Floating Islands: SSS Gacha System

Chapter 115 - Celesthollow

There were still about two weeks remaining before the battle phase of the Dominion Skirmish began. Atlas intended to make the most of this time by tackling another quest from his new Class, while simultaneously pushing everyone to reach level 50.

With most combatants averaging level 50 or higher, this would significantly enhance the potential strength of both him and his overall forces.

In addition, Atlas had already begun recruiting through the Gateway Altar, aiming to expand his total combatants count even further. If he could field 100 combatants for the battle phase, it would undoubtedly give him a considerable advantage.

And one more thing—Atlas once again received reinforcements from a mysterious benefactor, Luna of the Celestial Vanguard.

After asking around, Mira explained that Luna and Ember had already visited them twice. This was the second time they had provided aid to Atlas.

But who were they?

According to Edrik's assessment, this lord seemed to be offering support, either out of goodwill or as a means to explore the potential for an alliance in the future.

Intriguing…

Perhaps Atlas should consider reaching out to this lord, if only to express his gratitude—and possibly uncover their true intentions.

[Quest 2: "The Eye of the Storm"]

[Objective: Navigate through a path filled with fierce winds, lightning strikes, and storm-enhanced creatures.]

[Location: A stormy open terrain.]

[Challenges:]

[- Navigate wind and lightning hazards.]

[- Use elemental control to stabilize pathways.]

Following that, his second quest presented yet another challenge, this time requiring him to complete the task in a uniquely demanding environment. Fortunately, this meant they no longer needed to return to Flare Peak and could instead move on to explore a new area.

Atlas and Edrik began scanning the region surrounding their island, searching for a location better suited to the requirements of the quest.

One thing had become increasingly clear since the Dominion Skirmish island selection phase began—their island, Gacha Haven, was now moving at a noticeably faster pace than before. Its trajectory was shifting eastward, steadily carrying them into other territories.

If this continued, it was possible that by the time the Dominion Skirmish concluded, they might find themselves near an entirely new continent.

"This one," Edrik said, pointing to the floating screen.

Atlas leaned in, reading the details of the floating island, Celesthollow.

He nodded slowly and expanded the information for a closer look.

The island was enormous, boasting a unique and varied landscape. At its heart lay a massive lake that dominated much of the terrain. Surrounding the lake were towering mountain ranges, expansive forests, and drier regions scattered across the outer areas.

"The area around here," Edrik began, "should have stronger winds, which makes it an excellent fit for your quest."

"Yes, this is a good choice," Atlas agreed. "And with the large lake, it'll also give Zefyros a chance to showcase his skills."

With that, the decision was made.

Atlas brought nearly all the island's inhabitants with him, leaving only the autonomous Golems and a handful of workers behind to keep essential operations running. With the island under protective wards from the system, leaving it temporarily unoccupied was a secure and calculated choice.

They landed on a wide, rocky plain dotted with patches of dry grass, right on the edge of the vast lake that stretched out before them. Even at ground level, the wind was strong, pushing against them with force. It was clear that at the higher elevations, the gusts would be even fiercer.

"We'll set up camp here," Edrik instructed.

Without hesitation, the combatants and workers got to work, setting up the campsite and preparing for their stay. Since they planned to remain on the island for several days, returning to Gacha Haven during this period would only waste valuable time.

Edrik stepped up beside Atlas, who stood quietly at the lake's edge, gazing at the vast expanse of water.

"I'm sure Zefyros will enjoy himself in a lake this size," Edrik said with a small nod.

Atlas smirked. "Zefyros, go ahead and play."

A burst of water infused with crackling electricity erupted, and Zefyros emerged, his large, expressive eyes glinting with excitement. The spirit beast landed on the ground with a splash before sprinting toward the lake. With an exuberant leap, it vanished into the water, disappearing beneath the surface.

"This floating island," Edrik began, "is accessible to both Rank-1 Seekers and Rank-2 Scouts. The level range here is from 50 to 100, but we may also encounter monsters exceeding level 100."

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"That's good," Atlas replied. "Everyone needs to focus on reaching at least level 50 as quickly as possible."

"Understood. I'll handle everything."

Edrik returned to the others, promptly taking charge of his assigned tasks.

Meanwhile, Kurogasa, as usual, took on the role of scout. Without a word, he vanished from sight, heading out to explore the island. His mission was clear: identify any potential threats, especially those related to other Lords who might also be present on the island.

Atlas lingered at the lakeside, inhaling the crisp, refreshing breeze. The cool wind carried a sense of calm that seemed to revitalize him without his conscious realization. For a moment, it was as though the weight of his responsibilities lightened, leaving him feeling reinvigorated.

Life in Gacha Haven had become increasingly pleasant over time. The island had grown larger and more vibrant, with lush grass and serene areas for relaxation. Yet, no matter how improved it was, the island still felt confined, its size limiting its potential.

That was why winning a new island in the next Dominion Skirmish was so crucial. Securing more territory would significantly expand his resources and opportunities. If Atlas could claim an island as vast as Celesthollow, the island he currently stood, the possibilities for growth would be immense.

Of course, a larger island would come with its own challenges. He would need more defensive structures and an increased number of troops to ensure proper security. However, the trade-off was worth it. A spacious island meant they wouldn't all be crammed into the same small area, forced to see the same faces day and night.

The idea of spreading out and enjoying the freedom of a larger domain was a tantalizing prospect.

Atlas was still wearing the Mountain Leaper Bands, a bracelet that allowed him to leap great heights, and the Mana Glider Cloak, an item that enabled him to float momentarily in mid-air. Standing at the edge of the lake, he prepared to get a better view of the area from above.

Lyrassa and Mira approached Atlas, standing on either side of him at the lake's edge.

"My Lord…" Mira's voice was filled with excitement as she glanced around. "I'm sooo happy… This place is beautiful," she said, letting out a soft laugh.

Then, with a mischievous giggle, she added, "Imagine if we could fill an island this big with carrots."

Atlas turned to her, chuckling as he gently ruffled her hair. "Let's see if we can win a new island in the next battle, okay?"

Mira beamed at him, her eyes sparkling. "Yes! I'll be excited to kill lots of enemies too."

Her cheerful, innocent tone made her words sound even more unsettling.

Atlas couldn't help but grin at her unique mix of sweetness and menace.

"Well then," he said, stretching his arms. "Let me take a look at this island from above first."

With that, he crouched slightly, a playful grin spreading across his face as he focused himself.

Atlas channeled all his strength into his legs, his muscles tensing as the ground beneath him cracked slightly from the pressure. At the peak of his preparation, he sprang upward with explosive force, rocketing into the sky.

His body shot through the air, cutting through the wind with ease. Simultaneously, the air elemental particles in the atmosphere seemed to respond to his movement, wrapping around him and accelerating his ascent. The wind whipped past his body, and the sensation of soaring freely was exhilarating.

At the apex of his jump, he activated the Mana Glider Cloak. His body was caught by the wind and gently carried forward, gliding in the direction of the lake. The rush of air against him created a sense of both freedom and control as he moved through the skies.

Atlas took a moment to scan the island from his elevated position, but most of it was obscured by clouds. The view wasn't much different from what the system's display of the island had already shown him.

However, being at such a height gave him a uniquely exhilarating sense of freedom.

By now, any fear of heights had long since faded. The altitude, which might once have been daunting, no longer fazed him. Was it because of the grueling self-imposed training he had endured? Had he grown so accustomed to pushing past his limits that even fear itself had dulled?

As the effect of the Mana Glider Cloak wore off, Atlas began to fall, gravity reclaiming him.

He suddenly realized he had drifted slightly over the lake. Looking down, he saw he was about to plunge directly into the water.

Swimming wasn't the problem—he could swim just fine. The real concern was what might lurk beneath the surface.

What if there was a high-level monster in the lake? That could complicate things quickly.

"My Lord… be careful!" Mira's sharp voice echoed from the lakeshore.

Atlas's descent quickened, the wind rushing past his ears. As he neared the water, a disturbance erupted below him.

A massive explosion of water shot skyward, scattering droplets like rain.

From the depths emerged a monstrous fish—a titanic creature with jagged, glowing scales and sharp fins that cut through the air. Its glowing eyes locked onto Atlas, and its gaping maw, lined with razor-sharp teeth, seemed large enough to swallow him whole.

Atlas had no time to hesitate—this was trouble.

[Rare - Riftscale Titan Lv. 55]