Chapter 3: The Blood Legion’s March

---Two Years Later---

Inside the grand halls of the Crimson Palace, a sea of warriors stood assembled before their leader. Their armor gleamed under the dim torchlight, a chaotic mix of old-world weaponry and futuristic killing machines—swords and spears side by side with plasma blades and microwave rifles. At the head of the room, standing tall and exuding an aura of raw dominance, was a man with burning red hair and eyes like smoldering embers.

"We are gathered here today to discuss the continuous attacks by the Golden Tribes." His voice was deep, steady, and powerful. "They have taken our lands, slaughtered our people, and dared to challenge the might of the Blood Legion. If they think we fear them, they are fools!" His eyes burned brighter. "I order you all—wipe them from existence. I do not want a single Golden Tribe beast alive by this time next year. Let the world remember who we are! Let them remember the Blood Legion!"

A chilling silence filled the air before a manic wave of excitement spread through the soldiers. Smiles twisted into crazed grins, their hunger for battle apparent. As one, their voices thundered through the palace:

"YES, MY LORD!"

"You are dismissed," the red-haired leader commanded, his tone final.

As the army exited in synchronized movements, the man's gaze shifted toward the far end of the chamber. "I know you're listening. Get ready. This will be your first battle."

From the shadows of a balcony above, a red-haired boy leaned against the railing, his arms crossed. A grin spread across his face, his crimson eyes glimmering with enthusiasm. Finally, a chance to leave the cursed mansion. A chance to fight.

As Reed turned to leave, another figure emerged from the darkness of the chamber. Cloaked in black, his entire being was a void, as if the very light around him refused to touch his form. Even his eyes were an abyssal black, devoid of emotion.

The red-haired man didn't turn to face him. "Dark Shadow, you know what to do."

The shadowy figure bowed slightly. "Yes, my leader."

Reed returned to his room, a rare smile lingering on his face. Finally… I can have fun. I can get out of this damned mansion. He sat on his bed and stretched his arms before flicking his wrist. A sleek, futuristic watch glowed to life, projecting a translucent screen in the air before him. A series of urgent news reports scrolled across the display:

{A mersea creature has appeared on the coastline of the Berkes Union. The forces of the Union, led by one of the Thirty Overlords, Edward Berkes, managed to repel the monster and chase it into the Sea of Mystery.}

{The leader of the Iron Country and the Thousand-Bodied King have formed an alliance to launch an attack on Zone Eight, with the support of the Rose Islands.}

{Several territories under the control of the Crimson Clan and the Thunder Sect have been attacked by the Golden Tribe. Karaju Island has been completely annihilated, with over two million lives lost.}

{The people of Tart welcomed their monstrous master, Asher, with grand celebrations spanning their entire continent.}

Reed's eyes darkened at the last report, but he quickly turned his attention elsewhere. "Show me the information on the Golden Tribe."

A detailed hologram of a massive golden insect materialized before him. Its long, whip-like tail glowed faintly, pulsing as if alive. Eight curved horns protruded from its head, forming a terrifying crown of death.

A robotic voice echoed from the watch: "The Golden Bug Beast is classified as a Level 4 threat. It originates from the Southern World and sustains itself by absorbing living creatures through its tail. Historically, this species has attempted to invade human civilization multiple times but was successfully repelled. However, recent reports indicate a drastic increase in their power level. Its threat level has been adjusted twice in the past decade. There is growing evidence suggesting the emergence of a Level 6 Monster King within their ranks."

Reed's expression didn't change as he absorbed the information, but deep within him, something stirred. A strange sensation crawled up his spine, not of fear—but of longing. He could almost see it: himself locked in battle against this monstrous force, standing on the edge of life and death. The thrill, the struggle, the dance between hunter and prey.

His lips curled into a smirk. It seems I need to refine my skills… so I can control the battlefield. No—I need to master my abilities… so I can enjoy the hunt.