Battle of Ascension

Helios, middle level. Beneath layer upon layer of Ritual Seals, flames burned within a cramped camp. The alchemists stood expressionlessly around the bonfire, silently watching the flickering light.

In the ever-thickening darkness, this was their only comfort.

The only lighthouse amid countless nightmares.

But from the darkness beyond the firelight came the sudden sound of footsteps, like cold rain striking a window on a winter night—low, crisp, and carrying an unsettling chill as they gradually drew closer.

The people by the bonfire raised their eyes, their expressions darkening as they drew their weapons and aimed them toward the source of the footsteps.

Then they saw a glimmer of light flickering in the darkness.

It gradually approached, its outline becoming clearer.

It revealed the appearance of a young man, smiling and waving at them, a wisp of smoke rising from the cigar at the corner of his mouth.

A familiar scent drifted over.

In that instant, there came faint sounds of relief.

Only one person still held a knife.

"Izzy, you're late."

"Ahahaha, sorry. I ran into an old acquaintance on the way and stayed to chat for a bit. Before I knew it, I lost track of time."

Izzy patted his head and studied their expressions, looking increasingly pleased. "You all look quite spirited. Congratulations, congratulations!"

He stopped outside the boundary of the ritual and did not come any closer.

He merely smiled as he examined those familiar faces.

The elderly Egyptian woman, Ema; Valery, the Metallurgy Master from the Russian Federation... and finally, the trembling Raziel!

"Hm?" Izzy asked curiously. "Where's Huai Shi?"

Raziel's expression twisted as he replied coldly, "He's dead!"

"Is that so? What a pity."

He shrugged regretfully, then gave Raziel a meaningful look. "Then how did you escape?"

"..."

For an instant, Raziel's expression changed.