Chapter 547 - Rank-6 Gate
The next morning brought a palpable shift in the atmosphere around Vanguard Haven. The team gathered in the guild's briefing room, their usual energy more focused, more tense. The holographic display in the center of the room glowed faintly, showing two gates marked on the map. Unlike the previous days, the number of gates scheduled was fewer—just two—but that was by design.
Astron stood at the front with Liana, listening as she laid out the day's plan.
"You've done well with the rank-5 gates," Liana began her tone professional but carrying a note of caution. "But as you know, those are all behind us now. Vanguard Haven has filled its quota, and we no longer have access to any rank-5 gates under our jurisdiction."
That was to be expected as the guild, being a B-rank one, only had 8 rank-5 gates under its authority, and all of them were now cleared with yesterday's schedule.
She tapped the screen, zooming in on the two gates marked for the day. "That means, starting today, you'll be clearing rank-6 gates. The number of gates will be fewer, but the difficulty level will be significantly higher. You'll face more complex environments, stronger monsters, and greater risks."
The team exchanged brief glances, each member understanding the gravity of what was coming. Dorian's usual cocky grin had faded into a more serious expression, while Kurt's jaw was set in determination. Elena's grip on her staff tightened slightly, and even Gareth, stoic as always, had a more focused look in his eyes.
Liana continued. "This was part of the guild's long-term plan. Once Astron had integrated fully into the team, we intended to push you toward rank-6 gates for training and greater challenges. Today, we put that plan into action."
Astron nodded slightly, already mentally preparing himself for the day ahead. While the rank-5 gates had been tough, they hadn't posed a real, life-threatening danger. Today, however, that would change.
"The first gate is called 'Frostbound Ascent,'" Liana said, bringing up an image of a jagged, icy mountain peak. "It's an ice-based dungeon with a heavily fortified environment. The monsters are primarily frost elementals and ice trolls, known for their resilience and pack coordination. The terrain will be your biggest obstacle—slippery surfaces, freezing temperatures, and limited visibility.
You'll need to be cautious."
She tapped the screen again, bringing up the second gate. "The second gate is 'Howling Abyss,' a wind-based dungeon filled with aggressive, airborne creatures known as Gale Serpents. These monsters are fast and unpredictable and rely on the dungeon's intense winds to disorient their prey. You'll need to maintain your formation and ensure no one gets separated."
Dorian let out a low whistle, his expression serious. "Looks like we've got our work cut out for us today."
Kurt nodded in agreement, his brow furrowed. "We've handled worse, but these sound… different."
Liana's gaze swept over the team, her expression steady. "These are rank-6 gates. The challenge is real, and the risk is higher than anything you've faced so far. But I trust that each of you is ready. You've proven yourselves capable."
Most of the team members had at least three parameters that reached the six basepoints. That was a necessity for most Hunters, as most of the time, Hunters tended to play it safe.
Rarely would people go for the dungeons of their own level until they accumulated enough experience.
That was the reason why this team was also constantly performing in Rank-5 dungeons up to this point despite having the necessary parameters to at least face the rank-6 dungeon on paper.
The atmosphere in the room grew tense as the weight of Liana's words settled in. Dorian, usually the first to break the tension with a joke or a grin, was silent for a moment before speaking, his voice quieter than usual. "We've never been in a rank-6 dungeon before. Why are we starting now?"
Kurt's brow furrowed even deeper as he echoed Dorian's concern. "Yeah, we've trained hard, but we've always stuck to rank-5 gates, even though our stats are ready. Why the sudden jump?"
Liana's gaze swept over the team, her usual composed demeanor carrying a hint of gravity. She paused, then turned her attention to Astron before speaking.
"As you all know, today is the last day that Astron will be with you," she began, her voice calm but steady. "He'll be leaving the guild after this, returning to his duties. His presence here has accelerated your growth, both in terms of efficiency and in how you've worked together as a team."
Dorian's eyes flicked toward Astron, and Kurt's expression softened as they processed the news. None of them had expected today to be Astron's last day.
Liana continued, "With Astron on your team, you've learned things you didn't even realize you were lacking. His strategic mind, his ability to plan and execute, has raised your level. It's why the guild made the decision to push you forward. With his presence, we believe this team can handle more than it could before."
There was a moment of silence as the team absorbed this, realizing the truth in Liana's words. Even though they hadn't voiced it, each of them knew they'd grown in the short time Astron had been with them.
"And," Liana added, her eyes scanning each of them carefully, "there's another factor. The media's attention is now on you. The guild sees this as an opportunity to show what Vanguard Haven is capable of—training newer Hunters to the point where they can handle rank-6 gates. If you succeed today, not only will the guild's reputation soar, but so will your individual careers."
Elena, who had been quiet until now, glanced up, her voice soft but steady. "So, we're pushing ourselves not just for the guild, but for our futures too."
Liana nodded. "Exactly. It's a chance to prove yourselves on a larger stage. And the guild recognizes the risk you're taking. That's why I've been authorized to offer an increase in your pay, along with a bonus for completing these higher-risk dungeons."
Dorian raised an eyebrow, a small grin returning to his face. "Well, if there's a bonus involved, I guess we can't say no."
Kurt let out a breath, his tension easing slightly. "It's a challenge, but it sounds like the right step for us."
Astron remained quiet throughout, watching the team as they processed the information.
He hadn't expected to have such an impact on them, but it was clear that his presence had changed things.
Or had he?
At the end, it did not matter.
Liana gave the team a reassuring smile. "You've all grown a lot, and this is your chance to prove it. Today will be tough, but I believe you're ready. And if you succeed, you'll all be that much stronger."
The team exchanged looks, their resolve hardening. While the shift to rank-6 gates was sudden, there was a shared understanding that this was their moment to rise to the challenge—and with Astron still with them, they felt a sense of confidence they hadn't had before.
Dorian gave a final nod, his grin returning in full. "Well, I guess it's time to show everyone what we're made of."
*******
As we rode toward the first gate, the weight of the day's challenge settled over the team. The air in the vehicle was quiet but charged with a sense of focus. Kurt and Dorian were checking their gear, while Elena and Lila quietly reviewed their strategies. Everyone was mentally preparing for what was to come.
I pulled up the file provided by the analysts, skimming through the details of the monsters we'd face in the "Frostbound Ascent" gate. As expected, the frost elementals and ice trolls were strong opponents, each with their own unique abilities.
The frost elementals were highly resistant to physical attacks and could regenerate in icy environments, while the ice trolls were large, durable creatures with brute strength and pack coordination.
'Rank-6 monsters...' I thought to myself. 'They're not going to be easy to deal with, especially since I'm not using my full power.'
I knew that I had the raw ability to overpower these monsters if I pushed myself, but I had chosen to limit my use of [Celestalith]. It was a conscious decision, one that made sense given the circumstances of my current mission.
Drawing too much attention to myself—or to powers that were not well understood—proves to be dangerous in this world.
I have seen it quite a lot of times.
Because of that, I was holding back. While my stats and combat proficiency had improved significantly, I couldn't fully unleash my true potential. It left me in an interesting position. I was strong enough to challenge the monsters in the gate, but I couldn't afford to be reckless. I'd have to rely on my strategy and adaptability to compensate for the power I wasn't using.
'In a way, this is good practice,' I mused. 'It's not unlike the situation I'll face next week.'
After all, the following day, when I face that guy…..Even with [Celestalith], I will not be stronger than it.
And this gate, with its rank-6 monsters and harsh environment, would give me a chance to test myself—facing against an opponent stronger than myself.
'Not that it was ever different.'
Looking at it back, it has always been like this. Never, ever had I faced someone who was significantly weaker than myself.
'Yet, I am still here.'
That alone showed that strength was never everything in this world.
WROOM!
The vehicle hummed along the snowy road, its windows fogging slightly from the cold outside. The analysts' report went into further detail about the terrain. The freezing temperatures and slippery surfaces would limit our movement, and the limited visibility could make it easy for the ice trolls to ambush us. Coordination and timing would be crucial.
I closed the file and looked up. The rest of the team seemed ready, their earlier nervousness replaced with quiet determination. Dorian's cocky grin had softened into a more focused expression, and Kurt was double-checking his armor, making sure every piece was secured. Elena and Lila were reviewing some magical formations, quietly discussing how they would sync their spells during combat.
'They've come a long way,' I thought, observing the team. While they had some concerns earlier, they seemed to be rising to the challenge now. They had a strong foundation, and today would push them further.
The cold mountain gate, with its relentless frost elementals and brutal ice trolls, would serve as a testing ground for what I could achieve with these limits in place.
I glanced out the window as we neared the gate. The towering, icy peaks of "Frostbound Ascent" loomed ahead, shrouded in a thick blanket of snow and mist. The jagged cliffs looked treacherous, and even from this distance, I could feel the temperature drop.
The vehicle came to a slow halt, and Liana turned from the front seat. "We're here. I'll stay in contact with the base camp and monitor the situation from the outside. Stay sharp and work together. The gate's been quiet recently, but that could change the moment you step inside."
Kurt was the first to step out, his boots crunching into the snow. "Let's do this," he said, his voice steady.
Dorian followed, spinning one of his blades idly as he glanced up at the icy peaks. "Yeah, no turning back now."
Chapter 548 - Rank-6 Gate (2)
The landscape of Frostbound Ascent was as unforgiving as the analysts had described. Snow-covered cliffs rose high above us, the icy winds howling through the jagged rocks, cutting through our gear and chilling us to the bone. Each step we took left deep impressions in the snow, and the biting cold was a constant reminder of the harsh environment we were about to face.
Our team moved cautiously through the treacherous terrain, the crunch of our boots muffled by the wind. Kurt and Gareth took the lead, their massive frames cutting through the worst of the wind as they scouted for any signs of danger. Dorian followed closely, his twin blades gleaming faintly in the low light, ready for a quick draw.
Elena walked beside Lila, the two of them quietly exchanging strategies on how best to combine their magic in the upcoming fight.
The analysts had made it clear: frost elementals and ice trolls would be our primary threats, and both were formidable. But my concern wasn't with the monsters themselves—it was with my ability to deliver the kind of damage the team would need from me, especially with a bow.
'My arrows might not be enough,' I thought. Even with Starpiercer's Arc, it still might fall short against creatures with such high durability and elemental resistance.
The frost elementals, in particular, were known for their resilience to physical attacks, and while I could adjust my shots to exploit their weaknesses, there was no guarantee that my arrows would pack the punch needed for a prolonged battle.
That was especially a concern since the conductive material was not simply suited for my moon mana. In a way, the power that I could display was limited just as I had mentioned. That alone made things a lot more harder.
As we moved further into the frozen landscape, I spoke up, my voice cutting through the wind. "There's something I want to bring up before we go any further."
The team slowed their pace, turning to look at me with raised eyebrows. Kurt, ever the practical one, was the first to respond. "What's on your mind?"
I met his gaze, my expression serious. "It's about my damage output with the bow. Against the frost elementals and ice trolls, my arrows might not be enough to deal significant damage. Even with Starpiercer's Arc, there's a possibility that my ranged attacks won't be as effective as we'd like."
Dorian quirked an eyebrow, a small smirk forming on his lips. "And you're telling us this now?"
Elena frowned slightly, glancing at my bow. "Why didn't you mention this earlier? We could've adjusted our plans."
I shook my head. "I didn't bring it up before because I didn't want to disrupt the team's focus. We've all been preparing for this gate, and I didn't want anyone to lose confidence or feel like they had to worry about my role."
Kurt crossed his arms, studying me carefully. "So what are you suggesting? We change the formation on the fly?"
"If necessary," I replied. "If I find that my arrows aren't doing enough damage, I might need to switch roles mid-combat. I would be more effective as a close ranged combatant."
"Right, Liana. You have also mentioned that your other primary weapon was a dagger."
"That is right."
Kurt's eyes narrowed as he crossed his arms, clearly considering the implications of my words. "So you're telling us you're proficient in close combat too? With daggers?" he asked, his tone more curious than skeptical.
I gave a short nod. "That's correct. I haven't had to use them during our previous gates because our formation has been working efficiently. As a ranger, I've been able to cover you all from a distance, and there hasn't been a need for me to switch roles. But in rank-6 gates, where the monsters are stronger and more resilient, it's possible that ranged attacks won't cut it."
Dorian tilted his head, his usual grin returning. "So, what are you saying? That you're better with daggers than with a bow?"
I paused for a moment, weighing my words. "Not exactly," I replied. "I'm proficient with both, but the real difference comes from the equipment. Serpent Fangs, the dagger that was issued to me by the guild, is more suited for close combat against stronger enemies. It has a passive ability that increases its effectiveness against tougher targets."
Elena raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "A specialized weapon, then. Why haven't you shown us your dagger skills before?"
"There was no need," I said simply. "Our current formation was functioning well, and we didn't face enemies that required me to switch roles. But now that we're in rank-6 gates, the situation might be different. The monsters here will be stronger, and the terrain could make ranged combat less effective."
Kurt nodded thoughtfully. "Makes sense. If your bow isn't doing enough damage, switching to close combat could give us the edge we need. But we'll need to be prepared for that shift."
Dorian chuckled, giving me a playful nudge. "So, you've been holding out on us, huh? Guess we'll finally get to see what those daggers can do."
I didn't rise to the bait, instead keeping my tone level. "If the situation calls for it, I'll switch to daggers. But only if it benefits the team."
Lila, who had been quietly listening, chimed in. "The passive ability you mentioned—does it work in a way that boosts your damage output against stronger monsters?"
"Similar. It has a stacking corrosive ability. It lowers the defense of the enemy and also introduces paralysis."
"Paralysis. I see."
The team exchanged glances after I explained the dagger's abilities, and it was clear that they trusted me. Over the past two days, I had led them through tough fights, and we had come out stronger for it. They knew I wouldn't make a suggestion unless it was necessary.
Kurt was the first to break the silence, his tone steady. "You've earned our trust, Astron. If you think switching to close combat will give us an edge, do it. We're used to adjusting on the fly anyway."
Dorian shrugged, grinning slightly. "Hey, we've been taking your orders for the last couple of days. You've been right so far, so I'm not complaining. Do what you need to do."
Elena nodded in agreement, her staff glowing faintly in the cold light of the dungeon. "You've proven you know what you're doing, Astron. If the formation needs to change, we'll adapt."
Even Gareth, who typically kept quiet, gave a small nod. "We'll make it work. We've already seen how flexible our approach can be with you leading."
Lila, looking thoughtful, simply said, "Just give the signal if you need to change roles."
I appreciated their confidence in me and gave a slight nod. "Thank you. We'll stick to our current formation until the situation demands otherwise. If I switch to close combat, I'll give the signal, and we'll adjust accordingly."
With that, the team resumed moving through the icy terrain, our steps cautious but determined. The cold winds howled around us, and the path ahead was steep and treacherous. Frost clung to every surface, making footing precarious, but the team moved with purpose.
I kept my eyes trained on the environment, scanning for any sign of movement or mana fluctuations that could indicate the presence of enemies.
It didn't take long before we encountered our first wave of monsters.
GROWL!
A low growl echoed through the icy cliffs, followed by the unmistakable sound of cracking ice. From the jagged peaks above us, a group of frost elementals descended, their bodies made of swirling snow and ice. Their cold, glowing eyes locked onto us, and the temperature around us seemed to drop even further as they approached.
Behind them, I could hear the heavy footsteps of the ice trolls—massive, hulking creatures covered in thick layers of frost and ice. Their brutish forms lumbered through the narrow pass, their breath visible in the cold air as they prepared to charge.
"Frost elementals and ice trolls," I called out, my voice calm but firm. "Remember the plan. Stick to the formation for now."
Kurt and Gareth immediately moved to the front, raising their shields to brace for the incoming charge. Dorian unsheathed his twin blades, his grin replaced by a look of focused determination as he took his place at the vanguard. Elena began channeling her magic, preparing to unleash a barrage of elemental spells to counter the frost elementals.
Lila's golem moved forward, acting as an additional line of defense, ready to intercept any threats.
The frost elementals moved swiftly, gliding over the icy terrain with unnatural speed. Their forms shifted and reformed as they closed in on us, and the air around them crackled with freezing energy. At the same time, the ice trolls charged forward, their massive fists raised to crush anything in their path.
"Focus on the elementals first," I ordered, drawing my bow and nocking an arrow. "Elena, hit them with fire-based spells. Gareth, keep the barriers up."
The team responded instantly, falling into the rhythm we had developed. Elena unleashed a burst of fire magic, her spells cutting through the cold air and slamming into the frost elementals. The flames caused the elementals to shudder and falter, their icy forms momentarily destabilized by the heat.
I released an arrow, aiming for the core of one of the elementals. The Starpiercer Arc hummed as the arrow struck true, piercing through the elemental's swirling body. The fire-attributed psions I had imbued into the arrow exploded on impact, shattering the elemental into shards of ice.
The ice trolls were slower but no less dangerous. Their massive fists came crashing down, but Kurt and Gareth held the line, their shields absorbing the impact. Dorian darted in and out of the trolls' reach, his blades flashing as he struck at their joints, weakening their movements.
As the battle raged on, I kept a close eye on the frost elementals, analyzing their patterns and movements.
'As expected. The arrows are not enough.'
It was not something that I could not understand. Thus, I just adapted. Even if the fire-based psions helped, but it wasn't enough to bring them down quickly.
After assessing the situation, I made a quick decision. "I'm switching to close combat," I called out, slinging the bow to my spatial bracelet and drawing the Serpent Fangs.
It was about the time when I started cutting things.
'It has been a while.'
Chapter 549 - Rank-6 Gate (3)
However, even if I were to change my position, there were things I needed to consider.
Before making the switch to close combat, I quickly assessed the team's positioning. If I moved to the front, someone needed to cover Lila, and the formation would have to adjust accordingly. "Everyone, shift the formation," I ordered, my voice steady but urgent. "Elena, take the rearguard position and cover Lila. I'll take your spot in the front. Gareth, support Kurt more closely."
There was no hesitation in their response. The team had grown accustomed to making these adjustments on the fly. Elena nodded, stepping back from her mid-range position. As a battlemage, she was versatile and could adapt to both offensive and defensive roles. She moved to cover Lila, her staff glowing with energy as she prepared to cast defensive and support spells from the rear.
With Elena falling back, I moved to take her position at the front, now just behind Kurt and Gareth. The Serpent Fangs gleamed in my hands, and I activated their corrosive ability as I charged forward, ready to take on the trolls directly.
Gareth, understanding the new dynamic, shifted closer to Kurt. His barriers flared up to absorb the ice trolls' heavy blows, providing an extra layer of defense. Meanwhile, Dorian, already engaged with the trolls, adjusted his movements to complement mine. His swift strikes kept the trolls distracted, leaving openings for me to exploit.
As I closed in on the nearest ice troll, I felt the cold bite of the environment, but the heat from the battle was enough to keep me focused.
'Three strikes, each of them has a stacking corrosive ability. And after the third strike, it introduces paralysis to the enemy. Each of the strikes has a poisonous attribute, and if struck deep enough, the dagger will corrupt the mana from inside. But, it is slow.'
I thought about the information that I had gotten from Liana about the dagger.
At the same time, as my hand gripped the hilts of the Bloodthirsty Serpent Fangs, I felt a surge of energy rush through my body. There was an undeniable shift in my senses—a sharpening of reflexes, an increase in speed that felt both subtle and potent.
My movements were faster and more fluid, as if the daggers themselves were enhancing my agility. I could feel the effect of the Serpent's Reflex kicking in, heightening my awareness of the battlefield and allowing me to react with greater precision.
'This is why it's called the Bloodthirsty Serpent Fangs,' I thought, feeling the boost in speed as I darted forward, weaving between the ice trolls' massive fists.
SWOOSH!
Each strike I delivered was swift, the daggers cutting deep into the troll's thick hide.
–SLASH!
The first strike left a faint trace of venom that began to eat away at the troll's defenses.
–SLASH!
The second followed just as quickly, compounding the damage and weakening the creature's icy armor. I could feel the venom taking effect, softening the creature's outer layer.
–SLASH!
With the third strike, the venom reached its peak. The troll's movements slowed as the paralysis set in, its body locking up just long enough for me to exploit the weakness. The corrupted mana from the dagger spread through the troll's veins, further disrupting its natural energy flow.
As the troll's body locked up from the paralysis, I didn't waste a moment. The window was small, but it was enough. I moved swiftly, targeting the troll's legs with a precise strike aimed at its tendons.
The Bloodthirsty Serpent Fangs sliced through with ease, severing the tendons and ensuring that even when the paralysis wore off, the troll would be crippled.
–SWOOSH!
Just as I finished the move, the paralysis began to fade, and the troll attempted to regain its mobility.
THUD!
Its hulking frame shifted, but its legs betrayed it. The creature staggered, its weight unbalanced, and it let out a low, frustrated growl as it struggled to stand. Its massive arms flailed, but its footing was already lost.
Now was the time to strike.
With a quick dash, I leaped above the troll's head, positioning myself for the final blow. My daggers gleamed in the cold light as I aimed directly for its eyes. The first dagger pierced through the troll's left eye with a sickening squelch, and the second followed just as quickly, sinking into the right.
The troll's body convulsed as the pain registered, and its roar echoed through the icy landscape.
"ROOOOAR!"
I flipped backward, landing a safe distance away, just as the troll's roar escalated into a maddened, primal scream. Blinded and in pain, the creature thrashed wildly, swinging its massive arms in every direction.
"Everyone, fall back!" I called out, my voice sharp as I moved further back. "It's going berserk—watch your distance."
The team responded instantly, retreating out of the troll's immediate reach. Kurt and Gareth reinforced their defenses, raising their shields to protect themselves from any stray blows. Elena and Lila stepped back, keeping their distance as they prepared for the troll's rampage.
The troll's blind rage was uncontrollable. It slammed its fists into the ground, sending tremors through the icy terrain, and in its frenzy, it swung wildly at everything around it. Its massive arms crashed into the remaining trolls, causing them to stumble and shift their focus from us to their rampaging ally.
Dorian, always quick on his feet, grinned as he observed the chaos. "Looks like our friend here is helping us out now."
The blinded troll, in its desperate attempt to strike anything within range, collided with one of the other trolls, knocking it off balance. The impact sent both trolls crashing into the ground, their combined weight causing cracks to form in the ice beneath them.
"Let it tire itself out," I instructed, keeping a safe distance while observing the battlefield. "Once it's done rampaging, we'll move in."
The troll's roars continued to fill the air as it flailed, but with its tendons severed and its eyes destroyed, its movements grew more erratic and less controlled. It struck another troll in the process, further weakening its allies.
The team held their ground, waiting for the berserk troll's energy to burn out. Its thrashing became slower, more labored, and as its strength finally began to wane, it collapsed to its knees, breathing heavily.
'It seems fine enough.'
******
We had been exploring the frozen depths of the Frostbound Ascent for nearly three hours. The frigid air gnawed at us, each breath coming out as a visible mist, while the cold bit into our bones despite the protective gear we wore. The relentless battles with the frost elementals and ice trolls had taken their toll, and the tension in the group was palpable.
The cold was unforgiving, making every movement feel heavier and slower. The team's nerves, already worn thin by the constant threat of attack, were beginning to harden with the fatigue and icy environment.
Elena's breaths were shallow, and I could see her rubbing her gloved hands together to keep the circulation going, her magic staff glowing faintly as she conserved her strength. Kurt kept his shield raised, but his usually firm posture had started to droop slightly.
Gareth's barriers were flickering more often now, and I could see his shoulders rise and fall heavily with exhaustion.
Dorian, despite his usual grin, wasn't immune to the cold. His movements, once fluid and sharp, had grown more measured, his dual blades striking with less vigor.
Lila, who had been keeping a low profile while supporting us with magic, was breathing heavily, her face pale from the extended use of mana and the biting cold that refused to relent.
'That is to be expected.'
Thanks to the rune, Everchanging Glyph, my body adapted to every situation that I was in. Regardless of how extreme it was, my body would change itself effectively.
'The mana consumption is quite high this time. The conditions look more severe, and it also hurts quite a bit.'
Now that I was in such extreme conditions, I started to realize why Dakota wanted me to train for these extreme conditions as well.
'Slowly, the mana consumption is getting less and less. My body is adapting, but because it is the first time such a thing is happening, it took a lot.'
I scanned the icy landscape ahead, my senses picking up a subtle but distinct increase in mana fluctuations. The cold, combined with the constant pressure of the dungeon's challenges, was wearing the team down fast, and while my Everchanging Glyph was keeping me in peak condition, the others weren't so fortunate. They needed a break before pushing any further.
Spotting a vantage point—a sheltered spot beneath a large, frozen overhang—I raised my hand, signaling for the team to stop. "Let's take a break here," I said, my voice cutting through the howling wind. "We're getting closer to the boss area. You all need to rest and recover your strength."
The team exchanged glances, their brows furrowed in confusion. "The boss area?" Kurt asked, his voice carrying a mix of surprise and weariness.
I nodded. "The mana fluctuations are getting stronger and more concentrated the further we go. From what I can sense, we've got about an hour of exploration left before we reach the core of the dungeon. But pushing forward without resting will wear you out. Take this time to recover."
Elena let out a tired breath, her relief palpable as she slumped down onto a nearby rock. "An hour left… I can't believe we've been going for three hours straight."
Dorian, wiping the frost from his brow, shook his head with a tired chuckle. "I didn't think a one-rank difference would hit us this hard. Rank-6 gates are no joke."
Kurt sat down beside Elena, his shield resting against the ice, and nodded in agreement. "It's not just the monsters; it's the environment. The cold is sapping our strength, and we've been fighting non-stop. I didn't expect it to be this tough."
Gareth, who had been silently maintaining the protective barriers, let his shoulders relax as he allowed the magic to fade. "We knew it would be harder, but this… it's like everything's fighting against us—the monsters, the terrain, even the air we breathe."
Lila sat down beside Gareth, her pale face showing signs of relief. "It's exhausting just keeping up. I've been struggling to maintain my mana flow in this cold."
I stood nearby, keeping watch as the team caught their breath. "Rank-6 gates aren't just about the monsters," I said. "The environment plays a bigger role than most realize. That's why we need to be prepared for everything—including harsh conditions like this."
The team nodded, clearly grateful for the rest. They had been pushing hard, and the weight of the dungeon had become more apparent with every step. Even if it was just a one-rank difference, the impact was undeniable.
Dorian let out a sigh of relief, stretching his arms. "I don't know how you're still standing like it's nothing, Astron. You're like a damn machine."
I gave a slight nod, choosing not to reveal the full extent of my abilities. "Just trying to make sure we all make it through. Let's focus on resting now."
The team settled in, taking advantage of the respite while we prepared for the final push toward the boss.
Chapter 550 - Rank-6 Gate (4)
As the team settled down, the weight of exhaustion slowly giving way to a more relaxed atmosphere, the biting cold still lingered, but the break offered a much-needed reprieve. For a few moments, there was silence, with only the howling wind and the occasional crackle of ice breaking the stillness.
Then, as they warmed their hands and rubbed their tired limbs, the conversation shifted to something lighter—dreams, goals, and the unexpected changes in their lives.
Dorian, as usual, was the first to break the silence, stretching his arms above his head with a yawn. "Man, it's been wild, hasn't it? A few months ago, we were just another team scraping through rank-5 dungeons, and now we're about to clear a rank-6 gate, with cameras following us around like we're celebrities."
Kurt nodded, a rare smile crossing his usually serious face. "Yeah, it's a bit surreal. I always knew I'd push myself to get stronger, but I didn't think we'd be getting this kind of recognition so soon. Feels like everything's happening fast."
Elena leaned against a large rock, her staff resting beside her. "We've earned it, though. We've worked hard, and we've grown a lot in a short time. The media attention is strange, but it's also a sign that we're on the right track. We're finally making a name for ourselves."
Lila, who had been quietly recharging her mana, nodded in agreement. "I never thought we'd be getting this kind of exposure so soon. I always wanted to be a successful Hunter, but I didn't expect it to feel like this."
Dorian smirked. "Yeah, fame's a funny thing. One day, you're just another guy swinging a sword, and the next, people are recognizing you in the street. But you know, I'm not complaining." He winked. "Who knows? Maybe it'll help me finally get a girlfriend."
Lila, sitting nearby, raised an eyebrow at Dorian's comment. "A girlfriend, huh? I thought you had one when you first joined the team. What happened with that?"
Dorian chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "Yeah, well, let's just say things didn't work out. She wasn't too thrilled about me constantly running off to fight monsters in dangerous dungeons. Can't blame her, though. It's not exactly a stable lifestyle."
Lila smiled faintly. "That makes sense. Being a Hunter isn't for everyone. It's hard to maintain relationships when you're constantly risking your life."
Dorian sighed dramatically. "Yeah, that's the problem. But still, I wouldn't trade this life for anything. We're chasing our dreams, pushing ourselves to be the best we can be. That's what it's all about, right?"
Kurt grunted in agreement. "That's the goal. We all want to reach our full potential. Becoming stronger, achieving our dreams as Hunters—that's why we're here."
Elena glanced at the others, her expression thoughtful. "For me, it's always been about proving myself. I want to be one of the best battlemages, to show that I can stand on my own in the Hunter world. Fame is nice, but it's not the end goal. Strength is."
Gareth, who had been sitting quietly, finally spoke up. "Same here. It's not just about fame or money. It's about pushing yourself to the limit, seeing how far you can go."
Lila nodded, her eyes distant for a moment as she reflected on her own journey. "I want to protect people. That's always been my goal. Becoming a successful Hunter is just part of that. If we can grow stronger, we can save more lives."
Dorian grinned. "Well, I'm all for saving lives, but I wouldn't mind a little romance along the way. Maybe once we clear a few more dungeons, I'll find someone who doesn't mind dating a guy who's constantly fighting off monsters."
The team chuckled at Dorian's comment, the air between them lightening as they relaxed, even if just for a moment. Lila shook her head, smiling softly. "Always chasing something, aren't you, Dorian?"
"Hey, I've got priorities," Dorian replied, winking playfully. "Saving lives is great and all, but a little romance never hurt anyone."
Kurt, who had been quietly watching the banter unfold, finally cracked a small grin. "You're not wrong. Life's short, especially for Hunters. Might as well enjoy it when you can."
The conversation flowed naturally, the team enjoying the brief reprieve. But after a while, the conversation turned quiet, and one by one, their gazes shifted to Astron, who had remained silent, standing guard and watching the frozen landscape with his usual calm demeanor.
Dorian, never one to let silence linger for too long, raised an eyebrow and smirked. "So, Astron, you've been pretty quiet. What about you? What's going on in that head of yours?"
Kurt leaned back, his arms crossed as he added, "Yeah, you're younger than most of us, but you've already got the skills of someone who's been in this for years. What do you think? About… everything, really."
Astron's gaze shifted from the horizon to the group, his expression unreadable for a moment. He hadn't expected the conversation to turn toward him, and the question wasn't immediately clear. Were they asking about relationships or being a Hunter? The two topics were so intertwined in their conversation that it left him momentarily unsure.
After a brief pause, he spoke, his voice as calm and measured as always. "What exactly are you asking?" he said, a hint of curiosity in his tone. "Are we talking about relationships or the life of a Hunter?"
Dorian laughed, the sound echoing in the cold air. "Both, I guess! You've been the one guiding us through these dungeons like a seasoned pro. We're just curious—what drives someone like you? And hey, if there's a romantic side to Astron, we wouldn't mind hearing about that too."
Kurt nodded, his smile lingering as he added, "Yeah, we've been wondering what's going on in your head. You're a lot younger than us, but you've got this calm, almost detached way of dealing with everything. You've got skills and discipline, but what's your story? What keeps you pushing forward?"
The others listened quietly, their eyes fixed on Astron. For a moment, there was a stillness in the air as they waited for him to speak. It wasn't often that Astron talked about himself, and they were curious to learn more about the person who had helped shape their progress in such a short time.
Astron took a moment, looking at the landscape.
'The reason, huh?'
It was a topic that he never liked to talk about, let alone think. This topic alone has always brought out all those memories.
At least, that was how it was before.
"Being a Hunter…" he began, his voice quieter than usual but firm. "This world took something precious from me. And I'm going to take it back."
The words hung in the cold air, sharp and final. There was no need for further explanation, no embellishment, or a deeper dive into the emotions behind them. The simplicity of his statement said it all.
As the others processed his words, a heavy silence fell over the group. They didn't push for more details, sensing the depth of the pain behind what he had said. The look on Astron's face, the way his voice had shifted, told them everything they needed to know.
Dorian, usually quick with a light-hearted comment, stayed silent, his grin fading as he exchanged a look with Kurt. The usual playful energy was replaced with quiet respect. Kurt nodded slightly, understanding dawning in his eyes. Elena and Lila shared a glance, their expressions softening as they realized the weight of Astron's words.
Whatever Astron had lost, whatever had driven him to this point, it was enough to push him to become the Hunter he was today—calm, disciplined, and focused.
Kurt broke the silence first, his voice low. "I get it. We all have something that pushes us forward. Yours… it sounds like it's not just about strength or fame. It's personal."
Astron didn't respond, simply giving a slight nod.
The team understood. They didn't need to know the details to recognize the resolve that had shaped their leader. What mattered was that they had someone beside them who wasn't just skilled, but deeply driven. It added another layer to the trust they had built over the past few days.
Dorian finally spoke up, his voice softer than usual. "Well, whatever it is, you've got our backs—and we've got yours."
There was no further conversation after that, just a quiet understanding shared between the team.
*******
The cold winds howled through the frozen cliffs of Frostbound Ascent as the team moved forward, their breaths visible in the icy air. They had rested, regained their strength, and were now prepared for the final push toward the boss. The tension in the air was palpable, each member of the team steeling themselves for what lay ahead.
As they navigated through the narrow pass, the air around them grew even colder, a clear sign that they were nearing the core of the dungeon. The ground beneath them was slick with ice, the jagged cliffs towering on either side, casting long shadows over the group. Astron led the way, his eyes scanning the area for any signs of movement. The boss was close, but the dungeon wasn't done with them yet.
Suddenly, a deep rumble echoed through the frozen pass, followed by a series of sharp, guttural growls. The team halted, their weapons at the ready.
From the icy mists ahead, a new enemy emerged—Frostbound Goliaths, towering humanoid creatures covered in thick layers of ice and frost, their eyes glowing with cold fury. Their massive arms were lined with jagged spikes of ice, and each step they took caused the ground to tremble.
But the Goliaths weren't alone. Accompanying them were Snowstalker Wargs, smaller but no less dangerous.
These lupine creatures moved with deadly speed, their white fur blending perfectly with the snowy landscape, making them difficult to spot until they were already upon you.
Their eyes gleamed with predatory hunger, and their razor-sharp fangs glinted in the pale light.
"There!" Kurt called out, raising his shield as the Goliaths and Wargs charged toward them. "We've got company!"
Chapter 551 - Rank-6 Gate (5)
"We've got company!"
Astron's eyes narrowed as he quickly assessed the situation. The Goliaths were slow but powerful, their massive fists capable of crushing anything in their path. The Wargs, on the other hand, were fast and agile, and they would strike from multiple directions, attempting to overwhelm the team.
"We take out the Wargs first," Astron ordered, his voice calm but authoritative. "They're too fast to leave unchecked. Kurt, Gareth—hold the front against the Goliaths. Elena, focus your magic on keeping them at bay. Dorian, Lila, with me. We're handling the Wargs."
The team moved into position without hesitation, their training and experience kicking in. Kurt and Gareth formed a defensive line, raising their shields as the first Frostbound Goliath closed in. The creature roared, its massive fists slamming into the ground, sending shards of ice flying in every direction.
Kurt grunted as he absorbed the impact while Gareth's barriers flared up, deflecting the icy projectiles.
"Keep them off balance!" Gareth called out, reinforcing the barriers as the Goliaths continued their relentless assault.
Meanwhile, Dorian and Lila followed Astron as they broke off from the main group, their focus on the Snowstalker Wargs.
The Wargs were fast, darting through the snow with lethal precision, their eyes locked onto their prey. Astron drew his bow, quickly nocking an arrow and releasing it with precision. The arrow found its mark, striking one of the Wargs in the side, but the creature barely faltered, its thick fur absorbing most of the impact.
"Damn, they're tough," Dorian muttered, his twin blades flashing as he lunged toward a Warg that had leaped toward him. He spun gracefully, his swords cutting through the air as he struck the creature's flank, but the Warg was faster than expected, dodging the blow and snapping its jaws at Dorian's arm.
"Careful!" Lila shouted, sending a burst of magic toward the Warg, causing it to stumble back. Her golem charged forward, engaging another of the creatures, its massive form crashing into the snow as it grappled with the Warg.
Astron's eyes remained sharp, tracking the Wargs' movements. They were fast, but they followed a pattern. He could see the mana threads that connected them, revealing their tactics.
With a quick, fluid motion, he switched his bow for the Serpent Fangs, knowing he needed more than just arrows to deal with these creatures.
He dashed forward, weaving between the Wargs as they circled, his daggers flashing as he struck at their legs, cutting through fur and muscle with precision. The venomous effect of the Serpent Fangs quickly took hold, slowing the Wargs' movements and weakening their ability to evade.
Dorian, seeing an opening, grinned and darted in. "Now we're getting somewhere!" he shouted, his blades slicing through the air as he finished off one of the Wargs, its body collapsing into the snow with a final growl.
Lila, her magic crackling in the air, focused on another Warg that had lunged at her golem. "I've got this one!" she called, her voice steady as she unleashed a burst of energy that sent the Warg crashing into the ground, stunned.
As the Wargs began to fall, Astron turned his attention back to the main battle. Kurt and Gareth were still holding the line against the Frostbound Goliaths, but the creatures' sheer strength was starting to wear them down.
One of the Goliaths raised its massive fist and brought it down with a deafening crash, forcing Kurt to brace himself as the impact sent cracks splintering through the ice beneath him.
"Elena, now!" Astron called, his voice cutting through the chaos.
Elena, who had been gathering her mana, unleashed a powerful fire-based spell that engulfed the nearest Goliath. The creature roared in agony as the flames licked at its icy form, its thick armor of frost melting away under the intense heat.
Taking advantage of the moment, Gareth surged forward, his barrier pushing the Goliath back, and Kurt followed up with a powerful strike, his shield slamming into the creature's chest. The Goliath staggered, its defenses weakened.
"We're finishing this now," Astron said, moving swiftly to join them. His daggers glinted in the icy light as he closed in on the Goliath, striking with precision at the weakened points Elena's fire had exposed. With each strike, the Goliath's movements became slower, more sluggish, until finally, with a final, resounding crack, the massive creature crumbled into a pile of ice and snow.
The remaining Goliaths, seeing their ally fall, let out guttural roars and pressed forward with renewed fury, but the team was ready. Astron, Dorian, and Lila regrouped, and together with Kurt, Gareth, and Elena, they coordinated their final assault.
Elemental magic, blades, and barriers worked in perfect harmony as they dismantled the last of the Goliaths, their towering forms collapsing under the team's combined strength.
As the final Goliath fell, a heavy silence settled over the battlefield, broken only by the sound of the wind howling through the icy cliffs.
Astron surveyed the scene, his breath steady as he sheathed his daggers. "Good work. That was the last wave."
Kurt wiped the frost from his brow, his shoulders sagging with relief.
"Only the boss left?"
"That is right."
Astron glanced at the team, giving them a moment to recover. The fight had been grueling, and while they had held their ground well, the toll of the battle was evident. The air was biting, and the relentless cold of Frostbound Ascent had begun to sap their energy.
"We'll take a short break here. Everyone, renew your energy." His tone was steady, leaving no room for argument.
The team, grateful for the chance to recover, began rummaging through their supplies. Each of them pulled out a small bar from their gear—a concentrated resource designed to replenish both mana and physical stamina. The bars, made from processed molecules of Awakened monsters, were common among Hunters, a vital tool for enduring prolonged dungeon raids.
Astron reached into his spatial storage and retrieved his own bar. It was a dark, compact block, packed with the nutrients and mana-boosting properties necessary to restore energy after a tough fight. He unwrapped it without ceremony, biting into the tough, slightly bitter meal.
The processed molecules from the Awakened monsters coursed through his system, providing an immediate boost to his mana and physical reserves.
Around him, the rest of the team followed suit, eating their own energy bars in silence. The exhaustion of the fight was starting to fade, their strength slowly returning.
"These bars never get any better, do they?" Dorian muttered, chewing on his with a grimace. "Tastes like I'm eating compressed dirt."
Elena chuckled softly, shaking her head. "I've heard they're working on flavor improvements, but I wouldn't hold your breath."
Kurt leaned back against a nearby rock, his shield resting beside him as he wiped the frost from his brow. "Doesn't matter how they taste, as long as they keep us going."
Astron remained silent, focusing on restoring his energy. The food did its job, flooding his body with the mana and nutrients needed to maintain his peak condition.
The team was the same. With their energy restored, they followed Astron toward the boss chamber, ready to face whatever awaited them inside.
As the team approached the boss chamber, the terrain began to shift dramatically. The jagged cliffs and towering walls of ice slowly gave way to a vast, open expanse that stretched out before them. Unlike the rest of the dungeon, which had been suffocatingly cold and filled with the sound of the wind howling through the mountains, this area was disturbingly quiet—eerily still.
The ground beneath their feet was hard-packed snow, almost unnaturally smooth, as if nothing had disturbed it for a long time. Even the air felt heavier, weighed down by an unnatural silence.
"Something's off," Elena whispered, her voice barely carrying in the stillness. She glanced around, her staff held tightly in her hands.
Kurt nodded, his shield raised as he scanned the area warily. "Where's the boss? Shouldn't it be here?"
The chamber, which should have housed the dungeon's final challenge, was oddly empty. There was no sign of movement, no signs of a beast lying in wait. The walls were lined with those strange engravings, the only indication that something—something powerful—was supposed to reside here. But the Snow Yeti, the boss they were preparing for, was nowhere to be seen.
Dorian, his blades at the ready, narrowed his eyes. "This is weird. We should've seen it by now."
Astron, walking slightly ahead of the group, surveyed the area with his usual calm precision. He couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong.
'I am meeting with that bastard once again.'
He had met the yeti before. At least, at that time, he hadn't faced it directly, but still, he was still aware of its presence. ((N1))
The Snow Yeti was a peak-rank-6 monster, powerful and territorial. There was no way it would have simply disappeared. His eyes darted to the strange symbols carved into the ground, and a sense of unease settled over him.
Then, without warning, a deep, resonating roar echoed from somewhere beyond the chamber. The sound reverberated off the icy walls, sending a shiver down the spines of every team member.
Astron's eyes widened as realization hit him. "It's not here…" he muttered, his voice barely audible.
The others turned to look at him, confusion on their faces. "What do you mean?" Gareth asked, his barriers flickering slightly in response to the growing tension.
"It's coming from somewhere else," Astron said sharply, his tone urgent now. "The Yeti isn't waiting for us—it's running toward us."
The moment those words left his mouth, the team tensed, readying their weapons. "Take your positions!" Astron ordered, his voice cutting through the cold air. "It's closing in fast!"
No sooner had they moved into position than a massive shadow loomed over them, blocking out the faint light that had filtered into the chamber. The ground trembled beneath their feet, and a gust of freezing wind whipped through the air as something huge leaped into the sky, its immense form blotting out the sun.
The Snow Yeti, larger and more terrifying than they had anticipated, soared through the air above them, its powerful muscles propelling it with terrifying speed. Its massive, fur-covered body was a blur of white against the icy backdrop, and its eyes glowed with an intense, predatory fury.
Astron's instincts kicked in immediately. "It's here—now!" he shouted.
The Yeti's enormous form descended upon them, its massive claws extended, ready to strike. The team had only seconds to react as the shadow of the beast covered their faces, plunging them into a moment of darkness before the battle began.
Chapter 552 - Rank-6 Gate (7)
The Snow Yeti came crashing down with a thunderous impact, sending shockwaves through the frozen ground as its massive feet slammed into the ice. The team staggered, barely able to keep their footing as the sheer force of the landing rattled their defenses.
Astron's eyes flicked to the creature, immediately recognizing the difference in power. This Yeti wasn't just a mid-rank six monster as they had expected—it was far stronger.
The air around it seemed to vibrate with an oppressive mana, and its glowing blue eyes bore into them with a primal rage. Its fur, thick and white, was lined with jagged ice that shimmered under the faint light, and its breath came out in visible clouds, freezing the air around it.
"Stay sharp!" Astron barked, his voice cutting through the chaos. "This is no ordinary boss—it's peak rank-6. We need to be careful!"
The Yeti wasted no time. With a deafening roar, it lunged forward, its claws swiping at Kurt and Gareth, who were positioned at the front. Kurt raised his shield, bracing himself as the massive creature's claws collided with it, sending him skidding back several feet despite his best efforts to hold his ground.
"Damn, that thing's strong!" Kurt grunted, struggling to keep the Yeti's overwhelming force at bay.
Gareth, his face set in concentration, summoned his barriers to reinforce Kurt's defense, but even the magical protection wasn't enough. The Yeti's claws tore through the barrier, shattering it with ease. Gareth cursed under his breath, realizing the extent of the challenge they were facing.
"Fall back!" Astron shouted. "We can't take it head-on!"
Kurt and Gareth quickly retreated, giving the Yeti space as it swung its claws again, narrowly missing them but gouging deep furrows into the icy ground. Elena was already in motion, her staff glowing brightly as she unleashed a powerful fire spell, aiming directly at the Yeti's chest.
The flames roared toward the creature, and for a moment, it looked like the fire would engulf it. But the Yeti's fur, layered with ice, seemed to absorb the heat. The flames dimmed, barely scorching the surface before they fizzled out. The Yeti snarled, its cold eyes locking onto Elena.
"That didn't work as well as I'd hoped," Elena muttered, backing up quickly as the Yeti charged at her.
Before it could reach her, Dorian darted in, his twin blades flashing as he struck at the creature's side. His blades, sharp and precise, barely cut through the Yeti's thick fur, leaving shallow gashes that the creature hardly seemed to notice.
"Damn it," Dorian hissed, leaping back just as the Yeti swung its massive arm toward him, the force of the blow sending shards of ice scattering through the air.
Lila, positioned behind the main group, directed her golem to engage the Yeti. The massive stone construct lunged at the beast, grappling with it in an attempt to hold it back. For a brief moment, it looked like the golem might slow the Yeti down, but the monster was too strong.
With a mighty roar, the Yeti grabbed the golem and hurled it across the battlefield, the stone figure crashing into the ice with a resounding thud.
"This thing is too strong!" Lila shouted, her eyes wide with shock as her golem struggled to stand. "It's shrugging off everything we throw at it!"
Astron stood at the edge of the battle, watching closely as the team scrambled to adjust to the overwhelming power of the Snow Yeti. He could see their desperation, the way they struggled to hold their ground against a monster that was stronger, faster, and more cunning than anything they had faced before. But he didn't intervene—not yet.
This was a crucial moment, and he needed to see how they handled it.
'They need to learn to handle crises on their own,' Astron thought, his eyes narrowing as he observed each member of the team. 'I won't always be there to give orders. They have to be able to adapt, to push themselves when things get tough.'
Kurt, still recovering from the Yeti's first blow, readied his shield again, but the creature was relentless. It swung its massive claws toward him, and though Kurt blocked the strike, the sheer force sent him skidding back once more. Gareth was doing his best to maintain barriers, but they shattered almost as quickly as he could summon them, unable to withstand the Yeti's raw power.
The Yeti roared again, the sound piercing the air and reverberating in their minds. The sheer volume of the roar caused everyone to flinch, a disorienting effect that momentarily disrupted their concentration. Elena clutched her staff tightly, shaking her head as she tried to refocus her magic, but the mental fog from the roar slowed her reactions.
Astron frowned. 'It has sound magic as well. It's using its roar to disrupt their focus.'
Despite the chaos, he remained calm. He'd seen monsters of this level before, and while the Yeti was stronger than anything the team had faced, Astron knew its weaknesses. But that wasn't the point of this battle. The point was to see how far the team had come, how they would push forward in the face of overwhelming odds.
Still, Astron wasn't idle. He needed to test his own strength against the creature. Without a word, he drew his daggers, the familiar weight of the Serpent Fangs in his hands grounding him as he stepped forward into the fray.
The Yeti, sensing Astron's approach, turned its attention toward him, its glowing blue eyes narrowing as it let out a low growl. It swung one of its massive arms, the claws glinting in the dim light as they tore through the air. Astron dodged effortlessly, his movements fluid and precise, but even as he avoided the strike, he could feel the sheer power behind it.
'It's fast,' he noted, watching the Yeti's movements carefully. Despite its massive size, the creature moved with surprising agility, each swing of its claws fast and deadly.
The Yeti roared again, this time focusing its ice magic. Spikes of ice shot from the ground, sharp and jagged, aimed directly at Astron. He leapt back, dodging most of the projectiles, but one grazed his arm, the cold biting into his skin.
He didn't flinch. Instead, he rushed forward, using the opening to strike. His daggers flashed in the light as he aimed for the Yeti's exposed side, but as he expected, its fur was thick and tough. His blades, though sharp, barely made a dent, and the venom that usually took effect quickly was slowed by the creature's resistance to physical attacks.
'Its defenses are ridiculous,' Astron thought. 'It's going to take more than just brute force to bring this thing down.'
As if sensing Astron's thoughts, the Yeti let out another deafening roar, this time infused with its sound magic. The roar hit Astron like a physical force, vibrating through his mind and momentarily clouding his senses. He staggered back, gritting his teeth as he fought to clear the disorientation.
At the same time, the Yeti summoned blocks of ice from the ground, shaping them into massive clubs. With a single swing, it hurled one of the ice clubs at Astron, who barely managed to dodge in time. The club shattered against the ground with an explosive force, sending shards of ice flying in all directions.
'This thing's magic is as strong as its physical attacks,' Astron analyzed, his eyes narrowing. 'They'll need to be smart about how they fight it.'
He glanced back at the team. Kurt and Gareth were struggling to maintain their defense while Elena was trying to counter the Yeti's ice magic with fire spells. Dorian and Lila circled the creature, looking for an opening, but the Yeti's speed and power made it hard for them to get close.
"Focus on its magic!" Astron finally called out, his voice cutting through the chaos. "The Yeti's using its ice and sound magic to disrupt us—use that against it! Gareth, reinforce Kurt's defense, and Elena, time your spells to hit after it roars. We need to overwhelm it, or we won't stand a chance!"
As he issued the minimal orders, Astron darted back into the fray, testing the Yeti's defenses with another series of rapid strikes. The creature roared in frustration, swinging its ice club at him with renewed fury, but Astron was ready. He dodged, ducking under its arm and delivering a precise strike to the back of its knee, aiming for the joints where the fur was thinner.
The Yeti staggered, but it quickly recovered, turning its attention back to the rest of the team. Elena, following Astron's advice, unleashed a well-timed fire spell just as the Yeti roared, her flames crashing into the creature's chest and weakening its defenses for a brief moment.
Gareth, his barriers reinforced, moved to cover Kurt, allowing the tank to focus on blocking the Yeti's physical attacks. With Gareth's support, Kurt managed to hold his ground, even as the Yeti's claws slammed into his shield again and again.
Dorian, seeing an opening, darted forward, his twin blades flashing as he aimed for the creature's exposed side. He struck with precision, his blades digging into the Yeti's flesh just as Lila's golem tackled the creature from the other side, briefly pinning it down.
Astron watched carefully, analyzing the battle as it unfolded. The team was adapting, pushing themselves despite the overwhelming odds. They were working together, finding ways to counter the Yeti's magic and physical strength.
But it wasn't over yet. The Yeti, enraged by the combined assault, let out a final, ear-splitting roar, summoning a massive blizzard that swirled around them, cutting off visibility and pelting them with shards of ice.
Astron narrowed his eyes, feeling the cold bite into his skin. 'This is the final push.'
With a swift movement, he activated the full power of the Serpent Fangs, his daggers glowing with venomous energy as he rushed forward. The Yeti, blinded by its own rage, didn't see him coming. He leaped onto its back, driving his daggers deep into its flesh, right between the shoulders.
The venom surged through the creature's body, spreading quickly and paralyzing it. The Yeti let out a final, pained roar as its movements slowed, its body freezing in place as the venom took hold.
"Now. Elena!"
「Fire Grasp.」
At his command, Elena unleashed her most powerful fire spell, the flames engulfing the Yeti's weakened form.
Elena's fire spell, 「Fire Grasp」, ignited beneath the Yeti, fiery claws rising from the icy ground and wrapping around the creature's massive form.
The flames weren't meant to burn away its flesh but to corrode the remaining defenses, weakening the thick layers of fur and ice that shielded the Yeti from their attacks.
'Slowly.'
Astron was also made aware of this when he asked about Elena's spells.
That was why he was ready to deliver the final blow to the creature itself.
Chapter 553 - Rank-6 Gate (8)
ROOOAAAR!
The creature let out a deafening roar as the fire's corrosive energy tore through its outer defenses, but it wasn't yet defeated.
Astron leaped back, his body tense as he observed the flames wrapping around the Yeti. 'Elena's fire is working, but it's not enough to finish it. The defenses are still tough, but they're crumbling.'
As the flames began to flicker, signaling that the spell's effect was nearing its end, Astron didn't hesitate. He felt a surge of mana rise within him, flowing through his body and into his legs. The familiar sensation of his 「Cyclone Stance」 enveloped him, enhancing his footwork and preparing him for the rapid movements to come.
In an instant, he blasted forward, his legs carrying him with incredible speed as he circled the Yeti. His daggers gleamed with a sharp edge of mana as he coated them in energy, sharpening their blades and increasing their effectiveness against the weakened defenses.
With a sharp exhale, Astron activated the final form of the common dagger art that he had learned:
「Modified Form: Serpent's Dance」
It was something that most of the dagger users were given by the association, a common-grade art that everyone could have access to.
But he had modified the technique, improving it as he developed his combat abilities. This modified form was inspired by the [Martial Art] that he had learned from Dakota as he had adapted his dagger forms to flow seamlessly.
Yet, it still contained the base of the common grade art that he had practiced, making the fundamentals fitting for a dagger.
SWOOSH!
His movements were a blur as he darted in and out of the Yeti's reach, his form weaving between its flailing limbs with deadly precision.
Eyes of Hourglass.
The time was slowed right in front of him, as he could see the structure of the monster before him.
SLASH! SLASH!
Each strike of his daggers was fast and purposeful, targeting the now-exposed joints and weak points that Elena's fire spell had revealed.
The venomous energy of the Serpent Fangs pulsed through the blades, spreading deeper into the Yeti's system with every strike.
Astron moved with fluidity, his body barely a shadow as he slashed across the Yeti's body, each cut leaving behind a trail of venom that corroded its insides.
The Yeti roared in agony, its massive form swaying as it tried to keep up with Astron's relentless assault, but it was too slow. Even in its peak-rank six strength, it couldn't match the speed and precision of Astron's 「Modified Serpent's Dance」.
The other members of the team watched in awe as Astron moved like a whirlwind of death, his strikes a series of controlled, lethal movements. He danced around the Yeti, cutting away at its strength piece by piece until the massive creature could barely stand.
Kurt, Gareth, and the others stayed on alert, but they could see that the tide had turned. Astron had taken control of the battle, and the Yeti was on its last legs.
With a final, powerful thrust, Astron drove his daggers deep into the Yeti's chest, right where its heart should be. The venom surged through the creature's body one last time, and the Yeti let out a final, desperate roar before its body went rigid, paralyzed by the poison coursing through it.
The massive beast collapsed onto the icy ground with a heavy thud, the blizzard it had summoned dissipating into the cold air.
The battle was over.
Astron stood over the fallen creature, his breath steady as he withdrew his daggers, the mana around him slowly fading. He turned to the rest of the team, his expression calm despite the intensity of the battle.
"It's done," he said, his voice cutting through the silence that had fallen over the battlefield.
The team, still catching their breath from the fight, looked at Astron with a mixture of relief and respect. They had fought hard, but in the end, it had been Astron's speed and precision that had sealed the victory.
The team stared at Astron, their faces a mix of awe and disbelief. Kurt, still catching his breath, leaned on his shield for support, wiping the sweat from his brow. "You... is there something you can't do?" he asked, his voice filled with both exhaustion and admiration.
"You're a monster, Astron. No one should be that good."
Astron remained composed, though he could feel the strain in his muscles from the intense dagger technique. 「Serpent's Dance」 was an advanced art, one that pushed his body to its limits, even for someone with his experience.
He was already feeling the dull ache in his arms and legs, though his body was quickly adapting and recovering thanks to the [Everchanging Glyph]. Still, the toll it had taken wasn't something to be ignored.
"If not for everyone's combined effort to stack all those status effects, that would not have been possible."
Despite his words, the team continued to look at him with a mixture of respect and amazement.
Kurt finally stood upright, clapping his hands. "Still, you carried us through this. You don't give yourself enough credit."
Dorian chuckled though his exhaustion was clear. "Yeah, and here I was, thinking I was getting better with my blades. Then you go and pull that off."
Astron shrugged, trying to shift the focus back to the team's success. "We're alive, and we cleared the dungeon. That's all that matters."
Lila, still standing beside her battered golem, nodded as she activated her communication device. "I'll inform Liana that the dungeon is cleared."
While she relayed the message, the rest of the team took a moment to gather themselves. The tension of the battle was starting to fade, replaced by a sense of accomplishment and relief. They had faced their toughest challenge yet, and despite the odds, they had come out victorious.
Lila's voice echoed in the cold air as she finished the call. "Liana says the exit gate is active. We can leave whenever we're ready."
Astron gave a brief nod. "Let's not linger, then. We need to recover."
As the team began to move toward the exit, the oppressive atmosphere of the dungeon seemed to lift, the biting cold now feeling less harsh as the adrenaline from the battle faded. They walked in silence for a few moments, each member reflecting on the fight they had just endured.
The sheer power of the Snow Yeti had tested them, but it had also shown them how far they had come as a team—and how much they still had to grow.
******
Toren stepped through the front entrance of the guild, his usual commanding presence slightly dimmed by exhaustion. His dark hair, streaked with a few strands of gray, was damp with sweat, and there was a weary look in his sharp eyes.
The weight of the rank-8 gate expedition clearly showed in the slight sag of his broad shoulders, but he carried himself with the same air of authority that defined him.
He made his way to his office with long, purposeful strides, acknowledging a few passing guild members with brief nods. Though tired, his mind was still focused, already thinking about the next tasks at hand. Once inside his office, Toren let out a long breath and sank into the large chair behind his desk.
The familiar coolness of the room washed over him, a small relief after the grueling battle they had faced in the dungeon.
For a moment, he closed his eyes, allowing himself a brief respite. His body ached from the prolonged fight, and while they had succeeded in clearing the rank-8 gate, it hadn't been without its challenges.
A soft knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts.
"Come in," Toren called, his voice steady despite his fatigue.
The door opened, and Liana stepped inside, her expression professional but carrying a hint of warmth. She moved with her usual composed grace, though there was a touch of relief in her eyes when she saw him.
"Guild Master," she began, offering a respectful nod before stepping closer to the desk. "Congratulations on clearing the dungeon without any major injuries. The team has been eagerly awaiting your return."
Toren gave a tired smile, leaning back in his chair. "Thank you, Liana. It was a tough gate—tougher than we anticipated. But we managed to pull through."
Liana's gaze softened as she took a seat across from him. "I heard the monsters were stronger than expected. It's good to have you back in one piece."
Toren chuckled lightly, rubbing the back of his neck. "They were. Rank-8 gates always test the limits, but this one… it felt different. Like the energy inside was unstable. We had to adapt quickly."
Liana nodded, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "Unstable gates are becoming more common. I've been hearing similar reports from other guilds. The mana flows within them are shifting unpredictably."
Toren sighed, his expression growing more serious. "That's what I'm worried about. If these fluctuations continue, even our top teams could struggle to handle the more dangerous gates. We'll need to adjust our strategies."
Liana smiled faintly, hearing that.
Toren leaned back in his chair, rubbing his tired eyes before giving Liana a curious look. "How are the little ones doing?"
Liana smiled at his choice of words and nodded. "They finished their first rank-6 gate in six hours. No injuries, just fatigue. Right now, they're in the second rank-6 gate."
Toren's eyes lit up with pride. "Six hours might seem like a long time, but for a group of newbies to clear a rank-6 gate without any serious injuries on their first try—that shows real talent. They've come a long way."
Liana nodded in agreement. "They've exceeded expectations. Astron's leadership has played a big part, but the team is pushing themselves. They're growing more confident with every challenge."
Toren's smile widened. "That's what I like to hear. It means they're ready for more, and we can count on them when the tougher gates come."
Liana paused for a moment, then shifted to another important topic. "There's also something else. Since the media attention, quite a few companies have been contacting us. The small footage from the dungeon run, especially the rank-6 gate, has stirred up a lot of interest. The team is being seen as the next big thing, and companies are eager to invest in Vanguard Haven."
"Oh….." Toren raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Companies? What kind of offers?"
Liana pulled out a tablet and scrolled through the details. "Sponsorship deals, equipment partnerships, even media companies wanting exclusive interviews and footage of the team in action. They're seeing potential, and the fact that we're guiding a team of fresh Hunters through rank-6 gates with this kind of efficiency is catching attention."
Toren leaned forward slightly, eyes narrowing as he looked over the media reports and sponsorship offers on the tablet Liana had presented. He tapped the screen thoughtfully, absorbing the attention Vanguard Haven was beginning to attract. After a moment, a small smile crept across his face.
"Hmm…" he muttered, looking up at Liana with a gleam of something calculated in his eyes. "If this is the level of interest we're generating with just a glimpse of what the team can do, then there's only one thing left to do."
Liana tilted her head slightly, curious. "And what would that be, Guild Master?"
Toren's smile widened, his tone almost casual but carrying a sharp edge. "Leak the location of the second rank-6 gate."