Chris led the Elite 7 toward the gate. The closer they got, the more the air seemed to hum with energy, a vibration that resonated deep in their bones.
They stopped at the threshold, staring in awe at the swirling oval of pink particles that hovered like liquid light. Each particle pulsed with a rhythm that seemed almost alive, spinning in patterns that defied logic.
"So, folks," he began, gesturing toward the swirling gateway, "this is what we call a gate. As you can see, it is a pink one—the lowest level. As long as you have a little combat training, you should be able to at least survive this dungeon."
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{You humans are really naive} Primo's voice rang in Leo's head.
'Huh....why do you say so?'
{You are underestimating how grave dungeons are. Irregardless of the dungeons power level there is still a possibility of death.}
'Really?'
{Yes, even if your power level is enough to sweep through the dungeon solo you still have to be careful. One moment you let down your guard thinking you are the apex predator the next....you are gone}
Leo's eyes widened at Primo's declaration. If Primo was being real here, then this means that being in a dungeon, regardless of your power level, is like having a knife looming over your head. You tilt your head a little to the wrong side and it just might fall. Just the thought of it sent a shiver through his spine.
Max looked at Chris with a resolved expression, his puppy-dog eyes wide. "Uncle Chris, please, can we—"
He didn't get to finish before Chris cut him off resolutely. "No."
"Oh, c'mon," Max insisted, leaning forward. "You said it yourself—it's just the lowest level. We would survive. And… although we haven't had any formal training, we are the cream of the crop!"
Chris's gaze hardened. "That's exactly why I can't let you enter. If anything happens to you seven, it would be a disaster for this city."
Ray, from the side, added, "It's not like we're going in alone."
"Besides," Max pressed on, "even though we haven't had real combat, we all have some practice in martial arts. We'd be able to manage."
Chris shook his head, still firm. "Still…"
"Please?" Theo pleaded, with a rhapsodized expression.
The boys were determined, and even the two girls standing beside them seemed hooked by the idea. Chris let out a long sigh, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Fine," he said at last, voice tinged with reluctant approval, "but you will stay close to me and follow my instructions—no deviations. Understood?"
The group responded in perfect unison: "Yes, sir!"
Chris's worried lineaments softened into a smile, watching their eager faces. For all his caution, he couldn't help but feel a small spark of amusement at their enthusiasm.
"Good," he said, gesturing toward the swirling pink portal. "Then let's get moving. Stay sharp."
As they approached the gate, the particles shimmered with a welcoming pulse, almost as if the portal itself recognized their resolve. The adventure was about to begin.
-----
Leo took a deep breath. He is about to finally enter a dungeon and although they are not really going to do anything but look around a bit, it's still a large step taking towards his goal of becoming supreme.
Chris led the students, he entered first, the rest followed, with Leo bringing up the rear. As Leo entered, the portal brightly glowed brighter for a split second and returned to it's former state. Unfortunately no body saw that, and we are yet to know if it is a benison or an anathema.