The Draconic System: Rise of To Ascendance

Chapter 67: The Gathering Storm

Raizen stood at the helm of his ship, gazing down at the cityscape below. The underground was shifting, and House Valen had just put a target on his back. He could feel the tension in the air, the anticipation of battle that was fast approaching. But he wasn't going to wait for them to come knocking. He would bring the fight to them.

The system pulsed.

[Mission Updated: Prepare for War]

[Objective: Gather resources, strengthen allies, and eliminate immediate threats]

Raizen turned toward Liana and Kain, who stood by the strategy table, analyzing their next move. The holographic projection flickered, displaying key locations controlled by House Valen.

Liana tapped the map. "They've got at least three operational bases within the city. If we want to cripple their power, we need to take at least one of them."

Kain nodded. "But they won't go down easy. We'll need firepower and manpower."

Raizen smirked. "Then we recruit."

The system pulsed again.

[New Quest: The Gathering Storm]

[Objective: Establish alliances with key underground factions]

[Bonus: Acquire advanced weaponry before the assault]

Raizen turned to his team. "We need to expand our influence before we strike. That means reaching out to those who hate Valen as much as we do."

Liana raised a brow. "You have someone in mind?"

Raizen's smirk widened. "A few."

The first stop was The Black Maw, a mercenary bar deep within the slums. The kind of place where credits spoke louder than words, and loyalty was bought, not given. The moment Raizen stepped inside, all eyes turned toward him—some sizing him up, others recognizing him from his recent exploits.

A hulking man with a cybernetic arm stood behind the bar, his mechanical eye glowing red. Joran Malek. A former enforcer turned rogue mercenary, known for his brutality and efficiency.

Joran leaned against the counter, his voice a low rumble. "Didn't think I'd see you here, Raizen."

Raizen approached casually. "I hear you're not too fond of House Valen."

Joran's lip curled. "I'd rather burn their empire to the ground."

Raizen smirked. "Then we have a common goal."

The system pulsed.

[Sub-Mission Acquired: Recruit Joran Malek]

[Objective: Convince Joran to join forces]

Joran studied him for a moment before nodding. "You want my men, my guns? Then prove to me you can lead a real war."

Raizen chuckled. "Then watch closely, because war is exactly what I'm bringing."

The storm was gathering, and soon, House Valen would regret ever underestimating him.