Chapter 1874 News
The coalition's successful strategy allowed them to continue clearing celestial garrisons without much trouble. Even when they encountered a large rogue magus group, they refrained from interfering, likely intimidated by the sheer size of the coalition.
As they pressed forward, their efficient method of clearing fortresses began to draw the attention of other participants, both from factions and smaller groups, who started to follow them and scout their activities.
"Don't worry about them. Let's clear this faster and gain more points," Jinkan urged as they charged into the fourth garrison. Her words were meant to keep the group focused on their mission, but Emery couldn't help but notice that Jinkan had been receiving an increasing number of messages lately. She had been staying behind, keeping a watchful eye on their back. It was evident that something was going on.
Unfortunately, the energy fluctuations in this seventh layer were more intense than in the vaults, and even Uria, the most skilled spirit reader among them, could only cover a limited 10-miles area, which was a small fraction of the massive celestial structure. Thus, they had to rely on the special messaging system that the Nephilim had to receive news about their surroundings and any potential threats.
This time, it took them more than an hour to finish their sixth garrison. In total, six hours had already passed, and by this time, two-thirds of the group had green marks on top of their heads, totaling a hundred participants. Two more earned golden marks: Eeshoo and surprisingly Jai Strider, who had been very active in the last six days across different vaults. Emery's performance continued to impress, as his rank boosted once again.
[Emery Ambrose: 5,829 points - Rank 4/3,988]
However, one noticeable change was the significant drop in the number of participants on the seventh layer. The tension in the air was palpable, and the group decided to take a short break to regain their overall stamina and replenish their spirit pools. During the break, many noticed that multiple Jinkan drones had returned to her. Emery and several others approached the Nephilim princess, curiosity evident on their faces.
"What happened?" Emery asked.
Jinkan gathered the leaders of the other factions in their coalition, her expression grave as she began to explain the situation to them. "We've received multiple reports of battles occurring between humans and elves," she said, her voice tinged with concern.
Shatter Cross, couldn't help but interject with a chuckle. "Haha, tell me what's new?" he remarked, hinting at the historical tension between the two races.
Emery, however, sensed that Jinkan's unease stemmed from something more than the usual skirmishes. He knew that she wouldn't be so calculated in her actions if it were a normal matter.
Turning to Olivier, Jinkan inquired, "Do you have any new updates from Arkaland?"
Olivier, known for his calm demeanor, replied, "No, nothing unusual."
Observing Jinkan's expression and the growing apprehension among the group, Eeshoo, reached out to hold her hand.?"Just share your opinion with us," he urged. "It doesn't always have to be accurate."
Jinkan let out a heavy sigh, "Alright," she began, her voice tinged with urgency, "the family has raised the threat level to stage two. Something is definitely going to happen, but they haven't issued a retreat order. I assume the family is curious and willing to risk our lives for more information."
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Jinkan emphasized that given the recent news, she would understand if any members of the coalition decided to leave the seventh layer. However, Emery observed that none among them were willing to depart. Having worked hard to reach the top 1000, they were not about to abandon the potential rewards due to rumors.
"Alright," Jinkan continued, "but to continue, I need to make some changes to our strategy." She proposed a new approach, suggesting that they clear out all the Celestials outside the garrison before tackling the garrison itself. Additionally, Jinkan outlined the need for 20 more magus to be in rotation, tasked with scouting the area and remaining on high alert. "We can't be too careful," she emphasized, her eyes reflecting her determination to ensure the coalition's safety.
The coalition members found themselves in general agreement with Jinkan's proposed changes to their strategy. For the next two hours, they executed their plan with precision, making steady progress. Some began to wonder if the Nephilim's information had been incorrect or if Jinkan was being overly cautious.
However, their doubts were short-lived. Suddenly, a massive surge of energy erupted in the distance, so powerful that it sent shockwaves rippling through the entire structure. The coalition members were jolted by the sudden disturbance.
"What is going on?!" voices rang out in alarm as they sought to make sense of the unexpected event.
Shortly after,?Jinkan received a priority message from Prince Liam of the Azazel Nephilim family. The fact that the arrogant prince was requesting help indicated that the situation must be extremely urgent and dire.
With a sense of responsibility, Jinkan addressed the coalition members, her voice tinged with regret. "My apologies, everyone, but I must attend to a faction matter. You are free to decide whether to join me or continue your current activities."
This decision meant that Jinkan would be taking her group of 40 magus and the 40 mercenaries with her to assist the Nephilim in their time of need.
Seeing Jinkan and her group leave to respond to Prince Liam's request, Shatter Cross seized the moment to rally the remaining one hundred coalition members to continue their efforts to farm points. He believed that staying focused on their objective was the best course of action.
In contrast, without hesitation, Olivier led the 50 Arkaland magus to follow. Their departure left no one willing to stay and heed Shatter Cross's request. The tension and uncertainty among the coalition members grew as they headed toward the distress message.
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