722 Chapter 722 Entering The Nest
Francus and Grigor, their adrenaline pumping after accepting the Eldrenath mission, strode confidently towards the Celestial Transportation office. The Celestial Platoon prided itself on its extensive network of shuttles and portals, accessible to all members for their official duties. No need for grimy cargo ships or unreliable mounts here.
"Alright, Grigor," Francus said, cracking his knuckles, "let's see what kind of demon feast we're in for at Eldrenath. I hear these ruins are chock-full of foul beasts."
Grigor, ever the cautious veteran, rolled his eyes. "Francus, we'll figure it out once we get there. Remember, scouting comes first, bravado after."
They entered the bustling transport office, its holographic displays flickering with departure times and destination routes. A friendly operator greeted them with a smile. "Good morning, warriors! Where might you be off to today?"
"Eldrenath, ruins sector," Grigor replied, handing her their identification tokens. "Official Celestial Platoon mission."
The operator's eyes widened slightly. "Eldrenath, eh? That's a tough one. Are you sure you're—"
"We're good," Francus interjected, a grin flashing beneath his helmet. "Heard whispers of some particularly nasty demons nesting there. Just the kind of challenge we crave."
The operator chuckled, impressed by their enthusiasm. "Very well. You're in luck. We have a transport leaving for Eldrenath in ten minutes. Hop on board, and good luck with your extermination."
"Wait a minute! Aren't you the two the ones that survived against the demons' ambush?"
"Oh, the news spread fast."
"Everyone is talking about the ambush for weeks. It's incredible that you two survived."
Francus smiled. "Even we don't understand how we are still alive. But after that event, I never feel a stronger urge to kill a demon."
The operator nodded at him. "That's the spirit." The initial posting of this chapter occurred via N0v3l.B11n.
Moments later, Francus and Grigor found themselves aboard a sleek, silver shuttle, hurtling towards Eldrenath. The bustling cityscape receded into a dizzying blur as they pierced the atmosphere, the desolate remains of the Eldrenath ruins looming on the horizon.
"Those certainly look like forsaken ruins," Francus remarked, peering through the observation window. "Grim and desolate, perfect for demon scum."
Grigor grunted, adjusting his rifle. "Don't underestimate them, Francus. This isn't some tavern brawl. Demons can be unpredictable, cunning... and messy."
Francus leaned back, a playful glint in his eyes. "Oh, I wouldn't have it any other way, Grigor. A little challenge keeps life interesting, wouldn't you agree?"
"What do we do now?" Francus never encountered this situation before.
"I read the guideline, and in this situation, we are supposed to report back." Grigor considered his option.
"What's inside the portal anyway?" Francus approached it.
"Don't get too close to it. The portal is connected to demon realm."
Francus immediately retreated and warily observed the portal. He even readied his weapon just in case any demon popped out.
"Anyway, let's leave this place. It's too dangerous to stay here." Grigor turned around.
Just as they were about to leave, they were startled by a distant yet desperate voice echoing through the crumbling stones. "Help... please, someone!"
Francus was puzzled and wondered if he heard that right. "Did you hear that, Grigor?"
He did not reply.
'Weird,' Francus thought.
Francus turned around again, about to leave, until an ethereal image of a woman flickered on the surface of the pulsating portal.
"Help me! I'm trapped in the demon realm," the spectral figure pleaded before vanishing, leaving an air of tension in its wake.
Francus, nervous yet intrigued, looked at Grigor. "Did you see that?"
Grigor's eyes widened, and he staggered back. "Elena! That was Elena's voice. I'm coming for you!" Without a moment's hesitation, he rushed toward the portal, fueled by a surge of determination and concern.
Francus hesitated, torn between the eerie unknown of the portal and his loyalty to his comrade. "Grigor, wait! We don't know what's on the other side."
But Grigor, consumed by his urgency to rescue the mysterious Elena, didn't heed the warning. With a determined roar, he plunged into the portal, disappearing from sight.
"For the holy soul of the Emperor!" Francus, left with no choice but to follow his fellow warrior, steeled himself and entered the portal.