Chapter: The Dungeon Trial Begins!
The sun hung high over the Sage Academy training field, casting long shadows as the students gathered before Nathaniel. He stood tall, his sharp gaze sweeping over them before he spoke.
"Today, you'll be going on your first real mission." His voice was firm, carrying authority. "As sword mages in training, it's important for you to understand what it means to take on missions beyond these academy walls."
The students murmured among themselves, excitement and curiosity filling the air.
Nathaniel continued, "A dungeon was recently discovered on the outskirts of Eldoria. Normally, we'd send experienced mages, but this is a perfect opportunity for you to learn firsthand. However..." His eyes darkened slightly. "This dungeon is located at the border between our kingdom and Velundria. As you all know, despite the upcoming tournament, our relationship with Velundria is… fragile. That means this mission could be dangerous."
Arthur raised his hand. "Uh, question. What exactly is a dungeon?"
Nathaniel sighed, rubbing his temples before answering. "A dungeon is a mysterious location filled with magical creatures, traps, and ancient relics. Some dungeons appear naturally, while others were created by powerful mages from the past. In our case, this dungeon is believed to have once belonged to legendary sword mages of Eldoria. To protect their treasures from bandits, they filled it with traps and guardians. That's why we need to be careful."
Felix's eyes lit up. "Wait, so there could be powerful magical items in there?"
Nathaniel nodded. "Exactly. That's why this is a valuable learning experience. However, it is an optional mission. If you prefer to focus on training, you may stay behind."
At that moment, a young man stepped forward. He had sharp, observant eyes and a calm demeanor. "I will be accompanying you all on this mission. My name is Gale Astorius, a second-year student, and I have been assigned to supervise you."
Damon scoffed from the back. "Tch. Going to some random dungeon for scraps? No thanks. I have better things to do than babysit a bunch of clueless first-years."
A few other students muttered in agreement. "Yeah, this isn't worth the risk."
One by one, several students stepped back, deciding not to participate. However, Ronan remained with his arms crossed. Arthur and Felix approached him.
"You're not coming either?" Felix asked.
Ronan shook his head. "I need to focus on my training. I can't afford distractions right now."
Arthur and Felix exchanged glances, a little disappointed, but they respected his decision. "Alright, don't slack off too much," Arthur joked before turning back to the group.
Nathaniel surveyed the remaining students. "That leaves us with six participants. Alright, introduce yourselves before we depart."
The students took turns introducing themselves. When it was Callista's turn, Arthur stole a glance at her, curiosity flashing in his eyes. This is the first time I've seen her up close… She usually keeps to herself. What made her change her mind?
With introductions complete, Gale gave a nod. "Alright then, let's head out."
---
The Journey to the Dungeon
The group walked through the dense forest, the towering trees casting flickering shadows under the afternoon sun. Arthur found himself walking beside Leo and decided to strike up a conversation.
"Leo, I thought you'd stay behind to train. Why are you coming?"
Leo smirked, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Did you hear what the teacher said? The dungeon is filled with traps meant to stop bandits. That means if any real bandits did break in, there's a chance I could fight them." He grinned, cracking his knuckles. "I came for a real battle."
Arthur sighed. "So you're just here for the thrill, huh?"
Leo shot him a side glance. "And you? Why didn't you stay behind with Ronan?"
Arthur hesitated for a moment before answering. "I have a new technique I want to test in battle."
Leo's smirk widened. "So you did come for a fight. You're just like me."
Gale, overhearing their conversation, sighed internally. These students... They're not afraid at all. Instead, they want to fight? What kind of battle maniacs did they enroll this year?
As the group neared the dungeon entrance, Arthur stretched, cracking his neck. "Alright, let's do this—"
WHACK!
Arthur doubled over as a sharp pain struck his stomach. "Argh—what the hell?!" He turned, only to see Hyorinmaru hovering in the air, rubbing his tiny dragon foot against his snout smugly.
"Zeraphim Justice Kick!" Hyorinmaru declared proudly.
Arthur caught his tiny legs mid-air and grinned. "Not this time!"
"Oh?" Hyorinmaru twisted midair, swinging his other leg and slamming it into Arthur's neck.
Arthur stumbled back, coughing. "You dirty little—!"
Felix, watching from the side, sighed. "Arthur… I don't think that was a game."
Gale clapped his hands, snapping their attention forward. "Focus up. We're here."
---
The Dungeon Entrance
Before them stood a half-collapsed stone structure, its entrance shaped like a gaping maw. Vines and moss covered the ancient stone, and the air was thick with the scent of damp earth. A faint, eerie blue light glowed from within.
Arthur's face twisted. "Wait… this creepy little building is the dungeon?!"
Riven crossed his arms. "Fool. That is the dungeon."
Arthur narrowed his eyes. "Who are you calling a fool?!"
Gale ignored their bickering and stepped forward. "Listen up. From this point onward, it will be dangerous. Stick together and stay alert at all times."
Everyone nodded. Taking a deep breath, they stepped inside.
---
Inside the Dungeon
The moment they entered, they were struck with awe.
The interior was nothing like the crumbling exterior. The walls were lined with glowing blue runes, casting an otherworldly light. The floor was made of smooth, polished stone, and intricate patterns were carved into the walls. The air hummed with mana, making their skin tingle.
"This place is amazing…" Seraphina murmured.
Gale walked ahead cautiously. "Be careful. There are traps everywhere."
The group moved carefully through the ancient halls, their footsteps echoing. Then—
CLICK.
Arthur stepped on something.
A small stone tile beneath his foot depressed slightly.
Leo's eyes widened. "Wait… don't tell me…"
Arthur slowly looked down. "...I just activated a trap, didn't I?"
The entire group tensed, waiting for something to happen.
Silence.
Seraphina and Callista took a few steps back, bracing themselves.
Arthur hesitated. "Huh. Maybe it was a dud—"
ROOOOOOOOAAAAAARRRRR!!
A deafening growl rumbled behind him. The blood drained from Arthur's face as he turned. A massive monster, its body lined with writhing tentacles, emerged from the shadows, its red eyes glowing with hunger.
Seraphina's voice rang out. "Arthur! Behind you!"
Arthur slowly turned his head.
"...Oh crap."
The monster lunged.
TO BE CONTINUED—!