The spaceship hovered above the teleportation point leading to Dragon Rearing Mountain. Everyone stood on the deck, gazing at the serene surroundings. The atmosphere around Dragon Rearing Mountain felt peaceful, especially the distant forests near the teleportation point—steady and majestic. Standing on the ship, they absorbed the tranquil aura, feeling detached from the mundane world. Their minds grew clear and serene. Illusionary Feather, in particular, felt a familiar pang, as if he’d returned to those days training with the old man deep in the wilderness.

As the ship neared the ancient structure housing the Teleportation Array, Belka signaled for descent. Avira, who had slipped back to the control room unnoticed, guided the ship down smoothly. The others began their tasks. Since they couldn’t enter Dragon Rearing Mountain, they’d search the outskirts for signs of intruders.

Only Illusionary Feather, Blazing Heart, and Belka remained at the bow. Koya had vanished silently, back to her beloved engine room. Belka frowned slightly, scanning below. Nothing seemed amiss, yet unease lingered. Illusionary Feather had noticed it earlier but stayed silent. Blazing Heart’s usually blank face now flickered with subtle disgust since approaching the teleportation point—a quiet discomfort radiating from her.

All three sensed the discordant aura below. Curious, they glanced at each other, breaking the silence.

"Sister Belka," Illusionary Feather turned, catching her furrowed brow. "Do you feel something... mixed in here too?"

"Hmm. This place isn’t as peaceful as it seems," Belka admitted.

"I feel it too. Not sure what it is, but my body rejects it instinctively." Illusionary Feather held back one detail—the aura felt faintly familiar. But unsure of Belka’s thoughts, he kept it to himself.

Blazing Heart watched their expressions, understanding dawning. She turned back to the ancient structure, her own brow creasing slightly.

Belka nodded firmly at Illusionary Feather’s words. "Be careful out there. I don’t know how strong you are, little brother, but I’d hate to see you hurt."

Illusionary Feather blinked, startled by her sudden concern, then nodded silently.

Their talk ended as the ship touched down.

After landing, Belka headed straight to the control room. She briefed Avira on the unsettling aura—and that Illusionary Feather sensed it too. Avira was surprised but didn’t dismiss it; as Level Nine operatives, their instincts rarely erred. This mission was more complex than expected. To avoid panic, they kept it secret. Both agreed Illusionary Feather wouldn’t lie. With the ship grounded, it was time to assign tasks. They exited the control room together.

Illusionary Feather and Blazing Heart had already disembarked, starting a preliminary sweep.

With Illusionary Feather, Blazing Heart, and the elusive Koya absent, the remaining six gathered for a quick briefing. Their goal: search the area for clues about intruders using the Teleportation Array to enter Dragon Rearing Mountain.

Seated together, Belka spoke first. "We’re here to find those who entered Dragon Rearing Mountain, uncover their method, and learn their purpose."

Nods all around. Belka continued, "First, we search for evidence of their identity. We’ve been here before, but the terrain is unfamiliar. I propose splitting into teams. Thoughts?"

Silence hung briefly. Avira stood. "I agree. But this area is vast. Constantly returning wastes time. Each team should camp in the forest overnight. And avoid summoning dragons—no unnecessary risks."

No objections. Teams formed with seniors leading juniors: Avira, Misa, and Sophia as one group; Lily, Kerdelin, and Misha drew lots. Belka, as captain, would stay at base.

Teams finalized: Avira with Kerdelin, Misa with Misha, Sophia with Lily.

The six lined up. Belka handed each team a communicator—the device crafted by Illusionary Feather and Koya. Seniors led each squad; even Misa, though seemingly unreliable, had solid experience.

Belka warned, "Withdraw immediately if danger arises. I’ll send Illusionary Feather to assist if needed."

At his name, the group realized two or three members were missing—no one was sure exactly who.

Meanwhile, Illusionary Feather and Blazing Heart had entered the corridor of the ancient structure housing the Teleportation Array. Scattered debris littered the floor. Illusionary Feather’s brow tightened. He pressed deeper; after just one visit, he knew this place intimately—thanks to his uncanny observational skills.

As they neared the central hall, the ominous aura thickened. Ordinary people might ignore it, but both felt its growing weight.

They advanced further—until Illusionary Feather’s communicator buzzed. Answering it, he heard Belka’s order to return. Curiosity burned, but he had no choice. He turned to leave.

Behind him, in the hall’s shadows, tendrils of black aura seeped out—like the breath of an awakening demon.