At the military base, anticipation filled the air as the long-awaited guests arrived. Major Chandra, despite being older, held deep respect for these remarkable individuals who had proven their worth time and again.

"Hello, I am Ranvijay Rathode, Captain of the renowned Black Fox," the swordsman introduced himself, his back adorned with a sword while another hung from his waist. Clad in black metallic armour over a black garment, he exuded an aura of strength. Gradually, the rest of his team emerged, each with their own distinct presence.

Ranvijay and Major Chandra exchange various essential details before leading the team towards the portal. "Worry not, Major. We will do our utmost to rescue everyone," he assured, stepping confidently into the mystical gateway.

Meanwhile, deep within the forest, six individuals ran with desperation, their voices echoing with fear. Amidst the chaos, Vikram couldn't help but glance back, haunted by Linda's accusations of cowardice. Yet, an unyielding desire to survive burned within him.

"Coward!"

"Sacredly cat!"

Linda's words seemed to pierce Vikram's thoughts, condemning him for abandoning their companions. However, a fierce determination welled up inside him, urging him forward.

"Vikram, run faster!" Basant shouted as he slid over a fallen tree trunk.

*Growls* The thunderous sound of beasts in pursuit sent shivers down their spines. Some unfortunate souls had already fallen prey to the demonic vines that threatened to ensnare them all. Vikram leaped from tree to tree, his heart pounding, cursing every obstacle in his path. His determination only grew stronger.

***

"Hurry towards the north!" shouted the hunter, driving their gypsy with urgency. One of the swordsmen swiftly leaped onto the bonnet, striking down a serpent fly with a single fluid motion. Mid-air, the skilled warrior executed a graceful backflip, dispatching another predator—a dragonfly—and any other threats that dared approach. An archer in the car unleashed a volley of arrows at the wild dogs pursuing them, forcing the creatures to retreat in fear. As they continued their harried journey, their worst fears loomed ahead.

****

In the midst of their frantic escape, Vikram felt a sudden shift in the air. His senses sharpened, and he immediately altered his course, rushing to protect Basant. Swinging his rod with instinctual precision, he narrowly evaded the menacing vines, though a thorn managed to pierce Basant's arm.

Driven by pure instinct, Vikram maneuvered through the labyrinth of dangerous vegetation, skillfully dodging entangling vines and assisting other survivors along the way. But Basant's strength waned, and he eventually succumbed to unconsciousness.

"Vikram, run!" Ali's urgent plea was echoed by the others. Yet, Vikram chose to ignore their calls, facing the encroaching vines head-on, trying to find Basant.

****

A group of hunters emerged from the shadows, carrying the injured trio—Vikram, Basant, and Linda. Their injuries necessitated immediate medical attention. Dhruv, anxiously awaiting their return, attempted to run forward, only to be assailed by pain.

"How is he?" Dhruv inquired, pushing aside his own discomfort.

"He requires treatment. He fought valiantly to save his friend," the hunter commended, delivering the trio into the care of the medical staff. Dhruv let out a sigh of relief, the past few hours having taken an immense toll on him.

Most of the volunteer members had either perished or sustained severe injuries, some losing limbs in the process. In comparison, Vikram's team had been relatively fortunate, with the majority returning alive.

The battle between the hunters and the relentless beasts intensified. They encountered a variety of formidable creatures, and Ranvijay, standing atop the colossal serpent's lifeless body, reported, "Dungeon cleared."

"We will endeavor to create a path to the gateway as swiftly as possible," he assured.

"Sir, the dungeon has been successfully cleared," Major Chandra relayed the message to headquarters.

"The mission was a resounding success, sir," he reported to the Prime Minister of India, a palpable sense of relief washing over him.

"We must address the alarming surge in these cases. They are escalating at an unprecedented rate," the Prime Minister declared, receiving unanimous agreement from the elite members in the room who held the nation's power within their grasp.

"How are the negotiations with the great council progressing?" inquired one of the individuals.

"We are still in talks, although there are some points of disagreement. However, they have agreed to assist us by training select individuals," the Prime Minister explained.

"Whom should we send?" the question hung in the air, prompting a momentary silence before the last member to respond cleared his throat, capturing everyone's attention.

"According to the council, the probability of encountering mana practitioners among those trapped in the dungeon is considerably higher compared to those outside. They are willing to provide aid in preparation of the upcoming entrance exam, and they recommended prioritizing the survivors of the dungeons," he revealed.

A hush fell over the room, followed by heated discussions as they delved into future aspects, and steps which they should take.