Been a while since I updated this. I did want to go back and partially re-write the previous chapters to have more detail, but I decided against that. No major retcons or anything. But minor mistakes. Like how [Pain nullification] should've been [Pain Resistance] and other things about the voice before reincarnation. A slight change in Axel's backstory (basically that he's had more training than basic self defence. The only change being that he actually has trained to box and knows some wrestling). And a few other discrepancies that have been mentioned in reviews. Gonna try and start adding more detail with some help on the chapters, so I hope you all enjoy!
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The party continued their journey through the dark cave, with Axel's ki-powered light leading the way. The path twisted and turned, occasionally opening up into larger chambers with ominous shadows lurking in the corners. The air was heavy with the scent of damp stone and earth.
As they delved deeper into the cave, they encountered various creatures that called it home. Giant spiders, centipedes, and scorpion-like creatures scuttled in the shadows. Axel, Kaval, and his team fought off the monsters with skill and teamwork. Axel's strength and combat abilities proved to be a valuable asset, as he dispatched the creatures with ease when needed.
Shay, the doctor, observed the battles with keen interest, taking notes and making mental observations. She occasionally asked Axel about his ki, and he shared his knowledge willingly.
After a series of skirmishes, the party finally arrived at a massive chamber that seemed to be the heart of the cave. In the center of the chamber stood a colossal stone door adorned with intricate carvings and runes. It was clear that this door was the entrance to the ancient ruin they sought. Even though there was an entrance to the entrance? Axel didn't really question the specifics.
Shay's eyes lit up with excitement as she approached the door. "This is it! The entrance to the undiscovered ruin. I can't believe we've made it this far."
Axel examined the door, noticing the complex patterns etched into the stone. "Looks like there are some magical inscriptions here. Care to give it a shot, Doctor?"
Shay nodded and took out a notebook, flipping through pages filled with translations and symbols. She began to decipher the runes on the door, muttering to herself as she worked. After a few minutes, she looked up with a triumphant smile.
"I've got it! This should be the key to open the door." Shay pointed to a specific set of runes and symbols. "It seems to require a combination of elements and a specific incantation. Kaval, Eren, Gido, I'll need your help with this. Axel, stand ready in case anything goes wrong."
The party gathered around the door, each member ready to contribute their part to the incantation. Shay recited the words, and Eren with her magic into the runes. The door began to glow with a soft, otherworldly light, and a deep rumbling echoed through the chamber.
Slowly but surely, the colossal stone door began to creak open, revealing a passage leading deeper into the ruin.
Once the party traveled for a brief period, they entered a massive room. The center of the room lies the room's centerpiece, an enormous mosaic floor, a breathtaking masterpiece of artistry and craftsmanship. The mosaic, illuminated partially by the party's ki-powered light. Revealing a mesmerizing array of intricately designed tiles. These tiles, each no larger than a palm, form a vast tapestry that spans the entire floor.
The mosaic's patterns and symbols were a mesmerizing blend of ancient lore and artistic brilliance. Arcane sigils intermingle with celestial motifs, and cryptic runes intertwine with nature's beauty. Elaborate depictions of mythical creatures, from fire-breathing dragons to gentle forest spirits, are meticulously etched into the tiles, bringing the room to life with their silent tales.
Some tiles seem to tell a story of cosmic events, with stars and planets aligning in celestial dances. Others are a testament to the passage of time, displaying the changing seasons with images of blossoming flowers, falling leaves, and winter's frost.
The party gathers around the intricate mosaic on the floor, ready to tackle the puzzle. Shay studies the stone tablet mounted on the wall while Axel's ki-powered light casts eerie shadows on the mosaic. Kaval, Eren, and Gido focus on the symbols in front of them.
Shay deciphers the tablet's message and explains, "It seems we must follow a specific sequence of elemental symbols to navigate through this mosaic. Stepping on the correct tiles will illuminate our path, while the wrong ones might trigger traps. Let's proceed with caution."
"Couldn't I just fly over it? I can carry you guys over" Axel offered.
"I would advise against that" Shay responded.
"How come?"
"This entire room is carved with ancient sigils. And this room is likely trapped considering there's a puzzle here."
"It'll be fun to do the puzzle here too" Eren supplied.
"Mah…" Axel huffed "I always hated puzzle games."
"Just let me deal with the intricacies of the puzzles then" Shay offered.
With the plan in mind, they begin to analyze the symbols on the floor, searching for the pattern that corresponds to the elemental sequence they need. Eren points to a symbol resembling a water droplet. "I think this is the first one we need to step on" she suggests.
Kaval adds, "And then the one next to it looks like a flame. So, water, fire, and then..."
They study the mosaic, carefully identifying the next symbol in the sequence. Gido notices a series of symbols that resemble swirling winds. "Air, that's the one. So, water, fire, air."
Eren takes the first step, placing her foot on the water droplet symbol, and it lights up with a soft glow. They all take a collective breath, relieved that they've made the right choice.
Kaval follows, stepping on the flame symbol, and it too, lights up. The mosaic now shows their path through the room: water, fire, air. They continue along the sequence, making their way across the intricate patterns.
As they progress, the room's atmosphere becomes more tense, with each step bringing them closer to the unknown. Axel watches their every move and the illuminated tiles to ensure they don't stray from the path.
The air symbol is their next destination. Gido steps onto it, and the mosaic reveals a safe route. They exchange relieved glances, their teamwork paying off. They continue following the sequence of symbols, successfully illuminating the path.
Finally, they reach the end, where the last elemental symbol awaits. It resembles a solid, stable earth symbol. Eren steps on it, and it responds by revealing a hidden door that starts to creak open.
The party breathes a sigh of relief as they realize they've successfully solved the puzzle, and the hidden passage to the deeper parts of the ruin is now open.
"That was pretty easy I guess" Axel mentioned as he took the lead through the door.
"Don't jinx it!" Kaval responded with clear worry "Every time that's said-"
"You mean when you say it" Gido interjected.
Kaval gave him a slight glare before continuing "It always gets worse!"
"I've never really been a stooperstitious guy" Axel shrugged.
"You mean superstitious?" Shay added.
"I know what I said" Axel could only grin brightly at his little joke.
In the next room, the party finds themselves in a chamber with a massive, ornate door that seems impossible to open by conventional means. The door is adorned with intricate engravings and symbols, hinting at the need for a particular solution to unlock it.
As they investigate the door, Shay inspects the inscriptions closely. "This door seems to require a unique method to open it. The symbols here suggest that it might be something to do with rotation, but the exact mechanism eludes me."
Axel, with his ability to fly, takes a closer look at the door. He notices that the door is decorated with intricate patterns that form a series of circular symbols. These symbols appear to represent a chain of gears, with each gear connected to the next.
The gears have symbols etched into them. The largest gear, which is the one in the center of the door, has the largest symbol etched onto it. The smaller gears surrounding it have symbols, likely indicating their order.
Axel points to the gears and says, "I think this door can be opened by turning these gears in a specific sequence. It's like a giant combo lock." The doctor, Kaval, Eren, and Gido look at Axel inquisitively "We need to spin this in a certain order and direction" he finished.
"But how do we know which gear to turn first?" Kaval asks.
"I think I can use my flight to turn these gears. The symbols on the gears might be a clue. Let's start with the largest gear."
Axel extends his arms and places his hands on the gear. He starts rotating it clockwise, and the gear moves smoothly, emitting a low rumbling sound. As he turns it, they notice that the adjacent gears begin to turn as well, linked by the intricate system of gears.
"I believe I see what you mean" Shay focused on the gears. The first gear you turned has the ancient runic symbol for 'one'. Maybe we have to turn them in the precise order along with a specific direction."
As they turn the gears in the proper sequence, the door gradually begins to unlock. The gears click into place, and the door's mechanism disengages. With one final turn, the massive door swings open, revealing the path to the next section of the ruin.
"These puzzles are still too easy" Axel whined partially, a hint of boredom evident in his voice.
"Dude!" Kaval shouted, a stern look on his face. "What did I say about jinxing it!"
"Relax, man" Axel waved dismissively. "Let's just hope this next one is the last one. Maybe we can actually fight something."
"I'd rather we don't" Kaval slumped, a weariness in his tone.
"We're gonna have to fight something eventually" Axel supplied, his eyes scanning the surroundings with anticipation.
"Let's just hope it ain't hard" Gido said, echoing the sentiment of the group.
The next room came into sight shortly after. It was a large and ornate chamber, distinct from the previous ones. Pillars adorned the corners and sides of the room, displaying ancient stone depictions that told tales lost to time. At the back of the room, a throne stood prominently. It wasn't overly ornate, but the intricately carved stone gave it an imposing aura.
Upon entering the room, torches ignited along the walls, casting dancing shadows throughout. The flickering flames revealed more details in the carvings on the walls, depicting scenes of battles, rituals, and unknown symbols that hinted at a deeper significance.
Shay, the doctor, took out her notebook and began jotting down observations. "This room seems to hold historical significance. The carvings might provide insights into the culture that built this ruin."
Axel, meanwhile, hovered toward the throne, eyeing it curiously. "Maybe there's a hidden compartment or something. Worth checking out."
As Axel approached the throne, the atmosphere in the room shifted. A low rumbling sound echoed, and the torches flickered more intensely. The group exchanged uneasy glances, wondering if this room held a puzzle more intricate than the previous ones.
Axel reached out, placing his hand on the armrest of the stone throne, and a series of clicks resonated through the room. The carvings on the walls seemed to shimmer, and the flames in the torches burned brighter for a moment before settling back to their regular intensity.
"That didn't sound good" Eren exclaimed, clutching her staff tightly as an uneasy tension filled the room.
Axel was about to respond, but he halted, feeling an odd chill coursing down his spine. His senses went haywire, and he scanned the room with a heightened awareness.
"What's wrong?" Shay asked, concern etched on her face.
"Something really doesn't feel right" Axel began, his eyes darting around the chamber. As he observed, the shadows cast by the flickering torches started to stir ominously.
Before anyone could react, the shadows erupted in a sinister wave, forcefully thrusting Kaval's team and Shay to one side of the room, while Axel was propelled in the opposite direction. The group found themselves separated from Axel, disoriented but quickly regaining their bearings.
As they attempted to regroup, shadows burst up from the ground around them, taking form. The shapes were vaguely humanoid, some with monstrous features, and all exuded a palpable hostility. The atmosphere in the room grew tense as the shadowy figures closed in.
"Shit!" Axel shouted, attempting to blast off towards them, only to be met with a magical forcefield that appeared out of nowhere, blocking his path.
With a huff of effort, Axel slammed his fist into the barrier, causing it to ripple but showing no signs of damage. The shadows continued to advance on Kaval's team and Shay, their eerie forms casting an unsettling glow in the dimly lit room.
Eren quickly assessed the situation, her mind racing. "We need to find a way to break through that forcefield and regroup with Axel!"
Gido unsheathed his daggers, ready to defend against the approaching shadowy entities. "Any ideas on how to get past that barrier?"
Shay, despite the urgency, maintained her composure. "Perhaps there's a connection between the forcefield and the shadows. There might be a clue to dispel it."
Before Axel could formulate a response, he felt another ominous chill racing down his spine. Instinctively, he turned, only to find himself face to face with a lone shadow figure. The figure was vaguely humanoid, its form cloaked in darkness with a shadowy aura that radiated an overwhelming sense of power.
Without hesitation, Axel pulled out his staff, giving it a swift mental command to extend to its combat-ready length. The metallic clang echoed as the staff elongated, and Axel settled into a defensive stance, his gaze unwavering on the shadowy intruder.
"I have no idea who, or what, you are. But you're gonna need to get out of the way" Axel declared.
The shadow figure offered no response, its form continuing to flicker and dance amidst the shifting light, as though mocking Axel's challenge. The air grew tenser as the two locked eyes, neither yielding ground.
The standoff persisted, and Axel maintained his focus, keenly aware of the potential threat this shadowy being posed. In response, the shadow figure began to manifest a staff of similar length, materializing out of the darkness in its hand. Unlike Axel, it didn't assume a combat stance but instead bent down slightly before abruptly launching forward, closing the distance with uncanny speed.
Axel's instincts kicked in, and he swiftly sidestepped the oncoming attack. The shadow figure's staff whizzed through the air, narrowly missing Axel. The sudden motion left Axel momentarily off balance, but he quickly regained his footing, his staff poised for retaliation.
As Axel evaded the shadow figure's initial strike, the two engaged in a dynamic dance of swift movements and elusive shadows. The shadowy assailant continued its relentless assault, launching a series of rapid strikes with its staff, each attack seemingly calculated and precise.
Axel, relying on his agility and combat instincts, dodged and parried the oncoming assaults. His staff moved with a fluidity that betrayed its apparent weight, meeting the shadow figure's strikes with a metallic clang. The clash echoed in the chamber, accentuating the intensity of the confrontation.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the room, Kaval and his team were locked in their own struggle against the lesser shadowy entities. Eren chanted incantations, summoning protective barriers to shield the group from the relentless onslaught. Gido skillfully maneuvered between the shadows, his daggers flashing as he struck with precision.
Kaval, wielding his sword with practiced proficiency, faced the monstrous humanoid shadows head-on. The air crackled with magical energy as Eren unleashed spells to weaken and disorient their elusive adversaries. Despite their coordinated efforts, the shadows proved to be formidable foes, their forms shifting and melding as they closed in on the group.
Back in Axel's one-on-one confrontation, the shadow figure displayed a surprising level of agility. It gracefully evaded Axel's counterattacks, moving like a wraith in the dimly lit chamber. Axel's frustration grew as he struggled to land a decisive blow.
In a sudden burst of speed, the shadow figure closed the distance, delivering a swift strike that Axel narrowly blocked with his staff. The impact sent reverberations through his arms, prompting Axel to reassess the opponent's strength.
On the other side of the room, Kaval shouted orders, directing the team to focus their efforts on eliminating the shadows systematically. Gido executed precise strikes, exploiting the shadows' vulnerabilities, while Eren's magic provided invaluable support.
Axel, feeling the urgency of the situation, intensified his attacks against the shadow figure. His staff whirred through the air, creating a rhythmic pattern of strikes. The shadow figure, however, matched his every move with an unsettling grace.
Just as Axel thought he had gained the upper hand, the shadow figure dispersed into a cloud of darkness, evading his onslaught. The room fell into an eerie silence, and Axel remained on guard, searching for any sign of the elusive adversary.
The room remained shrouded in an uneasy silence, broken only by the flickering torchlight casting dancing shadows across the stone walls. Axel scanned the surroundings, on high alert for any sign of the shadow figure's return. As if answering his silent vigilance, the darkness coalesced in a corner of the room, and the shadowy figure reemerged, its humanoid form materializing from the obscurity.
Axel tightened his grip on his staff, his eyes locked onto the shadow figure. The figure, seemingly unfazed by the previous skirmish, stood still, its shadowy presence emanating an air of malevolence. Axel, undeterred, prepared for the impending clash.
The shadow figure wasted no time, lunging at Axel with renewed vigor. Axel met the assault head-on, his staff intercepting each strike with precision. The dance of metal and shadows resumed, the room once again filled with the rhythmic clanging of their weapons.
Despite Axel's determination, the shadow figure's movements became increasingly unpredictable. It flowed between attacks with an otherworldly grace, making it challenging for Axel to anticipate its next move. The shadow figure's staff whirred through the air, leaving trails of darkness in its wake.
Axel gritted his teeth, focusing on the fluidity of his opponent's motions. He began adapting to the shadow figure's elusive style, countering with a combination of strikes and defensive maneuvers. The battle escalated into a symphony of clashes, the combatants locked in a relentless exchange.
On the other side of the room, Kaval and his team observed Axel's ongoing struggle while keeping a vigilant eye on the shadows. Eren, sensing the intensity of the battle, continued to weave protective spells to shield the group from any potential surprise attacks.
Gido, having dispatched the remaining shadows in their vicinity, turned his attention to Axel's one-man confrontation. "Axel's got his hands full over there" he remarked, his eyes narrowed in concern.
Kaval nodded, his gaze unwavering. "We need to finish off these shadows quickly and assist him. Stay sharp, everyone."
Axel's muscles burned with exertion as he clashed with the elusive shadow figure. The relentless back-and-forth of their staffs created an intricate dance of light and darkness within the chamber. Axel's heightened senses allowed him to perceive the subtle shifts in the shadow figure's movements, and he adjusted his strategy accordingly.
As Axel parried, dodged, and counterattacked, he noticed that the shadow figure's attacks were becoming more erratic. It seemed to draw strength from the shadows themselves, its movements merging seamlessly with the ebb and flow of darkness in the room. Axel's frustration mounted as he struggled to predict the figure's unpredictable maneuvers.
In a daring move, Axel feigned a retreat, luring the shadow figure into a false sense of security. As the figure closed in, Axel pivoted on his heel, unleashing a powerful sweep of his staff aimed at disarming his opponent. The shadow figure, however, effortlessly sidestepped the attack, evading Axel's attempt to gain the upper hand.
Suddenly, Axel executed a series of rapid strikes, exploiting an opening in the shadow figure's defense. The metallic clang of their staffs resonated through the room as Axel pressed his advantage. The shadow figure, caught off guard, staggered backward, its form momentarily dissipating into shadows.
Seizing the opportunity, Axel unleashed a powerful burst of energy, creating a blinding flash that enveloped the shadow figure. As the light subsided, Axel stood alone in the room, his chest heaving with exertion. The shadow figure had vanished.
Undeterred by Axel's earlier triumph, the lone shadow figure reemerged from the dissipating shadows. Its silhouette pulsed with an ominous energy, and Axel sensed that this encounter would be even more challenging than before.
Axel, still separated from Kaval and his team, tightened his grip on his staff, his eyes locked onto the formidable adversary. The shadow figure, exhibiting enhanced speed and intensity, closed the distance between them in an instant. Axel's instincts kicked in, and he gracefully evaded the initial onslaught, narrowly dodging the shadow figure's ethereal strikes. Axel's attempts to counter were met with an unprecedented level of resistance as the shadow figure adapted and retaliated with newfound vigor.
Eren, Gido, and Kaval, on the other side of the room, struggled against the persistent shadows that continued to assail them. The battle against the horde of shadows intensified, and the trio found themselves locked in a relentless dance with the encroaching darkness.
Axel, maintaining his focus on the lone shadow figure, found himself pushed to his limits. The figure's attacks became more intricate, exploiting Axel's momentary lapses in concentration. With a sudden burst of dark energy, the shadow figure created illusions, making it challenging for Axel to discern the real attacks from the illusions.
The air crackled with tension as Axel, determined to overcome this formidable adversary, tapped into his reserves of strength. He executed a series of acrobatic maneuvers, using his agility to outmaneuver the shadow figure.
In the midst of their intense confrontation, Axel found himself momentarily caught off guard by the shadow figure's cunning tactics. With a swift and unexpected maneuver, the shadow figure exploited a split-second opening, disarming Axel of his staff. The weapon slammed to the ground, leaving Axel momentarily vulnerable.
Undeterred, Axel swiftly adjusted to the change in circumstances. The shadow figure, sensing an advantage, pressed its assault, launching a barrage of strikes. Axel, relying on his combat instincts and hand-to-hand combat skills, seamlessly transitioned into a defensive stance.
Axel, despite being momentarily without his staff, demonstrated remarkable agility and resilience. The shadow figure, though empowered, struggled to land a decisive blow as Axel expertly parried and dodged the l onslaught.
Kaval, Eren, and Gido, witnessing Axel's shift to hand-to-hand combat, held their breath. The battle against the shadows on their end had momentarily subsided, allowing them to focus on Axel's solo struggle.
Axel, utilizing a combination of evasive maneuvers and well-timed counterattacks, managed to regain some control over the confrontation. His movements were fluid, a dance with the shadows that surrounded him. The shadow figure, relentless in its pursuit, continued to test Axel's limits, seeking to exploit any opening.
As the battle unfolded, Axel's mind raced, analyzing the shadow figure's patterns and searching for a strategic advantage. Despite the absence of his staff, Axel's now ki-infused strikes resonated with power, creating bursts of energy that clashed with the shadow figure's dark aura.
The shadow figure, seemingly drawing strength from the shadows themselves, grew even more formidable. Axel could sense the intensifying darkness, and the ethereal adversary became an embodiment of the very shadows that enveloped the room.
The room's atmosphere shifted, becoming charged with an otherworldly energy. Axel, his Saiyan instincts heightened, embraced the evolving challenge. His muscles surged with power, and his senses became sharper, attuned to the subtlest movements of the shadow figure. The shadows, once an ally to the ethereal adversary, now seemed to react to Axel's growing energy.
In a swift and calculated move, the shadow figure intensified its attacks, seeking to overwhelm Axel with its augmented power. Shadows danced around the room, responding to the dark force emanating from the figure. Axel, however, met the onslaught head-on, his strength allowing him to withstand the ethereal barrage.
As Axel's power continued to escalate, the shadows that surrounded him seemed to bend to his will. A radiant aura enveloped him, creating a stark contrast to the darkness that had previously dominated the encounter. The clash between Axel's Saiyan might and the shadow figure's enhanced abilities reached a fever pitch.
Amidst the escalating clash between Axel and the empowered shadow figure, Doctor, with her keen observational skills, noticed a subtle detail that held the key to victory. As the shadows retreated in response to Axel's growing energy, Shay's analytical mind quickly formulated a plan.
"Everyone, listen!" Shay called out to Kaval, Eren, and Gido, diverting their attention from the ongoing battle. "Axel's energy is affecting the shadows. We need to capitalize on this!"
Kaval, ever quick on his feet, nodded in understanding. "So, what's the plan?"
Shay pointed towards the shadows that were momentarily pushed back by Axel's radiant energy. "We need to create a barrier of light, an opposing force to counter the shadows. If we can amplify the ambient light in the room, we might gain the upper hand."
Eren, with her proficiency in magic, immediately grasped the concept. "I can cast a spell to enhance the torchlight and create a protective barrier. It might disrupt their connection to the shadow figure."
"Good idea" Kaval acknowledged. "Gido, help Eren and keep her safe. Shay, guide us on where to position ourselves for the best effect."
As Eren began channeling her abilities to enhance the ambient light, Shay directed the team to strategic positions, ensuring that the barrier of intensified light covered the entire room. The torches flickered and glowed brighter, their flames dancing with newfound vigor as the magical barrier took shape.
Axel, locked in the intense struggle with the shadow figure, felt the shift in energy around him. The room became a canvas of contrasting energies, the luminous barrier pushing back the shadows.
With the barrier in place, Eren maintained her focus, ensuring the magical light held strong. The shadows, now disrupted by the intensified ambient light, seemed to lose their cohesiveness. The ethereal figures faltered, their connection to the shadow figure weakening.
Axel, sensing the change, seized the opportunity. With a surge of strength, he launched a relentless assault on the now-vulnerable shadow figure. His strikes, infused with the radiant light of his ki and the intensified light of the room.
The room echoed with the dissipating shadows, and the shadow figure, now diminished, struggled to maintain its form. Axel delivered the decisive blow, dispelling the dark entity once and for all.
As Axel caught his breath, beads of sweat glistening on his forehead, Kaval and his team hurried over, the dissipating magical barrier no longer separating them.
"Whew!" Axel exclaimed, wiping the sweat from his brow. "That was way more tough than I thought."
Kaval couldn't resist a teasing grin as he chimed in "I told you not to jinx it."
Axel shot him a playful glare. "This would've happened regardless of a jinx" Shay interjected, her practical demeanor cutting through the banter.
Eren, still clutching her staff, looked at Axel with a mix of awe and concern. "Are you okay?" she asked, her eyes scanning him for any signs of fatigue or injury.
"I'm fine, just need a moment" Axel reassured her, offering a lopsided grin. His Saiyan physiology was quick to recover, but the intensity of the encounter had taken its toll.
Shay, ever the pragmatic scientist, surveyed the room. "This ruin is unlike anything documented in my research. The shadows, the ancient depictions, the throne—it all holds a significance we're yet to comprehend."
Gido, leaning against a pillar, chimed in, "At least we're getting paid for this."
Kaval nodded in agreement. "True, but let's not get too comfortable. We still have a mission to complete."
The group, having caught their breath and exchanged a few words of reassurance, decided to regroup at the imposing throne that stood at the back of the ornate room. Axel retrieved his staff before joining the others at the throne.
Shay, her scientific curiosity piqued, meticulously examined the intricacies of the ancient stone throne. Runes and symbols adorned its surface, telling a silent tale of a bygone era. She traced her fingers along the carvings, whispering to herself in a language long forgotten.
Kaval, ever vigilant, surveyed the room, ensuring there were no remnants of the shadows lingering in the corners.
"Any clues on where to go next?" Kaval inquired, his eyes fixed on Shay as she continued her examination.
Shay straightened up, adjusting her glasses as she shared her findings. "The markings on this throne suggest a connection to the next part of the ruin. It might act as a key or a guide."
Axel, leaning on his staff, raised an eyebrow. "So, are we sitting on it or what?"
Shay chuckled at Axel's straightforward approach. "No, not sitting. But perhaps there's a mechanism, a hidden passage, or some form of activation tied to the throne. We need to explore further."
The group, guided by Shay's insights, carefully inspected the area around the throne. After a few moments, Shay's finger traced a particular symbol, hidden in plain sight on the armrest. As she pressed it, a subtle humming sound filled the air, and a previously unnoticed section of the wall slid open, revealing a dimly lit passage beyond.
Eren gasped in amazement, while Gido and Kaval exchanged impressed glances. Axel grinned, satisfied that they were making progress.
"Looks like our way forward" Kaval declared, gesturing towards the revealed passage.
The corridor led the group to a grand chamber, bathed in a soft, ethereal glow emanating from luminescent crystals embedded in the walls. The air felt charged with ancient energy, and the intricate patterns on the floor hinted at a deeper significance.
Shay's eyes widened with both excitement and realization. "This is unprecedented" she murmured, taking in the mesmerizing surroundings. "The sheer historical significance of this chamber is beyond anything I've encountered."
Kaval and his team, still on edge from the earlier challenges, cautiously scanned the room for any signs of danger. Axel, however, seemed more relaxed, his instincts not detecting any immediate threats.
"No monsters or traps in sight" Gido observed, his hand gripping the hilt of his dagger.
"Finally, a room without a catch" Axel remarked.
Shay started to examine the intricate carvings and glyphs that adorned the chamber's walls. "The symbology here is astonishing. These markings could rewrite our understanding of ancient civilizations."
"It's like the whole room is alive with energy" Eren looked around in wonder.
Kaval, still vigilant, approached Shay. "So, any idea what we're dealing with here?"
Shay nodded, her eyes gleaming with scholarly passion. "This chamber is a treasure trove of knowledge, but it's too vast and delicate for us to explore fully right now. I need to return with specialized equipment, a team of archaeologists, and perhaps even magical experts."
"Sounds like a job for the Free Guild Research Division" Kaval mused. "We've done our part in clearing the way. Now, it's your turn to unveil the secrets."
"Indeed" Shay agreed, her mind already racing with plans for a thorough investigation. "I'll submit a detailed report to the guild, and they can coordinate the next steps."
.
.
.
The journey back to Shay's cabin was a welcome reprieve for the group. The dense forest, now bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. As they approached the familiar cabin, a sense of accomplishment mingled with the fatigue that clung to their muscles.
Shay led the way, her thoughts undoubtedly racing with plans for the extensive research she would conduct based on the discoveries in the ruin. Axel, with his staff slung casually over his shoulder, walked alongside Kaval and his team.
"Quite the adventure, huh?" Axel remarked, breaking the silence.
"That's one way to put it" Kaval replied, a weary but satisfied smile on his face.
Eren stretched her arms overhead. "I can't believe we made it through all of that. Those puzzles were tricky but kind of easy. And those shadow things were... unsettling."
Gido nodded in agreement. "But we got out relatively unharmed. That's what counts."
As they reached the cabin, Shay held the door open for her companions. The cozy interior welcomed them, the flickering fire, now started, in the hearth casting a warm glow. Shay wasted no time in preparing a pot of tea, the comforting aroma filling the room.
"I must thank you all" Shay began, her gratitude evident in her eyes. "Without your expertise and strength, I wouldn't have been able to uncover the secrets hidden in that ruin. It's a breakthrough for science and archaeology alike."
Kaval chuckled. "Well, we're not your typical research team, but we get the job done."
Axel collapsed onto a nearby chair with a contented sigh. "I gotta say, those puzzles were a breeze."
"Dude, don't tempt fate" Kaval warned, earning a playful grin from Axel.
"I'm just saying, I expected more of a challenge" Axel replied.
Shay, contemplating the events, spoke up. "I'll make sure the Free Guild recognizes your contributions."
Axel grinned. "Just doing what we do best—kicking ass and uncovering mysteries."
"Even though this was your first adventuring quest?" Gido asked, raising an eyebrow. "Already making it seem like we've been doing this for a while when it's your first time with us."
Axel, leaning back in his chair with a satisfied smile, shrugged nonchalantly. "Well, you know, just trying to fit in with the seasoned veterans."
"Seasoned veterans indeed" Kaval chimed in smugly.
Axel chuckled, taking a sip of the tea Shay had brewed for them.
"Does it make you want to be an adventurer?" Eren asked, her eyes glinting with curiosity.
Axel set his tea cup down, crossing his arms thoughtfully. "It was pretty fun, I guess. But even after that, I think I still want to do bounty hunting and some freelance work."
"I guess you did already mention what you were looking for earlier" Kaval supplied, a knowing smile on his face.
"I'm sure we'll be getting some good money for this" Gido chimed in "Should definitely be enough to get you the license."
Axel's eyes lit up at the mention of money. "Oh, absolutely! With the rewards from this ruin, I'll have that license in no time. Then, it's open season for bounties!"
Shay chuckled softly, her eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and excitement. "You guys did help in what looks to be a massive discovery. The compensation will be worth it."
"You mentioned before that it was a flat fee and we'd be given extra?" Axel asked.
Shay nodded "Yes, that amount was already paid to the guild along with more. I'll be writing a few letters that you all can bring, and you'll be given a greater reward."
Shay, standing up from her seat, gestured towards the parchment and quill on one of the cabin's desks. "I should get started on writing those out along with more forms needed to get the teams I need here. You all are more than welcome to stay in here for the night."
"Thanks" Kaval said appreciatively.
Once Shay had diligently completed the paperwork, the group got situated in the cabin, each finding a comfortable spot to eventually sleep in.
As the evening progressed, Shay prepared some dinner for the group. The tantalizing aroma of home-cooked food wafted through the cabin, awakening their appetites. Axel, with a grin that hinted at his Saiyan-sized appetite, made sure not to empty Shay's pantry entirely but certainly enjoyed his fair share of the delicious food.
The dinner table became a focal point for shared stories, laughter, and the clinking of utensils against plates. Shay, despite her initial reservations about embarking on an adventure, found herself enjoying the company of these eclectic individuals.
The night wore on, the fire gradually dimming as the embers glowed in the hearth. Eventually, with bellies full and the satisfaction of a day well spent, the group decided to call it a night. The rustic charm of the cabin provided a comforting backdrop as they dispersed to find their designated sleeping spots.
Axel, settling into his sleeping bag, couldn't help but reflect on the events of the day. As sleep began to claim him, he thought to himself 'Damn it. I didn't even get to test out the stuff I was training. Guess there's always next time.'
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Aaaaaaaaand chapter done. I definitely rushed the whole dungeon/ruin, but it has been a while. Going to have maybe one or two more chapters before Axel heads back home. Once that happens, gonna have some of the slime diaries story happen before the main story kicks up again. Let me know what y'all thought.