Dante stepped out of the dungeon into the cool night air, the scent of blood still clinging to his skin. His body thrummed with power—new power. The Phantom Blade at his side flickered before vanishing into mist, its ethereal edge now a part of him. The rush of Shadow Step still lingered in his veins, making his movements feel sharper, more instinctive. And then there was Elaine's gift.
A prompt had appeared after her death, same as before:
You have slain Elaine Draymoor.
Select your reward:
[1] Mirage Veil – Temporarily distort light to become nearly invisible.
[2] Arcane Pulse – Release a shockwave of raw mana.
[3] Silent Steps – Move without making a sound.
[4] +5 Years Lifespan.
Dante had chosen Mirage Veil.
Now, as he stood outside the dungeon, his mind was already at work, planning his next steps. Survival wasn't enough anymore. He wanted control. He wanted power.
The two surviving students—Jared and Meren—followed behind him, their expressions hollow. They were trapped in his web, but they didn't realize they were already dead men walking.
Dante turned to face them. "Remember what we talked about?"
Meren nodded quickly, his face pale. "Gareth was killed by the Crawlers. Lucien panicked and got himself killed. Elaine was taken out in the chaos. That's the story."
"Good," Dante said, his voice void of warmth. "You did well."
Jared swallowed hard. "S-so… that means we're free to go, right?"
Dante gave a slow, measured smile. "Of course."
Both of them exhaled in relief, but Dante could already see the unease lingering in their eyes. They feared him. As they should.
He took a step closer, voice calm but firm. "Remember this—if either of you even thinks about changing the story, I will know." His eyes gleamed under the moonlight, his Phantom Blade flickering into existence for a split second before vanishing. "And if that happens… you won't get another chance to run."
Meren nodded frantically, while Jared paled and averted his gaze. They wouldn't dare cross him. Not yet.
Dante turned away, stepping into the darkness. He had secured his story for now. But the two of them were loose ends—loose ends he would deal with soon enough.
The hunt had only just begun.