The days at the Brotherhood's base quickly settled into a routine. Each morning, the recruits gathered in the main hall, where senior members gave lessons about the world outside. The hall, though not grand, was large enough to hold everyone comfortably. Maps and charts were laid out on wooden tables, showing cities, trade routes, and other important locations.
One day, Kael, a senior member with a stern demeanor and commanding voice, led the session. He pointed to a map with several marked areas. His words were sharp and to the point.
"Demons," he said, pausing to let the word settle over the recruits. "They are uncommon but dangerous. Their presence has left scars across the history of this land. If you encounter one, your priority is survival, not glory. Report what you see and retreat. Never engage alone."
The room was silent, the weight of his warning clear. Even Malach, known for his cocky attitude, sat quietly. Haizen listened carefully, his thoughts drifting to the stories he'd heard of demon attacks, including Talon's harrowing tale of his village's destruction.
Training became the recruits' main focus, pushing them to their limits each day. Their instructors spared no effort in shaping them into capable operatives. For Haizen, the training was both exhausting and revealing. Under Vorenus's guidance, he began to refine his teleportation ability. While he had used it instinctively before, Vorenus taught him control and precision.
"You've got talent," Vorenus said one afternoon as Haizen practiced. "But if you don't learn the theory behind it, that talent will get you killed. Power without understanding is just luck—and luck runs out."
Haizen practiced teleporting between fixed points, using his daggers in simulated fights to create quick and decisive attacks. The process was grueling, but each success brought him closer to mastering the ability. He wasn't alone in this effort; the other recruits were also being trained in their respective strengths, from swordsmanship to advanced magical arts.
One morning, Vorenus called all the recruits to the main hall. A masked figure stood beside him, their silent presence adding to the tension in the room. The recruits had grown used to these cloaked and masked Brotherhood members, whose identities remained hidden as a precaution.
"It's time for your first missions," Vorenus announced, his voice cutting through the murmurs of the crowd. "These missions will determine if you truly belong here. Succeed, and you'll take your first step toward becoming full members of the Brotherhood. Fail, and you may not return."
The recruits exchanged glances, a mix of excitement and nervousness on their faces.
"The first team," Vorenus continued, his eyes sweeping over the room. "Talon, Haizen, Urilo, Kenta, and Orion. Your mission is to guard a key location and identify any unusual activity."
Haizen nodded at his teammates, a determined expression on his face. Talon gave him a quick grin, while Urilo adjusted the mask he had been given earlier. Kenta remained calm, and Orion, still nursing his bruised ego from the training hall, looked away, deep in thought.
Vorenus turned to the second group. "The second team: Hiroshi, Malach, Sirius, Ryo, and Xavier. Your mission is to follow and observe a target. Gather intelligence and report back. Do not engage unless absolutely necessary."
The second team reacted with equal focus. Hiroshi remained composed, his traditional demeanor inspiring confidence in his teammates. Malach, on the other hand, couldn't hide his excitement. "Finally," he muttered, gripping his weapons tightly. Sirius stood apart, his cold gaze assessing the room, while Ryo gave Xavier a friendly pat on the back, trying to lighten the mood.
Before dismissing them, Vorenus added, "These missions will test everything you've learned so far—your teamwork, your judgment, and your resolve. Remember, the Brotherhood's strength lies in its unity. Work together, and you'll succeed. Dismissed."
Back in their dormitories, the two teams prepared for their assignments. In Haizen's room, the atmosphere was serious but cooperative. Talon and Urilo discussed their roles, while Kenta checked his equipment in silence. Orion, still struggling with his confidence, sat on his bed, lost in thought.
"We'll need to keep watch in shifts," Urilo suggested. "That way, we'll always have someone alert."
"Good idea," Haizen agreed. "Let's work out the details now. No mistakes."
Meanwhile, in the other room, the mood was vastly different. Malach was busy polishing his weapons, his excitement barely contained. "This is going to be fun," he said, a wide grin on his face.
Hiroshi, however, remained calm, meditating with his sword laid before him. "Stay focused," he reminded the others without opening his eyes. "This is not a game."
Ryo chuckled, trying to ease the tension. "Come on, guys, where's your sense of adventure?" he said, slapping Xavier on the back. Xavier groaned inwardly, thinking, Why did I get put in this room?