The air was tense, buzzing with anticipation as the remaining contestants gathered at the entrance of the B-Rank dungeon. Unlike the artificial labyrinth, this was a genuine dungeon—a gateway to another realm, teeming with monsters and ancient magic. Its mouth gaped like a beast ready to devour anyone who dared to enter.
Lucian stood among the eight chosen for this expedition, his arms crossed, eyes fixed on the dark cavern before him. A real dungeon, huh? This is going to be a lot different.
The examiner's voice echoed across the clearing, drawing all eyes to him. "This is the final stage of the exam. You will enter the B-Rank dungeon as a party of eight. Your objective: retrieve the B-Rank dungeon boss's ring core. It's hidden within the lair of the boss, a creature known as the Shadow Wyvern."
A murmur ran through the group. Shadow Wyverns were notorious for their speed and cunning, creatures born from darkness and magic. Defeating one required precise teamwork and unwavering focus.
Lucian's gaze shifted, his eyes scanning his teammates. Familiar faces stood among them, including Xeran, his serene expression unwavering beneath his silver hair. Beside him was Yara, the spear-wielding warrior who fought fiercely in the duels, her determined eyes burning with ambition.
A swordsman, two mages, an archer, and a healer completed their team. It was a balanced lineup, but the tension between them was palpable. They weren't comrades, just competitors forced to work together.
The examiner's stern voice cut through the silence. "Remember, this is a real dungeon. Unlike the artificial one, death is a very real possibility. Stick together, support each other, and most importantly—retrieve the ring core." His gaze sharpened, his aura flaring. "Those who abandon their comrades will be disqualified."
Lucian's eyes narrowed. Comrades, huh? He looked at his so-called teammates, seeing only rivals. But the examiner's words echoed in his mind. If I want to pass, I'll have to play along.
The gate to the dungeon creaked open, its ancient hinges groaning as darkness spilled forth, cold and unwelcoming. The shadows writhed, alive with the presence of monsters waiting within.
"Let's go," Xeran's calm voice broke the silence, his body already moving towards the entrance. The others followed, their weapons drawn, faces hardening with resolve.
Lucian walked at the rear, his eyes never leaving Xeran's back. What are you up to, Xeran?