Junith and her team engaged Karcanis directly, launching a relentless assault. Cyrus, Orin, and Darek attacked with a mix of elemental, nature, and spear techniques, while Sylra provided support magic. They managed to wound Karcanis, but he quickly adapted, countering their strategies with raw power. Meanwhile, The Rising Heroes focused on holding back the summoned monsters, ensuring Sera could tend to the unconscious Fizzle. Drakar's flames, Doran's hammer, Adrian's swordplay, and Lila's determination kept the monsters at bay.
Just when it seemed they had gained the upper hand, Karcanis unleashed a terrifying transformation. His dark aura grew heavier, his body expanded, and his red eyes burned brighter. His final howl sent shockwaves through the dungeon, signaling that something even more dangerous was about to emerge.
As the darkness swallowed Karcanis, a chilling realization struck both The Grand Party and The Rising Heroes—this battle was far from over. Whatever came next would push them beyond their limits, testing not just their strength, but their resolve.
And so, as the dungeon trembled under the weight of Karcanis's power, the adventurers prepared for the true nightmare that awaited them.
---
The battle against Karcanis had been one of the toughest challenges The Grand Party and The Rising Heroes had ever faced.
Despite his transformation, growing larger, stronger, and more ferocious, the coordinated teamwork of The Grand Party held him at bay. Cyrus unleashed multiple elemental attacks at once, Junith commanded and strategized while actively engaging, Darek's legendary sword extended with precision, Orin moved swiftly to create openings, and Sylra continuously supported them with her spells.
Karcanis proved nearly unstoppable, shrugging off powerful strikes that would have felled lesser monsters. But even he struggled—unable to land a serious blow on The Grand Party.
With neither side willing to give up, the battle went on long. Each second each could feel more intensity. As The Grand Party co-ordinated and attacked Karcanis showing their teamwork, Karcanis was showing his pure raw strength. As the Rising hero improved themselves as individual as well as team while fighting the summons. This was a test for everyone, a test that will have a result of life and death. Despite the fight going on for long no one seemed tired and felt like they were just get started, the determination and their will is what kept them going no matter what.
---
As the fight went on, everyone eventually grew tired, but Junith saw opportunity in this situation. She told rest of her team to use minimal strength, the goal was to make Karcanis grow tired. Tough the plan was in motion, it took a lot of time as well.
Finally, after an exhausting exchange, Junith gave the order:
"All at once—strike!"
With perfect synchronization, they delivered their final attack:
Junith and Orin pierced Karcanis' neck with their spears.
Cyrus unleashed a combination of Fire and Water magic at Karcanis' back.
Darek used Earth magic to strike from below while leaping high to slam down from above.
Sylra amplified each of their attacks, ensuring the final blow carried overwhelming force.
With a deafening roar, Karcanis fell. As his body collapsed, the dark aura that had engulfed the dungeon vanished. His summoned creatures faded into nothingness.
The battle was over.
---
After catching their breath, The Grand Party and The Rising Heroes ventured deeper into the dungeon, searching for its core.
But something was wrong.
The core was missing.
In its place was something unnatural—twisted, ominous. The very air around it felt corrupt. Junith frowned, gripping her spear. "This… isn't normal." Darek ran a hand through his hair. "A dungeon without a core? That's unheard of."
Sylra knelt beside the eerie remains, inspecting the strange phenomenon. "This isn't just missing… it's been replaced." Cyrus sighed. "This just keeps getting worse." Before they could investigate further, the dungeon reacted. A path opened before them—leading straight to the surface. Realizing they wouldn't find more answers here, they decided to leave.
Praise and Secrets
As they stepped into the fresh air, The Grand Party turned to The Rising Heroes with pride. "You all did well," Junith said, her usual serious expression softening slightly. "You held your ground, fought with courage, and made the right decisions." The Rising Heroes stood a little taller, knowing they had earned that praise.
"Thank you for your guidance," Adrian replied, bowing slightly. "You saved our asses multiple times," Drakar added with a grin. "Appreciate it." Doran chuckled. "Still, we've got a long way to go." Junith then turned serious again. "One more thing. Do not tell anyone about the corrupted core."
Lila blinked. "Huh? Why not?" "We need to report this to the Guild Headquarters and investigate further," Junith explained. "We don't know what this is yet, and spreading rumors could cause unnecessary panic." The Rising Heroes nodded in agreement. "Understood," Adrian said. Lila hesitated but then shrugged. "Fine. But I better get answers later!"
---
With the mission complete, the tension in the air finally eased. Cyrus stretched. "Man, that was rough. We all deserve a break." He grinned. "Why don't you join us at the Royal Carnival in the Royal Capital?" Lila's eyes sparkled. "Really?! I've always wanted to go!"
Junith smirked. "It's in two weeks. Be there. Not just us—many adventurers, from rookies to top-ranked, will be present." Darek chuckled. "And, of course—food, music, dancing, entertainment…" Cyrus wrapped an arm around Adrian's shoulder, grinning smugly. "And beautiful women, too!" Adrian smiled awkwardly.
Before they could get carried away, Junith yanked Cyrus and Darek back. "Behave."
Everyone laughed. With that, they parted ways—The Grand Party heading toward the Guild Headquarters, The Rising Heroes returning home, now more experienced than ever.
Fizzle Wakes Up
As they walked, Fizzle finally stirred. She sat up suddenly, eyes burning with determination. "Where is it?! I'm gonna beat it down!"
She looked around, only to find nothing. Lila, Adrian, and Sera couldn't help it. They burst into laughter.
Fizzle pouted. "Hey! It's not funny!"
And so, with smiles on their faces and a newfound sense of purpose, The Rising Heroes continued their journey home…Unaware of the dark mystery that still loomed ahead...