The sun hung lifeless above the horizon, scorching everything below. The only sound was dry air breezing through the desert in the distance, making the atmosphere thick and heavy.
Raiden stood before the others outside the Apex Circle's premises, with Ash lazily resting on his shoulder and the nonchalant Noelle at his side.
They prepared to divide into groups for their journey in pursuit of strength and mana reserves. Chrono's crew remained dormant, still exhausted from their mission the previous night.
Raiden let out a sigh. "Not all of us speak Noorian, so to make this journey easier, I suggest we break into groups."
Raiden gestured toward Levi. "You'll be traveling with Speed and Soul." Levi responded with a subtle smile.
"I don't think separating the twins would be a good idea—and you already get along well with Soul."
"They will be taken care of," Levi said with a cocky grin, but Speed's grim expression showed he wasn't okay with those words.
