As Alix, Grixx, and Berko descend into the crevice, the tumultuous sounds of battle above fade, replaced by an eerie silence. Their invisibility cloaks them in a veil of undetectability, allowing them to observe without interference. The walls of the crevice, jagged and foreboding, give way to a surprising sight—a vast subterranean expanse stretches before them, illuminated by bioluminescent flora casting a soft, ethereal glow.
Towering trees with luminescent leaves dot the landscape, their roots intertwining with the cracked, barren ground. The air is thick with humidity, and the distant calls of unseen creatures echo through the cavern. Despite the alien environment, the trio recognizes familiar beasts scaling the walls toward the surface, confirming they are still within the same crevice.
Berko’s eyes widen in awe. "This place... it’s like an entirely different world hidden beneath our feet."
Grixx nods, his gaze scanning the surroundings warily. "Yet, it’s unsettling. We’ve encountered no Tier 5 beasts so far."
Alix, ever observant, remarks, "Perhaps they dwell deeper within, or this area serves a different purpose."
They proceed cautiously, their footsteps silent against the uneven terrain. The beasts, oblivious to their presence due to the Veilstone’s power, move with singular purpose toward the surface, paying no heed to the intruders.
As they venture deeper into the subterranean expanse, Alix, Grixx, and Berko encounter a formidable Tier 5 beast—a massive, armored creature with eyes gleaming like molten lava. The surrounding area is eerily devoid of other beasts, suggesting this guardian’s dominance.
Alix narrows his eyes, observing the beast’s vigilant stance. "It’s guarding something," he murmurs. Activating his system interface, he scans the vicinity and detects a faint, pulsating energy signature beneath the creature’s position. His eyes widen in recognition. He thought. ’The Astral Bloom... In my previous life, I never managed to acquire it. Those who possessed it demanded exorbitant sums of real money.’
Grixx tightens his grip on his weapon, his gaze fixed on the beast. "Your orders, Your Majesty?"
Alix’s expression hardens with determination. "We need that Astral Bloom. Grixx, take down the beast. Berko, support him. I’ll secure the ingredient."
Grixx nods, a fierce grin spreading across his face. "Understood." He charges forward, weapon gleaming in the bioluminescent light. The beast roars, meeting his challenge head-on.
Berko flanks the creature, launching precise attacks to distract and weaken it. Their coordinated assault showcases their training and camaraderie.
Seizing the moment, Alix darts toward the spot where the Astral Bloom’s energy resonates. With practiced movements, he uncovers the radiant, star-shaped flower, its petals shimmering with an otherworldly glow. He carefully extracts it, feeling a surge of accomplishment.
Behind him, Grixx delivers a decisive blow, and the beast collapses with a final, echoing growl. He turns to Alix, breathing heavily but victorious. "The path is clear, Your Majesty."
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Alix secures the Astral Bloom within a protective casing. "Well done, both of you."
As they venture deeper into the subterranean expanse, Alix, Grixx, and Berko encounter several Tier 5 beasts, each guarding various treasures—glimmering gemstones, ancient artifacts, and weapons. Among these, a particular Tier 5 sword catches Berko’s eye; its blade hums with latent power, and intricate runes adorn its hilt.
Although Berko doesn’t recognize what the Astral Bloom is, he knows it must be something extraordinary. After all, he’s never seen His Majesty this pleased before. Alix hardly reacts to obtaining Tier 5 skills or spells, yet this flower seems to hold incredible value.
Berko steps closer, watching Alix carefully seal the Astral Bloom in a protective case. "Your Majesty," he says hesitantly, "that flower… what is it exactly?"
Alix glances at him, still smiling. "The final ingredient."
"Ingredient?" Berko frowns. "For what?"
"For something powerful," Alix replies vaguely. "You’ll see soon enough."
Berko doesn’t press further. If Alix isn’t explaining, there’s a reason. Whatever that flower’s purpose, it’s clearly far more valuable than any skill or treasure they’ve found before.
As they continue exploring, they encounter more Tier 5 beasts — powerful, relentless creatures. Each one fiercely guards a treasure or rare artifact. Despite the variety of valuables they recover, none seem to excite Alix like the Astral Bloom.
However, one particular discovery stuns Berko — a Tier 5 sword, its polished silver blade lined with intricate golden runes. The weapon hums faintly with magical energy, its aura both oppressive and awe-inspiring.
Berko stares at it in disbelief. "That’s…" He swallows hard. "There’s no more than one Tier 5 sword in the entire Ordeya Kingdom."
Alix steps forward, picks up the sword, and without hesitation, turns to Berko. "It’s yours."
Berko freezes. "Wait… what?"
"You heard me," Alix says casually, tossing the sword to him. "Take it."
Berko barely catches it, feeling the weight of the weapon in his hands. "But… this sword… This is priceless!"
Alix shrugs. "I’ve already found what I needed. That sword will serve you better than it will me."
Alix continue, "I’m not giving it away," Alix says firmly. "I’m investing in my people — in you. You’ve earned it."
Berko grips the sword tightly, still stunned. "I won’t waste this," he says, voice filled with conviction. "I’ll make sure this sword is put to good use."
As Alix, Grixx, and Berko navigate the labyrinthine passages of the subterranean expanse, the ambient glow of bioluminescent flora casts shifting shadows along the walls. The air is thick with moisture, and the distant drip of water echoes through the place.
Suddenly, without warning, dark figures emerge from the shadows, moving with lethal grace. These are the Umbral Stalkers, a race renowned for their assassination skills. Standing at about six feet tall, their humanoid forms are cloaked in dark, chitinous exoskeletons that absorb light, rendering them nearly invisible in dim environments. Their elongated limbs end in razor-sharp claws, and their faces are devoid of eyes, replaced by a series of sensory pits that detect heat and movement.
The Umbral Stalkers launch their assault, aiming for vital points with precision. Despite their Tier 4 status, their coordinated attack poses a significant threat.
Grixx reacts swiftly, his Tier 5 prowess evident as he parries and counters with formidable strength.