Chapter 42

Jessica explained. "They are known to operate in the shadows, manipulating countrywide events behind the scenes for their own mysterious purposes. They're rumoured to possess powerful magic"

A mixture of curiosity and concern swirled within Ray. "But what would they want in that dungeon? And why were they in the presence of those mutated monsters?"

Jessica sighed, her voice tinged with frustration. "That's what we need to find out. The anomalies in the dungeon, the powerful monsters, and the presence of the Order of Shadows... it all points to a deeper plot, one that could have far-reaching consequences."

Ray clenched his fists, a determined fire igniting within him. "Then we need to dig deeper, uncover the truth behind their presence, and put a stop to whatever plans they have."

Jessica nodded, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Agreed, Ray. We'll need to gather more information, connect the dots. But we must also be cautious. The Order of Shadows is notorious for their secrecy and their ability to manipulate situations to their advantage. Furthermore, they're very strong."

Ray took a deep breath, his resolve unwavering. "I won't let fear hold me back. I will climb up to a strong enough level and confront them, especially if they did something to the dungeon".

Jessica placed a hand on his shoulder, a gesture of unwavering support. "That's why I believe in you, Ray. Your connection with mana and your unwavering spirit make you a force to be reckoned with. We'll face this challenge head-on. Together."

As they approached his home, Ray couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. The path ahead was fraught with danger, uncertainty, and the enigmatic presence of the Order of Shadows. But he was determined to forge ahead, to uncover the truth, and to harness the true potential of his mana in the face of adversity.

The next day, Ray met up with Kevin at their favourite café. As they sat at a corner table, sipping their drinks, a sense of unease lingered in Ray's mind. He couldn't help but feel that Kevin had something to share, something about the dungeon and the Order of Shadows.

"So, Ray," Kevin began, his voice casual yet filled with hidden intent, "that dungeon you were talking about yesterday... it must have been quite an experience."

Ray nodded, taking a sip of his coffee, his eyes fixed on Kevin. "Yeah, it was intense. Mutated monsters, cloaked figures with that strange rune on their backs... It felt like we were caught in something bigger than ourselves."

Kevin's eyes narrowed ever so slightly, his gaze focused on Ray. "Indeed, dungeons like that don't just happen randomly. There's usually more to it than meets the eye."

Ray leaned forward, curiosity brimming in his eyes. "What do you mean, Kevin? Do you know something about the Order of Shadows?"

Kevin's lips curled into a subtle smile, a hint of mystery in his voice. "Let's just say the Order has a way of getting involved in matters that are... significant. They have a knack for being at the right place at the right time, or perhaps the wrong place at the wrong time, depending on how you look at it."

Ray's brow furrowed as he tried to decipher Kevin's words. He had always known Kevin to be insightful, but his cryptic remarks added another layer of intrigue.

"What are you trying to say, Kevin?" Ray asked, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and caution.

Kevin leaned back in his chair, his eyes scanning the room briefly before returning to Ray. "I've heard whispers, you know. Whispers about the Order's involvement in secret operations that have benefited the country. They may operate in the shadows, but some believe their actions, while questionable, serve a greater purpose."

Ray's mind raced, contemplating the possibilities. The Order of Shadows, shrouded in secrecy, their motives and objectives obscured from the public eye. Could there be more to their actions than meets the eye? Could they truly be working towards the betterment of the country, even if their methods were unorthodox?

"But Kevin," Ray said, his voice tinged with scepticism, "what about their presence in that dungeon? What could they possibly want there? Why would they attack us?"

Kevin leaned forward, his expression serious. "I wish I had all the answers, Ray. The truth is elusive, especially when it comes to the Order of Shadows. They are a formidable entity with their own agenda. Maybe they sought to prevent something worse from happening, or maybe they have their own ulterior motives. We can't be certain."

Ray sighed, his thoughts swirling in a mix of confusion and determination. The dungeon anomalies, the mysterious Order of Shadows, and the questions that plagued his mind seemed insurmountable. But deep down, he knew he couldn't simply turn a blind eye.

"I can't ignore the dangers we faced in that dungeon," Ray said, his voice resolute. "But I also can't blindly trust the Order. I need to find out the truth for myself and uncover their intentions."

Kevin nodded, a glimmer of admiration in his eyes. "You've always had a strong sense of justice, Ray. Just remember, not everything is as it seems. Trust your instincts but be cautious."

The duo continued to talk before Ray's phone buzzed. It was Jessica.

"Hello Jessica?" Ray asked.

"Jessica? Who's Jessica?" Kevin asked.

Ray muted the phone quickly and said "Steele."

"Jessica Steele?!" Kevin asked wide eyed.

Ray indicated for him to calm down before he unmuted the phone.

Kevin smiled slyly before leaving Ray in the café alone.

"Another dungeon?" Ray asked. He proceeded to tell her his location.

Half an hour later, she picked him up and began to drive to the dungeon.

"Why don't you buy a car, you always make me carry you around." Jessica huffed.

"Monetary problems" Ray shrugged.

"Still?" I've only been in 3 good dungeons, and I've only been paid for 2.

"The last dungeon We went to, I gave YOU all the profits. That was $15,000. Where did it go?" Jessica chased.

"Debt" Ray shrugged.

The two continued this back and forth all the way until they arrived at the dungeon.