Drifter sprinted with Lysander Everhart and Luna Sabriel at his sides, his spectral blades and Lysander''s wisps keeping the pursuing X creatures at bay. The rhythm of their footfalls echoed in the tunnel as they raced toward what they hoped was safety. As they burst into a vast chamber, Drifter skidded to a halt, his heart sinking at the sight before him.


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    <div>


    Inside, Amisha, Jaxon, and Alina stood motionless, with Lorcan, Sloane, and Reine positioned behind them. The massive stone door they had passed through was gone, replaced by a rippling wall of spatial distortion that defied comprehension.


    Damn... we''re trapped... he thought, his eyes scanning every corner of the room with vigilance, his chest tightening as his breath quickened.


    He glanced at Luna and Lysander, noting their heavy breathing. In the distance, the X creatures drew nearer, and Voioscirax floated ominously toward them, its massive wings pulsating with dark energy.


    Drifter attempted an Exalt Shift to escape, but his body slammed into an invisible barrier. "Ugh… failed…" he muttered, struggling to regain his footing.


    Lysander fired a Luminous Bolt at the wall of distortion, but the attack dissolved uselessly against it.


    Amisha, Alina, and Jaxon sprang into action, attacking the X creatures, followed swiftly by Drifter, Luna, and Lysander. Meanwhile, Voioscirax observed them from a distance, studying their every move with cold calculation.


    On the other side of the chamber, Sloane, Lorcan, and Reine exchanged determined glances. Without hesitation, they stepped forward, each taking their position with unwavering resolve.


    Jaxon noticed their movement and shouted, "Hey! What are you doing?"


    Lysander''s voice cut through the air sharply, "That creature is beyond your ability! Fall back!"


    His words fell on deaf ears. The trio advanced toward Voioscirax with near-reckless courage.


    Reine Lindt, his hands trembling slightly, clenched his fists tightly. He slowly raised his hands, unleashing his ultimate ability, Winter''s Embrace. A glowing circle of frost appeared beneath his feet, emitting a gentle light that enveloped the surroundings. Snowflakes descended slowly, causing the temperature to plummet. The X creatures slowed, while layers of ice began to encase Voioscirax''s dark armor.


    Sloane Gast surged forward, his body enveloped in emerald wind. He dashed in a rapid circular motion before unleashing Whirlwind Vortex, creating a massive cyclone that spiraled outward, trapping several X creatures and forcing Voioscirax to momentarily retreat.


    Lorcan Grindelwald slammed his fists into the ground, unleashing Abyssal Eruption. Cracks of darkness spread across the floor, and shadowy tendrils erupted, encircling Voioscirax while annihilating the remaining X creatures.


    But then, a low hum emanated from Voioscirax''s core. In an instant, a surge of dark energy exploded outward, engulfing the battlefield. The shadowy tendrils were flung back into the ground, the vortex dissipated, and the ice melted without a trace.


    Lorcan, Sloane, and Reine stood panting, their bodies visibly exhausted. Without warning, Voioscirax vanished and reappeared behind them, its arm lashing out with extraordinary speed.


    Drifter, using a rapid Exalt Shift, Amisha with her Void Shift, and Alina with a swift Cerulion Dash, moved in perfect synchronization, rescuing their comrades just in time.


    Jaxon, teeth clenched and eyes blazing, surged forward, his Emberstorm Crossfires erupting with fiery energy. "Hey! Come at me, you filthy monster!" he shouted, unleashing a barrage of fiery projectiles.


    Voioscirax blinked into existence beside Jaxon, unleashing a relentless barrage of claw strikes from all directions. Despite his agility, Jaxon''s breaths grew ragged, the relentless assault wearing him down.


    Suddenly, a woman''s voice broke through the tension, emanating from Amisha''s wrist device. "Amisha, can you hear me? Amisha?"


    Amisha tapped her device, a faint smile appearing despite the dire situation. "Yes, Chimia... Finally, you showed up," she replied, her tone calm yet sharp.


    Lorcan looked up with widened eyes, his voice barely a whisper. "That... that''s Grandma''s voice?"


    With a controlled yet firm tone, Chimia Grindelwald responded. "We''ve been trying to destroy this structure from the outside, but it''s no use. The only way is to open the Dimensional Door."


    Amisha nodded, her faint smile unwavering. "It''s time. We really need it now. Send the portal, and we''ll get out," she said briskly.


    The air around them trembled violently. At the far end of the chamber, a Dimensional Door materialized, radiating bright light. From the portal stepped a young woman with flowing violet hair and a wide black hat, her sharp gaze bringing an unsettling sense of calm.


    Chimia Grindelwald waved her hand casually. "Everyone, into the portal. Now," she commanded firmly.


    Wasting no time, the group sprinted toward the portal. Voioscirax remained still, watching them without making a move.


    On the other side, Chimia sealed the Dimensional Door. Not far from where they landed, three figures stood waiting: a muscular man with red-black hair and flaming greatsword, a man with dark hair wielding a rapier of dark energy, and a woman with long golden hair and pointed ears.


    Amisha stepped forward, her Raven landing calmly on her arm. "Your timing is always perfect, Chimia. Thanks for saving us," she said casually.


    Chimia smirked slightly. "Lucky the message got through in time, Amisha," she replied lightly.


    Lorcan, still catching his breath, let out a weak smile. "Grandma? Wow, impressive as always... Thank goodness," he muttered in relief.


    Drifter, with a look of deep gratitude, simply said, "Thank you."


    But in his heart, he wondered, Who is she? Lorcan''s grandmother? She looks so young. That must mean she''s a Primordial.


    Luna gave a small nod. "Thank you, Chimia," she said softly.


    Jaxon, still breathing heavily, managed a faint grin. "You''re a real lifesaver, ma''am. Without you, we''d be done for,"


    Alina added in a gentle yet firm tone, "We''re very grateful, ma''am."


    Chimia shrugged casually, her smirk widening. "Oh, no need for formalities. But tell me, Lysander… why would you venture into a place like this without waiting for me?" Her gaze flicked to Amisha, her smirk growing playful. "Or was this whole thing Amisha''s brilliant idea?"


    Lysander shot a sharp look at Chimia. "Don''t blame her. We made the decision together," he replied flatly, crossing his arms. "This city couldn''t be left under threat, especially with rumors starting to spread. Someone had to take the risk." His tone sharpened. "I assume you''ve seen structures like this before?"


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    Chimia, her tone now serious, nodded slowly. "There''s one in Eldoria. But that one is empty. Unlike this one."


    Drifter''s gaze sharpened as he spoke, his deep voice breaking the silence. "That creature… its movement… it''s very similar to the one I encountered in Paxluma. The one that brought down the Black Cube. But this one is much stronger."


    Luna watched Drifter, her brows knitting in thought. "I see," she said slowly, her tone laced with unease. "But it almost feels like it let us escape… like it''s playing with us. I wonder what it''s really after."


    Chimia fixed her eyes on Drifter with a keen, investigative gaze. "Ah, so you''re the one mentioned in the reports. Are you certain the Cube is still connected to this creature?"


    Drifter nodded slightly, his tone calm but firm. "There''s no concrete evidence yet. But this is no coincidence."


    Chimia turned to Lysander, a curious edge in her voice. "So, what''s the plan? Do we head back, regroup with Ragnar, Mina, and the others, and take it down?"


    Lysander shook his head decisively. "No, that''s too risky. Your Dimensional Door takes a month to recharge, doesn''t it? If the creature isn''t attacking anyone, it''s better to leave it here and focus on sealing the portal."


    Amisha crossed her arms, her expression thoughtful as she nodded. "I agree. Even if we bring everyone, there''s no guarantee we''d win. And even if we do, what''s the point? Leaving it here and sealing the portal seems like the smarter move."


    Chimia shifted her focus to Lorcan, a small smile playing on her lips. "Thank you for looking after my grandson. I hear he can be... quite the handful."


    Alina smirked slightly, her tone casual yet tinged with subtle sarcasm. "He''s dependable... sometimes."


    Lorcan chuckled lightly, though exhaustion was still evident on his face. "See? I''m not as bad as you all think."


    Chimia raised an eyebrow, her smirk turning wry. "Your reputation as a troublemaking student doesn''t exactly inspire confidence, kid."


    She then glanced at Amisha, her tone reverting to the serious air of a leader. "Send my regards to Friedrich. I have to get back to work."


    As the group began to rest, the cold air of Riemabour brushed against their skin, bringing some relief but not fully dispelling the lingering tension.


    Chimia took a few steps forward, lightly patting Lorcan''s shoulder. "I''m leaving now, kid. Remember what I said—think before you act, stay determined, and persevere."


    Lorcan hesitated before speaking, his usual cockiness replaced by a faint hint of loss. "You''re leaving again?"


    Amisha stepped forward, her expression one of deep concern. "Chimia, are you sure you don''t need rest?"


    Chimia simply shrugged, her trademark smile still in place. "I''m fine, Amisha. I need to finish my report first, then decide whether I''ll head to Selvaria or Serrahn next. I just need to be a little more careful from now on."


    She glanced around, her expression softening slightly. "Don''t worry... I''ll make sure the Dimensional Door is ready if I find another structure like this."


    Before leaving, Chimia paused, looking back at the group, her gaze lingering on Lorcan. Her voice softened. "Take care of each other, alright?"


    Then she turned to her team. "Fio, Leon, Ezella, let''s move out," she said firmly yet casually.


    They nodded without hesitation and followed her as she walked away, slowly fading into the crowd. As chimia gone, the group ocntinue to diplomatic hall where murmur fill the room.


    <div>


    Lysander commanded the center As his hand rose, the murmurs died instantly.


    "The findings at the portal confirm our worst fears," he announced, each word falling like a stone in still water. "The portal is ancient, unstable, and connected to an unknown dimension. Whatever lies beyond it remains a mystery. But one thing is certain: this is a grave threat to Riemabour and potentially all of Verm."


    Nervous whispers swelled through the crowd, but Lysander''s voice cut through them like a blade.


    "The portal will be sealed and heavily guarded. No one—and I repeat, no one—will cross it. The stakes are far too high for reckless action."


    The silence that followed pressed down on every chest. Drifter observed Lorcan standing rigid in the back, hands clenched into white-knuckled fists. The young man''s eyes were distant, lost in thought. Drifter knew he was thinking of his grandmother, Chimia, who had vanished through that shimmering veil.


    Drifter''s own mind churned. That creature... its power is overwhelming. Even the Grandmasters struggled against it. If such threats appear again, will we be ready? The Black Cube... Should I consider using a power I don''t fully understand?


    Lysander turned toward their group, his stern features softening almost imperceptibly.


    "To the exploration team—Drifter, Luna, Alina, Jaxon, Lorcan, Sloane, and Reine—my deepest thanks. Your actions ensured we brought back vital information. Rest assured, your efforts will not be forgotten."


    Luna bowed slightly. "Thank you, Grandmaster Lysander. This journey has taught us much."


    Drifter offered a brief nod. "The honor is ours, sir."


    The others added their acknowledgments, but when Lorcan spoke, his voice was barely audible, thick with regret.


    "We... were only a burden, Grandmaster. Without your help, we all would''ve died there."


    Drifter watched as Sloane and Reine echoed similar sentiments, their confidence clearly shaken. Lysander stepped closer, his voice carrying an unusual warmth.


    "The three of you did your best. Thanks to your efforts, the X creatures couldn''t overwhelm us. Your courage was vital to the mission''s success." He paused, ensuring his words sank in. "But... next time, be more careful. Don''t recklessly face something whose power you don''t fully understand."


    Amisha approached, placing a steady hand on Lorcan''s shoulder. "A burden? Don''t be so quick to judge yourself, Lorcan. Your movements are sharper now—not as reckless as before."


    She addressed all three young men, her expression softening. "I can see how you''ve all influenced each other. And perhaps, you''ve had the same impact on your team."


    Her voice dropped to a near-whisper. "Take care of one another. Someday, you''ll understand just how important that is."


    She tightened her grip on Lorcan''s shoulder. "Be patient, Lorcan. You have great potential. One day, you might even surpass me... and Chimia."


    Lorcan''s eyes met hers, a new determination replacing his earlier doubt. "I''ll hold you to that, Auntie."


    Amisha''s smile. "Good." She turned to leave, pausing briefly at the threshold. "I''m returning to Varde. Thank you, everyone."


    Drifter watched as Lysander turned to Luna, his voice low but carrying an unmistakable warmth. "Luna, if you''re free tonight, I''d like to invite you to dinner. It''s been too long since we''ve truly talked."


    Luna''s typically unreadable expression softened. "Very well. I''ll come. Thank you, Grandmaster."


    Across the room, Jaxon leaned against the wall, his eternal smile in place as he addressed Alina. "Formal dinners for them, huh? How about we go for something more casual? This time, it''s my treat."


    Alina''s lips curved slightly. "Fine, but invite the others. I''m not interested if it''s just the two of us."


    Jaxon said with smile. "Alright, alright, we''ll make it a group outing. I heard the Artificial Savanna at night is pretty amazing. Let''s check it out."


    Alina looked toward the three younger members, her eyes gentle but firm. "You''ve all worked hard. It''s time to relax a little."


    Drifter stepped forward, nodding. "Good idea. Let''s go."


    As they filed out, Drifter noticed Sloane, Lorcan, and Reine lingering behind, walking in silence.


    "At least it''s over. For now," Sloane whispered.


    Lorcan''s jaw tightened. "If that creature was just the beginning, we need to prepare for worse."


    Reine nodded slowly. "We''ll have to push ourselves harder. There''s no room to relax now."


    <div>


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    Drifter gave a faint smile as he saw their resolve. They went together to Riemabour''s Tier 3 district, where the gentle glow of bioluminescent flora lined the streets.


    Their friends waited ahead. Friedrich smiled in relief. "It''s good to see you all back safely."


    The air filled with reunion''s warmth. Drifter watched as Lorcan boasted to his audience, only to be deflated by Mia''s quip: "That creature ran off because it was bored listening to you, not scared."


    Vaeloria added with a laugh, "Funny, I heard it was you who ran away!"


    Jaxon spread his arms wide, inhaling deeply. "This is what I needed—fresh air, good vibes, and no ancient portals trying to kill us."


    Sloane chuckled. "You know, boss, this place might be perfect for our ''research.'' Don''t you think?"


    "Ah, yes. Research. Strictly academic, of course," Jaxon replied with a grin.


    "Of course. All for the advancement of knowledge. The Academy would be proud," Sloane answered playfully.


    They strolled toward the artificial savanna, eventually settling inside a rest zone. As twilight painted the horizon, Lorcan watched a glowing fox leap between bushes, wonder gleaming in his eyes.


    "This place... it feels like the surface. How did they make it like this?"


    Vaeloria''s teasing voice cut in: "Surprising, Lorcan. That''s actually a decent question."


    "Do you even know the answer?" Lorcan snorted.


    "Of course I do... it''s all artificial. The light, the air system, even the sky we''re looking at now," she replied, arms crossed.


    "Wow, genius answer. Even a kid could figure that out," Lorcan shot back.


    <div>


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    Drifter watched them all with a smile, but it faded as the thought of the creature and the black cube lingered in his mind.