Dark Magus Returns

Himmy had done as he stated; he had returned to the large mushroom base of Alter that was placed in the middle of a valley, between the three factions.

After returning, he did his usual filling in his reports and as expected, they wanted some more direct information from him.

Which was why he needed to visit one of the Programmers to inform them of everything that was going on.

Currently, Himmy was sitting in a dark floored room with single lights that were available here and there. He was sitting at a large desk that was lit up in a light blue color opposite one of the Programmers who had both of their fingertips touching.

"Based on all the information we have gathered, we have come to the conclusion that this matter does not relate to the incidents that have occurred before this. However, we are afraid as of this moment we have no way to progress further."

Himmy was quite relieved. He thought that they might get in trouble for interfering with the natural world of Pagna a little too much.

At times it felt like Alter really cared for what they did, and others they would just toss them aside.

"Then what is the next task for our squad?" Himmy asked.

The Programmer started to move his hands on the table, and files were moving left and right until he eventually stopped.

"As of this moment, we think it's best if you just remain on standby with your team. We still believe that this matter is quite an important one and could be related to an item that is at least at the Legendary or God level."

"Right now, our agents are spread thin, but this is of such importance to us we might need to call you at a moment's notice. If you wish to continue your duties as you have been doing, that would be for the best."

Himmy noticed something about the Programmer's words; he had revealed the importance of the mission to him? It made him wonder if these words were said on purpose, or just because the Programmer was fairly new.

But now he had an idea why they had been on this task for so long. An item that had the ability to kill at such a high level.

God-level items would certainly involve higher Alter members if it was to come to it. If anything, the task being left to their lowly team was a bit of a red flag, but perhaps it was just because they were to look into matters.

"Things are also getting a bit dangerous for me; can I request a bit more firepower for the future? And more ammunition." Himmy asked.

Once again, the Programmer flicked his finger on the tables a few times, and part of the table lit up green.

"Your request has been granted, please go ahead and collect them when you are free."

Himmy stood up from his seat with a smile on his mouth. Right now, his current task was as close to a break as he could get.

When this happened, he often allowed his members to continue to do as they wished, and would only contact them when needed.

He was sure the others would be happy with this as well.

---

Somewhere in the Dark Faction, a city existed right by a large river. There was a large bridge that crossed two areas and it was flourishing with markets and trade.

The city had a great amount of wealth, and the wealthiest of individuals who lived in the Dark Faction would often stay at this city.

It was one that belonged to the Moon Shield Clan. The clan had started in the city that was given the name Moon city.

No one knew which came first, but everyone knew the name. Because once a month when the moon shined brightest it lit up the river, making it a beautiful scene for all to see.

The Moon Shield Clan being one of the top clans also had control of many of the portals in the area, one of the portals in question being a middle stage portal.

Something that the clan used frequently to improve their strength while also obtaining higher-level crystals to increase the strength of their warriors.

Off to the side of the city, there was an area that was sectioned off. It was a coliseum of sorts. Once an area frequently used by the Moon Shield Clan, and was once the area where one of the martial arts tournaments was held.

But now, it was mostly barren apart from members of the clan that would stand guard around the side of the coliseum and inside it.

They were covering the area because this was where the middle stage Dimension was currently at.

Inside the dimension, today it was being used by a special guest.

Two members were stuck in a deep thick swamp where thick dark green liquid covered up to their knees. A dark-skinned woman stood back to back with a man that held a large shield.

They were careful until a splash in the water occurred. Standing into the water was a giant serpent body that was winding.

On its face, it opened up spreading out like gills and oddly it had little arms on its serpent-like body.

into the water was a giant serpent body that was winding.

On its face, it opened up spreading out like gills and oddly it had Alba, the leader of the Crimson Crane, went to strike with her swords, but the beast was quick to move, avoiding the attacks.

She tried to move her feet but it was difficult, and then the beast latched twisting around her arm. It opened its face and went down to bite but before it could with her other blade she stabbed it right into the mouth.

At the same time from behind, Tilon was bashing his shield against the same type of serpent, only this one was a bit bigger in size. He hit it again and again but was finding it difficult.

That was until he saw Alba up in the air above, who landed and sliced the beast from behind.

"These middle stage dimensions are tough, and not just because the beasts are stronger, but because the terrain is more difficult as well." Alba explained as she went ahead to get the power stone.

"I heard that in some middle stage dimensions, even an initial stage warrior wouldn't be able to set foot in such a place due to the terrain." Tilon replied. "Which reminds me, why did we choose here? Wasn't there quite a big cost?"

"We chose this city because we can't just stay stagnant, we have to keep improving, and besides, this clan is one that is based on shield techniques like yours. So I think it's a good fit if you can learn something here."

"We might even be able to get materials from the clan if we hunt for them enough. Then the Dark Magus can create you a special shield."

Tilon was looking forward to that. It had been decided that he was next on the list to receive one of the Dark Magus's items.

As Tilon was busy extracting the power stone from the beast, he could see something splash in the water. Another beast was coming straight for his face.

Right as it was about to bite down on his nose, it was grabbed by the neck, and with a crunch blood splattered over his face.

"Rayna!" Alba said, turning around. She could see one of the Neverfall Clan's heirs holding onto the beast's neck, but why was such an important person from the Demonic Faction in the Dark Faction?

"I need your help, I need to find the Dark Magus as soon as possible, it's an emergency!" Rayna claimed.