Even after all this time, Cain found the starting room to the Tower to be otherworldly. The floor of the room was a very wide obsidian square, and there was no ceiling. From the very bottom to the top, was hollow space. The black walls of the tower were lined with different colored crystals spread across, each illuminating light. Looking up, it looked like a whole galaxy was contained within the Tower, and it mesmerized Cain everytime. If only all the floors were as beautiful as this. He could only dream, though. The only thing that really existed in this room stood in the very center. Standing at least thirty feet tall, was a white marbled statue of a ram-like creature. Giant black horns protruded out from an armored head, where sapphire gems laid underneath as eyes. Large golden wings protruded from its back, its pose like a dragon’s roar. The guardian of the Argonauts. That’s what the old man had called it when Cain had first seen the statue. The supposed protector of the Argos Tower. He never really believed it. At its feet was a shining stone pedestal. That’s the entry point. Cain could see three figures standing beside it. Wait, they haven’t left yet? Remembering the three that had entered before him, Cain was surprised that they hadn't entered already as they would be lagging behind from the expedition. Curious, Cain made his way over. They seemed to be locked in a tense conversation, and they didn’t even hear his loud steps as he drew closer.

“Shouldn’t we go to the dungeon?” A deep booming voice came from the center figure. Standing the tallest was a young man dressed in black metal armor, his pale face filled with concern. A strange silver feathered crown sat atop his brown hair, glowing with a slight magical light. A large battered greatsword was attached onto his back.

“Nah, they probably already cleaned much of it, right? We should go somewhere else.” The person to the right replied with a defiant tone. Seemingly the shortest one of the three, the slim man was covered in light leather armor. They wore a red hooded mask that was draped with a green scaled cloak. Cain could barely see it, but two sheathed daggers were buckled onto their side. They are disagreeing on where to start huh. Cain understood immediately. The first floor of the Argos Tower was like an open state, almost like another world of its own. It was important to choose the optimal start to ensure the best chances at making it to the second floor. The dungeon was the start most Hunters go to begin their career as they always had a way back to the start, and it was also the safest. But going there now meant they would be lagging behind. Choosing another could get them ahead. It’s definitely a tough decision. If Cain cared about retrieving as much loot as possible he would be agreeing with the masked rogue. But safety does matter. Especially with all the experience Cain had with this damned Tower. Cain glanced at the silent one of the three, who didn’t really put input in as the other two discussed a plan. The silent observer was a young lady dressed in a lithe robe, covered in small specks of gems somewhat similar to the Tower's walls. A hood covered her piercing green eyes, lined by long black hair that draped down her chest. She held a large wooden staff shaped like a snake as she stared straight at Cain. Guess I should make myself known. Cain sighed inwardly as he coughed loudly. The argument stopped as two more gazes immediately rested upon Cain.

“Ah, another expedition member? Hello!” The black armored knight’s bright voice contrasted his appearance as he gave a smile, waving towards. Cain who returned the greeting with an awkward wave. The silence was tense as the rogue and girl just glared at Cain with cautious eyes. Like prey facing their predator. Can they tell? His scarlet eyes narrowed underneath his hood. The blood that covered his armor had dried long ago, and shouldn’t be noticeable behind the cloak that covered him. His Mark didn’t seem to sense danger, but he didn’t know if it was their Marks that were warning the two, or they were just distrustful. The knight, however, seemed oblivious.

“It’s really nice to meet another late comer! Name’s Percy, and these two are a part of my group.” Percy laughed as he patted both of their shoulders with such vibrancy that Cain was amazed. The rogue annoyance was like a cat’s, almost hissing as he shuddered away from Percy’s touch. However, it did seem like it helped the rogue to loosen up, the tension in the air slightly dissipating.

“I’m Andy, but you probably heard of me. I’m the best Hunter out there.” Andy coughed out those words, slightly cringing as he looked away, turning his face towards the pedestal in the middle. Best Hunter? Cain never heard of the weird looking rogue, but he could only shrug. The world was big after all. Seeing that even the cautious rogue let his guard down, the last member beside Percy let out a sigh and lowered her stave.

“It’s…Cassiopeia.” Her voice was a quiet whisper that Cain could barely catch. A strange bunch. Cain found them somewhat amusing though, around his age or maybe younger perhaps. They do seem to be somewhat experienced. They had some Tower items that Cain could see, including Percy’s crown. It seemed to radiate a mystical glow that Cain could detect, indicating that it could be an item from a Tower. Maybe not from this one though. Cain would’ve heard about the trio if they were from Sanctuary. Seeing that it was his turn to introduce himself, Cain let down his hood, letting his shaggy black hair ruffle out.

“Cain. You can call me Cain.” He walked up with his right hand extended, gaze fixated towards Percy with a solemn look. The three seemed taken aback from Cain’s action. In all honesty, Cain was surprised as well. He wasn’t this open even before the incident. But this time, he couldn’t help to slightly release the cold exterior of the cage around his heart. This moment was important. At first, surprise had filled Percy’s rugged face. However, it quickly disappeared into a small smile.

“It’s nice to meet you.” Percy shook Cain’s hand with his own right. With that, an electrifying shiver coursed through Cain’s back, his Mark shaking in its slumber. Cain grimaced slightly as he recovered, Percy the same. They are capable. Having confirmed it with that shake, Cain let go and pocketed both his hands.

“So, where do you want to start?” Cain asked, pretending to not overhear the earlier conversation as he nodded towards the pedestal. The carved marble stone shined like a white lamp in the dark room, letting out a slight vibration that was barely audible to the human ear. A large handprint was molded onto the top. Percy let out a light sigh, turning towards it as well.

“The main expedition team had chosen the dungeon, but we are split on where to go.” Andy nodded to Percy’s words.

“I vote for somewhere else.”

“I’m indifferent.” Cassiopeia piped up, still slightly quiet but was a bit louder this time. Percy looked at Cain with a curious smile.

“You look to be quite capable, where do you think we should go?” Really hit me with a hard question. Cain mused as he contemplated. It was like asking where they should bury themselves at. But if he had to choose, Cain knew what he would do.

“Personally, I would follow the expedition to the dungeon.” Having experienced hell once, Cain couldn’t risk it anymore. Not voluntarily, at least. Percy nodded upon hearing Cain’s answer, while Andy slightly groaned.

“Right. I agree with the safer option.” Percy turned to his teammates, who had slightly moved back during introductions.

“Alright. The dungeon it is. Understand?” His gaze firm as he looked at Andy specifically, who reluctantly nodded.

“Fine. Don’t blame me if we don’t find anything though.” The rogue sulked, a shadow behind Percy’s back as he marched away. Cassiopeia shrugged, shuffling over as she followed Andy to the pedestal. Percy looked back at Cain.

Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

“Would you be willing to join us? At least until we catch up to the main group?” Cain was silent upon hearing the request. He was seriously considering it. Being in a party with adventurers in the Tower reminded him of the times he had started to traverse it. It was a warm, nostalgic feeling that he dearly missed. But also feared. The feeling of loss was too painful, too strong. It was easier to close himself off of those feelings, to be cold. To be alone and not afraid of feeling hurt again. To shelter himself off from everything. To give up. No. Emerald lights flashed through Cain’s sight. He would tell Cain to never give up, to keep trying. He missed him so deeply, but there wasn’t time to grieve. It was time to take back control. It’s worth a shot. Cain smiled.

“Yeah, I can.”

“Really?” Not expecting Cain’s response, Percy looked dumbfounded. Cain nodded, having made up his mind.

“Well, welcome to the team!” With a joyous voice, Percy pat Cain on the shoulder with a bright smile. Ouch. Cain grimaced as a sharp pain from the strength of the pat briefly passed through him. He glanced over to the two other members of the party who were already at the pedestal.

“I’ll scout first.” Andy yelled out towards Percy and Cain as he pressed his hand down on the stone, placing his palm directly on the hand imprint.

“Wai-” Percy couldn’t even attempt to stop Andy. A golden light illuminated from the guardian statue behind the pedestal, blinding Cain as the room was completely basked in the brightness. After a few brief seconds, Cain’s vision recovered. There was only Cassiopeia near the pedestal now. Andy had disappeared from the room, his form completely gone.

“Damn it!” Percy cursed out loud, frustration creeping into his face.

“He wasn’t supposed to go, I assume?” Cain was surprised with Percy’s reaction. Every time one ascended to the next level of the Tower, they placed the hand where their Mark or Scar resided, which transported them to the next stage. Which was molded to their desire for the available floors.

“No… but he’s too hot headed. He broke our trust one time.” Percy shook his head, as he sighed.

“It’s fine, we can just go. I’m sure he listened.” Cassiopeia reasoned with him. Percy nodded, face returned to an unnatural calmness as he looked towards the pedestal. Cain stood still as he watched Percy walk up to Cassiopeia’s side. They reached out their hands together, hovering above the pedestal. Percy looked back.

“Coming?” Cain hesitated slightly at Percy’s question. Thoughts raced in his head. He calmed his shaking hands.

“You go on ahead. I know my way around.” Percy nodded to Cain’s response, turning back and whispering something into Cassiopeia’s ears. Cain blotted it away as they both placed each of their right hands onto the pedestal. Prepared this time, Cain covered his eyes with his arm as the shine bursted out from the statue. A feeling of relief washed over Cain as the bright light disappeared, leaving him alone in the dark Tower.

“Why did I do this?” Cain’s sigh echoed in the empty room. No. Doubt returned, but quickly, Cain squashed it down. Even if what was coming was something he heavily dreaded, Cain had to face it. He will overcome this tower. Here goes nothing. Cain was resolved as he walked over to the stone pedestal, and stared into the Guardian statue’s eyes.

“I will be the one who conquers you.” Cain’s voice was a light whisper as placed his hand atop the pedestal. And then there was light.

-

Cain found himself standing on the shore of a black sea. It was an infinite vertex of spiraling darkness, fire and stars, covering as far as his mortal eyes can see. No. It merely reflected the light of stars. Because above him was a night sky filled with thousands of them, their colors illuminating. However, in the vastness between nothing and death, was something. Flying above the water. A dragon or a beast. A man or a monster. The shifting of its eldritch form made it impossible to conceive, to perceive what was merely everything all at once. One thing was ultimately certain however. The seven scarlet eyes that bored out from the abyssal being were trained onto Cain. He knew. This was his Mark. It roared out to him, charging forward with its gaping maw of a hundred teeth. Cain braced himself for an impact, but nothing happened. The beast disappeared into a pool of red light, which slowly formed together into a glowing red tablet, floating in front of him. There were words carved into it.

PITIFUL BEAST, CASTED INTO ABYSS. A SERPENT WHO LOST THEIR LIGHT, TO ALWAYS HUNGER FOR ANOTHER. IT IS NOT TOO LATE FOR A DRAGON WHO STILL HAS WINGS. RELEASE THE KEY DEEP WITHIN, ONLY THEN CAN A MONSTER RECLAIM A SOUL.

When he finished reading, Cain didn’t even have time to comprehend the full meaning before a golden light shone out from the tablet, basking the black world in brightness. That was the last thing he could remember before becoming unconscious, falling into the deep embrace of the void sea.

-

“Cain!” A voice so quiet called out to him that he barely registered it. Cain’s head was on fire, and a huge and painful headache overwhelmed all thought. He tried to remember, to think, to feel, but it was all sluggish and painful. It felt like someone was shaking him. No, someone was actually shaking him.

“Cain, wake up!” Cain’s eyes opened to come face to face with Percy, the young knight seemingly sweating from the effort of shaking Cain. He held a fiery torch that illuminated the red brick ceiling above him.

“Whew, thank god you’re still alive! Thought ya were gone.” Percy grinned as he stood slightly back up, his left arm extended.

“Did we… make it?” Cain coughed out as he slowly recovered his senses, to which Percy nodded. He let out a sigh of relief. Cain could barely remember what had happened to him last. The black sea that was blanketed by a sky of stars. Then that tablet. A Tower tablet. Something that was only found in a Tower and was a source of magical power. But that one was strange because it felt like it was directed towards Cain. Whatever. Think about it later. He took Percy’s hand. He let out a loud grunt as he got back on his feet, albeit a little unsteady.

“Woah, was the trip rough here for you?” Percy laughed as he helped Cain. He nodded.

“You… can say that.” Cain coughed, surveying his surroundings without the use of his Mark’s special vision. It would give him much better vision in the dark, but he wanted to conserve his usage. They were in a dark corridor, and he could see Cassiopeia a bit further within, studying something on the walls. The only light that illuminated the dark corridor was from fire that came from the torches both of the other’s held. This looks like the dungeon part of the level. Cain was thankful at least that his intent for his starting point was still known, even after the strange encounter. His mind wandered to what happened, but shook his head. It was like he had been in another world, another universe, cut off from his own self.

“This is the dungeon of Argos? The darkness really fits it.” Percy joked out loud as he walked towards Cassiopeia. Seeing the non amused expression on the others, he let out a fake cough.

“Alright, we have an expedition to catch up to.” Percy took the lead from Cassiopeia as he began the march down the corridor.

“What about your friend?” Cain asked curiously as he followed close behind the two, watching the flank. Apart from them, only the shadows of the group bounced off the walls, dancing through nothing but empty space. Even when they attempted to be quiet, their footsteps still seemed way too loud in the silent hall.

“I assume he got transported somewhere else in the dungeon.” Cassiopeia replied, seemingly indifferent. Cain could see Percy slightly nod in agreement.

“We can’t really do much, but I believe in his abilities. He’s a stealthy guy anyways.” Percy’s cheerful voice sounded forced to Cain, but he didn’t comment any further. It wasn’t really his business anyways. They continued through the corridor in silence for a few minutes, before a large door marking the ending of the hallway appeared in sight. It was made of old oak wood, Cain recognizing it as the most standard doorway in the dungeon. Percy as the lead turned towards Cain and Cassiopeia with his free hand out, signaling them to stop. They both obeyed, watching the knight move up to the door, pressing his head up to the door. After a few brief moments, Percy then gingerly pushed it open, letting out a slight creak. He then took a quick peek inside. Cain could feel the tension in the air as he looked at Percy seemingly studying the next room in earnest. Finally, after what seemed like ages, Percy turned back to the two, with a thumbs up.

“Seems good. We can enter.” Percy whispered out, opening the door fully. His torch illuminated the next room. It was a much larger room, almost cave-like as the floor and walls were flat gray stone. Percy stepped in first, with Cassiopeia following quickly behind. Cain hesitated slightly, carefully waiting until he could see fully within. Something felt wrong. As he watched the duo continue through, Cain caught something barely in the light of the torch, towards the right. It was a pale hand.