Magic Association of Raimesies:
A massive dome-like structure loomed over its surroundings, its architectural grandeur demanding attention. The curved glass panels of the dome gleamed in the sunlight, reflecting beams of light that danced across the ground. This iconic building served as the cornerstone for Mages and Divers alike. It stood as the heart of the Magic
Association, where every professional Mage and Diver, upon graduating from the prestigious Magic Academy and earning their licenses, dedicated themselves to advancing the organization's mission.
It is one of the well known associations in the world for creating 2 of the most powerful guilds-- Light Seekers and Enteras.
"Finally, all of you are here," remarked a middle-aged man with an authoritative presence. His slicked-back black hair gleamed faintly under the room's lighting, matching the intensity of his sharp black eyes. He sat behind a polished wooden desk, his tailored black suit fitting him impeccably as he surveyed the group with a sense of gravity.
In front of him was standing 8 divers wearing their diving suits. Among them there were two familiar faces-- Seiya and Givan.
Among the eight individuals assembled, one stood out: a young man with striking white hair, cropped neatly to frame his face. His piercing red eyes carried an intensity that contrasted with the pristine white of his diving suit and gloves. The name of the diver was Jiver Reincart, an A rank pro diver.
Jiver lifted his head and spoke with a tone of sincerity and reverence. "Sir, we are here as you requested. I was genuinely taken aback when I learned you had asked for assistance from someone like me. It is truly an honor to be of service."
As steam curled lazily from the white porcelain teacup on the desk, a middle-aged man rested his fingers on its delicate handle. His weathered face held a calm yet commanding expression as he addressed the room.
"As you all know," he began, his voice steady and authoritative, "Sein of the Light Seekers Guild betrayed the Magic Association. Because of this treachery, the entire guild is now under strict lockdown. They won't be conducting their usual business anytime soon."
He paused, taking a deliberate sip of tea. The soft clink of the cup meeting its saucer punctuated the silence before he continued, "Furthermore, the Enteras Guild is currently engaged in one of the most critical missions of the decade. This leaves us severely short of powerful and reliable divers to handle the upcoming underwater operation."
His tone darkened, and his brow furrowed, casting a shadow over his sharp features. "This is why I've chosen you eight—A to C rank divers—for this important mission."
Seiya, before the man, raised her hand hesitantly from behind. "Um… Excuse me, sir," she asked, her tone both respectful and curious, "what is the danger level of the mission?"
The man turned his gaze toward her, his piercing eyes meeting hers. "According to our most reliable intel squad, it is rated as B-rank difficulty."
"I see," Seiya replied, her expression hardening with resolve.
The man straightened, his voice rising slightly as he addressed the group as a whole. "Listen carefully. This mission is of utmost importance. Raiding the Black Dragon Castle and securing its wealth will be a turning point for our state, bringing untold prosperity. Failure," he said with a steely edge in his voice, "is not an option."
"Understood," came a unified response from the room.
The man nodded in approval and laid out eight crisp, white mission permits on the table. Each one bore the unmistakable insignia of the Magic Association, along with the word "ALLOWED" stamped in bold.
With Jiver appointed as team captain, the newly assembled group of divers prepared to undertake their perilous mission. The team, though diverse in rank and background, carried an air of promise and determination.
Jiver himself was a seasoned A-rank diver, known for his strategic brilliance and unshakable leadership.
Selina Kyle, a striking young woman with short blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, stood out in her vibrant yellow suit and matching gloves. An A-rank diver like Jiver.
Wakiya Meruim, another young woman, had a quiet intensity about her. Her sleek black hair and deep, calculating black eyes were complemented by her pristine white suit and gloves. A reliable B-rank diver.
Radir Haman, a prodigious talent from one of the most influential clans, exuded a quiet confidence that belied his age. He was the same age as Ingrit. His long black hair and sharp black eyes gave him an enigmatic aura, while his black suit only heightened his imposing demeanor. Already an A-rank diver, his future seemed limitless.
Laila Thoma, a second-year diver with a spirited energy, stood out with his long blonde hair and bright green eyes. Dressed in a green suit, the C-rank diver brought youthful enthusiasm and determination to the team.
Daimen Rukar, a green-haired, green-eyed young adult with a rebellious streak, wore piercings in both ears and a striking green suit. A solid B-rank diver.
Seiya Aintraz, yet another prodigy, carried the weight of her renowned clan's legacy on her shoulders. With her focused demeanor and her B-rank status achieved at such a young age. She was wearing a pink suit.
Finally, Givan, a C-rank diver, rounded out the group. Though less experienced, he carried a quiet determination that hinted at untapped potential. He was wearing a black suit.
This was some line up, alright. With this, clearing a B rank mission won't be that difficult.
***
'I always wondered what the inside of the hero's tomb looked like'. Ingrit thought, his gaze fixed on the famed triangular castle encircled by gracefully curved alloy, its black surface gleaming faintly under the overcast sky.
"'Hmm. Oh, well. It's not like the hero was real, anyway.'
He let out a soft sigh, his breath visible in the chilly air.
The black triangular castle was said to be the tomb of the hero Evnire Achilles, a name etched into the pages of mythology. Its very existence contradicted the widespread belief that the hero was a mere legend. Yet most dismissed it as a myth, despite the undeniable presence of the tomb. The impenetrable seal of ancient, powerful magic prevented anyone from entering, making it impossible to verify the truth of Evnire's story.
Still, one fact was indisputable: the triangular castle had stood on the Raimesies cloud state since time immemorial, untouched by time or mortal hands.
But before Ingrit could ponder further, a voice broke his train of thought.
"Ingrit, dear. What are you thinking about?"
The familiar voice of his mother, calm yet inquisitive, sounded from behind him.
He turned, frowning slightly. "Nothing. Let's go home, Mom."
Ingrit's mother, despite her years, exuded a youthful elegance that seemed almost ageless. Her vivid blue eyes sparkled with wisdom and beauty, while her long, lustrous black hair cascaded freely down her back, glinting faintly in the light. She wore a form-fitting black wrap-around dress that highlighted her poised, statuesque frame. Her middle-sized bust and commanding presence added to her aura of strength and grace, making it impossible to overlook her in any setting.
His mom offered a gentle smile, her voice soft as she said, "I see. Let's go home."
With that, the two began walking along the narrow, misty road that seemed to float amidst the clouds. The path, designed solely for pedestrians, shimmered faintly in the fading daylight.
Ingrit carried a heavy grocery bag, its contents rustling with each step, while his mom held a sleek black handbag close to her side.
"Aaaah! There's a sea beast!"
The sudden, panicked scream sliced through the bustling chatter of the crowded road.
"A sea beast?" Ingrit thought, his expression sharpening into a glare as he instinctively looked ahead.
"This can't be good. It's true. A sea beast is really here!" his mother exclaimed, her normally calm blue eyes now glowing with a strange, almost ethereal light, as if they were seeing beyond the surface of the chaos.
"But how is this possible?!" Ingrit muttered, his voice low and tense as his gaze locked onto the approaching creature. "Sea beasts aren't supposed to appear on the surface."
The monster lumbered toward them—a humanoid figure with dragon-like features. Its body was covered in pitch-black scales that gleamed ominously, small horns protruded from its head, and its eyes glowed an unsettling crimson.
"Quick, hide behind me, Ingrit. I'll take care of this," his mother commanded, dropping her handbag as she moved into a fighting stance, her movements sharp and confident.
"There's no need for that," Ingrit replied, his voice calm but firm. He turned his head slightly, a grin spreading across his face. "I'll be fine."
She scowled, her tone laced with both irritation and concern as she rushed forward. "Don't joke around!"
But then, her sharp blue eyes widened in alarm as the monstrous figure loomed closer, its grotesque features reflecting in her gaze.
"Look out!" she shouted.
The sea beast lunged, its razor-sharp claws poised to pierce Ingrit. But just as it was inches away, Ingrit's body shifted with uncanny precision. He side-stepped effortlessly, leaning back just enough to avoid the attack. In the same instant, his hand shot out, gripping the dragon's scaled arm in an iron hold.
With a swift, explosive motion, Ingrit delivered an uppercut so powerful it sent a shockwave rippling through the air. The force of the blow slammed into the dragon's head, sending its massive body hurtling backward.
Even Ingrit seemed taken aback by the sheer strength of his strike.
[You have slain an E-rank Sea Black Dragon.]
'Huh? Wait, what?'Ingrit frowned, his eyes narrowing as the notification echoed in his mind.