The Rise of the Black Plain

Chapter 2802  Leaving for a Rescue

Minos shot the Elder an amused glance as he gave Abby's shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

"Elder," Minos began, his tone a mix of respect and casual familiarity, "I believe we've weathered a series of life-or-death challenges that have molded us into who we are today. We've had our fair share of both fortune and misfortune, in just the right proportions, I'd say."

Juma's gaze shifted to Minos, vivid memories flooding back. He clearly recalled how this young man's exceptional skills had amplified the abilities of Abby and many guild warriors during the grueling war against Firestone Mines.

"General Minos…" Juma said, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

"Actually, it's Commander now—Uzira's post Chief Commander, to be precise," he corrected the Elder, who he sought not because of raw power, but because the man was an Elder on the guild Council, a high level Supreme who knew all about Armhands and how to lead their efforts in Uzira.

Minos' loyalty to Armhands was, at its core, a reflection of his vested interests. It provided a nurturing environment for his family and fellow Spiritual World members to flourish. Now that he reaped benefits on par with the guild leaders themselves, he treated Armhands as if it were his own brainchild, genuinely wishing for its prosperity.

Having Juma at Uzira headquarters would be the perfect catalyst for Minos to launch his more ambitious schemes. It would allow the guild to grow organically, building upon the foundation he had already helped establish.

"Chief Commander…" Juma mused, a hint of admiration in his voice. "I suppose that title suits you better. I imagine you've now surpassed even the Supreme Leader in strength.

Juma hadn't forgotten Minos's incredible capabilities when he was merely a Sovereign. Now, at level 121, the man before him was undoubtedly the guild's most formidable force!

"What exactly do you expect of me?" Juma inquired, his form shimmering with curiosity. "And what precisely is my current state? I recall that the reports regarding the undead didn't describe conditions similar to mine. I feel almost… alive." His voice trailed off, tinged with wonder and perplexity.

Abby stepped forward, ready to illuminate the situation, while others in the vicinity watched in reverent silence. They were visibly elated to have someone of Juma's caliber back in their ranks.

Even if Juma's raw power didn't match Minos', his vast repository of knowledge was unparalleled. He possessed an advanced understanding of many languages, intricate strategies, and the histories of various worlds. This versatility made him an invaluable asset, easily adaptable to become a potent weapon in his current form.

Moreover, Juma's ability to maintain a constant presence at headquarters could potentially yield even greater practical results for the guild than Minos's occasional interventions.

As Juma listened intently, the blue-haired woman explained his unique situation. In his current state, he could exist for centuries, possibly even longer if he elevated his cultivation to level 124. She said that she could help him as she grew stronger, but that the progress he honed would be much better than any help from her.

She also revealed a crucial difference between him and the undead she had created during the war against Firestone Mines: unlike them, Juma kept the possibility of reincarnation should he perish again.

"… In essence, Elder, your role will be to lead this outpost in our absence," Abby concluded her explanation. "We'll be away from headquarters more often than not, so the day-to-day operations of the guild will fall under your purview."

"Where are you headed?" Juma accepted the mission without hesitation, but curiosity tinged his voice. While he refrained from inquiring about the source of their remarkable advancements, his desire to learn more about the plans of such an impressive group was palpable.

Minos stepped in to answer. "We're going to pave the way for our entry into the Upper Realm." His response, though metaphorical, held a profound truth.

Their goal was nothing short of extraordinary: to escape the confines of Qhava, reach the pinnacle of level 125, and shed the shackles of mortality. In doing so, they would inevitably ascend to the Upper Realm!

Minos and his wives were still grappling with the challenge of how to ensure Abby's entry into the Upper Realm alongside them, but their determination to find a solution was unwavering.

Juma absorbed these grand ambitions, his form seeming to flicker with a mix of admiration and nostalgia. He recalled his own life's goal, and a wistful sigh escaped him as he realized that, for the first time in his existence, he stood at the helm of a group truly capable of blazing a trail to the Upper Realm for Armhands' members.

"I wish you the best of fortune in your endeavor," he said, his words resonating with sincerity. Then, his tone shifted to one of practical concern. "But where do you intend to begin? And what of our comrades in Oqia?

Gloria was the one who answered these questions. "We've already got men on the move and in a few weeks, we'll send a team of high-level Supremes to Oqia to update the guild and bring in new members after our group leaves on the previous journey here."

This response exceeded Juma's expectations.

"In a matter of days, we'll initiate our operations to secure growth opportunities for the guild across the continent. Our primary target is Mylecent, a rebel with royal uzirian blood coursing through her veins. With her allegiance, we'll cement Armhands' position in these lands." He concluded, revealing the last piece of information he was willing to divulge to Juma.

The group of high-level Supremes not stationed within headquarters would be tasked with these two crucial missions: escorting the Oqia-bound group and taking part in the continental power struggle ignited by Mylecent. Nôv(el)B\\jnn

"I understand," Juma responded. "Chief Commander, you can rest assured of my position. I will support these plans wholeheartedly and do everything in my power to fortify the guild during your absence." His words carried the weight of an oath.

Minos nodded approvingly, though not surprised. He expected nothing less from Juma, a man who had proven capable of the ultimate sacrifice for the guild's welfare.

"Take the time you need to acclimate to your new circumstances and familiarize yourself with the continent," Minos advised. "We've established several divisions at this outpost, all working tirelessly to ensure a smooth and swift adaptation for those arriving from Oqia."

Heeding Minos's suggestion, Juma expressed his gratitude with a respectful nod. He then glided towards some familiar faces in the vicinity, eager to reconnect and gather insights before delving deeper into his study of Uzira.

Minos stood shoulder to shoulder with his wives, their gazes fixed on Juma's retreating form. The Elder's white-haired, seemingly benign appearance belied his true significance. Juma's resurrection marked a crucial milestone for all of them, paving the way for their next ambitious moves.

"We'll give him time to acclimatize to Uzira and get a firm grasp on the operations here," Minos murmured to his wives, his voice barely above a whisper. "Once he demonstrates he can manage the guild independently, we'll make our move."