The air grew warmer as Noel descended the final steps.
Mana-infused crystals pulsed gently along the walls, guiding him into the vast chamber below. The underground domain stretched out like a hidden world — jagged terrain, shadowed ridges, streams of dense mana fog drifting across the ground.
Every rumble in the distance hinted at something powerful moving deeper inside.
Noir inhaled sharply. 'Dad… everything here is strong. This is perfect.'
Noel adjusted the Veil of the Silent Sentinel around his shoulders. The cloak responded instantly, softening his presence until he felt like he barely existed in the air.
At the base of the stairs, three hunters turned toward him — two humans and an elf.
Their armor was worn from real battles, their weapons carried the dull shine of constant sharpening.
They looked at him with mild surprise, not suspicion — just genuine curiosity.
The elf stepped forward slightly, offering a polite nod.
