The secret cave was hidden beneath a dense layer of vegetation, its contours blurred by the mist emanating from the forest.
The stone walls felt cold to the touch, and shadows danced across their surface as a faint light illuminated the space, coming from a small campfire crackling at the center.
The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and a hint of smoke, creating a heavy atmosphere of expectation.
Dante entered the cave with a mischievous smile, his eyes sparkling with a mix of excitement. He felt the adrenaline coursing through his veins, an exhilaration that always accompanied him in moments of uncertainty and danger.
Siren was already there, an imposing and serene figure, her intense gaze fixed on the cave's entrance.
"You're late," she remarked, a smile that bordered on arrogance playing on her lips. "I was beginning to think you'd gotten lost."
"Lost? I was just taking in the scenery," Dante replied, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "But seriously, you really need to show me what you've got. I'm curious about those troops you promised."
Siren nodded, gesturing for him to follow. "Come. I've prepared a few things..."
The cave expanded into an underground hall, with stalactites dripping water and distant echoes creating a sense of vastness.
In the center, a group of werewolves was gathered, their expressions shifting from curiosity to suspicion at the sight of Dante.
He knew that many viewed him as a controversial figure, someone who defied norms and sought power at any cost.
"These are my best warriors," Siren introduced, her voice firm. "If you want to pursue your path of destroying Velkan, you'll need reliable allies."
Dante studied the werewolves, noting their tense postures and evaluating glances. He approached them, a mischievous smile on his lips. "So, who's ready for some fun? How about challenging a certain Alexander Sucellus?"
The mention of the name chilled the atmosphere. Siren noticed the change and turned to Dante, a serious look on her face. "You really want to kill the general? He has power and influence, and his death won't be taken lightly."
Dante let out a low laugh, dismissing her concern. "I'm not after his strength, Siren. I'm seeking a reckoning that's been haunting me for years. If he isn't ready to face the consequences of his actions, that's not my problem."
The werewolves began to murmur among themselves, and one of them, a gray-furred wolf named Ragnar, stepped forward. "You may be strong, Dante, but don't underestimate the enemy's power."
"They failed because they weren't willing to do what was necessary," Dante retorted, his tone growing serious. "Siren," he said, and the atmosphere thickened. "I don't know where you got the idea that he's stronger than me, but just to remind you...
I've been around for over a million years." His eyes glowed red, and the scent of his soul's blood filled the air, causing the werewolves to instinctively cover their noses.
"W-What the hell?!" Siren shouted at him, "stop that!"
Dante watched the werewolves recoil, discomfort evident on their faces. He knew his power was intimidating, but he didn't want to cause panic. Siren stepped closer, her gaze resolute.
Dante chuckled, a glint of challenge in his eyes. "Relax, I'm just warming up! Let's see what these wolves are capable of, shall we?"
"That's it, kid! Now you're heading in the right direction!" Dante encouraged. He made a defensive move, but instead of just blocking, he decided to teach. "Remember to use your weight to your advantage!"
Dante allowed Thorin to attack again, but this time he stepped back slightly, allowing Thorin to build up his momentum. When the strike came, Dante quickly countered, applying just enough force to send Thorin crashing to the ground, but with a lightness that only a true master could achieve.
"Great job!" Dante said, helping Thorin back up. "You have excellent instincts. You just need to believe in yourself more."
The werewolves were having fun now, laughing and chatting among themselves. The initial tension had transformed into a lighter atmosphere, full of camaraderie.
*That bastard... he's using his charisma to win them over...* Siren murmured, watching how Dante was 'entertaining' his troops.
"You're quite excited," she commented, trying to catch his attention.
"And what else could I do? I'm not just a pretty face; I enjoy a little fun," Dante replied, winking at her.
"Tsk," she clicked her tongue.
"Just wait until I start dancing," Dante joked, striking an exaggerated pose. He then turned to the rest of the werewolves. "Anyone else dare to try?"
A group of werewolves began murmuring among themselves, and soon one of them, a white-furred she-wolf named Lira, decided to step forward. "I'll take you on, Dante."
Dante smiled, admiring her courage. "That's what I like to see! Come on, Lira!"
Lira launched a quick spin attack, but Dante was ready. He moved not only to dodge but also to guide her motion, causing her to lose her balance and almost fall. Instead of getting frustrated, Lira used the fall to roll and reposition herself.
"Good! Now you're learning!" Dante shouted, admiring her determination.
The fight continued, and while Lira tried to prove her worth, Dante praised her with each move. He was having a blast, and the rest of the group was too. The camaraderie was blossoming, and the werewolves seemed more united with each passing moment.
After several attempts, Lira finally landed a light strike on Dante, causing him to pause and laugh. "That was good! You definitely have talent!"
The werewolves were now all excited, laughing and encouraging each other. The fight had transformed into a true spectacle, where everyone wanted to participate. Dante was loving every second, feeling like a true leader.
*This is much easier to control them... fufufu,* Dante mused, *The problem with werewolves is that they always follow an Alpha... Even if it's from another race, a Beta recognizes an Alpha... What a limitation, fufufu.*
He chuckled mischievously.
-------
<Author's Note>
Hey, remember to use your Golden Tickets and Power Stones to help the work reach new heights!