"You're not here for a joke, are you?" Igaris muttered with a chuckle.
The man's expression darkened. "You think I'm joking? Watch your mouth, boy," he warned, narrowing his eyes.
Igaris turned away, gazing at the vast Ashen Desert stretching out before him.
"The ancient Summoners had powerful Arts, Mythical Beasts… and still, they lost to those Mechas. So what makes you think you have a chance now? Hmph… You won't convince me with that nonsense," he sneered.
The man laughed, low and confident. "Your worldview is so narrow, boy. Do you think we're just charging toward death like fools? We have powerful backing. Once you join us, you'll understand. We're confident this time. What the Ancients failed to do, we will accomplish."
As he spoke, a massive creature materialized behind him, its presence overwhelming the air like a storm on the horizon.
"ROARRRR!"
The deafening roar knocked Igaris off his feet. He stumbled to the ground, ears ringing.
