A week had passed since the battle that freed the village. The once-scattered villagers had begun to rebuild, finding solace in the protection offered by Izabella's squad. The damage was extensive, but their resilience shone through as new structures rose from the ashes.
Rodensky and Emmanuel, fully healed from their injuries, stood at the edge of the village, preparing to leave. Rokura and Abaddon, now revitalized and eager, stood by their sides, their imposing forms drawing the awe of the villagers.
"You sure you're ready for this?" Emmanuel asked, adjusting his gear. "Those ruins aren't going to be a walk in the park."
Rodensky smirked, glancing at the map that had been their guide since leaving the training hall. "Ready as I'll ever be. Let's see what secrets this place is hiding."
As they turned to leave, a voice called out from behind.
"Wait!"
They turned to see Izabella striding toward them, her armor gleaming in the morning sun.
"You're leaving without saying goodbye?" she asked, her tone light but her gaze intent on Rodensky.
Emmanuel raised an eyebrow, a sly grin creeping onto his face. "We figured you'd be busy keeping the villagers safe."
Izabella stopped a few steps away, her expression softening. "My squad is more than capable of handling things here. Besides, I'm not letting you two venture into danger alone."
Rodensky frowned slightly. "Izabella, this isn't your fight. The ruins could be far more dangerous than anything we've faced so far."
She folded her arms, meeting his gaze with unwavering determination. "Exactly why you'll need someone to watch your back. I've seen what you two can do, but even the strongest warriors need allies."
Rodensky sighed, knowing her resolve wouldn't waver. "Fine. But if things get too dangerous—"
"I can handle myself," Izabella interrupted, a hint of amusement in her voice. "You'll see."
---
Into the Forest
The trio set off toward the forest that bordered the mountain range, where the ruins lay hidden. The dense canopy above filtered sunlight into fragmented beams, illuminating their path in soft, golden hues.
Emmanuel, as usual, broke the silence. "So, Izabella, why'd you really tag along? Don't tell me it's just to help us."
Izabella glanced at him, a small smile playing on her lips. "You're perceptive, aren't you? Let's just say I'm curious about what's out there... and about you two."
Rodensky shook his head, muttering under his breath, "We're not that interesting."
"Speak for yourself," Emmanuel shot back, smirking.
---
Unexpected Company
As they ventured deeper, the forest grew quieter, the usual rustling of leaves replaced by an eerie stillness. Rokura's ears twitched, and Abaddon growled softly, their instincts on high alert.
"Something's watching us," Izabella said, drawing her sword.
Rodensky activated his Eye of Truth, scanning the area. Hidden among the foliage were mutated beasts, their eyes glowing an unnatural shade of red.
"They're low rank," he said, his tone calm. "But there's a lot of them."
"Perfect warm-up," Emmanuel quipped, unsheathing his blade.
Izabella nodded, raising her shield. "Let's make this quick."
The mutated beasts lunged, but the trio worked seamlessly together. Rodensky's agility allowed him to dart between foes, striking with precision while Rokura's crystalline claws tore through their ranks. Emmanuel and Abaddon unleashed fiery devastation, the dragon's flames illuminating the dark forest. Izabella, a whirlwind of light and steel, shielded them from harm and dealt powerful counterattacks.
The battle ended as quickly as it began, leaving the ground littered with the bodies of the fallen beasts.
"That was almost too easy," Emmanuel said, wiping sweat from his brow.
"Don't get cocky," Rodensky warned, scanning the area for more threats. "This is just the beginning."
---
Approaching the Ruins
By dusk, they reached the edge of the forest. The ruins loomed ahead, nestled within the mountains. Massive stone pillars jutted from the ground, their surfaces covered in ancient carvings that glowed faintly in the fading light.
Izabella's eyes widened. "Incredible... This place feels alive."
Rodensky unrolled the map, studying it closely. "The entrance should be just ahead. Let's set up camp for the night and head in at first light."
Emmanuel groaned. "Another night in the wilderness? Great."
"Would you rather face whatever's in there while exhausted?" Rodensky shot back.
Izabella chuckled, setting down her pack. "He has a point. Get some rest while you can."
---
Under the Stars
As the fire crackled, casting flickering shadows on their faces, the group shared stories of their journeys. Izabella spoke of her time in the Radiant Sun Guild, her dedication to protecting the innocent, and the challenges she had faced.
Rodensky listened quietly, his usual guarded demeanor softening. Emmanuel, meanwhile, kept the mood light with his jokes, earning occasional laughter from Izabella.
Rokura and Abaddon rested nearby, their forms blending into the darkness. Despite their majestic appearances, they exuded a sense of calm that mirrored their bond with their tamers.
As the night deepened, Rodensky's gaze drifted to the ruins, his mind racing with possibilities.
"What do you think we'll find in there?" Izabella asked softly, her voice cutting through the silence.
Rodensky didn't answer immediately. "Answers, maybe. Or more questions. Either way, we'll find out soon enough."
The group fell into a contemplative silence, the weight of their journey ahead settling over them like a shroud.