A few centuries ago, danger zone red earned its reputation as the most treacherous place known to date. Survivors who have encountered the creatures inhabiting its boundaries describe them as predominantly humanoid beings, possessing formidable strength and intense hostility towards intruders.
The existence of these beings remains an enigma, shrouded in countless rumors but lacking substantial evidence. According to hearsay, these entities are ancient guardians of the forest, entrusted with the protection of a hidden treasure or something of similar value. Some believe them to be a distinct species that has dwelled within the forest since time immemorial, feeling threatened by the presence of humans.
Additionally, there is a theory suggesting that these creatures are divine messengers, sent by God to uphold one of His four laws, that has been passed on since the beginning of time:
-Do not tread to the end of the forest, for only doom awaits you.-
The reason behind their emergence in the last hundreds of years remains unexplained, leaving everyone perplexed. Despite the circulating rumors, no definitive theory has emerged to elucidate their true nature. However, one undeniable fact remains—they confine themselves to danger zone red and its surrounding areas, never venturing beyond the forest's borders.
Since the initial encounter with one of these creatures over a hundred years ago, subsequent encounters have become increasingly frequent. The first encounter prompted an immediate retreat, as the explorers were wise enough not to engage in a battle against the unknown. However, it was the second encounter that marked the beginning of a decline. On that fateful day, only one explorer returned.
The organization made efforts to suppress this sensitive information, but even after many years, rumors continued to spread, inciting unrest among the people of the three kingdoms. It was during this time that the nobles saw an opportunity to extend a helping hand to the organization.
In subsequent encounters, some casualties were averted due to the organization's preparedness. Around twenty years ago, they even managed to slay one of these beings at the cost of many expert lives.
Therefore, it came as no surprise that the eyes of the three individuals widened, and their mouths hung open in astonishment upon hearing that a team had ventured into the realm of the creature.
---
"What! Didn't I explicitly instruct you to be informed beforehand?" Isabell's expression shifted abruptly from shock to anger. With the boss and his assistant present today, she couldn't afford any slip-ups.
-Gulp
The man in the white coat struggled to swallow.
"Y-Yes, sorry," he stammered, wiping his sweaty hands on his coat.
"But you also specifically told me not to bother you with information about Group Z."
"It's them!?"
"What's going on?"
Confused, Aldir interjected, seeking an explanation. He had just learned that someone had reached the final zone, but no further details had been provided. Before the boss beside him reached his boiling point, he spoke up.
"Can someone please explain?" Aldir's confusion was evident.
"Yes, sir. Group Z is a... special team. It's their first attempt, and they haven't undergone any specialized training... I haven't given them much attention," Isabell responded promptly.
The senior assistant was left speechless. A special team, a first attempt, no training... and they had reached danger zone red. It didn't add up. Aldir was no novice; during his time with the organization, he had witnessed many skilled individuals with years of combat training and experience fail to even approach the outskirts of danger zone yellow, let alone venture into the most treacherous zone.
"What are we waiting for? Put them on the screen. Now!" Chief Morend wasted no time with many words.
Several individuals in white coats swiftly made their way to the corner of the room, where the control center was located. Within moments, all the screens on the wall converged into one large display. The entire room's attention immediately focused on the image being broadcasted on the wall.
Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.
From a bird's-eye view, they observed three children darting between the forest's trees. The image was blurred, as there was insufficient light to see with clarity.
The trio settled down on a thick root beside a tree, engaging in what seemed like a conversation, although no sound reached the observers.
"What are they up to?"
"They appear so young!"
"It seems like they're taking a break."
"Who would dare to rest in that area!"
Whispers filled the room as the white-clad men and women shared their opinions, struggling to comprehend the actions of these children. Their murmurs continued until the chief's voice sounded.
"Are they taking a break in danger zone red?" Morned contemplated. " Why do I get the feeling they're not even aware of their surroundings?"
Ordinarily, a team would be aware of the danger zone they were in, and equipped with training to gauge their progress. Knowing their precise location was crucial for survival, as certain kilometer marks signaled that one should not proceed unprepared. The young children, aged around 13 or 14, were certainly not expected to have ventured so far — they shouldn't have been capable of it.
"Isabell, I need their reports!" Aldir demanded.
"I have them right here, sir." The white-robed man, his hands now dry, retrieved three slim notebooks from his coat pocket and handed them over.
"At least someone came prepared." Aldir accepted the notebooks, flipping through their pages.
Isabell was seething with anger. She was aware of Aldir's dissatisfaction with her performance, but she couldn't retort. The only outlet for her frustration was an irritated glance directed at her subordinate.
The white-clad man keenly felt her gaze, yet fear prevented him from meeting her eyes. Once again, he nervously wiped his sweaty palms on his coat.
Aldir took a few moments to peruse the contents of the small books, then closed his eyes. This is going to be a headache, he thought, releasing a sigh.
"Don't omit anything," Morend instructed. "Share every little detail about them, no matter how seemingly insignificant."
"The girl's name is Jessica," Aldir stated in a composed tone. "She is 14 years old, characterized by red hair, green eyes, and what can be described as an 'explosive' personality. According to the compiled report, Jessica's circumstances are as follows: she was sold at the age of ten by her mother, Meren. Subsequently, she underwent a period of training at the headquarters. Pertinently, her father's identity remains undisclosed. She has a younger sibling, Jasmine, who is currently 9 years old."
"Why was she sold?" the leader inquired.
"Her mother's decision was rooted in fear," Aldir expounded. "Reports suggest that Jessica possesses the ability to conjure flames. This ability manifested initially when she was eight years old. Consequently, her mother confined her to the basement whenever her flames emerged. An incident transpired where part of their neighborhood was engulfed in flames. Yet, even before this occurrence, her mother sought our intervention."
"Hmm... a fire conjurer. What a rare ability," Morend mused. Observing the girl on the screen, she appeared more like a frightened rabbit than an explosive fire conjurer. "Her past must have left deep scars."
"Indeed, the report does indicate that she possesses a pronounced fear of darkness, impairing her capabilities," Aldir affirmed with a professional demeanor.
"What a wasted talent," Morend sighed. "Please continue."
"Moving on to Kyle, a 15-year-old characterized by his brown hair and eyes," Aldir initiated, providing a concise description.
"He was apprehended due to his involvement in illicit activities within Zephir's underground world," Aldir elaborated. "He gained notoriety as a troublesome criminal, causing considerable challenges for law enforcement. Intriguingly, upon his capture, it came to light that his age was significantly younger than anticipated. Further investigations revealed that this young delinquent harbored remarkable combat prowess, surpassing that of his contemporaries, coupled with an impressive intellect. He even attained exceptional scores in the mandatory assessment, despite lacking formal education."
"A capable fighter, someone who possesses both brains and brawn. We are in desperate need of such individuals," Morend pondered, his fingers tracing the outline of his nonexistent goatee as he contemplated.
"Considering his ability to outsmart authorities and navigate the underground world, an exceptional person like him should be the team leader," Morend guessed.
"He is not, however," Aldir replied.
"Why not?"
Aldir struggled to articulate what he had read about Kyle. "Well, he's not exactly utilizing his intellect."
"What do you mean?" Morend pressed.
"According to the report, he has singularly concentrated on honing his physical strength, overlooking the nurturing of his intellectual capacities."
"What's that supposed to mean? It's not as though one's intellectual capabilities diminish by simply overlooking to nurture them," Morend mused, his confusion evident.
"The reasons remain uncertain. It appears he acts based on his own inclinations, even in the face of potential consequences such as being returned to the custody of the kingdom's guards. He displays a disregard for ramifications," Aldir clarified.
"So, he just doesn't give a damn about orders and does whatever the hell he wants... These youngsters these days, I tell you," Morend grumbled, his tone colored with a mix of irritation and resignation.
Morend's brow furrowed, and he reached up to rub his temples, the telltale signs of an impending headache creeping in. He cast a gaze toward the man standing nearby. "Hey, you. Get me something to smoke," he ordered.
Without waiting for a response, he resumed the conversation with Aldir. "Regardless, tell me about the last individual."
Aldir was about to provide the information when Isabell suddenly interjected.
"Sir Pandon!"
Morend and Aldir redirected their attention to the screen, immediately understanding the urgency in Isabell's frantic cry. The three children had made contact.
A creature appeared.