The Draconic System: Rise of To Ascendance

Chapter 51: Establishing a Foothold

The underground tunnels stretched further than Raizen had anticipated, winding through layers of forgotten infrastructure beneath the city. Liana led the way, her movements precise and practiced, as if she had used these paths before. The air was damp, filled with the faint scent of rust and decay, but it was better than being out in the open.

After what felt like an hour of navigating twists and turns, Liana finally stopped before an old metal doorway. "Here," she said, placing her palm on a concealed scanner. A faint beep sounded, and the locks released with a mechanical click. The door groaned as it slid open, revealing a dimly lit underground chamber.

Raizen stepped inside, taking in the surroundings. The space wasn't much—just a large room with remnants of old crates, scattered tools, and a few flickering light panels overhead. But it was hidden, and that was all that mattered for now.

"This used to be a supply depot," Liana explained, pulling aside a dust-covered tarp to reveal a stack of old weapons and emergency rations. "Not much, but it's off the grid."

Raizen nodded. "It'll do."

The system pulsed.

[Base Established: Tier F5 - Hidden Underground Bunker]

[Current Condition: Poor - Requires Reinforcement and Resources]

[New Objective: Improve and Fortify the Base]

Raizen smirked. The foundation was set, but there was work to be done.

Liana handed him a small datapad. "I've marked a few locations where we might be able to scavenge supplies. But we'll need to be careful. House Valen isn't the only problem in this city. Gangs, rogue mercenaries, scavengers—they all fight over what little remains."

Raizen glanced over the map, memorizing the key points. "Then we move carefully. We don't just need resources—we need allies."

Liana nodded. "I know someone who might be able to help. She's not the trusting type, but if we approach the right way, she might consider working with us."

Raizen raised an eyebrow. "Who is she?"

Liana smirked. "A weapons dealer. One who isn't exactly on friendly terms with House Valen."

The system pulsed again.

[New Quest Unlocked: Acquire Reinforcements]

[Objective: Seek out potential allies and arm the base]

Raizen stretched his shoulders, feeling the weight of his new responsibilities settling in. This was no longer just about survival. It was about building something greater.

He glanced at Liana. "Let's get started."