Life Gallery 32 - First Dungeon Raids

Scene: Dungeon Mid-Term

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – MORNING

Professor Aster stands before the classroom, his usual serious demeanor softened by a hint of excitement as he addresses the students.

Professor Aster "As I announced, your mid-term assignment is a practical one. You will be entering a starting dungeon and writing a report on your experience. I'll go over the rules one more time. You'll form a group of three, and together, you'll face the dungeon's challenges. As Ms. Candice has already explained, in order to cancel the gate and destroy the dungeon, you must locate and break the dungeon stone. However, since this is a controlled environment, teachers are stationed within a special room inside the dungeon. If you reach this room, they'll give you an item symbolizing your dungeon completion. After that, exit with the item. Simple, yes?"

Niko Tavaris raises his hand, a hint of worry in his voice.

Niko Tavaris "Professor, what if we… face real danger during the raid?"

Professor Aster offers a reassuring smile.

Professor Aster "Good question, Niko. The dungeon is closely monitored with cameras and has teachers stationed throughout. There are layers of security to ensure you won't come to any harm. That said, this is still a test of your future profession. Confronting danger is a crucial part of being a hunter, and you should approach it as such."

Briona Silversun speaks up next, her expression thoughtful.

Briona Silversun "But, sir, what about the groups? Each of us has different skills and power levels. If we form groups on our own, there might be an imbalance, and some teams might struggle more than others."

Professor Aster nods, considering her point.

Professor Aster "Another fair question, Briona. But this is part of the challenge. The world outside these walls isn't fair; it's unpredictable. In your career, you won't always have the perfect team. Part of this exercise is adapting to your team's strengths and weaknesses and finding ways to make the best of any situation. Regardless of your group, your task remains the same—defeat the dungeon."

Briona nods, still unsure but accepting his response. Elena Vark raises her hand, her voice a little hesitant.

Elena Vark "And… sir, what if we don't want to be hunters…?"

Professor Aster's face breaks into a grin.

Professor Aster "Good question, Elena. If you'd rather pursue a different path, you're free to write a report about that profession instead of going into the dungeon. But I'd encourage everyone to participate, even if you're unsure. After all, you never know what the future holds."

The class buzzes with whispers and murmurs as students begin to look around, gauging potential teammates. In a corner, Hugo nudges Shizuka and Fenix with a grin.

Hugo "Hey, wanna team up?"

Shizuka (bouncing with excitement) "Sure thing!!"

Fenix (grinning, with a dramatic sweep of his hand) "If you so desire my talents in your team, consider it done~."

As groups start to form, a palpable energy fills the room. The students exchange determined glances, and some share nervous smiles, but each of them knows that in a short while, they'll be stepping into their first real dungeon—an experience that will challenge not only their abilities but their courage and adaptability. The dungeon awaits.

Scene: Dungeon Teams

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – MORNING

Severin Ashford stands at the front of the room, clipboard in hand, eyes scanning over his classmates as he matches skills and personalities for the upcoming dungeon raid.

Severin "Alright, let's start with the first group. Ryuto, Kenjiro, and Arabelle, right?"

Ryuto Yamada is practically bouncing on his feet, buzzing with enthusiasm, while Kenjiro Matsuda stands beside him, arms folded, a slight smirk on his face.

Ryuto "Yep! With my superspeed, I'll be able to dodge anything that comes our way and keep those monsters on their toes."

Arabelle Fairwater chimes in, her voice calm and measured.

Arabelle "I'll cover us with mist—my power can create a thick fog that should give us some cover. It won't make us invisible, but it'll make it harder for the enemies to land direct hits."

Kenjiro, with a slight roll of his eyes, adds with a shrug.

Kenjiro "And I'll throw in my fireballs from a distance. They're not the biggest, but they'll keep enemies at bay."

Severin raises an eyebrow, glancing from Ryuto to Kenjiro with a thoughtful frown.

Severin "Ryuto, you're fast, but speed isn't everything. You're quick to dodge, but one heavy hit could take you out. And Kenjiro… let's be real, your fireballs don't exactly pack a punch."

Kenjiro frowns, crossing his arms.

Kenjiro "Hey, they may be small, but they're accurate. Besides, as long as we're careful, we don't need brute strength, right?"

Ryuto grins and nods.

Ryuto "Yeah! Look, the Jack, Kimhyun has the same weakness, but he uses his speed to dodge. I'll do the same. Trust us, Severin."

After a moment, Severin sighs, relenting.

Severin "Alright, alright. Just make sure you communicate. Cover each other's weak spots."

He moves on to the next group, turning to Kaelen Moretti, Niko Tavaris, and Grigor Uchiha. Grigor cracks his knuckles with a grin, clearly eager to start.

Severin "Kaelen, Niko, Grigor—this setup looks pretty decent. Grigor, I'm guessing you'll be using those earth walls for defense?"

Grigor nods confidently, his voice firm.

Grigor "Absolutely. Earth walls, rock spikes—whatever we need to keep things under control."

Niko's lips curl into a grin as he flexes his arms.

Niko "And I've got tanking covered. With my werebear form and chitin armor, I'll be hard to bring down. It's gonna take more than a few dungeon monsters to crack through that."

Kaelen holds up his bow, the wood polished and strung tight.

Kaelen "I'll back them up from a distance. Arrows can be fired pretty fast, and I'm accurate enough to pick off anything they miss."

Severin nods but gives them a cautionary look.

Severin "You've got good defenses, but… lack of firepower could be a problem. Watch each other's backs and hit hard when you get the chance."

Moving across the room, Severin catches Jaxon Varro and Briona Silversun huddled with Elena Vark, who looks reluctant.

Jaxon "C'mon, Elena! I'm a dwarf, remember? I can tank for us, like Memel Mohrungen from Eagle Step. We just need someone to cover the back."

Elena sighs, brushing her hair back as she glances around uncertainly.

Elena "Honestly, I was hoping to work more on my wind sculpting… I don't even want to be a fighter. I'd rather be a sculptor, an artist."

Briona gently lays a hand on Elena's shoulder, her voice soothing.

Briona "Elena, I get it, but this is a learning experience. You don't have to be on the front lines. Just support us with wind when things get too heated, and we'll handle the rest."

Seeing the hesitation in Elena's face, Severin decides to step in, his tone encouraging.

Severin "Elena, look—you can use this as a chance to experiment. You don't have to throw yourself into the fight. Think of it as research, both for your report and maybe even for some extra credit. Remember how some academics helped out in the second years' midterm exam? They got credit for their work and still made an impact."

After a moment, Elena sighs and relents, giving a faint nod.

Elena "Fine… I'll give it a try. Just don't expect too much from me."

Satisfied, Severin nods and moves on, finally glancing at Hugo, Fenix, and Shizuka, who have already grouped up and look entirely comfortable together. Fenix, grinning as always, places a hand on his chest with mock pride.

Fenix "Ah, my dear cyclops and Sea Witch. Fear not, for the immortal Fenix shall guard you both from any danger. My nigh-indestructible form is better than any shield!"

Hugo chuckles, patting Fenix's shoulder.

Hugo "Good thing, too. If something does get through, at least we've got you to take the hit."

Shizuka smirks, nodding as she adjusts her stance.

Shizuka "Between the three of us, we've got range and resilience. And let's be real—Fenix, you'll probably enjoy every minute of this."

With a proud grin, Fenix nods.

Fenix "As if there was any doubt."

Lastly, Severin turns to his own group with REINA CALDER and ALYSSA KANE. ALYSSA holds up her shield and spear with a fierce glint in her eyes.

Alyssa "I'll handle the front, shield and spear at the ready. Nothing's getting through me."

Severin nods, positioning himself next to her.

Severin "I'll be right behind you, covering with energy beams. And Reina—your circles?"

Reina's eyes sparkle as she gestures to the neatly drawn symbols and runes she's prepared.

Reina "Set up and ready. My magic circles can be used for just about anything—defensive barriers, explosive attacks, healing if needed. We'll be versatile."

Severin gives her a satisfied nod, clearly impressed.

Severin "Alright, everyone, you've got your team. Make sure to watch each other's backs and focus on synergy. The dungeon's a training ground, but that doesn't mean you can let your guard down. Let's make this count."

Scene: Dungeon Entrance

INT. DUNGEON ENTRANCE – DARK, DAMP STONE CORRIDORS

The students stand in a tense huddle as the dungeon entrance closes behind them, casting the stone corridor in eerie, dim light. A strange, musty smell fills the air, thick and damp, and a low, growling noise echoes from the depths.

Suddenly, the shadows ripple. Eyes glint in the dark, then dozens of mad rats—each nearly the size of a large dog, with matted fur and yellowed, jagged teeth—pour from every crevice. Alongside them slither dark, viscous slimes, leaving slimy trails on the ground. The rats' frenzied screeches grow louder as they draw closer, claws scraping against stone, and the students instinctively step back in fear.

Kenjiro (wide-eyed) "This... this is not what I signed up for!"

The first line of rats leaps forward, teeth snapping wildly as the slimes ripple, lurching toward the students. In an instant, Hugo steps forward, his eyes flashing with determination as dark flames flicker from his hands.

Hugo "Everyone, back up! I've got this."

He thrusts out his hand, and the Hellblaze surges forward. His black flames roar to life, twisting into tendrils that coil through the air like living shadows. The flames erupt, turning into a blazing barrier just as the first wave of rats collides with it. Their screeches become piercing wails as the dark flames consume them, the Hellblaze searing through fur and flesh alike.

But the swarm keeps coming, the slimes now flowing over each other in thick waves, forcing their way toward Hugo. They hiss as they reach his flames, parts of their gelatinous forms bubbling and sizzling from the contact.

Shizuka (gasping) "There's too many of them! They're pushing through!"

Hugo's eyes narrow, focusing his Hellblaze into concentrated blasts. With a sharp motion, he swings his arm, sending a whip of black fire slicing through the masses. The flame strikes several of the slimes, splitting them in half, yet still, they try to reform, lurching forward in pieces.

Fenix (smirking) "Nice flames, cyclops. But how about a quick escape?"

Shizuka steps up, her hands moving in fluid, graceful motions. A spiral of water rises beneath her, forming a controlled wave that she skillfully channels forward, carving a clear path through the mass of creatures. With a grin, she extends her hand to Hugo and Fenix.

Shizuka "Grab on, guys—we're surfing out of here!"

The three of them hop onto the wave. Shizuka's water surges through the narrow corridor like a speeding river, carrying them above the snarling rats and sizzling slimes. Hugo keeps his eyes trained on the horde below, releasing bursts of Hellblaze that rain down, leaving a blazing trail in their wake. As they race deeper into the dungeon, the creatures screech and writhe, caught in the path of his dark fire.

Their classmates watch in stunned silence, unable to believe how quickly and seamlessly Hugo, Shizuka, and Fenix have broken through. The Hellblaze scorches the stone floors, leaving blackened scorch marks and filling the air with an acrid scent.

Ryuto (in awe) "Did they just… burn and surf their way down the dungeon?"

Arabelle (whispering) "They make it look easy…"

A renewed sense of urgency spreads through the rest of the class as the monstrous wave continues, more creatures filling the corridor. Severin watches Hugo's team disappear deeper into the dungeon and turns to Alyssa and Reina.

Severin (firmly) "Let's not let them show us up! Alyssa, Reina—time to clear our own path!"

Severin unleashes a burst of bright energy beams, each one slicing through clusters of rats and hitting the slimes with deadly precision. Alyssa raises her shield and spear, charging into the fray with calculated strikes, while Reina's magic circles burst with light, leaving flashes of explosive energy in their path.

The rest of the class, now spurred by the competition, pushes forward, clearing through the dungeon as their classmates ahead carve the way. Together, they move deeper, each team navigating the danger as the sounds of battle echo off the stone walls.

Scene: Bat Caves - Shizuka, Hugo and Fenix group

INT. EXAM DUNGEON 

The trio stands at the mouth of a cave littered with sharp stone spikes jutting from the floor. The cave's high ceilings and long shadows give it an eerie, abandoned feel. Every sound they make reverberates back to them, amplifying their steps and breathing, as if the darkness itself is listening.

Shizuka (peering at the spikes) "I don't think surfing is a good idea here. Those spikes would throw off my control over the water flow. Better to walk."

They step cautiously, Hugo raising a hand to cast a soft glow of black flame around them. The flickering, unnatural light makes the shadows seem to dance, illuminating jagged walls and the occasional glint of stone as they press forward.

Hugo (frowning) "I thought there'd be a lot more monsters... like some big dungeon army swarming everywhere. But this place feels... empty."

Fenix (grinning, shaking his head) "Ah, Cyclops, you've got it all wrong. Places like this are dangerous precisely because they're empty."

Hugo (surprised) "Huh? How does that work?"

Fenix (raising an eyebrow) "Quiet dungeons lull you into dropping your guard. Then, just when you think you're safe, they hit you with a surprise attack. Suddenly, you're surrounded, and it's already too late."

Hugo (shuddering) "Yeesh... that's a terrifying thought."

Shizuka (staying alert, glancing around) "Well, if there are stronger monsters ahead, now's a good time to come up with a plan. So far, we've only faced low-ranking monsters like mad rats. Maybe there's a boss or something waiting for us."

Fenix (teasing, with a playful smirk) "A dragon, maybe?"

Shizuka (amused but firm) "Let's not get carried away. We're not at that level yet, and the school wouldn't throw us into something we couldn't handle."

Suddenly, a faint rustling fills the silence, followed by the unmistakable, rapid flapping of wings. The trio pauses, scanning the darkness as tiny shadows flicker at the edges of Hugo's light.

Shizuka (tensely) "Do you guys hear that?"

Hugo (nods, his grin fading) "Yeah... sounds like something's coming our way."

The flapping grows louder, a chorus of high-pitched screeches piercing the silence as a swarm of Demon Bats descends from the shadows, their crimson eyes gleaming.

Shizuka (alarmed) "Demon Bats!"

Without hesitation, Hugo clenches his fists, channeling the dark flame into a fierce vortex around them.

Hugo (roaring) "Inferno!"

The Hellblaze erupts, forming a swirling barrier of black flame around him and his friends. The Demon Bats screech in agony as they're consumed by the dark fire, their forms disintegrating into ash as they pass through the vortex. The heat crackles around them, and Hugo stands at the center of the inferno, focused and resolute, his black flames dancing like a living shadow around him.

Fenix (whistling, impressed) "Whoa, Cyclops... an S-ranked ability really shines in a place like this. You make it look like child's play."

Hugo (smiling, slightly proud) "Thanks. I've put in a lot of training to get it just right. Figured it would be useful for moments like this."

Shizuka (smiling warmly) "It definitely is. Great job, Hugo."

As the ashes of the bats settle, Hugo lets the flames die down, breathing a bit heavier but still steady.

Hugo (grinning) "So, are we just going to keep pushing through this cave, or...?"

Fenix (eyes lighting up with an idea) "Oh, I've got a better plan. We might be able to find more bats nearby."

Hugo (confused) "Wait, what? Why would we want more bats?"

Fenix (mischievously) "As a vampire, I have an affinity with bats. I could try forming a contract with one, turning it into a familiar. Then it could lead us through this maze."

Hugo (amazed) "That... actually sounds incredible."

Shizuka (nodding) "That could be a huge help! Let's see if we can find some survivors from that swarm."

They press forward, deeper into the cave, their steps echoing as the dark flame flickers around them.

Scene: The Secret Path - Severin, Alyssa and Reina group

INT. EXAM DUNGEON 

The trio stands at the mouth of a cave littered with sharp stone spikes jutting from the floor. The cave's high ceilings and long shadows give it an eerie, abandoned feel. Every sound they make reverberates back to them, amplifying their steps and breathing, as if the darkness itself is listening.

The team, led by Alyssa's shield, pushes through the writhing wave of rats as she moves with practiced, precise steps, her shield acting as a makeshift wall against the biting swarm. Severin, standing just behind, fires off precise blasts of his energy beams, picking off any rats that slip past Alyssa's defense.

Severin (breathing out as the last rat falls) "Well, that's the last one. We're clear for now."

Alyssa (glancing around) "Yeah... but where are Shizuka and her team? We tried to catch up, but they're nowhere in sight."

Reina (calmly, eyes glinting with confidence) "They went left, into the cave."

Alyssa (surprised) "Wait—how can you tell?"

Reina (grinning, enjoying their reactions) "I hacked into the dungeon's surveillance system using magic."

Severin (stunned) "You... hacked the system? I didn't even know that was possible!"

Reina (smirking with satisfaction) "Professor Velorum's magic is a complicated maze, believe me. But I managed to figure it out."

Severin (stunned) "So that's why you didn't help us dealing with the rats…"

Alyssa (slightly worried) "Are we sure that's okay? I mean, isn't it a violation of some rule or something?"

Reina (shrugs, reassuring) "Nope, nothing says we can't. Anyway, here's the good part: Shizuka's team took the wrong path. The fastest way to the dungeon's heart isn't through the left cave but through a hidden passage on the right. It's a route the teachers use to monitor the dungeon."

Alyssa (surprised) "A hidden path? That's incredible, Reina!"

Severin (grinning, feeling the rush of competition) "Reina, you're a genius. Alright, let's move! We've got a lead to keep."

With new determination, the team heads toward the concealed path, picking up speed. Alyssa's shield stays up front, ready for anything, while Severin's energy beams are poised to strike, and Reina, grinning, keeps her senses alert for any changes on the system map. Together, they move with quiet confidence, knowing they now hold an edge in this dungeon race.

Scene: Human Chariot - Ryuto, Kenjiro and Arabelle group

INT. EXAM DUNGEON 

The stone corridor trembled with the echoing screeches of rats, thousands of sharp little claws skittering against the cold floor as they surged forward, a relentless tide of gnashing teeth and glaring red eyes. The three students, backed against a crumbling wall, knew they were running out of time.

Ryuto (steeling himself, crouching low) "Alright, no time to think—grab on tight. I'll pull us through like a chariot, but you guys need to keep the path clear."

Kenjiro and Arabelle exchanged a glance before grabbing onto Ryuto's shoulders, bracing themselves for the ride. Ryuto closed his eyes, steadying his breath, and then sprang into action, launching forward in a blur of movement.

Arabelle (concentrating, casting her hands out) "Mist... surround us!"

A thick, swirling fog billowed around them, spreading out to blanket the corridor. The rats hesitated, thrown off by the sudden concealment, their frenzied movements slowing as they chittered, confused by the clouded vision.

Ryuto (grimacing, pushing through the strain) "Hold on... this won't be a smooth ride!"

As he dashed forward, the ground blurred beneath him, his superspeed carrying them through the swarm. The rats, still disoriented by Arabelle's mist, lashed out blindly, their tiny claws and teeth snapping close, but missing their mark.

Kenjiro, gripping Ryuto tightly with one hand, summoned a series of small fireballs with the other, each one bursting outwards and lighting up the mist like tiny flares.

Kenjiro (focused, tossing fireballs into the thick of the rats) "I've got the ones up front. Just keep moving, Ryuto!"

Each fireball cleared the path for a brief moment, scattering and singeing any rats that dared to lunge into their trajectory. Behind them, the rats regrouped quickly, snapping at their heels, but the trio kept pushing forward, Arabelle's mist shrouding their movement, confusing the relentless horde.

Sweat began to bead on Ryuto's forehead, his breaths coming in rapid gasps as the weight of his friends, combined with the biting fatigue in his legs, started to slow him down. A stray rat lunged forward, latching onto his calf with a sharp bite, but he shook it off, refusing to let the pain stop him.

Arabelle (leaning closer, her voice a calm anchor) "We're close, Ryuto. Just a few more steps. You've got this!"

With a final burst of energy, Ryuto shot forward, his legs blurring as they pushed through the last pocket of rats. Behind them, Kenjiro's fireballs flickered out as the mist thinned, leaving the screeching swarm in their wake. They stumbled into an open space, the rats' shrill cries fading as they pulled to a halt.

Ryuto staggered to his knees, exhausted, his breaths coming in heavy gasps. He was covered in scratches and bites, his clothes torn and stained, but he'd done it—he'd pulled them through.

Ryuto (breathing hard, a wry smile on his face) "Those... rats... they just don't quit."

Arabelle knelt beside him, pulling out a canteen and offering it to him, her eyes filled with gratitude.

Arabelle (gently) "We're quite far from the rats now, let's rest a bit and continue. I brought some potion. Here."

Ryuto (shaking his head, giving her a tired smile) "Thanks, but... let's save our supplies. We don't know what else we might face up ahead."

Kenjiro, catching his own breath, knelt down and took out a first aid kit, already reaching for Ryuto's injured leg.

Kenjiro (firmly) "At least let me patch you up. No point in pushing yourself if you're just gonna fall apart on the next attack."

As Kenjiro carefully cleaned and bandaged the worst of Ryuto's bites and scratches, they began to talk, their voices low but tinged with lingering frustration.

Ryuto (bitterly) "Damn... the class's strongest hunters, all teaming up. We're way behind compared to them."

Arabelle sighed, her gaze drifting as she thought of Shizuka's team.

Arabelle (sadly) "Yeah... Shizuka's team is probably the strongest. Shizuka is the best fighter of our year, Fenix is practically immortal, and Hugo's flames... he could rival some of the royals in raw power."

Kenjiro, finishing the last bandage, nodded thoughtfully.

Kenjiro "Class rep's team is just as strong. Reina is a mage. Her kind is rare so her contribution is probably unique. Severin's energy beam is very strong, even though his control isn't as strong as mine. And Alyssa, she's the only tank with proper martial training in our class, right?"

Ryuto (smiling slightly, teasing) "Still remember your defeat under her, huh?"

Kenjiro (grinning, a glint of admiration in his eyes) "How could I forget? She's relentless, smart… it's a good combo. I almost won that fight but she caught me off guard before I launched my final attack."

Kenjiro finished his patchwork on Ryuto, giving him a reassuring pat on the shoulder as they all stood, ready to continue. In front of them, the path split in two directions, each way winding deeper into the dark labyrinth of the dungeon.

Arabelle (studying the two paths) "Alright... so which way do we go?"

Kenjiro squinted, summoning two small fireballs, which he launched down each corridor. The fireball on the left path quickly fizzled out, dampened by the cool, humid air.

Kenjiro "It's damp on the left—probably Shizuka's team went that way, with her water abilities and all."

Ryuto (curiously) "So, do we catch up with them?"

Kenjiro (shrugging, a hint of mischief in his eyes) "Nah. Let's go straight. I'd rather see what we can find on our own."

Ryuto (grinning, pushing himself back up) "Fine by me. Straight it is. Hop on, both of you... we've got a lot of ground to cover."

With renewed determination, Arabelle and Kenjiro grabbed onto Ryuto once more, and he dashed forward, pulling them down the unexplored path. In the quiet, dim light of the dungeon, they pressed onward, ready for whatever lay ahead.

Scene: The Dome Defense

INT. DUNGEON HALLWAY - ENCLOSED IN GRIGOR'S EARTH DOME

The students huddle together within the stone dome that Grigor has formed, the walls vibrating as the relentless rats claw and scratch at the outside, their frenzied screeches piercing the air. Shadows of the rats are cast through tiny cracks, sending waves of unease through the group.

Elena (tearfully): "Oh no no no no. They're so scary... Rats the size of dogs. I knew I shouldn't have come here!"

Briona (trying to calm her, voice firm but gentle): "Hey, Elena, it's okay. Don't cry. We're going to get through this together."

The dome shudders again, cracks starting to form along its edges as Grigor strains to hold it.

Grigor (grunting with effort): "Ugh... I don't think my dome can hold much longer."

Kaelen (gripping his bow tightly, eyes wide with worry): "My arrows can't handle all of them, and most of us are more versatile than strong... So, what now?"

Briona (urgently, looking to Elena): "Elena... I know this is hard for you, but... without you, we might not make it through this. Please, can you try to do something?"

Elena (still crying, but beginning to steady herself): "I... I can try. If I focus hard enough, I could create a large tornado to tear them apart... But we'll have to move fast, or the rats will close in."

The other students exchange hopeful glances, her words sparking a renewed determination.

Jaxon (grinning): "That's amazing, Elena!"

Elena (through sniffles, nodding as her courage builds): "Grigor... I know we're not in the same team, but... could you try to create a high bridge? If we can get up there, we might have a chance. Kaelen could use his arrows on any rats that try to climb up, while Jaxon and Niko cover us as tanks."

Grigor (with a determined nod): "You got it. Let's do this!"

The dome begins to fracture, pieces of stone crumbling as the rats scratch through.

Elena (squeezing her eyes shut as she raises her hands): "I didn't think... I'd have to do this, but..."

Suddenly, a small hole breaks open in the dome, and immediately, the rats flood in, their yellowed teeth flashing in the dim light.

Elena (screaming): "Terrible Storm!!"

A massive gust of wind bursts from her hands, spiraling into a tornado that roars forward through the hole. The windstorm rips through the horde of rats, sucking them up and tearing them apart in a whirlwind of razor-sharp wind currents. The rats screech in terror as they're lifted and shredded, limbs and fur scattering as Elena's magic carves a path straight through the wave of enemies.

Kaelen (calling out, urgency in his voice): "Grigor, now! Before they regroup!"

Grigor plants his feet, focusing his energy as he raises his arms. With a sharp grunt, he thrusts his hands upward, and the ground begins to rise. A wide, elevated bridge of earth forms, stretching above the remaining rats and providing a pathway to safety.

Jaxon (yelling): "Everyone, run!"

The students sprint across the bridge, hearts pounding, as Kaelen takes position at the rear. He nocks an arrow and starts firing at any rats attempting to scramble up the sides of the bridge, each shot precisely, knocking the creatures back down to the ground below. Jaxon and Niko keep pace along the bridge, shielding the others with their bodies and deflecting any rats that leap too close.

As they reach the other side, Elena releases her spell, the tornado fading into a gentle wind as the rats regroup, squealing in frustration below. She stumbles forward, breathing heavily, her face pale but determined.

Elena (quietly, to herself, a hint of disbelief): "I... I actually did it..."

Briona (smiling, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder): "You did great, Elena. We're safe because of you."

Elena gives a shaky nod, her tears replaced with a newfound confidence as the group regroups on solid ground, ready to continue their journey through the dungeon.

Scene: The End of the Exam

INT. EXAM DUNGEON - SECRET ROOM

The hidden chamber at the heart of the dungeon is dimly lit, with ancient carvings covering the walls. Professor Velorum stands calmly at the center, his arms folded as he observes the students entering. Severin, Alyssa, and Reina are already there, relaxing after their victory. Nearby, Kenjiro, Ryuto, and Arabelle lean against the wall, sharing grins of satisfaction.

Just then, Hugo, Fenix, and Shizuka step through the entrance, their faces lighting up in surprise as they see their classmates.

Professor Velorum (smiling warmly) "Well, well, the third group to reach the end! You did great."

Shizuka (startled, looking around) "Third? But... how? I thought we were the first."

Kenjiro (laughing) "Shocking, isn't it? We couldn't believe it ourselves."

Ryuto (teasing) "Maybe a little extra speed is just what you needed."

Shizuka (sighing, crossing her arms) "Ugh... Professor, what happened? We were the first to dive in, weren't we?"

Professor Velorum (nodding) "Yes, Shizuka, Hugo, Fenix. You three performed exceptionally well. Your team dispatched most enemies with ease and efficiency... but it took time."

Hugo (frowning, slightly confused) "Took time...?"

Professor Velorum "The first group to arrive was Severin, Alyssa, and Reina. They used their heads rather than brute force. Reina figured out how to hack into my surveillance spell and discovered a hidden path—the same path we teachers use to navigate this dungeon."

Fenix (eyes wide in admiration) "Whoa... that's an impressive trick."

Hugo (raising an eyebrow, incredulous) "Wait… that's allowed?"

Reina (smiling, tilting her head innocently) "The rules didn't say it wasn't."

Professor Velorum (smiling, with a mix of pride and warning) "Yes, very clever, Reina. I'm impressed. Just remember—in a real dungeon, tricks like that might not be an option. Always keep multiple strategies in mind."

Reina (bowing her head respectfully) "Of course, Professor."

Professor Velorum (turning to Kenjiro's group) "And then we have Kenjiro, Ryuto, and Arabelle. They chose a different path from Shizuka's group. Rather than engaging every enemy, they avoided unnecessary battles."

Ryuto (grinning) "We ran into a swarm of slimes. They're slow, and Kenjiro's fireballs cut right through 'em."

Kenjiro (nods) "Instead of wasting time in combat, I just cleared a path for Ryuto."

Professor Velorum (nodding approvingly) "Indeed. Ryuto took on the role of a team vehicle, dashing through the dungeon at top speed. Arabelle covered you all with mist to avoid detection, while Kenjiro used his flames to keep close threats at bay. A very efficient, strategic approach."

Kenjiro, Ryuto, and Arabelle exchange proud smiles, while Hugo, still a bit stunned, looks between them, clearly impressed.

Hugo (slightly astonished) "Huh... guess there's more than one way to beat a dungeon."

Professor Velorum (gesturing to the room) "Exactly, Hugo. There's strength in versatility. Today, you all demonstrated that there's more to success than simply charging in and fighting. Remember that as you move forward. And congratulations to all of you—you've each earned your spot here."

Scene: The Last to Come

INT. EXAM DUNGEON – SECRET ROOM

The last group of students stumbles into the room, faces streaked with sweat and clothes torn from the grueling test. They're battered and exhausted, and some look on the edge of collapse. Professor Velorum greets them with a raised eyebrow, clearly amused.

Professor Velorum (smiling, genuinely surprised) "Whoa, you all came together? Didn't think I'd see that."

Elena (voice trembling, her eyes welling up with tears) "We... we finally made it. We're safe!"

As Elena begins to cry, Briona wraps her arms around her in a comforting hug, patting her on the back.

Briona (with a sigh) "We had to push through so many monsters… they were everywhere, practically piled on top of each other."

Professor Velorum (nodding thoughtfully) "Your team—or rather, the combined effort of two teams—was actually quite impressive. Grigor created an earth bridge for you all to run across, while Kaelen and Elena took out the monsters from above. Meanwhile, Jaxon and Niko shielded everyone from anything that managed to slip through your attacks."

Jaxon (grimacing) "I wouldn't call it 'fine,' exactly… Those bats gave us a run for our lives."

Professor Velorum (chuckling) "Well, that's the thing. Your strategy worked for grounded enemies, but flying creatures? They're a different story entirely."

Professor Velorum glances over the weary group, his gaze settling on Elena, who is still recovering from the ordeal.

Professor Velorum (warmly, with a hint of admiration) "Elena, for someone who wants to be a sculptor instead of a hunter, you certainly pulled your weight."

Elena (shyly, looking down) "Thank you, Professor... but my power isn't that strong. It's nothing compared to what others can do… Plus—"

Her voice trails off, and she shudders, the memory of the monsters sending a chill down her spine.

Elena (almost whispering, visibly shaken) "Monsters are so scary… way too scary…"

At that, the room erupts into gentle laughter, the tension breaking as her classmates share knowing smiles. Despite the exhaustion, there's a camaraderie in the air—a shared relief that they've all made it through the trial together.