The morning sun painted the skies in shades of gold as Marcus and Kael cruised down a wide forest-lined road in their rugged SUV. The vehicle rumbled steadily, kicking up light dust as the city came into view on the horizon.
Marcus leaned forward, eyes lighting up. "Whoa, that's huge!"
Before them stood the grand gates of Virelia—a bustling trade hub of the mainland, known for its wealth, markets, and diverse population. A long line of people and transports snaked along the entry road.
"Looks like everyone wants in," Kael muttered as he slowed down and took their place in the line.
Eventually, they reached the gates. Uniformed guards patrolled the area, checking documents. When it was their turn, Marcus and Kael presented their USA-issued exploration licenses.
One of the guards, after scanning the documents, gave a respectful nod. "Welcome to Virelia. Please proceed. And... thank you for what you did in Zareth City. Word of your bravery has reached us."
Marcus and Kael exchanged a small nod, saying nothing but grateful for the recognition.
They drove into the city, greeted by a vibrant explosion of life. The streets were alive with colors, banners, music, and people from all walks of life—traders, performers, travelers, and mercenaries.
Marcus's eyes sparkled with childlike glee. "Kael! Look at that food stall! And that weapon shop! And—OH, a petting wyvern!?"
Kael grabbed him by the collar. "USA center first. Then sightseeing."
Marcus pouted. "Fine..."
The two made their way to the local branch of the United Shield Authority—a towering marble and steel building standing proudly in the city's administrative district. A sleek lobby welcomed them, polished floors reflecting light from glowing chandeliers. Behind a crescent-shaped desk sat a striking woman with silver hair, sharp green eyes, and a poised demeanor.
"Welcome to the Virelia Branch of the United Shield Authority," she said smoothly. "My name is Sienna. How may I assist you today?"
"Marcus and Kael," Marcus said, flashing his badge. "We're explorers. Here to report in."
Kael handed over their IDs.
Sienna scanned the documents and then her eyes flicked to the screen, where a notice glowed. Recognition dawned, followed by a warm smile. "Ah, I remember hearing from the Southern Branch. You were instrumental in defending Zareth City from that massive assault. On behalf of the Authority, thank you."
Marcus and Kael both offered modest nods.
Sienna tapped her earpiece. "Vice General Darius is expecting you. Please wait a moment."
Moments later, a tall, imposing man entered from the back hallway. He had a regal bearing, a sharp jaw, and shoulder-length black hair. His eyes were calculating but not unkind. He wore a dark blue military coat with silver insignias.
"Marcus. Kael. Welcome to Virelia," he said. "I'm Vice General Darius Korvain, commander of this region. My superior is General Ardyn Vex, though you likely haven't met him yet."
They shook hands firmly.
"We're here to explore ruins," Kael explained. "We've completed first-tiered ruins. Now we're aiming for second-tiered challenges."
Darius studied them with a trained eye. "Hmm. Your aura and composure do suggest you're ready."
He moved to a map on the wall. "Most ruins near Virelia are already cleared regularly due to the city's trade importance. But... there's a second-tier ruin scheduled for clearance tomorrow. It's farther out, on the forested edge of the Greybluff Hills. It's remote, so the terrain will be rough."
"We'll take it," Marcus said without hesitation.
"Very well. I'll have the details sent to the desk. Good luck."
Darius offered a short nod and returned to his duties.
Marcus and Kael returned to Sienna, who handed them a data scroll and a digital map with the ruin's coordinates. "Everything you need is here. Best of luck tomorrow."
With daylight to spare, the two decided to explore Virelia. They wandered the colorful streets, tasted spicy grilled skewers, sweet fruit drinks, and admired musicians and dancers performing on cobbled corners. Crowds clapped, children laughed, and joy filled the air.
Later, they arrived at a cozy, wood-paneled inn they had reserved earlier. As they settled in the dining hall for dinner, a warm fire crackled in the hearth.
They ordered roasted meat, bread, and spiced soup. Over their meal, they discussed preparations.
"I'll handle the gear and supplies tonight," Kael said.
"I'll calibrate the Prana resonance in my blade," Marcus added. "We'll need precision."
Just as they were speaking, a soft voice interrupted.
"Excuse me..."
They turned toward the sound.
Standing near their table was a beautiful young woman, about 5'6", with golden blonde hair and vibrant green eyes. She wore light armor beneath a traveler's cloak and held herself with quiet confidence.
"I'm Lira Valen," she said with a hesitant smile. "Sorry to interrupt, but... I couldn't help overhearing. You're heading into a second-tier ruin tomorrow, right?"
Marcus and Kael exchanged glances.
Lira continued, "I've been waiting for a chance to join an experienced team. I'd like to accompany you. If... if you'll have me."
The fire crackled between them as the moment hung in the air.
Lira continued, "I've always wanted to join a ruin exploration. But here in Virelia, there's never been a dedicated exploration group. The USA handles most of it. I tried joining them, but... I always failed the physical exam. My body's not strong enough."
She clenched her fists lightly. "But I've trained hard. I can't use elemental Prana like most people, but since I was a child, I've developed a unique Prana skill. I can heal injuries—both mine and others—and I can enhance physical stats during battle."
Marcus leaned forward, intrigued. Kael's eyes narrowed thoughtfully.
"Do you have an official license?" Kael asked.
Lira shook her head. "No. But... if I have a recommendation from certified explorers like you, I can get one."
Silence settled between them. Kael looked at Marcus.
"We'll need to discuss this," Kael said.
Marcus gave Lira a soft smile. "I understand that longing for adventure. I know what it's like to want more from life."
"Marcus," Kael warned. "We need to see what she can do first."
Marcus nodded. "Fair. Let's test her."
They left the inn and booked a nearby training hall. Inside, they asked Lira to demonstrate her ability.
She closed her eyes, summoned her Prana, and extended her hand. A soft golden glow enveloped Marcus, and instantly he felt his strength surge.
"That's... at least a 20% boost," Marcus said, flexing his fingers. "Impressive. That'll help us fight longer, recover faster."
They tested a few basic combat simulations to check coordination and responsiveness. Lira proved herself capable and adaptable.
Afterward, Kael finally nodded. "Alright. You're in."
They returned to the USA center. Sienna smiled as they approached.
"Sienna," Marcus said, "we're recommending Lira Valen for a license."
Sienna's eyes lit up. "Lira? Finally, someone has accepted you. Thank you both for looking out for my friend."
The three explorers left the center with a renewed sense of purpose. They agreed to meet early at the inn the next morning to head toward the ruin.
A new team was formed—and their adventure was only beginning.