Just as Monica reached the dark pit and was about to jump toward the dungeon's entrance, a powerful pressure forced her—and all the Espers following behind her—to a halt, followed by an authoritative voice.
"Stop, Monica. You said it yourself—this dungeon is dangerous. Even as an S-rank Esper, I can't gauge its energy level. Going in unprepared means there's no guarantee any of you will live. Do you want to die?"
Monica frowned at the familiar voice. As the pressure around her eased, she quickly spun around, her gaze locking onto the tall, beautiful woman standing solemnly at the dome's entrance alongside Eleven Elonor.
It was Sylvia Wales—the famous S-rank Esper from the prominent Wales family.
Sylvia's face was grim as she studied the pit. Her casual attire told Monica that she had come to the Association for a routine guiding session after clearing a dungeon, only to be interrupted by the commotion.
