The Draconic System: Rise of To Ascendance

Chapter 66: Shadows of Influence

Raizen remained standing in the dimly lit corridor long after Selene had left. Her words still echoed in his mind. They were drawn to one another, yet their paths were destined to clash. She was testing him, measuring his strength, and he welcomed the challenge.

The system pulsed.

[Selene's Trust Progress: 50%]

[Next Milestone: ???]

A notification flashed.

[Incoming Call: Liana]

Raizen tapped his communicator. "What is it?"

"You need to see this," Liana's voice carried urgency. "Meet me in the command room. Now."

Raizen wasted no time. He strode through the corridors, his mind shifting gears. Whatever had Liana this concerned, it had to be serious.

As he entered the command room, Liana and Kain were already waiting. The central holographic display projected a map of the city, highlighting multiple red zones.

Liana gestured toward the display. "There's been a shift in the underground. House Valen isn't just retaliating—they're mobilizing."

Raizen's eyes narrowed. "How bad is it?"

Kain folded his arms. "They're putting bounties on anyone who had a hand in the smuggler operation. That includes you, me, and everyone in our circle. They're sending out mercenaries and elite enforcers. This isn't just damage control. They're hunting."

The system pulsed again.

[New Mission: Survive the Hunt]

[Objective: Eliminate or evade House Valen's forces]

[Bonus: Take control of a Valen stronghold]

Raizen smirked. They were finally taking him seriously.

Liana's tone darkened. "We need to decide our next move."

Raizen glanced at the map. This was an opportunity. House Valen was reacting, which meant they weren't controlling the board anymore—he was. Now, he had the chance to push forward.

He clenched his fist, feeling the power surging within him. "Then we don't wait. We strike first."

Kain grinned. "Now we're talking."

Liana sighed. "This is going to get messy."

Raizen smirked. "It already is."

The system pulsed once more.

[Mission Updated: Prepare for War]

[Objective: Strengthen allies and expand influence before the attack]