The tremors from the Gate of the Forgotten had finally subsided. For now. But the air remained thick, charged with an unseen force. The S-Rank team stood like statues, their presence overwhelming. Ethan’s team, despite their B-Rank status, refused to back down. Two forces. Two different approaches. And the gate stood between them—a ticking bomb waiting to go off. The Dispute Begins Veylan Stormrider’s cold silver eyes scanned the group before him. “You’ve done well reaching this far,” he said, his tone measured, unwavering. “But your part in this is over.” Kara scoffed. “Oh, I’m sorry—did we call for backup?” Kaela Ravencrown, the Arcane Executioner, let out a short laugh. “No,” she said simply. “But you should have.” Leah clenched her fists. “The last team sent here disappeared. You think we’re just going to leave and hope you don’t meet the same fate?” Darius Ironheart, the Unbreakable Guardian, crossed his arms. “If we fail, there’s nothing left for you to stop.” Ethan felt a cold weight in his chest. They weren’t wrong. These six were the strongest adventurers alive. But that didn’t mean they understood the true danger. Because Ethan knew something they didn’t. He had felt it through his mark. The thing behind the gate—whatever it was—wanted him there.

  Ethan took a step forward. “No.” The S-Ranks turned their attention to him. He met Veylan’s steel-hard gaze and continued. “We’re not leaving.” Razik Thornfang, the Phantom Slayer, raised an eyebrow. “That’s bold.” Ethan exhaled sharply. “You don’t know what’s behind this gate. You don’t know what’s waiting.” Orin Blackthorn, the Arcane Juggernaut, smirked. “And you do?” Ethan’s mark pulsed under his shirt. “I do.” Veylan’s eyes narrowed. “Explain.” Ethan clenched his fists. “It’s not just a seal. It’s a prison. And it wasn’t made by the System.” Silence. Even Lira Moonveil, the Celestial Healer, looked taken aback. Kaela tilted her head. “That’s a hell of a claim.” Ethan didn’t waver. “This thing—it’s older than the System. Older than our world.” The words felt heavy, as if someone else was speaking through him. The visions he’d seen. The ancient battle long before the System descended. The figures in black robes. The final survivor sealing the gate. He could still hear the whispers. “Come closer.” “You already know what must be done.” Ethan’s heart pounded. If the S-Rank team failed— If they didn’t understand what they were dealing with— It was over. Not just for them. For everyone.

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  Veylan studied Ethan for a long moment. The other S-Ranks remained silent. Then— “You’re certain?” His voice was calm, yet edged with something dangerous. Ethan nodded. Veylan turned to his team. “What do you think?” Darius grunted. “If the kid’s right, then brute force won’t be enough.” Kaela sighed. “Much as I hate to admit it… we don’t know what’s behind that gate.” Lira’s golden eyes flickered toward Ethan’s chest—as if she could sense the mark. “…He’s connected to it,” she murmured. Orin smirked. “Great. So we’ve got a ‘chosen one’ situation?” Razik chuckled. “Wouldn’t be the first.” Veylan exhaled. “Fine.” He looked at Ethan, his gaze sharp. “We’re handling the gate.” “But you’re coming with us.”

  Ethan’s team exchanged glances. Gareth nodded. Leah sighed, gripping her staff. Kara scowled. “If they screw this up, I’m saying I told you so.” Ethan swallowed. This is happening. He was about to fight alongside legends. Against something none of them understood. And if they failed— It wouldn’t just be the city that fell. It would be the entire world.