The Star Shepherd, Demilo, rode atop the Scorpion Dragon, directing his legion in orderly formation as they entered Compound Resource Point 73—the Cavern. At the entrance, the Feral Wolf Dragon was still nowhere to be seen, prompting Demilo to suspect that it had already been wiped out.0

Are the ones responsible the passing sorcerers, or the wandering Crystal Wyverns nearby? Either one is possible, but it doesn't matter. Any unit assigned to guard a Resource Point is little more than another expendable line item. How many Scorpion Dragons are even left to garrison this place?0

Sensing an impending reshuffling, the Scorpion Dragons grew restless, while the Thousand-Feathered Birds remained unbothered, perching on one leg to rest and preening one another. As the only long-range unit under Demilo's command, they enjoyed privileges akin to pampered lovers.0

Reaching the cavern's main hall, Demilo waved his hand, signaling the Scorpion Dragons to move the supplies. The intelligent creatures sensed that the outcome of this task could determine whether they would rot away in this cavern or continue to enjoy life under the Star Shepherd. Their morale surged as they scavenged the cavern with their scorpion tails curling high in anticipation.0

Demilo felt the shifts in his minions' emotions but paid them no mind. He gestured for his mount to settle, and the Scorpion Dragon obediently lowered its...0