The simulation hall buzzed with tension as Class A-2 gathered for team assignments. Zian stood still, her eyes scanning the dungeon map projected above. Kaen leaned against a pillar beside her, chewing the end of a popsicle stick.
"Zian Kael, right?" a cheerful voice chirped.
She turned to see a girl with short black hair, sleek glasses, and a high-end mana scanner slung over her shoulder. "I'm Rin Sylvaris—daughter of Rykon Sylvaris, CEO of ManaCore Industries."
Zian blinked. "Oh."
Kaen popped in. "So… rich rich."
Rin smiled. "Dad says I need real-world experience before running the company. So here I am—ready to contribute! Especially to your team. I've logged every movement pattern you made during your last duel."
Before Zian could answer, a tall, muscular boy strode over with a heavy broadsword strapped across his back.
"Jax Varenth. Grandson of Graem Varenth—the world's second strongest hunter." His voice carried quiet pride. "And I don't like you."
Kaen looked amused. "Me or her?"
"Both."
Zian ignored him.
As tension crackled, a quiet voice interrupted.
"Let's not fight before the dungeon even opens."
They turned to see a calm boy with green hair and soft eyes.
"Elion Drein, support and illusions. I'm told I'll be healing you."
"You must be popular," Kaen muttered. "Everyone wants to either stab or save you."
The instructor clapped. "Team Seven—Kaen, Zian, Jax, Rin, and Elion. You enter first."
As they walked toward the glowing dungeon gate, Zian's golden eyes flicked to the shadows trailing them.
"They're watching," she murmured.
Kaen smiled faintly. "Let them."
Behind them, the instructors whispered.
"That team… it's too unstable."
"Or too dangerous."
And deep within the dungeon, something stirred—drawn to light and shadow both.