The grand plaza was filled with an eerie silence as the Myriad Races Blood Army, clad in their Crimson Battle Robes, waited for Boundless Dream to speak. The air was thick with anticipation, and even the distant stars seemed to hold their breath. The gravity of the moment was palpable, and every warrior present knew that what Boundless Dream was about to say would shape the fate of the cosmos.
Boundless Dream stepped forward, her gaze sweeping over the assembled warriors. Her Crimson Battle Robe, adorned with golden dragons, shimmered in the light, exuding an aura of power and determination. Jin stood by her side, his presence a steady anchor for the assembled forces.
“Warriors of the Myriad Races Blood Army,” Boundless Dream began, her voice resonating through the plaza, “for the past 100 years, we have enjoyed a period of unprecedented peace and prosperity. The cosmos has thrived, and we have built a harmonious and strong society. But now, we must turn our attention to a looming threat—the Abyss.”
She paused, allowing her words to sink in. “The Abyss is ferociously known for not keeping their promises for long. Although we were granted a 250-year truce, the remaining 150 years of peace are not guaranteed. The Abyssals seek to plunge our worlds into darkness and devour all living beings and light. They are the ultimate enemies of life.”
The warriors listened intently, their expressions a mix of resolve and anticipation. They knew the stories of the Abyss, but now they were being called upon to confront this ancient and deadly foe.
“I, Boundless Dream, called you here today to offer you a choice,” she continued. “We have created a simulated Abyss environment that will mimic the conditions of the real Abyss, though not the beings within. This simulation is designed to prepare you for the harsh realities you will face.”
Her eyes sparkled with determination. “Those who choose to undergo this training will be allowed to join teams sent into the actual Abyss. Your mission will be simple yet crucial: gather information on the development of the Abyss since the trade 100 years ago, and do so without being spotted or caught. This intelligence is vital to safeguarding the peace we have all enjoyed.”
Boundless Dream’s voice grew more impassioned. “I ask this of you not to instill fear, but to protect the thriving cosmos we have built. Our spiritual technology, standardized learning, and the light we have spread to all corners of the cosmos must be defended. We must take the initiative while we are still strong.”
She paused again, looking into the eyes of the warriors. “Those who choose to accept this challenge will be the vanguard of our defense, the first line against the darkness that threatens to consume us. You will be our eyes and ears in the Abyss, gathering the knowledge we need to stay one step ahead.”
The plaza was silent for a moment, then a warrior stood up, his face resolute. “Boundless Dream, I accept the challenge. I will undergo the simulation and join the mission to the Abyss.”
Another warrior rose, followed by another, and soon the entire assembly was on their feet, their voices united in a chorus of determination. “We accept the challenge! We will defend the cosmos!”
Boundless Dream nodded, pride swelling in her chest. “Very well. Prepare yourselves. The simulation will begin shortly. Remember, this training is not just for you, but for every living being in the cosmos. Your bravery and strength will ensure our continued peace and prosperity.”
Jin stepped forward, his voice firm. “We will guide you through the simulation. Trust in your training, in your comrades, and in yourselves. Together, we will stand against the darkness.”
As the warriors dispersed to prepare for the simulation, Boundless Dream and Jin made their way to the simulation chamber. The chamber was a marvel of spiritual technology, designed to replicate the environment of the Abyss as accurately as possible.
Boundless Dream activated the chamber, and the space transformed into a dark, foreboding landscape. The air was thick with a palpable sense of dread, and the ground beneath their feet seemed to pulse with malevolent energy.
Before the simulation began, Boundless Dream addressed the warriors one last time. “Remember, this is just a simulation, but treat it as if it were real. Your lives and the lives of countless beings depend on your success. Stay strong, stay vigilant, and may the light of the cosmos guide you.”
The chapter closed with the warriors entering the simulation chamber, their faces set with determination.