There were still about two weeks remaining before the battle phase of the Dominion Skirmish began. Atlas intended to make the most of this ti by tackling another quest from his new Class, while simultaneously pushing everyone to reach level 50.
With most combatants averaging level 50 or higher, this would significantly enhance the potential strength of both him and his overall forces.
In addition, Atlas had already begun recruiting through the Gateway Altar, aiming to expand his total combatants count even further. If he could field 100 combatants for the battle phase, it would undoubtedly give him a considerable advantage.
And one more thing, Atlas once again received reinforcents from a mysterious benefactor, Luna of the Celestial Vanguard.
After asking around, Mira explained that Luna and Ember had already visited them twice. This was the second ti they had provided aid to Atlas.
But who were they?
According to Edrik’s assessnt, this lord seed to be offering support, either out of goodwill or as a ans to explore the potential for an alliance in the future.
Intriguing...
Perhaps Atlas should consider reaching out to this lord, if only to express his gratitude, and possibly uncover their true intentions.
[Quest 2: "The Eye of the Storm"]
[Objective: Navigate through a path filled with fierce winds, lightning strikes, and storm-enhanced creatures.]
[Location: A stormy open terrain.]
[Challenges:]
[- Navigate wind and lightning hazards.]
[- Use elental control to stabilize pathways.]
Following that, his second quest presented yet another challenge, this ti requiring him to complete the task in a uniquely demanding environnt. Fortunately, this ant they no longer needed to return to Flare Peak and could instead move on to explore a new area.
Atlas and Edrik began scanning the region surrounding their island, searching for a location better suited to the requirents of the quest.
One thing had beco increasingly clear since the Dominion Skirmish island selection phase began, their island, Gacha Haven, was now moving at a noticeably faster pace than before. Its trajectory was shifting eastward, steadily carrying them into other territories.
If this continued, it was possible that by the ti the Dominion Skirmish concluded, they might find themselves near an entirely new continent.
"This one seems the best choice, My Lord," Edrik said, pointing to the floating screen.
Atlas leaned in, reading the details of the floating island, Celesthollow.
He nodded slowly and expanded the information for a closer look.
The island was enormous, boasting a unique and varied landscape. At its heart lay a massive lake that dominated much of the terrain. Surrounding the lake were towering mountain ranges, expansive forests, and drier regions scattered across the outer areas.
"The area around here," Edrik began, "should have stronger winds, which makes it an excellent fit for your quest."
"Yes, this is a good choice," Atlas agreed. "And with the large lake, it’ll also give Zefyros a chance to showcase his skills."
With that, the decision was made.
Atlas brought nearly all the island’s inhabitants with him, leaving only the autonomous Golems and a handful of workers behind to keep essential operations running. With the island under protective wards from the system, leaving it temporarily unoccupied was a secure and calculated choice.
**
They landed on a wide, rocky plain dotted with patches of dry grass, right on the edge of the vast lake that stretched out before them. Even at ground level, the wind was strong, pushing against them with force. It was clear that at the higher elevations, the gusts would be even fiercer.
"We’ll set up camp here," Edrik instructed.
Without hesitation, the combatants and workers got to work, setting up the campsite and preparing for their stay. Since they planned to remain on the island for several days, returning to Gacha Haven during this period would only waste valuable ti.
Edrik stepped up beside Atlas, who stood quietly at the lake’s edge, gazing at the vast expanse of water.
"I’m sure Zefyros will enjoy himself in a lake this size," Edrik said with a small nod.
Atlas smirked. "Zefyros, go ahead and play."
A burst of water infused with crackling electricity erupted, and Zefyros erged, his large, expressive eyes glinting with excitent. The spirit beast landed on the ground with a splash before sprinting toward the lake.
"This floating island," Edrik began, "is accessible to both Rank-1 Seekers and Rank-2 Scouts. The level range here is from 50 to 100, but we may also encounter monsters exceeding level 100."
"That’s good," Atlas replied. "Everyone needs to focus on reaching at least level 50 as quickly as possible."
"Understood. I’ll handle everything."
Edrik returned to the others, promptly taking charge of his assigned tasks.
anwhile, Kurogasa, as usual, took on the role of scout. Without a word, he vanished from sight, heading out to explore the island.
Atlas lingered at the lakeside, inhaling the crisp, refreshing breeze. The cool wind carried a sense of calm that seed to revitalize him without his conscious realization.
Life in Gacha Haven had beco increasingly pleasant over ti. The island had grown larger and more vibrant, with lush grass and serene areas for relaxation. Yet, no matter how improved it was, the island still felt confined, its size limiting its potential.
That was why winning a new island in the next Dominion Skirmish was so crucial. Securing more territory would significantly expand his resources and opportunities.
If Atlas could claim an island as vast as this Celesthollow for example, the island he currently stood, the possibilities for growth would be imnse.
Of course, a larger island would co with its own challenges. He would need more defensive structures and an increased number of troops to ensure proper security. However, the trade-off was worth it. A spacious island ant they wouldn’t all be cramd into the sa small area, forced to see the sa faces day and night.
The idea of spreading out and enjoying the freedom of a larger domain was a tantalizing prospect.
Atlas was still equipped with the Mountain Leaper Bands, a bracelet that let him leap to incredible heights, and draped in the Mana Glider Cloak, which allowed him to float briefly in the air.
Now, standing at the lake’s edge, he steadied himself, preparing to gain a vantage point from above.
Lyrassa and Mira quietly stepped up beside him, each taking a place at his side.
"My Lord..." Mira chid sweetly. "I’m sooo happy... This place is beautiful! The sky slls like dreams, and the wind feels like it’s tickling my fur..."
Then, with a tiny giggle, she added, "Imagine if we could fill an island this biiig with nothing but fluffy carrots. I’d never stop hopping!"
Atlas turned toward her with a quiet chuckle and gently ruffled her hair. "Let’s see if we can win ourselves a new island in the next battle, okay?"
Mira’s eyes lit up. "Yes! And if bad people get in the way, I’ll just go snip-snip and squish-squish! I’ll make them go all pop like berry jelly!"
Atlas couldn’t help but grin at the contradiction, only Mira could make carnage sound like a bedti lullaby.
"Well then," he said, rolling his shoulders and glancing up. "Let get a proper look at this island first."
He crouched low, muscles taut, a glint of anticipation in his eyes. The ground cracked faintly beneath him as he summoned the strength in his legs.
In the next instant, he launched himself skyward with explosive force, soaring into the air like an arrow loosed from a bow.
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