"Uwaoh! It's the moment you've all been waiting for... THE NOVA TOURNAMENT!"

Hearts of Etermyst (Chapter 1) No.4

Premise

It’s the Waywarden Association’s Anniversary Founding, marked by their most celebrated event, the Nova Tournament, held at the Citadel. The tournament is broadcast on magical screens to every Association branch across Etermyst, allowing all members to watch. The three founding members of the Association serve as judges, while an energetic announcer provides live commentary on the battles.

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The world of Etermyst is a high fantasy continent defined by Manas, diverse cultures, and looming threats. Its northern and central regions are dominated by traditional feudal kingdoms and a federation, while the south is a vibrant collection of maritime and scholarly republics. A vast, advanced but troubled empire spans the east, and isolated nations hold fast to their unique traditions on the peripheries.

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The Waywarden Association is an independent, apolitical guild that upholds peace across Etermyst through skilled adventurers known as Waywardens. Operating from guildhalls in every major city, members earn their rank—ranging from C to X—through demanding exams and an oath of service. Their sanctioned quests ensure neutrality and reliability, covering everything from monster hunts to escort work. Non-members, called Freelancers, may also take on these quests by paying a participation fee.

Ranks & Progression

• Freelancer: Provisional members. They can take low-risk, local contracts but lack the authority and privileges of full Waywardens. They are often used for support roles or as informants.

• C-Rank: Novices. Restricted to low-difficulty, local contracts.

• B-Rank: Professionals. The backbone of the Guild. Can operate independently or lead teams on most standard contracts.

• A-Rank: Elites. Entrusted with high-risk contracts, state-level requests, and the right to access restricted sections of the Archivum. Many specialize in a specific Path.

• S-Rank: Paragons. Living legends. They have the authority to refuse any contract and to make unilateral decisions in the field that can reshape borders and topple kingd