The night had passed quietly. As the sun rose and cast its warm light across the land, the soldiers were already preparing to move out.
Their destination was Zone 5 — the very heart of the Aether Empire. Orders had come, and they were to report there for a special mission.
Renald and the others were once again in their standard black uniforms. The representative of Zone 12 came to see them off, offering a short farewell before they boarded their armored vehicles.
Engines roared, and the convoy rolled forward.
The journey from Zone 12 to Zone 5 was much calmer than before. The closer they got to the center of the Empire, the safer the lands became.
Within 400 miles of Zone 5, there was rarely any monster activity. It was secure territory — the Empire made sure of that.
Inside the vehicles, soldiers chatted to pass the time. Some tried guessing what kind of mission awaited them.
Others talked excitedly about the commanders — especially Sophie and Sarah.
