Having bid farewell to Balzac, Eugene and his companions embarked on a diligent journey of preparation for what would come next. The subjugation of Raizakia, however, would unfold not within this world but in the ethereal void that lay between dimensions. Eugene had long observed the scant concentration of mana permeating this peculiar space. Wizards faced heightened limitations and constraints within its confinements, unlike those they encountered elsewhere. Compounding the challenge was Eugene's adversary, a formidable dragon and a true master of arcane arts. Yet, this was no ordinary dragon; it was the Black Dragon Raizakia, known to be the most powerful of the dragons.

Raizakia’s very existence could be considered the bane of wizards. Moreover, the environment that entrapped him imposed additional burdens upon spellcasters, further constraining their abilities and limiting their powers.

But that was not the end of their challenges. There existed a significant likelihood of disrupted communication with the Spirit Kings within the interdimensional void. Likewise, the summoning abilities of Lovellian, who drew upon creatures from alternate dimensions, faced the risk of failure.

In other words, Eugene could not hope to rely on receiving help from others. Lovellian and Melkith were deeply disappointed and saddened by the fact.

Lovellian's unwavering determination to rescue the Wise Sienna, who could be considered his great mentor, was an endeavor he deemed worthy of sacrificing his very life for. Similarly, Melkith harbored a deep desire to lend her aid in the quest to save Lady Sienna. After all, Sienna was an object of admiration and reverence among all wizards.

However, there was a good chance they would die a dog’s death. So faced with this daunting prospect, Eugene made a fateful decision. Rather than seeking the assistance of his companions, he resolved to confront Raizakia alone.

“And do you stand a chance?” asked Melkith.

After parting ways with Balzac, the group moved closer to the World Tree rather than heading to the Kochilla Tribe’s capital. Through the discerning abilities of Akasha and Raimira, they had detected a "door" in proximity to the World Tree — an entrance that connected to none other than Raizakia himself.

“It’s not like I don’t,” Eugene responded. It wasn’t as if Raizakia would be in perfect condition either. The Black Dragon had been trapped in the space between dimensions for three hundred ye...