Ranking System:-
1) Ethernite - The highest rank, representing unparalleled strength, skill, or
the most dangerous and challenging dungeons. Those in this rank are elite
and near legendary.
2) Draconium - A rank for individuals or dungeons that are extremely
powerful and rare, often associated with great feats or dragons. Only the most
skilled or formidable can reach this level.
3) Mistral - Signifying high skill, this rank might denote those with great
tactical knowledge or mastery of specific elements. Dungeons ranked here
are difficult but not insurmountable.
4) Solara - A bright and radiant rank, suggesting individuals or dungeons
that are strong and vital, with challenges that test stamina, endurance, and
power.
5) Lunaris - This rank reflects individuals or dungeons that are mysterious
or tactically subtle, requiring strategy and understanding of the unknown.
6) Verdelith – in the intermediates of strength, this rank suggests individuals
or dungeons focused on resilience, adaptability, and recovery, with a
challenge rooted in growth and change.
7) Aquamyst - A rank for those who are slowly adapting to there powers.
Dungeons in this category may require solving complex puzzles or
overcoming emotional and mental challenges.
8) Emberite - A fiery, aggressive rank, for individuals or dungeons focused
on passion, combat, and destruction. Challenges here are intense and fiery in
nature.
9) Shadowstone - This rank is for those who are getting more than
introduced to there powers. Dungeons ranked here require precision, secrecy,
and often, navigating dangers unseen.
10) Skyvell - A rank for those who are free and just started getting
introduced to there power. Dungeons at this level are relatively easier,
focusing on exploration or simple trials of endurance.
[NOTE-: High to low, Crystal position in a rank is the peak and Quartz
position in a rank is intermediate.]
1)
As the Duke sat immersed in his thoughts, considering the risks and uncertainties of the journey ahead, a servant entered the room, bowing respectfully before standing at attention.
"How may I be of service, my lord?" the servant asked.
Eugene looked up, resolve hardening in his expression. "I need you to place a commission at the Adventurer's Guild. We're recruiting five experienced adventurers, with a minimum rank of Lunaris, to join a Solara Quartz-level dungeon raid in Eldergrove. Let them know they'll be accompanied by two high-ranking warriors—Draconium and Solara Crystal level but.... do not reveal my or Mr. Kailashan's identity," he instructed, his tone measured.
"The reward," he continued, "will be 1 million Quan each, along with Verdelith-grade gear for all participants. If any adventurer falls in the dungeon, we'll ensure their families are fully provided for. Have them ready to depart at the Duchy outskirts by 5 a.m. tomorrow."
The servant nodded, understanding the gravity of the mission, and bowed once more before quietly exiting, leaving the Duke alone with his thoughts and the weight of the decision he had made.
Eugene reached for a sheet of parchment and dipped his quill into the ink, writing a brief note: "At the east gate of the Duchy." Satisfied, he rolled up the message and tied it securely to the leg of the waiting Raven. Holding it gently for a moment, he whispered a silent prayer that his plan would succeed. Then, he released the Raven out of the window, watching as it disappeared into the evening sky, carrying his message to Mr. Kailashan.
Eugene sank back into his chair, the weight of the task ahead pressing down on him. How long would he be gone? Outside, time seemed to crawl, but inside the dungeon, it would be a different story. The higher the rank of a dungeon, the faster time moved there. Considering this was a Solara Quartz-level dungeon, the time discrepancy was even greater. For every four days spent inside, an entire month would pass in the real world. His mind raced, focusing on the critical fact that Kaira was already five months pregnant.
"Five months..." he muttered to himself, the implications heavy in his thoughts. He knew a typical dungeon of this rank would take at least three weeks to clear, which in real time meant nearly five months. That was far too long. He couldn't afford to be away that long. Kaira needed him.
Eugene's mind shifted quickly to logistics. He would have five seasoned adventurers at least ranked Lunaris or higher possibly even more skilled, since Lunaris was just the entry requirement. With Kailashan at Draconium rank and himself at Solara Crystal, they had the Strength needed to do it. If they pushed relentlessly from the very beginning, hunted without hesitation, they might clear it in about two and a half weeks. It wasn't ideal, but it was doable.
He let out a long, quiet sigh, his gaze drifting toward the window. "I just have to make it back before things get worse, before Kaira goes into labor." The thought of missing the birth of his child and loosing his wife to it gnawed at him. He couldn't let that happen. Not now.
The Duke sat motionless in his court, wandering helplessly in his thoughts, his mind racing through endless possibilities of what could go wrong. His thoughts were consumed by the dungeon, the adventurers, and the time he would lose in his quest. But as he sat there, something pulled at him, a fleeting memory. He had left Lady Kaira waiting in the dining hall.
His heart skipped a beat. He stood abruptly, his pulse quickening as the urgency to see her filled him. He needed to spend every moment he could with her before he left. Time was slipping away.
As he hurried down the hall toward the dining room, his mind raced with possible excuses. He would need to leave soon, and there was no telling how long he'd be gone. What could he say? What reason could he give that would make sense? The truth that he was leaving to clear a deadly dungeon was far too dangerous and impossible to explain. He needed something believable, something she would accept without question.
Eugene hurried down the corridors, hoping not to keep Lady Kaira waiting too long. As he reached the dining hall and stepped inside, he paused, watching her from a distance. She was seated at the table, laughing and chatting with her attendants, her face lit up with a warm, gentle smile that seemed to brighten the entire room. For a moment, he simply stood there, captivated by her happiness and grace, cherishing the sight of her at peace.
Taking a breath, he finally stepped forward, and his presence caught her eye. The attendants, noticing him as well, bowed respectfully before quietly exiting the room, leaving them alone.
"Uh... it was an attendant of the Goddess Rána," Eugene began, his tone carefully measured. "I've been called for an important trade expedition between Farsulan and Heliodara to negotiate herbs and other resources. The attendant and I will be handling the arrangements together." He paused, glancing away briefly. "Honestly, I can't say for certain, but it may take up to three months to complete."
As he finished, a heavy silence settled between them. He held his breath, feeling as if his voice had been snatched away, unsure if she'd accept his story. His gaze flickered to Kaira's face, hoping she wouldn't see through his carefully crafted words.
"I see, my lord... so you'll be away for three months?" Lady Kaira asked, her voice soft, yet a hint of worry lingered in her tone. "And if I understand correctly, it may take even longer?"
Eugene nodded solemnly. "Yes, and... I leave at dawn tomorrow." He looked down, regret etched on his face. "I'm truly sorry to be away at such an important time in our lives."
He reached across the table, taking her hand gently in his. "I promise I'll do everything I can to make this quick and come back to you as soon as possible."
Kaira squeezed his hand, offering him a reassuring smile, though he could see the flicker of unease in her eyes.
"Work is work, my lord," Kaira said, her voice steady but tinged with vulnerability. "Please, don't worry too much about me. Just focus on what you need to accomplish. I wouldn't want our child to be born with his father elsewhere—especially when we both know..." She hesitated, a shadow crossing her face. "Well, I don't think anything I say will keep you here, especially if this might finally be a way to cure me. But... it will be lonely without you."
She took his hand and gently placed it on her belly, her gaze softening. "Since we don't know how long it will take for you to return, or how long I'll be able to hold on, let's promise our child that we'll each do our best, no matter what. You, with your mission... and me, with mine."
Eugene felt his heart tighten, her words strengthening his resolve. He looked into her eyes, his own filled with determination. "I promise," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "I'll do my best—more than my best."
2)
After their heartfelt conversation, evening had settled over the castle. Eugene rose from the dining table and gently took Kaira's hand, walking her to her room in a quiet, shared silence. As they reached her chamber, he paused, feeling the weight of his departure.
Eugene escorted Kaira to her room, lingering for a moment before turning back toward his court to tend to his duties. As he entered, there was a knock on his door "come in" he said, he saw the servant he'd dispatched to the adventurers' guild standing by, waiting to report. The servant bowed deeply. "Good evening, my lord," he said. "I'm pleased to inform you that the commission you posted has been accepted by five adventurers."
The servant extended a folded document to Eugene, who took it with measured anticipation. "These are the details on each adventurer who accepted, my lord," the servant added, his tone respectful and steady.
Dungeon Expedition Team - Adventurer Report
1) Liora Kael
Rank: Lunaris QuartzSpecialization: Agility-based adventurerSkills: Excels in exploration and rapid-paced battles, highly adept at maneuvering through complex terrains.
2) Finn Gareth
Rank: Lunaris CrystalSpecialization: Longsword-wielding warriorSkills: Exceptional close-combat strength, fire-based abilities enhance melee effectiveness.
3) Dain Morrigon
Rank: LunarisSpecialization: Support mageSkills: Skilled in defensive magic; provides buffs and healing, crucial for sustained group combat.
4) Elandra Runa
Rank: SolaraSpecialization: Sub-DPS mageSkills: Controls Water and Fire elements; versatile in combat support and offensive spellcasting.
5) Orin Nightshade
Rank: LunarisSpecialization: ArcherSkills: Proficient with dark elemental control; offers ranged support and stealth capabilities.
Eugene scanned through the report, his eyes carefully moving over each adventurer's details. After a moment, he nodded, satisfied. "This will do," he murmured, before looking up at the servant. "Did you make sure no one suspects it was me who put this commission up?"
The servant bowed slightly. "Yes, my lord. I used a false name for the commission, and I personally checked the adventurers. They are all as proficient as reported—an experienced and capable group."
"I see. Good job," Eugene said, dismissing the servant with a wave. As the servant bowed and left, Eugene sat back in his chair, running a hand through his hair. He glanced at the stacks of paperwork in front of him, the weight of his responsibilities settling back in. One problem was off his shoulders, but there was still much to be done before he could leave for Eldergrove tomorrow.
With a deep breath, he began sorting through the papers, preparing for the journey ahead.
Eugene sighed deeply as he leaned back in his chair, his thoughts weighing on him. "With this combat power, we should be able to get it done in three months... maybe I won't be too late. Hopefully, I can return on time." His fingers drummed lightly on the desk as he considered the strength of his team. "Though, as expected, I'll be the second strongest. Elandra's only two levels below me. I'm at the peak of Solara-Solara Crystal but she's been at the base of Solara for a while now. It would've been better if she were at Quartz level at least. Then there's Finn, a Lunaris Crystal..." He paused, taking in a breath. "Well, I suppose I can't complain. It's only been half a day, and we've already gathered such high-ranking adventurers."
Even though Eugene said this he couldn't help but feel uneasy as to what is to come.
Eugene couldn't shake the nagging feeling in the back of his mind. Moon Goddess Rána, known for her notorious nature, was not someone he could trust without reservation. He had heard enough stories of her cryptic ways to be wary of any promises she made. Could he really take her words at face value? Doubts clouded his thoughts as he considered the mission ahead.
Then there was Sir Kailashan. While the Guardian seemed sincere, Eugene couldn't shake the sense that something was being left unsaid. Kailashan had been too vague, too quick to dismiss any questions that might have delved deeper. It made Eugene question his motives and whether there was more to this expedition than he was being told.
The dungeon itself was another source of concern. Descriptions of it filled him with unease. It wasn't just dangerous—it was legendary for its horrors. At least four high-ranking adventuring teams had entered with experienced members, only to be driven back. One team had barely escaped with their lives, their injuries severe, and they hadn't even come close to clearing the dungeon. The risks were beyond anything he'd faced before. Could he really survive something so perilous with only a handful of adventurers? Would he even be able to get back in time to save Kaira?
The only thing known about the dungeon was that it wasn't a straightforward path—it was a massive maze, its layout constantly shifting. No one who entered had ever been able to map it, as the paths seemed to change without warning, trapping those who tried to navigate it. As if that wasn't enough, the dungeon was filled with countless traps, designed to catch the unwary. And the monsters—there were so many of them. If you took the wrong turn, they'd come at you in waves, relentless and deadly.
Eugene felt a chill crawl up his spine just thinking about it. The risks weren't just physical—this was a dungeon built to break both body and mind. It was a place of confusion and terror, where even the best could falter.
As Eugene sat in his court, the weight of the upcoming journey pressing down on him, a sense of regret began to stir within him. He was a peak Solara Crystal-ranked duelist, once at the top of his craft, but those days felt distant now. After turning 24, he had stopped pushing himself to improve. He had seen no reason to continue training—he was already strong enough, after all. His focus had shifted entirely to managing his Duchy, fulfilling his responsibilities, and keeping his people safe. There had been little time for adventure, for personal growth, or even for the things that once mattered most to him.
Now, in the face of a dungeon that threatened to swallow him whole, he couldn't help but wonder if he had made a mistake. He had let his skills stagnate, taken for granted the strength he had once honed so tirelessly. The path ahead was dangerous, and while his rank still made him formidable, it no longer felt like enough.
The regret didn't end there. Eugene's mind wandered to the years he had spent focused on duties, neglecting the people he loved. He thought of Lady Kaira, of the moments he had missed with her, the years that had slipped by. How many times had he put his responsibilities ahead of being there for her? How many opportunities to create memories had he let pass? He had been so certain that duty was everything, that it would protect them both. But now, with everything on the line, he realized how little time they had left—and how much he had taken for granted.
After a long while of overthinking and wrestling with doubts, Eugene took a deep breath, letting go of the weight of his worries. He knew he couldn't afford to keep second-guessing himself. It was time to leave things to fate, to trust that everything would unfold as it was meant to. Sir Kailashan's confidence in their abilities to clear the dungeon was unshakable, and for the moment, Eugene decided to put his faith in the Guardian's words.
The truth was, he had no choice but to move forward. If they were going to survive, they would have to rely on their strength and each other. No more hesitation, no more regret. He wasn't alone in this. He had the support of strong companions and the guidance of Sir Kailashan. Together, they would face whatever dangers lay ahead—and Eugene had to believe that, with everything on the line, they would succeed.
With that resolution in mind, he stood up from his chair, straightening his posture. There was no more time for... doubts... He had a mission to complete, and Kaira was waiting for him. He would give his all to return to her, no matter what it took.
Eugene, lost in thought as he worked through his stack of duties, didn't notice how much time had passed. Before he knew it, it was dinner time—the last meal he'd have with his family for the next three months. He had to make it count. His heart ached at the thought of leaving, but there was no time to dwell on it. Tonight, he would savor every moment, surrounded by the people who mattered most: his father and his beloved wife.
He stood up from his desk, stretching his tired limbs, and called for a servant. "Has everyone gathered in the dining hall?" he asked, his voice soft with the weight of what was to come.
The servant nodded, a polite smile on their face. "Yes, my lord. Everything is ready."
Eugene gave a quick nod of thanks, then turned and left his office, heading toward the dining hall. His steps were purposeful, though the thoughts swirling in his mind couldn't be quieted. He knew this dinner would be more than just a meal—it would be a moment to cherish, a memory to hold onto while he was away.
As Eugene entered the dining hall, he paused at the doorway, watching his father, Duncan Anirudh, and his wife, Kaira, engaged in quiet conversation. He stood there for a moment, taking in the peaceful scene, feeling a deep sense of love and responsibility toward both of them.
After a brief pause, Eugene walked in, a soft smile on his face as he joined them at the table, knowing this might be the last time they'd share a meal together for a while.
After dinner, as everyone got ready to leave. Eugene turned to his father, Duncan, and informed, "I'll be leaving tomorrow for a mission to save Kaira. It'll take about three months."
Duncan's face darkened with frustration. "Three months? Isn't that too long? What about Kaira?"
Eugene nodded, regret in his eyes. "I'm sorry, but it seems like the only way to get a cure for Kaira right now so it's all for her..."
Duncan sighed, his anger fading. "I don't like it, but I understand. Just be safe, Eugene." After saying this Duncan left the room concerned.
Eugene hesitated for a moment, his face flushing a deep red. "Hey, uh, Kaira... do you mind if I sleep in your room tonight? If it's not... a problem, I mean?" His words stumbled out, and he quickly looked away, embarrassed by his own request.
Kaira couldn't help but notice how shy Eugene had become at the idea of sleeping beside her. A mischievous thought crossed her mind to tease him about it, but she quickly held it back, not wanting to make him even more flustered.
With a soft chuckle, she said, "What should I do with a husband who gets shy about sleeping next to his wife?"
Inside, she smiled, fighting the urge to tease him more. Sorry, my love... she thought, but you're just too cute to resist.
Eugene's face turned an even deeper shade of red at Kaira's teasing words. Flustered, he quickly grabbed her arm, his embarrassment making him act on impulse, and started walking toward her room without saying another word.
The servants and attendants, still lingering in the dining hall, exchanged amused glances. As soon as Eugene and Kaira were out of earshot, they couldn't help but laugh quietly, sharing the lighthearted moment.
They both entered Kaira's room, and Eugene gently helped her sit down before sitting beside her, still too embarrassed to look her in the eye but refusing to let go of her hand. Kaira, watching his shy behavior, found the moment both adorable and confusing. She wanted to comfort him, to pet his head or pull him into a hug, but she wasn't sure how to ease the tension.
After a long silence, Eugene awkwardly cleared his throat. "So, uh, should we like... go to sleep? Or... I mean, I'm fine with just sitting together too. Take your time."
The two of them sat in an awkward stillness, both unsure how to break the ice. Finally, Kaira leaned her head on Eugene's shoulder, her voice soft. "So, my lord... you're leaving tomorrow at dawn, right?"
Eugene looked at Kaira with a soft, concerned expression. "Yeah, I guess... that's why I wanted to spend the night with you. Are you okay though? Is anything wrong with your health? You're feeling alright, right?"
Kaira smiled softly, reassuring him. "Don't worry, I'm fine. Remember, we promised to do our best, so let's just focus on that."
With that, she lay down on her bed, patting the spot beside her, inviting Eugene to join. Hesitant at first, Eugene finally crawled into bed beside her, wrapping his arms around her as they cuddled close. The warmth of their embrace comforted them both, and soon, they drifted off to sleep, finding peace in each other's presence. As Eugene fell asleep slowly in her arms Kaira kissed his forehead.
"Good night my Lord"