Kyle realizes that only three years remain until the "Great Invasion." Since he has not trained sufficiently with either the sword or magic, he decides to focus on building strength and speed. His new priority is survival and a long life—contrary to his former laziness. This sudden change worries his mother Layla, his friend Theron, and the neighbor Liese; they suspect a woman to be the cause.

Kyle reveals his plan to become a "hero" in order to gain influence over several nations. After consulting, he identifies kings, high priests, and legendary heroes like Randolph as key figures—of which only the hero title is within his reach. According to Kyle, this path requires three things: money (for travel and independence), connections (for influence), and strategic luck (to be in the right place at the right time), using questionable methods if necessary. Theron is skeptical but supports him.

With Layla's permission, Kyle sets off with Theron toward the royal capital Malad. Liese insists against Kyle's objections and joins them. In Rimarzé, Kyle accidentally meets the elf Urza and—drawing from knowledge of a previous future—speaks her secret true name "Eksess." This provokes Urza's anger, as only her parents know this name. As a solution, Kyle proposes a magical "Contract of Binding" (Application of the Contract): he must not misuse or reveal the name, or he will die if he violates this. Urza agrees, but the contract can only be finalized during a full moon. Since Kyle must continue his journey immediately, Urza is forced to reluctantly accompany the group.

Kyle changes the destination: instead of Malad, the journey leads to the Sungard Mountains, where he seeks the treasure in the legendary Labyrinth of Xarles using an ancient map. Urza confirms the map's authenticity. To bypass deadly traps, puzzles, and magical guardians, they dig a tunnel directly to the treasure chamber with the help of Urza's earth spirit (Gnome). After exhausting work, they find the immense treasure. Theron's unrestrained greed serves as a cautionary example to Kyle against obsession with money. Upon leaving, the mysterious guardian Sildonia appears and confronts the group. With the gold in their possession, they continue their journey—their next goal is completing the contract with Urza during the full moon.