After the captain's shout, all team members snapped to attention and raised their guard. Captain Haru and Yume approached the massive gate embedded within the cave wall. Strange markings covered its surface—glyphs shifting like ink in water.
"It's written in the Shadow Language," Yume muttered, her golden eyes narrowing.
She stepped closer, ran her fingers along the symbols, and read aloud, voice steady yet filled with awe, "This gate will open for those who are true warriors and wish to protect this world."
Captain Haru with question mark on his face.
What does it mean a true warrior and wish to protect.
Yume said, I think we all should go in front of the gate one by one and it might open it.
Captain Haru agreed to it and shout.
"Everyone, stand before the gate one by one. Let's see who it responds to."
Yume, the S-Rank shadow-bound, was the first to try. She stepped before the gate with confidence—but nothing happened. No reaction. No glow. No sound.
The team exchanged shocked glances.
Next was Captain Haru himself. Still, silence.
One by one, the others stepped up. All attempts failed.
Then it was Ren's turn.
Akuma Sorei scoffed. "Captain let's move on. It's pointless now."
Minato Jigen added with a sneer, "What can that F-Rank even do? If not even an S-Rank could open it, what hope does he have?"
"Ren!" Captain Haru called. "It's your turn. Step forward."
"What?!" Minato barked. "You're actually letting that loser try? He's not even worth the time—"
"Enough!" Yume's voice cracked like a whip. "How dare you speak that way about Ren?! Maybe he lacks shadow mana, but he's kind, brave, and more human than any of you. Even after all the abuse, he forgave everyone with a smile. That's more strength than you'll ever know."
Silence fell over the squad.
Ren hesitated, then walked slowly toward the gate. He stood before it, nothing. Whispers echoed behind him.
"Tch, we knew it. He can't open it."
"Loser."
Ren sighed quietly and turned his back, knowing that it is hopeless for an F rank to open the gate that can't be opened by anyone.
Suddenly, the cave trembled. The ancient gate creaked, then roared open responding only to him with wind coming from inside.
A gasp rippled through the team. Even Captain Haru, Akuma, and Minato stared in disbelief.
The gate pulsed with light. A voice echoed from within: "Ren Akatsuki... enter."
He stepped inside.
The moment he crossed the threshold, the gate slammed shut—and outside, powerful high-ranked monsters began to materialize in the shadows, growling and ready to strike.
Captain Haru said, Prepare for battle.