The Brotherhood's citadel buzzed with activity as the recruits prepared for their missions. Haizen and his team had been summoned early, their gear ready, and their cloaked identities secured with masks. The underground citadel was vast, its labyrinthine corridors connecting countless chambers, training areas, and living quarters. Even after weeks in the Brotherhood, Haizen and his companions hadn't seen much of it, but today, they were being led through new sections of the base.
As they followed their cloaked guide through the stone corridors, Haizen took in his surroundings. The walls were illuminated by soft, magical light, and the air was cool, carrying a faint dampness. Brotherhood members moved purposefully, their faces concealed by masks, their identities hidden even from one another.
"This place feels endless," Urilo muttered, his voice low as they passed by a group of masked soldiers engaged in combat drills.
"It's a city underground," Kenta replied, his tone neutral. "Efficient. Hidden. Perfect."
Their guide, the cloaked figure acting as their judge for this mission, led them deeper into the citadel. The tunnels grew narrower, the smooth stone walls giving way to older, rough-hewn sections. Stone carvings lined the passage, their intricate details drawing the recruits' attention.
"What are these carvings?" Haizen asked, running his hand lightly along the cool surface.
The judge paused and turned slightly, his voice calm but resonant. "Ancient warcraft. They depict a great battle between humans and demons—a time when the world was not as you know it."
The group stopped to take in the story told by the stone. The carvings were detailed, showing scenes of chaos and bravery. Humans wielding primitive weapons stood against towering demons with twisted forms. In the center of one panel was a striking figure—a man floating above the battlefield, his presence commanding. Below him, a legion of soldiers charged, their weapons glowing with divine energy, while the man stood unyielding, like a god amidst the chaos.
"Who is that?" Haizen asked, pointing to the floating figure.
The judge's voice took on a reverent tone. "That is said to be one of the great human heroes of the ancient wars. Legends claim he turned the tide of battle with power granted by the gods themselves."
The recruits stared in awe, the weight of history pressing down on them. For a moment, the air felt thick, heavy with the echoes of the past.
The group continued their journey through the tunnels, eventually reaching a concealed exit. A ladder led up into a small, decrepit house. The wooden walls were cracked and weathered, sunlight streaming through the broken planks.
"This is the surface?" Orion asked, stepping into the house and looking around. "It's... less impressive than I expected."
The judge ignored the comment and gestured for them to follow. They stepped out into the daylight, finding themselves in a small, quiet village. The buildings were simple, made of stone and wood, with thatched roofs. The air smelled of fresh grass and earth, and the distant sound of a river added to the tranquility.
"This is the village of Revona," the judge said, his voice cutting through the peaceful ambiance. "Lately, it has experienced strange events. People have gone missing, and some villagers claim to have seen the missing individuals walking along the riverbank at night—with glowing eyes."
Urilo frowned. "Glowing eyes? Sounds like demon activity."
The judge nodded. "It is a possibility. Your task is to guard the village at night. Report anything unusual. Do not act recklessly. Remember, you are here to observe and report, not to engage unless absolutely necessary."
Haizen stepped forward, his usual confidence bolstering the team. "No worries. We'll handle it."
The judge gave him a long look, as if measuring his resolve, before turning to the rest of the team. "You have until nightfall to familiarize yourselves with the village. Look around. Speak to the villagers if you wish. But be discreet. Do not cause alarm."
The group split up, taking in their surroundings. Revona was a far cry from Dawnhaven Port, where Haizen had lived. Unlike the bustling chaos of a major city, this village felt timeless, its cobblestone streets and modest homes untouched by the rapid advancements seen elsewhere. Children played in the streets, and the villagers went about their day with calm efficiency.
Haizen walked alongside Talon and Urilo, taking in the sights. "This place is... different," he said, his tone thoughtful.
"Feels like it's been frozen in time," Talon replied. "No noise, no chaos. It's almost too peaceful."
Urilo nodded. "Let's hope it stays that way."
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the team regrouped near the village square. The judge appeared, his imposing presence immediately commanding their attention.
"Your positions are set," he said, handing out simple maps of the village. "Stay in pairs and patrol your assigned areas. Report to me every hour."
The recruits nodded, their nerves hidden behind their masks. Haizen glanced at his team, his determination mirrored in their eyes. This was their first mission, their first chance to prove themselves as part of the Brotherhood.
As night fell over Revona, the peaceful village took on an eerie stillness. The recruits moved into position, their senses heightened, ready for whatever the darkness might bring.