Chapter 21: Into the Unknown

[Location: Grandmasters' Chamber – Skyfortress Varde – Year 1092 Ad Felicitas]

The Grandmasters' Chamber stood at the peak of the Central Tower of Skyfortress Varde, overlooking the frozen horizon of Verudia. Its crystalline walls pulsed gently with the energy of Evocyte, and shadows danced across the corners, brought to life by glowing glyphs.

Amisha Kaputri stood by the massive central table, her arms crossed tightly, leaning forward.

"Lysander, have you read the report? An ancient portal was discovered in Riemabour. We need to send our best team immediately."

Lysander Everhart, standing across from her, his silver hair reflecting the glyph light, replied calmly.

"Yes, I’ve read it. The portal’s instability cannot be ignored. Sending a team without fully understanding the risks is reckless. It should be sealed, and we should focus on Riemabour’s defenses."

Amisha turned sharply, her fingers tapping on the table.

"Seal it? If something inside can disrupt the golems, it can break through any seal we create. We can’t afford hesitation."

Lysander exhaled softly.

"Preparation is not hesitation. Acting without calculation risks lives—especially the young Evocaiers."

Amisha placed her hand firmly on the table.

"Riemabour isn’t just a small town. Two million lives depend on it. Have you even watched the recording in full?"

She activated her Lumina Core, projecting the image of a cracked temple with unfamiliar glyphs, before the recording cut to static.

Lysander watched silently, then asked,

"Has Chimia reported anything about the cube?"

Amisha smirked faintly.

"Not yet. She’s still busy in Eldoria. I’ll update her soon."

Lysander nodded, his tone firm.

"I won’t risk anyone just yet. If there’s no other choice, we’ll handle it ourselves."

Amisha’s expression softened, a hint of admiration in her eyes.

"Now that’s the Lysander I know."

[Location: Evocaier Academy Verm – Courtyard - Morning – Year 1092 Ad Felicitas]

The courtyard buzzed with morning activity as Drifter made his way to the simulation room. Lorcan, Sloane, and Reine trailed behind him, their voices blending into the soft hum of the academy.

The sudden crackle of the Vestra System silenced everything.

"Attention… all students, instructors, and members of the Evocaier Order, please pay attention to the following announcement."

A towering holographic screen flickered to life above the courtyard. Grandmaster Lysander, stern and composed, stared out at the gathered crowd. His voice carried a weight that stilled even the restless breeze.

"Members of the Evocaier Order, both novices and veterans. Our Order stands at a crossroads. The challenges ahead are unlike anything we have faced before."

"The underground city of Riemabour, once considered the safest in Verm, is now under threat. An ancient portal has been discovered beneath the city. Its activation could unleash monsters."

"The Evocaier Order will dispatch an advanced team. Those who are ready, gather at the Riemabour Diplomatic Hall tomorrow. The safety of our world depends on your strength and determination."

As the screen dimmed, tension rippled through the courtyard. Whispers rose like smoke. Lorcan broke the silence with his ever-present grin.

"Finally! You’re joining, right, Old Man?"

Drifter folded his arms, his calm gaze meeting Lorcan’s.

"Of course."

"It’s terrifying, isn’t it?" Reine’s voice cracked.

“Riemabour’s never been attacked. What if—”

Sloane cut in, her hand light on his shoulder.

"Relax. The Order has this under control. No one’s touching Riemabour."

Drifter watched as Reine exhaled, tension easing from his shoulders.

Footsteps approached, deliberate and sharp. Luna Sabriel, flanked by Jaxon Virelli and Alina Walsh, strode toward them.

"Hey, Drifter." Jaxon raised a hand, his usual relaxed smile softening his sharp tone. "Coming with us? We’re finalizing the plans for tomorrow."

Drifter gave a curt nod.

"That’s the idea."

Before anyone could move, Lorcan stepped forward, raising a hand.

"Hey, Alina, can the three of us tag along? Promise, no trouble." He gestured toward Sloane and Reine, both half-eager, half-anxious.

Alina crossed her arms, teal-blue hair shimmering as she fixed them with a skeptical look.

"You three? Honestly, you’re walking magnets for trouble. No way. You’ll just make things more chaotic."

Jaxon chuckled, resting a hand on her shoulder.

"They’ve got potential, Alina. We’ll keep them in check. Right, Drifter?"

Drifter gave a slight nod. Alina groaned, exasperated.

"Fine. But screw this up, and—" Her words hung like a blade.

Lorcan grinned triumphantly.

"Thanks, Alina! Knew you’d come around."

Sloane laughed.

"Thanks, boss. I’ll even do extra research notes."

"Don’t mess this up," Jaxon added, his smile wry as the group prepared to head out

[Location: City of Riemabour – Year 1092 Ad Felicitas]

In the morning, the group departed using a Translocator, heading toward the Eirencrest Mountains in southern Verm. From there, they boarded the Skyrail, which descended steadily into the depths below.

Drifter leaned against the window of the Skyrail, his gaze fixed on the breathtaking view unfolding before him. Layer upon layer of the city stretched downward like massive steps carved into the earth’s depths. Evocyte lights bathed the city in a warm, golden glow, while towering Luminorite spires shimmered like veins of light etched into stone.

The Skyrail curved smoothly, entering Tier 1, the city’s first layer. Sleek industrial structures came into view—busy platforms where traders unloaded goods, automaton units moved with precise efficiency, and Evocaier Order guards stood watch.

After clearing security, the group descended further into Tier 2, the city’s central layer. Towering buildings with sleek, glowing designs lined the streets. The bustling crowds moved alongside automaton units and Alcheriders, while the massive Luminor Lake, surrounded by lush green parks, added a serene contrast to the urban energy.

"I didn’t think an underground city could look like this… how did they even build something like this?" Drifter muttered, glancing left and right.

To his left, Reine spoke quietly, his voice filled with awe.

"It’s my first time here too… It’s incredible."

On his right, Jaxon reclined casually, a teasing grin on his face.

"See? Good thing you came. Would’ve been a crime to miss this," he quipped.

Ahead of them, Alina Walsh adjusted her gloves, her tone steady.

"This city isn’t just beautiful. It’s critical to Vesteria—a major trade hub and one of the largest automaton manufacturers."

Beside her, Luna Sabriel crossed her arms, her sharp gaze scanning the bustling streets.

"That’s why we can’t let it fall," she said evenly, her voice carrying resolve.

They arrived at a white rectangular building bearing the Evocaier Order logo—a lotus flanked by wings—prominently engraved on its façade. Below it, the stone pavement bore the words "Diplomatic Hall."

Inside, the hall buzzed with hushed conversations and the soft shuffle of footsteps. At the front of the room, Grandmaster Lysander and Amisha stood in quiet discussion. Suddenly, from across the hall, Amisha approached the crowd. The spectral raven perched on her shoulder lazily fluttered its wings. Her presence commanded immediate attention, and the crowd instinctively parted to let her through.

She stopped before Lorcan, her faint but sharp smile just noticeable.

"Still as energetic as ever, Lorcan. How’s Chimia these days?"

Lorcan scratched the back of his head, his grin sheepish.

"She’s fine… I think. Haven’t heard from her this month, though. You know how she is."

Amisha nodded slightly, her expression softening.

"I know. She’s always unpredictable. Take care of yourself, Lorcan."

Lorcan relaxed and waved exaggeratedly.

"You too, Aunt Amisha. But don’t pull any weird surprises tomorrow, okay?" He winked and turned to leave.

Beside him, Sloane and Reine exchanged wide-eyed glances. Sloane leaned toward Lorcan, lowering his voice.

"Dude. I’ve known you since public school, and you never mentioned you had ties with the Grandmaster herself."

Lorcan shrugged, stuffing his hands into his coat pockets.

The author's narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

"Relax. She’s not my boss or anything—just my grandma’s old friend. It’s not a big deal."

They moved to the back and merged with the crowd. Drifter noticed Friedrich Rosenthal standing at the center of the room, surrounded by academy students: Alma, Nadia, Caelus, Vaeloria, Lily, Mia, Alyssa, Bryan, and Erick.

The murmurs of conversation began to fade as the tension in the hall grew palpable. All eyes slowly turned to the stage, their anticipation building as they waited for the announcement to begin.

Drifter leaned slightly toward Friedrich, speaking in a low, curious tone.

"Quite a crowd here, Professor."

Friedrich glanced briefly at him, a faint smile on his face.

"Yes, they insisted on coming. But it’ll be good experience for them."

From across the room, a cheerful voice broke the quiet as Alma and Nadia waved enthusiastically.

"Hi, Drifter!"

Drifter responded with a small smile and a brief nod.

"Hello."

Not far away, Lorcan Grindelwald smirked, his eyes landing on three familiar figures.

"Well, well, am I seeing this right? The girls decided to tag along too?"

Vaeloria, twirling a strand of her hair, shot him a confident look.

"Obviously. Riemabour’s the fashion capital, isn’t it?"

Mia gave a faint smile, her tone light.

"Why do you care so much, Lorcan? Just chill."

Lily, ever composed, nodded politely.

"Sorry if our priorities seem a little different."

Lorcan chuckled, crossing his arms.

"Knew it. There’s always a reason with you lot."

He turned to Caelus Amelioris, who stood nearby with Alyssa, Bryan, and Erick.

"Hey, Caelus, why don’t you hang out with us? It'll be fun, bro."

Caelus shrugged nonchalantly.

"I’ll pass. Sticking with the professor."

Alyssa, hands firmly planted on her hips, narrowed her eyes at Lorcan.

"Oh, come on, Lorcan. Just because you’re buddy-buddy with the Grandmaster doesn’t mean you can order everyone around."

Lorcan, unbothered, grinned widely.

"Who’s ordering? I’m just making an offer."

From nearby, Sloane Gast jumped in with a laugh.

"Bryan, Erick, you better keep an eye on Alyssa, or the monsters might come after her again."

Bryan gave a quick nod, his tone confident.

"On it."

Erick, glancing nervously at the room, mumbled under his breath.

"Let’s just hope nobody starts arguing this time…"

As Drifter turned, a familiar voice greeted him.

"Hey, you joining too?"

The cheerful tone belonged to Reina Lindt, her smile warm.

From another direction, Xaltherion, his composed demeanor intact, approached.

"Looks like we meet again, Drifter."

Behind him, Helvra Valka followed, her sharp gaze friendly.

"Maybe we’ll finally work on a mission together this time?"

Drifter nodded slightly.

"Yeah… good to see you all again."

Behind them, the enigmatic Vilreth Ravoth, a man with dark blue hair and dressed in full black attire, moved silently. Without a word, he offered a brief nod before retreating to lean against the wall.

Reine, spotting Reina, turned with wide eyes.

"Big Sis?"

Reina, slightly surprised, smiled warmly.

"Wow, Reine, you’re here too?"

The room fell silent as Grandmaster Lysander stepped forward.

"Thank you all for being here. Today, we face a threat that cannot be ignored. The portal discovered beneath this city is a real and imminent danger."

He paused, his sharp gaze sweeping the room.

"Teams will be divided into two. One team will strengthen the defenses alongside the golems, while the other—the exploration team—will venture into uncharted territory. I will personally lead the exploration team."

Hushed whispers spread through the hall.

"The Grandmaster leading directly? Is the threat really that serious?"

As the murmurs grew, Grandmaster Amisha raised her hand.

"Enough."

With a fluid motion, Amisha activated a projection from her Lumina Core. The image of an ancient temple appeared—its stone walls covered in writhing, vine-like tendrils. Strange, pulsating symbols were etched into the stones, emanating a faint, eerie glow. The recording abruptly ended, leaving a heavy silence in the room.

Lysander continued, his voice calm but firm.

"Those joining the exploration team must understand the risks. Whatever lies beyond the portal may exceed our capabilities. If you are not ready, join the defense team. There is no shame in protecting this city."

The silence that followed was thick, like a heavy shroud over the room. Then, a clear and resolute voice broke through. Luna stepped forward, her sharp gaze locking with Lysander’s.

"I’ll join the exploration team."

Alina smiled faintly.

"We’re coming too. Can’t let her go off on her own, can we?"

Jaxon, leaning casually, grinned.

"The quartet’s back in action, right, pal?"

Drifter nodded slightly.

"Wouldn’t miss it."

Reine stood with clenched fists, his breathing steady despite the unease in his eyes. Straightening his shoulders, he lifted his chin slightly.

"I-I’ll go too. I won’t let anyone down."

Vaeloria turned sharply, her gaze locking on him, concern evident on her face. Her brows furrowed slightly as if she wanted to speak but held back.

Nearby, Reina Lindt widened her eyes in surprise, stunned by her younger brother’s bold declaration. Beside her, Helvra Valka smiled faintly, observing the silent exchange with quiet amusement.

Lorcan Grindelwald sauntered over, his usual confidence radiating. Stopping beside Reine, he tilted his head with mock astonishment.

"Wow, Reine! You’re stepping up before me this time? That’s a first!"

Sloane, chuckling softly, gave Reine a light pat on the shoulder before glancing at Lorcan.

"We’re all in this together, right? No way we’re splitting up."

Alina Walsh, exhaling deeply, raised a hand to her forehead.

"You three should just help the defense team. Don’t make things harder for everyone."

Before she could finish, Lorcan spun around to face Grandmaster Amisha, his grin mischievous.

"Auntie, we’re coming along, okay? Please?"

Amisha cast a sharp glance his way, one eyebrow arching. Her piercing black eyes dissected his every move, though a flicker of amusement softened her expression.

"You’re sure you’re ready for this, Lorcan?"

With unwavering confidence, Lorcan met her gaze, his grin as bold as ever.

"You bet I am."

Amisha studied him for a moment before speaking decisively.

"Alright. Let him join."

The room fell silent, leaving Alina Walsh momentarily stunned. Her eyes widened in frustration.

"What? Seriously? I mean… fine, Grandmaster," she said, her tone spiking before softening into reluctant acceptance.

Lorcan, waving cheerfully at Alina, grinned triumphantly.

"You hear that? Officially approved."

Alina, folding her arms, let out a long sigh.

"Just don’t make me regret this."

Drifter, observing the scene in silence, remained calm. His gaze shifted as Grandmaster Lysander approached Luna.

"Good to see you well, Luna," Lysander said, his voice resonant with understated meaning.

Luna, standing tall and confident, responded without hesitation.

"We’re in your care, Grandmaster."

When Lysander turned to Drifter, his tone grew more introspective.

"How’s Paxluma been treating you? Still weighing on you, isn’t it?"

After a pause, Drifter answered steadily.

"I’m well, sir. No… Paxluma is part of my past now."

Lysander nodded thoughtfully.

"The Cube’s purpose remains unclear, but we must prepare for the worst. If its power threatens balance, hesitation will cost us dearly."

Drifter nodded back, his tone firm.

"I share your resolve, Grandmaster."

The Skyrail carried the exploration team deeper into Riemabour, descending into Tier 3. As it passed through the residential area, Drifter observed people going about their routines, their faces calm and untroubled. The streets buzzed with activity, filled with Alcheriders weaving through the crowds, a stark contrast to the looming threat beneath the city.

Jaxon, leaning against the rail, watched the scene with a puzzled expression.

"No evacuations. That’s... either confidence in us or no better options."

Alina, arms folded, spoke tersely.

"Let’s hope it’s the former."

The Skyrail arrived at Tier 5, the station alive with organized chaos. At the center of the activity stood the ancient portal, swirling wildly with oppressive energy. Towering over it was the golem GRX-098 "Virtus Castigat", its dark blue metal frame etched with silver patterns. Twin Judicator Cannons rested on its upper platform, while cold blue anti-gravity engines kept the massive machine stable.

Drifter stepped out, his gaze fixed on the portal. Its flickering light cast shifting shadows on the walls, the carved symbols pulsing faintly as though alive. The ancient energy emanating from it felt unnervingly sentient.

Grandmaster Amisha, her spectral raven perched on her shoulder, moved forward.

"We won’t waste time. Defense team, fortify this position. Exploration team—prepare to enter the portal."

Vaeloria turned to Reine, her voice soft but curious.

"Reine, are you really going?"

Reine nodded, his gaze steady despite his faint smile.

"Yeah, Ria… going on a mission with the Grandmaster might only happen once in a lifetime."

After a brief hesitation, Vaeloria whispered.

"Be careful, okay?"

Reine smiled faintly, his voice softer.

"Thanks, Ria."

Nearby, Reine approached Erick, who stood lost in thought. Speaking gently, he said,

"Take care of yourself, Erick."

Erick, startled from his reverie, nodded quickly.

"Ah, Reine… thanks. You too, alright?"

As Reine returned to his position, Erick clenched his fists, determination flashing in his eyes.

"He’s in more danger than I am. I have to be strong. I have to make sure everyone’s safe."

Not far away, Reina Lindt spoke with care.

"Reine, don’t push yourself too hard. Follow the Grandmaster’s instructions. Safety comes first."

Reine dipped his head.

"Thanks, Sis."

Helvra Valka, lounging nearby, smirked lightly.

"Relax, Reine. This team’s full of powerhouses. Especially that guy over there," she said, nodding toward Vilreth Ravoth, who stood silently, leaning against the shadow

Reine followed her gaze, his eyes settling on Vilreth Ravoth, who stood motionless, his enigmatic presence unshaken.

Helvra Valka turned back to Reine, her tone teasing but warm.

"Wish I could tag along, but the exploration team’s already set. Oh, and if you see Drifter, let him know I said hi. We’ll catch up next time."

Despite his nerves, Reine offered a small, genuine smile and nodded.

"I will. Thanks, Helvra."

Friedrich Rosenthal stood tall, though a shadow of concern lingered in his expression. His gaze swept over the fighters preparing near the portal, his voice calm but weighted.

"Be careful out there. Make sure everyone comes back safely."

Nearby, Alma and Nadia stood side by side, their smiles faint but sincere. A mix of pride and unease was evident in their faces as they watched Drifter, Luna, Jaxon, and Alina.

"Stay safe, everyone," Alma said softly.

Nadia, adjusting her glasses with a subtle movement, added firmly.

"We’ll be praying for all of you to return safely."

Drifter turned slowly, his gaze steady and reassuring, as if silently promising that everything would be alright.

"Thank you," he said, his voice calm yet firm, before stepping forward with quiet determination.

Beside him, Luna gave a brief nod, her faint smile conveying a sense of calm assurance. Jaxon, relaxed as always, tipped his cowboy hat and waved casually, a confident grin on his face. Alina nodded sharply, her piercing gaze filled with unyielding resolve.

The other students—Caelus, Nadia, Alma, Vaeloria, Bryan, Erick, Alyssa, Mia, and Lily—exchanged supportive glances with Lorcan, Sloane, and Reine, offering small gestures of encouragement: pats to their chests, faint nods, or quiet smiles. In return, the trio responded with determined nods, silently locking in a shared understanding of their roles and commitment.

As Drifter stepped into the exploration team’s lineup, his movements purposeful, the air around the portal grew heavy, as if the world itself held its breath.

At the front, Grandmaster Lysander stood tall, his silver hair catching the ominous glow of the swirling portal.

"Once we cross, we move as one. Luna, take point. Alina, secure our flanks. Drifter, Jaxon, stay close. Everyone else—stay alert and ready. If this place can disable a golem, it won’t hesitate to do worse to us."

Drifter nodded silently, his thoughts aligning with Lysander’s warning. Beyond the portal lay an unknown and overwhelming force. But hesitation was not an option. Every step toward the danger ahead was a burden he had chosen to bear.