Zairon stood in front of the assembled members of the Sovereign Legion. The dungeon run had been a success, but now it was time to establish some order—his kind of order.
"Listen up," Zairon said, his voice commanding attention. "We've taken our first step. Now it's time to solidify our ranks. From this moment forward, we have leaders, and we will follow the chain of command."
He scanned the group, gauging their readiness. "Garreth," Zairon called, his eyes locking onto the scarred veteran. "You've got the combat warriors. You led us well today. Keep them sharp. You know what's needed in battle."
Garreth nodded, a grin creeping onto his face. "I'll whip them into shape. No one's getting soft under my watch."
"Good." Zairon nodded. "And Marina, you're in charge of your squad—the healers and support. Make sure they're always prepared, and keep their spirits high. You're the backbone when the front lines get bloody."
Marina, the quiet but fierce woman, stood straight and bowed her head. "Understood. I'll make sure they're ready to patch up anyone who needs it."
Zairon's gaze shifted to Lena, the healer who had shown a quick mind and unyielding focus in the field. "Lena, you'll lead the other healers. Your role is as vital as anyone's. Keep them disciplined, focused, and make sure they're always learning. We won't be able to keep fighting if we don't take care of our own."
Lena's eyes lit up with pride, and she gave a firm nod. "I'll make sure we're always prepared, sir."
The rest of the Sovereign Legion members shifted uncomfortably, not quite used to the new hierarchy. But Zairon could see that the idea was settling in. Leadership had to be earned, but he wasn't about to let them slack off.
"Everyone has a role to play," Zairon continued, "and those who rise through the ranks will get more responsibility. For now, we focus on getting stronger. I'll leave you to your duties. Get some rest. We've got more work to do tomorrow."
The soldiers and healers dispersed, talking among themselves as they moved to set up camp. Zairon stayed behind for a moment, watching them.
The Sovereign Legion was starting to take shape. His army wasn't just a group of random individuals. They were becoming something more.
The Next Morning
Zairon led his Legion out of the camp and back to the F-Rank dungeon for another round. This time, the squads were organized. Garreth led the combat warriors in a disciplined formation, Marina had her healers positioned to support at a moment's notice, and Lena kept a keen eye on the group, ensuring no one faltered.
As the group pushed deeper into the dungeon, Zairon noticed the difference. Garreth's warriors were more precise, moving as a unit. Marina's healers were ready, offering buffs and patching up minor injuries without hesitation. Lena's leadership over the healers was proving invaluable. Even though they were still a small force, their teamwork was already starting to shine.
After hours of battling and clearing the dungeon, the group finally returned to the surface. The Sovereign Legion had gained significant experience, and many were closing in on their next level. Zairon couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction.
[EXP GAINED]
Garreth – 300 EXP (Total: 550/1000)
Marina – 200 EXP (Total: 320/1000)
Lena – 200 EXP (Total: 315/1000)
Zairon – 300 EXP (Total: 650/1000)
As they gathered at the entrance of the dungeon, Garreth stepped up to Zairon.
"We're getting better, boss. I've been pushing the combat warriors hard, but they're responding well. I think we're ready for something bigger soon."
Zairon nodded. "We'll need to step up. Once you hit E-Rank, we can start raiding the D-Rank dungeons. But we're not just fighting to level up. We need power—real power."
He glanced at his newly formed squad leaders. "You all keep doing your part. The Sovereign Legion is only as strong as the weakest link. And we won't have any weak links."
Garreth, Marina, and Lena gave their affirmations. They knew what was expected.
As the days passed, Zairon's Sovereign Legion continued to grow stronger. The combat warriors under Garreth's leadership were quickly becoming a formidable force. Marina's healers worked tirelessly to ensure their comrades stayed in fighting shape, while Lena's guidance made sure the entire unit remained cohesive.
Zairon also continued to hone his own abilities. His system was still evolving, and his desire for more power drove him to experiment with new techniques, refining his own fighting style and unlocking further cultivation potentials.
But as Zairon pushed forward, his mind was always on the bigger picture: the world was full of untapped power, and he would be the one to claim it all.
[LEVEL UP: Garreth – E-Rank Achieved]
[LEVEL UP: Marina – E-Rank Achieved]
[LEVEL UP: Lena – E-Rank Achieved]
Zairon stood before his team, watching them rise to E-Rank. They had achieved what he expected, and now it was time for the next step.
"We've come far, but this is just the beginning," Zairon said, his eyes gleaming with ambition. "We're going to take on D-Rank dungeons next. But I'm not just doing this to level up. We're going to leave our mark on this world."
As he looked at the Sovereign Legion, now an official force in this chaotic world, Zairon couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. But he also knew—this was only the start.