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In the last chapter, embarking on a mysterious journey through an ancient tunnel, Miss Ember and Mister Ryu face challenges and unveil secrets. With Mr. Ryu's unique heat-resistant garment, they navigate the tunnel's twists and turns, encountering puzzles and obstacles. Taking a strategic break for preparation, they drink a special medicinal solution. As they progress, the intense heat becomes a training tool, leading to a groundbreaking breakthrough in the Blood Refinement stage. The ancient map reveals new information, adding layers of intrigue to their unfolding adventure.

"Miss Ember, the map changed during your training. I didn't check it, waiting for us to explore it together afterward. Let's discover its transformed contents when you're ready," Mister Ryu explained warmly.

"Absolutely, go ahead and delve into the map's contents while I take this solution. Post my training, I'm not quite in the mood for deciphering the map puzzle. Let's reconvene once we've both had our respective breaks," I proposed.

Without hesitation, Mister Ryu headed to his backpack, searching for something. Once he found what he needed, he returned to me with a grin on his face.

"Here you go, Miss Ember," Mister Ryu said, handing me a bottle of vintage exotic wine.

"Before we tackle the map and proceed on our journey, let's enjoy a sip of one of my favourite wines," suggested Mister Ryu.

"Why are we suddenly drinking? I doubt this contains any medicinal herbs to restore our strength," I remarked.

"We're celebrating your progress in cultivation and newfound strength. Enjoying the journey and being together is also a crucial part of our travels," Mister Ryu explained.

Enjoying the new found strengths and the successful breakthrough we toast to our advancement of the journey.

While we were savouring the moment, we realized that the map still remained undeciphered—a crucial aspect for the upcoming leg of our journey. Mister Ryu wasted no time in deciphering the map and reached a conclusion.

"Well, the map doesn't reveal anything monumental. It simply provides information about the upcoming trail or something similar," Mister Ryu explained.

"So, what information does this map convey?" I inquired.

"The map reveals that the territory ahead is known as the 'Spirits of the Forge,'" Mister Ryu conveyed.

As we carefully deciphered the map, subtle transformations unfolded. The tunnel ahead gradually illuminated, while its opposite end grew brighter. The atmosphere heated up with the increasing brightness. Fortunately, Miss Ember, with her formidable strength, and Mister Ryu, equipped with heat-resistant items, remained unaffected. Moving towards the tunnel's deepest point, we encountered a colossal iron door. Illumination emanated through its hinges and gaps, leading us to deduce that the radiance originated from beyond this imposing barrier, sparking our curiosity about the mysteries concealed behind the massive entrance.

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With a shared sense of anticipation, Miss Ember and Mister Ryu approached the massive iron door. Its surface bore intricate engravings that seemed to depict ancient symbols and stories long forgotten. As Mister Ryu reached out to touch the door, a surge of energy coursed through him, revealing that the door was not just a physical barrier but a magical seal guarding a realm of untold wonders.

Together, they focused their energies and, with a synchronized effort, pushed the colossal door open. As it creaked reluctantly, the brilliance beyond spilled into the tunnel, revealing a breathtaking landscape bathed in ethereal light.

Upon entering, the duo opened their eyes to a mesmerizing sight. The landscape was a vast pool of magma, a dominating force in the realm. However, rather than shock, it was the countless orbs of light floating in the air that captivated them. On closer inspection, these orbs revealed themselves as small fire spirits, each in the early stages of their existence, creating a breathtaking and beautiful spectacle.

"The small ones are in their nascent stages," declared a commanding voice.

We leaped into action, swiftly turning to face our rear and assuming battle-ready positions in preparation for the impending confrontation.

As our attention shifted towards the source of the commanding voice, a spectacular and imposing sight unfolded before us. There stood a colossal fire spirit, distinguished by its six arms and three heads crowning a substantial, muscular frame. Formidable fangs accentuated its fearsome visage, instilling a sense of peril. Scars adorned its body, a testament to the battles it had weathered, each mark telling a tale of resilience and strength. The atmosphere crackled with the aura of this majestic being, and we braced ourselves for the impending encounter, fully aware that facing such a formidable fire spirit would be no ordinary feat.

"There's no need to be on high alert; I'm not here for a confrontation or battle. I'm simply extending a warm welcome to new guests in my delightful and snug abode," spoke the Giant Fire Spirit.

"Observing his calm and gentle approach, it appears he is being sincere, Miss Ember," remarked Mister Ryu.

"Greetings, kind sir. Apologies for intruding into your abode without an invitation. We were navigating the tunnel in search of a temple but unexpectedly found ourselves here. If it's not too much trouble, could you enlighten us about your name and provide some insights into this place?" inquired Mister Ryu.

“The temple huh… well that aside I am the one of the Great Fire King and my name is Ignis, and as stated earlier this is my home.”

"Greetings, Mister Ignis. I am a merchant by the name of Ryu, and accompanying me is my partner, Miss Ember," expressed Mister Ryu with courtesy.

"I'm aware, I'm aware. Gaza and the Elder informed me about your arrival. They advised me to look after you, but I was occupied attending to the young ones," Ignis conveyed.

“You know Gaza and the Elder, may we ask how” I asked

"Well, while they may be restricted to the region you recently explored, it's a different story for me. I have the freedom to travel and can ascend to the skies," Ignis declared with pride. “I met them on one of my errands to the Iron Region” he continued.

"Why don't you step inside? I'd be delighted to hear your perspective," Ignis suggested.

Advancing deeper into the chamber, the temperature surged dramatically, reaching an unbearable intensity. Continuing would undoubtedly invite complications. Halting, I glared at their retreating figures. Mister Ryu's apparent ease only fuelled my growing frustration.

“Oh, my bad I’ll decrease the heat output.” Ignis said while turning the heat down.

The atmosphere became normal and the heat was not affecting me anymore. What troubled me was the resourcefulness of Mister Ryu. As we walk further the sight of Mister Ignis’s home made us more shocked.

……. To Be Continued