A deep silence filled the chamber. Zaydan sat motionless, his thoughts swirling in chaos. He could still feel the weight of everything that had happened—the revelation of another world, the existence of magic, and the fact that he had been given a chance at something greater. But instead of being overwhelmed by fear, a new fire burned inside him.
He thought of his past. His father's constant disappointment, his mother's silent neglect, Adnan's mocking eyes. He had spent years feeling worthless, invisible. But here, in this world… he had a chance to rewrite everything.
He exhaled sharply, looking at Azaad, who was leaning back lazily, enjoying yet another bar of chocolate. His golden robe shimmered under the dim light, and his golden staff rested beside him.
Zaydan's voice cut through the silence. "Azaad, tell me something. In this world, what determines a person's worth?"
Azaad smirked, licking the last bits of chocolate from his fingers. "An interesting question." He shifted, adjusting his robe. "Unlike Earth, where birth decides much of one's fate, here, people can rise if they have either power or wealth."
Zaydan leaned forward, eyes sharp. "Explain."
Azaad's grin widened. "Listen well, young one. Let me teach you how this world works."
The Social Hierarchy of Azaad's World
"This world is divided into three major classes," Azaad began, waving his hand as golden sparks danced around him.
"First, we have the commoners—the foundation of society. They are farmers, blacksmiths, merchants, laborers… people who live ordinary lives. Some prosper, but most struggle. They have no real power."
Zaydan absorbed the words. "So, just like Earth, the weak stay weak unless they do something about it."
Azaad nodded. "Correct. But if a commoner gains wealth, they can buy their way into the second class—nobility."
Azaad raised a finger, and in the air, shimmering titles appeared, written in golden letters:
Mayor – Governs a town or city district.
Baron – Owns a small territory, often a village or a minor town.
Viscount – Rules over multiple villages.
Count – Governs an entire province.
Marquis – Defends the borders of the kingdom.
Duke – The highest noble rank under the king, controlling vast lands.
"At the top," Azaad continued, "we have royalty—the ruling family. Kings, queens, and their heirs."
Zaydan's mind raced. "So a commoner can become a noble? Then that means…"
Azaad chuckled. "Yes. If you have the right amount of gold, you can buy a noble title. And if you have the right amount of power, you can take one."
Rehan, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke up. "So let me get this straight—wealth and strength decide status here?"
Azaad nodded. "Indeed. And there are two main ways to gain power outside of nobility—adventurers and mercenaries."
The Adventurers and Mercenaries
Rehan crossed his arms. "Alright, but what about those adventurers we see in novels? They should be important too, right?"
Azaad chuckled. "Indeed. There are two major organizations for warriors and fighters in this world:
1. The Adventurer Guild – A regulated group that handles monster subjugation, dungeon exploration, and quests for nobles or the kingdom. Their ranking system is:
Bronze – The lowest, given to beginners.
Silver – Skilled adventurers capable of handling dangerous creatures.
Gold – Highly respected, often hired by nobles.
Platinum – The elite, considered heroes of the land.
Diamond – Legendary figures, sometimes knighted by the king.
2. The Mercenary Guild – Unlike adventurers, mercenaries have no moral code. They fight for money, working for anyone willing to pay. Assassins, rogue warriors, and even fallen nobles hire their services.
Zaydan absorbed every word. "So, adventurers gain fame through achievements, while mercenaries gain wealth through contracts… both have their uses."
The Birth of a Plan
Rehan turned to Zaydan, noticing the burning determination in his friend's eyes. "Alright, I know that look. Spill it—what's your plan?"
Zaydan exhaled, his gaze locked onto the golden coins. "If I want to gain influence, I need both wealth and power. Money alone won't be enough—I need a reputation. That means rising in status."
Azaad grinned. "And how do you plan to do that?"
Zaydan leaned back, a smirk forming on his lips. "I'll start as a commoner, just like everyone else. But I'll use every opportunity to climb higher. I'll build wealth, gain recognition, and when the time is right… I'll buy my way into nobility."
Rehan raised an eyebrow. "You're planning to become a noble?"
"Not just a noble," Zaydan corrected. "I plan to reach the top."
Azaad laughed. "Oh? Ambitious, I like that." He tossed a gold coin in the air and caught it. "But remember, climbing too fast attracts enemies. You'll need skills and power to survive."
Rehan grinned. "I think he's saying we need to get stronger before we start acting like future kings."
Zaydan sighed. "Fine. But remember—this is only the beginning."
He clenched his fist. This world was full of opportunity. He had been powerless before, but not anymore. Now, he had a path.
And he would walk it to the end.