The shadows at the far end of the room stirred, and a faint ripple of distorted light spread outward, like a mirage forming in the darkness.
From that void stepped a tall figure, his presence heavy enough to make the air feel colder. His eyes gleamed faintly, the kind of gaze that seemed to strip away every layer of a person's soul.
It was Commander Nimo, one of the Six Great Commanders — feared across the continent for his mastery of illusions and his terrifyingly precise perception.
"I guessed as much," Noah said, not even flinching at Nimo's sudden appearance. "No matter how flawless his disguise, he can't fool your senses."
A thin smile tugged at Nimo's lips.
"That Hollow came for him. Luthor was just an accident… or perhaps a sacrifice."
"Sacrifice Luthor?" Aurora's brows knitted as she shook her head. "No. I can't believe he'd do something like that. From what I guessed, Luthor was simply caught in their crossfire."
"Agreed," Noah admitted after a pause. "But there's something else bothering me. Why wasn't Venus targeted? She's a Dragon too, isn't she?"
Nimo's gaze darkened slightly. "Yes. I've felt the pulse of a dragon's bloodline within her."
Aurora hesitated. "But her parents were both human. How could she possibly be a Dragon? Something isn't adding up here."
"Still, Ryuzen and Venus… they are the only two dragons we're able to establish contact with. We need to keep them safe. Perhaps they could guide us to the Dragon Realm and maybe even seek their help once more," Noah said, his tone solemn.
Commander Varn nodded slowly. "So what are your plans for them? Should I continue overseeing their training?"
"Yes. You may continue their training, Commander Varn. But provide them with the best resources and access to high-grade dungeons. Only then can they grow into full-fledged dragons," Noah said without hesitation. "We need to make them feel grateful. So ehen the time comes, they must not allow humankind to perish like insects. Even with the Systems, humans are still far too weak. We need their help."
The room grew silent again as Commander Varn straightened in his chair, his gaze sweeping across the Junior Blood Legion.
"Listen carefully," he began, his voice firm. "One of your party members is unexpectedly died. But your resolve shouldn't falter just because of this. Tomorrow, your next training mission will take you to a D-Rank dungeon known as Chrysalis Forest."
Ryu, Venus, And 3 other members leaned in, curious.
"It is infested with Giant Ants," Boron Varn continued. "Their strength is manageable for your current level. The purpose of this mission is simple: hone your combat skills, test your teamwork, and gain experience. The dungeon is easier than most, so it will allow you to level up efficiently."
Irina's eyes sparkled with excitement. "So we can really push ourselves and grow stronger!"
Felix nodded calmly. "A controlled environment is good for training. We must remain vigilant, but this will be a chance to sharpen our skills."
Varn's gaze landed on Ryuzen. "I expect you to lead the group, set examples, and ensure no one acts recklessly. Success tomorrow is essential for your progression and for the safety of all members."
"Oh, so Ryuzen is becoming the new leader? Is that what you are implying, Commander?" Rudos asked, a sly smile spreading across his face.
Commander Varn nodded. "Yes. Is there a problem?" he asked, locking eyes with Rudos' usually confident gaze.
"No, nothing at all. Just curious," Rudos replied, casually raising a hand.
Felix also raised his brows. 'Ryuzen was just suspected of being a Coward.. So why are they still appointing him as the leader? Something doesn't feel right.' he wondered inside his mind.
Still, he didn't point it out.
And obviously Irina had no objection either.
With that, the announcement concluded, and murmurs of anticipation spread across the room. Everyone understood that even though the dungeon was ranked D, any misstep in the field could still be dangerous.
Ryuzen glanced at Venus, a quiet determination burning in his eyes. This mission was only a stepping stone, but he intended to make every strike count.
That morning, the Junior Blood Legion assembled at the garrison landing pad. The sun had barely risen, casting golden streaks across the sky as the flying transport lifted them high above the city. Ryuzen and Venus took their positions near the front, their presence commanding quiet respect from the rest of the group.
The ride was tense but silent. Each member of the squad was focused, checking weapons, reviewing strategies, and preparing themselves mentally for the dive. Rudos occasionally cast glances at Ryuzen, a mix of curiosity and challenge in his expression, while Irina murmured soft prayers under her breath.
After an hour, the transport descended near the entrance to the Chrysalis Forest dungeon. The gate loomed like an enormous, jagged tree trunk, its surface pulsing faintly with an eerie green light. The scent of damp earth and alien flora filled the air.
Several other adventuring parties were already gathered outside, their numbers ranging from two to five members each. Some were strategizing, others tightening their gear, and a few were simply observing the dungeon entrance with nervous anticipation. Whispered conversations carried among them, the forest beyond the gate hinting at both danger and opportunity.
Ryuzen stepped forward, raising a hand slightly to signal the Legion. "Remember," he said calmly, his voice steady and assured, "this is a D-Rank dungeon, but that does not mean we underestimate it. Stick together, follow my lead, and remain alert. Our goal is to gain experience and level up safely."
Venus nodded beside him, her gaze scanning the forest. "Rye is right. We just need to stay together and focused."
The group adjusted their weapons and prepared for entry, the low hum of the dungeon gate vibrating under their feet. Ahead, the dense forest seemed to breathe, a living barrier full of unseen threats.
With a final nod, Ryuzen led the Junior Blood Legion toward the gate, their shadows merging with the creeping green light as they stepped into the Chrysalis Forest.