But we did not stop there. As soon as our group entered, we kept charging forward as we slaughtered our way through. Both Morgal and Fior unleashed a number of vine-based and nature-based attacks to ensnare the Firebirds, preventing them from moving. But, since the Firebirds were of Fire Attribute, it took them a matter of seconds to escape. However, those seconds were ample time for my other subordinates to attack. Of course, we did not waste our time on the Firebird warriors outside. The main target is inside the large cave. Thus, we continued onwards, decimating those that stand in our way. Those that we skipped, were blocked by the Sword Group and Shield Group who had successfully entered as well. While that was happening, I waved my hand and signaled the Arrow Group to help the other three gates.

Finally, after tens of Firebirds fell in our hands, we broke through the enemy lines and entered the cave. It felt quite...too quite. Not only was it dark, there were also no sounds. Was there a trap waiting for us? I ushered Sulnu forward and asked her to scout ahead for any traps or enemies. With her affinity towards the Death, she was more sensitive towards signs of life. Maybe the Firebirds in this cave were strong enough to hide their presences. Or maybe they had cowardly retreated. Either way, we soon know the situation. After a couple of seconds of scanning, Sulnu glanced over and told me that there were thirteen powerful life forces actively displaying themselves and close to a few hundred weaker life forces fleeing away. It seems the thirteen powerful life forces were the last line of defense. They were trying to stall us while their children ran away. I would have given chase, but the thirteen life forces were the main issue. Killing them will solve everything and end this fruitless war.

I signaled my group to give up pursuit and head towards the thirteen life forces. As we near the thirteen, even I could sense their overwhelming pressure. I was impressed. It seemed that they are preparing their last stand. I was also a bit worried as I know that cornered beasts overcome their limits and fight back with more strength that originally possible. As we edged closer, we noticed a light. The light came from an open space - a large cavern. When we walked through the entrance to the cavern, we noticed thirteen Firebirds standing at the opposite end. It was the Patriarch of the Firebirds and twelve other Firebirds, each of different colors of flame.

I asked Blackie about them and he replied that they were the twelve Grand Elders. Each lived for nearly ten thousand years and they were all direct descendants of a phoenix from the branch family. The phoenix, though weak even in the branch family, was all powerful in the Adventure World. Naturally, his children were powerful as well. However, my subordinates aren't weak either. We can take them on. Plus, its a perfect way to test out my subordinates' capabilities. As I approached the Firebirds, the Patriarch of the Firebirds glanced over. His eyes lingered over Blackie for a few seconds before staring at me.

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"I am Raas, Patriarch of the Firebirds. These are my Firebird Clan's twelve Grand Elders."

I cupped my hands in salute and boldly spoke, "Enough formalities. Why should I remember the names of the dead?"

"YOU!" One of the Grand Elders vehemently roared but was stopped by the Patriarch.

"I know you're trying to buy time as your descendants escape. So, how should we do this?" I replied as I ignored the Grand Elder who spoke out.

Patriarch Raas squinted his eyes as he scrutinized me and my group. "I'm sure your subordinates are very powerful. If we attack at the same time, I fear this cavern won't be able to support the pressure. How about this? Let's duke it out one-on-one?"

"Oh...tournament-style right? I presume this is a fight to the death?"

"It is. So, are we in agreement?"

"Sure. You first...who do you sent out?"

Patriarch Raas looked at his twelve Grand Elders and voiced, "Who among you will take the first fight?"

"I will!" A bluish Firebird screeched as he hopped forward a few steps.

The Firebird was blue and had a cold sensation seeping from his body. I was shocked at this sight. How can a Firebird emit coldness? This is too contradictory! When I asked Blackie who he was, Blackie replied that although he did not know who the Firebird was, he had heard rumors of the blue Firebird and his nickname - the Frozen Hellbird. This Firebird was known for using more ice-based attacks than fire-based as according to legends, his mother was an Ice Empress - one of the few powerful Snowbirds of the far north.

"I am one of the Twelve Grand Elders - Cul the Frozen Hellbird. Who amongst you will die by my hands?" The Grand Elder roared as he surveyed my group.

Before I asked my subordinates, a message flashed in my mind. It was from Tyn! He volunteered to go first. I nod in confirmation as a surge of happiness sprang from within me. At least Tyn did not grow up to be a coward. Such bravery, even against danger, was highly valued. Tyn, having received my notification, rushed forward and swiftly arrived in front of Cul.

"I am Tyn and you will be my stepping stone to power."

"Hmph, what arrogant words! Brat, prepare to die!"