Chapter 667 - 1-star sector
The void shuttle touched down gracefully on a wide, marble-paved landing platform at the edge of Ruler City. The hatch opened with a soft hiss, and one by one, the fifty recruits stepped out, their eyes wide as they took in the grandeur surrounding them.
The mana in the air was so dense it almost felt tangible, like invisible threads brushing against their skin. Max stepped down as well, his senses heightened, his gaze scanning the towering structures and intricate formations etched into the city floor.
But what caught his attention most were the people waiting for them.
Lined up neatly in front of the platform stood a dozen figures, all clad in elegant robes marked with the insignia of the Great Ruler Empire. Their auras were sharp, composed, and overwhelmingly powerful.
Max could immediately tell—they were stronger than the five elders he had met during the recruitment assessment. Their presence alone was enough to make some of the recruits tense up instinctively.
They were likely high-ranking officials or instructors responsible for overseeing the new generation of Empire disciples.
From the middle of the group, a smiling middle-aged man stepped forward. His black hair was slicked back, his face carried a warmth that made him approachable, but his eyes glinted with a sharpness that couldn’t be hidden.
"Welcome to Ruler City," he said, his voice calm but authoritative. "I am Elder Henric. I’ll be escorting you to your assigned quarters. Follow me."
Before anyone could respond, Lyra spoke up from behind. Her gaze swept across the group of recruits, but it lingered briefly—almost protectively—on Max. "Go ahead," she said. "If you’re needed, you’ll receive a notification through your holowatches."