The room was heavy with tension as Alphin cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention. His serene yet commanding voice cut through the silence.
"I believe I may have some useful information," he said, his golden eyes scanning the room.
All eyes turned to him, curiosity and hope mingling in their gazes.
"We've been monitoring demonic activity near the northwestern borders. A place called Trepidaton. It's an isolated region, shrouded in perpetual mist. Perfect for hiding something—or someone. Our scouts recently reported strange mana signatures and increased demonic presence in the area. If the coffins are being taken anywhere, it's likely there."
"Trepidaton…" Mrs. Aqoun muttered, her voice filled with unease. "That cursed place where even Undine waters refuse to flow?"
"Hmph." Cerflix crossed his arms, his deep voice resonating through the room. "A forge of despair, they call it. Hidden deep in jagged mountains, nearly impossible to traverse unless you know the way. A fitting hideout for demons."
"We can't waste time," Mr. Royoveil growled, his fiery temperament evident. He slammed his fist onto the table, making it quake. "We strike now and get them back before they can desecrate their bodies any further!"
"No." Xue's voice was quiet, but it carried the weight of finality.
Royoveil turned, his eyes narrowing. "What do you mean, no?"
"Barging in with a large group will draw too much attention," Xue said, his crimson eyes locking with Royoveil's. "They're expecting retaliation, especially after Raoul's message. This isn't a battle of strength—it's a game of precision. A single misstep, and we lose everything."
"And what's your plan, boy?" Mrs. Aqoun asked, skepticism lacing her voice.
"I'll go alone," Xue replied. His tone was resolute, allowing no room for argument. "I can move faster, avoid detection, and retrieve the bodies before they complete whatever ritual they're planning."
"That's ridiculous!" Seraphina said, stepping forward. Her voice trembled with both concern and frustration. "You're injured, Xue. You're emotionally unstable. This isn't a solo mission—it's suicide!"
"I don't have a choice." He met her gaze, his voice calm but filled with sadness. "This is my responsibility."
The room fell silent. The weight of his words hung in the air, unshakable.
Alphin broke the stillness, his expression unreadable. "If you're so set on going alone, we'll ensure you have the tools to succeed. I'll prepare some teleportation scroll, one that will take you directly to the outskirts of Trepidaton. And one that will serve as your escape route if things go south."
"You'll need more than just a scroll," Alissa interjected. Her usual cheer was replaced by worry. "We'll prepare supplies, potions, and whatever else you'll need. Trepidaton isn't just a place—it's a trap waiting to happen."
Xue nodded silently, accepting their help without protest.
The room was heavy with tension as Xue stood at the center, silent and still. Everyone knew the weight of the decision—it wasn't just a mission; it was a gamble with his life.
Alphin approached first, holding a glowing scroll etched with runes. "This is a teleportation scroll," he said, his voice calm but grave. "It's keyed to a safe location near Trepidaton. Use it if things go south. But know this—" his golden eyes locked on Xue's, "you only get one chance with it. Don't waste it."
Xue took the scroll, sliding it into his belt. "Understood."
Next was Cerflix, who walked up with a bundle wrapped in dark cloth. "This is for you," he said, unwrapping it to reveal a dagger and a sword. Both gleamed with an otherworldly light, the metal seeming almost alive.
"The sword's name is Starsteel," Cerflix said, his voice gruff. "It's enchanted to cut through demonic mana. The dagger," he held it up, "is for emergencies—it's laced with poison that disrupts a demon's core. Use it wisely."
Xue took the weapons, testing the weight in his hands. "I'll make sure they're put to good use," he said, his voice quiet but firm.
Seraphina stepped forward, her expression soft yet serious. In her hands was a small vial filled with shimmering liquid. "This is a mana elixir," she explained, placing it in his hand. "It's strong enough to keep you standing, but only once. Use it only when you have no other choice."
Xue nodded, slipping the vial into a pouch on his belt. "I'll remember."
Alissa hesitated, then approached him, holding out a faintly glowing gem. "This is a Windstone," she said, her voice low. "If the scroll fails, use this to call me. I'll come to you, no matter what."
Xue raised an eyebrow. "You're staying behind to manage things."
"And that's exactly why you'll need this," she shot back, her tone sharp. "Take it. Don't argue."
He accepted the Windstone without a word, tucking it into his pocket.
When everything was ready, the room fell silent. The heads of the elemental races watched him closely, their faces a mix of expectation and unease.
"Are you prepared?" Alphin asked, breaking the quiet.
Xue adjusted the strap of his sword and gave a faint nod. "I'll bring them back. No matter what."
He stepped into the teleportation circle, its runes glowing faintly as the spell activated. Just before the light engulfed him, he glanced back at the room, whispering something under his breath.
Then, in a flash, he was gone.