were highly supportive of their endeavor, assisting with renovations.

Her mother even surprised them by whipping up colorful drapes and runners carrying the Wakers emblem. 

The guild emblem, meticulously created by Maria and her mother, features a radiant sun at its core, casting forth golden rays infused with vibrant energy.

Enveloping the sun are intricately intertwined vines, eloquently symbolizing the unity and interconnectedness shared among the guild members, both present and future members.

Each element of the emblem resonates with the dedication and collaboration that defines the spirit of the Wakers Guild.

By week's end, the once dingy basement had been utterly transformed! Freshly painted walls now displayed motivational hunter quotes, framed insignia banners and illustrated guild principles.

The centerpiece was a large round table with five ornate chairs around it - one for each founding member.

Several cozy seating areas allowed for both socializing, planning sessions and resting between jobs. A request board would hold recruitment and job flyers. Other rooms were designated for secure storage or private rooms. 

The basement renovation was finally complete! Then received that evening, an ornate scroll officially commissioning their guild, signed up paperwork for the five founding members, and a cloth patch laced with the Wakers emblem. 

At Maria's suggestion, their little guild held a joyful housewarming party that evening. They ordered chicken, burgers and booze while her mother cooked up scrumptious desserts.

Gathered around their ceremonial table, everyone shared fond stories and exciting ideas about the guild's future over delicious food.

Much laughter echoed late into the night around that table as the new official family cemented bonds. Over glasses of fine wine, Roger raised his goblet to the noisy group.

"My friends...comrades...family. We stand today not merely in a basement..."

That elicited snorts and giggles given their modest surroundings. But Roger continued undeterred.

"...We stand in the halls of legacies! Destinies intertwined as we carry the Wakers torch boldly forward into uncertainty. But know, we do NOT walk alone!" His voice swelled passionately, imitating a pristine war hero.

"For just as we lift each other during times of weakness, together we can also achieve heights unmatched!" Roger's commanding tone echoed across the chamber. "The bonds we now forge serving a greater purpose will withstand storms yet to come!"

He grinned roguishly as the others listened, enthralled by his compelling words.

"Of course, while that all sounds grand, on a daily basis we also just really need folks to volunteer, washing dishes and taking out trash."

Laughter erupted around the table at the colorful character they called Guildmaster. But Roger's inspirational words are rooted deeply in all their hearts. This guild was merely the beginning of long and wonderful journeys still ahead...together.

They were too drunk and on cloud 9 to not realize the missing link…Klauss…