The lingering glow of dawn spread across the land. After traveling day and night without rest, Liu Yun finally arrived at Black Rock City.
Walking along the bustling streets, he heard voices rising all around him. Occasionally, patrol guards passed by, the crisp clatter of their armor striking together ringing out like morning bells.
As expected of one of the Jia Ma Empire's foremost cities, Black Rock City's prosperity was not much inferior to that of the Imperial Capital.
After turning through several long streets and asking for directions multiple times, Liu Yun finally reached his destination: the Alchemist Guild.
Looking up at the grand, imposing building before him, Liu Yun could not help clicking his tongue in wonder. Alchemists truly were the wealthiest profession. Even a mere branch of the Alchemist Guild rivaled the Mittel Merchant Guild's headquarters.
Seeing Liu Yun standing foolishly before the entrance, quite a few strange looks were cast his way. Everyone was curious about his identity.
Ignoring the surrounding stares, Liu Yun straightened his travel-worn robes and walked toward the Alchemist Guild's entrance.
As he approached the door, two burly guards who had noticed him long ago stretched out their hands to stop him. One of them said in a deep, muffled voice, "This is the Alchemist Guild. Please prove that you are an alchemist, or present a letter of recommendation from your mentor."
Liu Yun knew this procedure well. If he did not show off, they would not let him in.
The Liu Yun who had been standing there suddenly erupted with a layer of orange flame. The temperature around them began to rise with a sizzling hiss, and roaring flames surged upward, frightening the two guards into repeatedly backing away.
"Real Flame? A Fourth-grade Alchemist?"
The two blurted out in shock, their