Treasure-hunting: Into the Unknown

"Wow! You’ve made such a bang-up sacrifice this time, Sophie!" With a loud sigh, Zachary went on, "Do you have any idea who those people are? Why did they want to get their hands on the Dignity College's most precious treasure? Do you suppose they also know that such treasure could unlock the Five-God Tombs?"

"We're not sure yet. But basing from our brief confrontation with them, we're certain that they are merciless and would use coercive measures if needed. They put up a good fight and even risked putting their lives in danger to snatch the treasure away from us. If not because of their aggression, we wouldn't have ended up coming face to face with Dignity College's Holy Level warrior later on," Sophie replied with arched eyebrows.

"Although we stumbled across some trouble, we managed to retrieve what we wanted. But I can't prevent myself from feeling guilty with the outcome. Even though I'm unharmed, Sophie sustained an injury," Katrina said point-blank.

"There’s no need to blame yourself, as long as you keep your promise and don’t steal this lad away from me. I hope you’re true to your word," Sophie teased as she glanced at Katrina.

"Didn’t I already promise you before? I will certainly keep my side of the bargain. If he can be of some help to you, then I won’t take him away from you," Katrina said passively.

After listening to what Katrina and Sophie had discussed, Zachary instantly felt that something wasn't right. 'They seem to have agreed on something in private, and it has something to do with me. How could they do that without my consent?' he grumbled under his breath. At the thought of this, he looked at them and asked plainly, "Is there something you haven't told me?"

Sophie sneaked a look at Katrina and answered, "There's no need for you to know this present. We will only tell you once we have confirmation." She didn't intend to let Zachary know their secret so soon.

"I’m sure both of you are aware by now that I never make losing deals. If you don’t fill me in at this instant, I will disappear at once, and you will never find me," Zachary threatened coolly.

When Katrina and Sophie heard this, they swapped glances at each other. 'Zachary has become more audacious than before. He even has the nerve to intimidate us. However, he will do whatever he wants and we can't let that happen,' t

ve already had that treasure in your hands," Zachary reasoned as he looked at Katrina.

"Because there are also some legends circulating about the method of lifting the curse. It is a well-known fact that the curse-breaking procedure requires a warrior who has the potential of becoming an exceptional warrior like the Five Gods to act as support," Katrina said with a serious expression.

"What? So you are both implying that I can become a great warrior like the Five Gods?" Zachary directly understood what Katrina and Sophie meant.

"Although we're still having second doubts, you're the only one we know whose strength can make quick progress over a short period. Warriors with ordinary talent cannot do that," Sophie said with certainty.

"I will take that as a compliment. But this is such a big deal, and if I turn out to be the wrong person for the job, you might get disappointed," Zachary responded with nervous laughter.

"So, I’m turning you over now to Sophie’s care. I’ll let her try first if you can find a way to lift the curse," Katrina said, looking deep in thought.

"What about you, Master Katrina?" Zachary asked as he looked at Katrina.

"I don't think you're the only one who's highly qualified to become a great warrior like the Five Gods. I may as well try to find another such genius to help me," Katrina replied at once.

"So it's safe to say that this exploration on the Martial Fire Tomb is your idea because you want to find the method to lift your tribe's curse," Zachary said to Katrina. He had finally sorted things out.