The days leading up to The Eclipsed Hand's attack passed in tense preparation. Ethan knew they wouldn't wait until the deadline—they'd strike when least expected. That meant he had to be ready at every moment.
He stood atop the academy's highest tower, the wind whipping through his hair as he surveyed the sprawling grounds below. Students moved about, unaware of the imminent danger lurking in the shadows. But he could feel it—the weight of an approaching storm.
Iron Stride: 70%
Titan's Ascent: 45%
Unyielding Will: Fully Mastered
His strength was growing, but it wasn't enough. He needed more.
The Council's Intervention
Just as Ethan was about to return to his dorm, a sudden presence sent shivers down his spine. He turned sharply, his instincts screaming at him. A tall man in golden robes stood behind him, his piercing green eyes exuding authority.
Grand Council Envoy.
"Ethan Drake," the man spoke, his voice smooth yet commanding. "The Grand Council has taken notice of your actions."
Ethan crossed his arms. "Took you long enough."
The envoy's expression didn't change. "Your existence disrupts the balance. The Eclipsed Hand is just the beginning. If you continue down this path, worse forces will come for you."
Ethan smirked. "And? Should I just roll over and die?"
The envoy stepped forward. "A warning, not a threat. Be prepared, Ethan Drake. The world isn't kind to anomalies."
Before Ethan could reply, the envoy vanished into thin air, leaving behind only lingering traces of mana.
An Unexpected Visitor
Returning to his dorm, Ethan found someone waiting for him. Seraphina Nightshade leaned against his door, her arms crossed, her violet eyes unreadable.
"You've been busy," she remarked.
Ethan opened the door, motioning for her to enter. "What's on your mind?"
She stepped inside, glancing at his training equipment scattered around. "I found something."
Ethan's gaze sharpened. "Go on."
Seraphina pulled out an ancient-looking parchment. "Aldric isn't just gathering forces—he's looking for an artifact. One that grants temporary invincibility."
Ethan narrowed his eyes. "And let me guess—it's hidden in some dungeon?"
She nodded. "One that opens in two days. If he gets to it first, we're in trouble."
Ethan grinned, cracking his knuckles. "Then we beat him to it."
The Dungeon of Eternity
With little time to waste, Ethan, Seraphina, Serene, and Selene prepared for the dungeon raid. It was located deep in the Abyssal Wastes, a cursed land few dared to enter.
Standing before the massive obsidian entrance, Ethan felt the weight of unseen eyes watching them. The dungeon pulsed with ominous energy, daring them to step inside.
Serene smirked. "No turning back now."
Ethan stepped forward, determination burning in his eyes. "Then let's finish this before Aldric even arrives."
As they entered, the gates slammed shut behind them, sealing their fate within the Dungeon of Eternity.
To be continued…