《Aetherborne Chronicles》


 Chapter Prologue

    In the year 2024, a remarkable event unfolded as Earth''s destiny intertwined with the cosmos. A benevolent outer civilization descended upon our, extending a hand of friendship and cooperation. With their advanced technology, they guided humanity towards a new frontier ¨C the vast expanse of outer space. The revtion of mana and aura, once mere legends, now became tangible forces that could be harnessed.


    Among these enigmatic visitors were beings straight out of myth and lore: elves with their timeless grace, dwarfs with their unmatched craftsmanship, and a tapestry of other fantastical races. Their purpose was clear ¨C to unite the myriad races of the universe against a shared adversary. They sought out new allies among the Earth''s inhabitants, inviting them to join in the cosmic endeavor.


    Fast forward to the year 3089, and the shadows of truth unveil themselves. Earth, nestled among the stars, discovered the sinister orchestrators behind the curtain of chaos. A group of malevolent criminals, transcending the boundaries of every race in existence, harbored aspirations of universal domination. Their grip extended over a staggering 30% of the cosmos, leaving a trail of subjugation in their wake.


    The battle lines were drawn, and the sh was christened "Alliance vs Eternity." Yet, the weight of this epic struggle rested unevenly upon the shoulders of the participants. Humans, though eager and resolute,cked the inherent strength of their cosmic brethren. Their presence on the front lines was limited, a consequence of their mortal limitations.


    In the distant year 5078, humanity''s evolution had culminated in the ability to stand resolute against the imposing force known as "Eternity." Regr immersion in the profound energies of mana and aura had propelled human longevity beyond its former boundaries, stretching life spans from a mere 80 years to a remarkable millennium. The geopoliticalndscape shifted, condensing nations into five distinct power blocs: the United States of America, epassing the entirety of the Americas; Russia, extending its dominion over Europe; China, extending its reach across Eastern Asia and Australia; India, asserting influence over the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East; and a collective entity representing the remainder of the world, spanning Africa and the remaining regions of Asia.


    As the epoch advanced to the year 39098, humanity''s pivotal role within the Alliance against Eternity had grown pronounced. The climactic confrontation with the dominion of Eternity was nearing its zenith, with the Alliance''s efforts culminating in the remation of over a quarter of the universe, all with the formidable support of humanity. Under the banner of "Earth," humanity has achieved remarkable unity, coalescing into a single entity with a singr purpose. Now, a solitary governing body stands as the orchestrator of all human endeavors.


    A novel governmental framework emerged within the Alliance, characterized by a representative system from every star sector. This intricate structure epassed the entirety of the universe, artfully partitioned into an astonishing expanse of over one trillion gxies. A sectorprised one thousand gxies, and further, a star sector emerged from one thousand of these sectors. These star sectors, each a collection of a thousand, coalesced into a singr nexus ¨C the apex of this arrangement.


    Ascending this hierarchy, beyond the representatives, stood the officers who wieldedmand over individual nexuses. At the present juncture, a cohort of 159 human officers upied this esteemed rank among every thousand, symbolizing humanity''s integral role in this grand cosmic framework.


    However, the year 99820 brought with it a shadow that cast doubt upon the Alliance''s integrity. Corruption had insidiously infiltrated its ranks, corroding its foundations and sowing seeds of discord. In a devastating turn of events, Eternity mounted a counteroffensive, wresting back over 16% of the universe that had been reimed. The debilitating effects of corruption reverberated throughout the Alliance''s forces, prompting some armies to defect to Eternity''s side, drawn by the allure of its renewed strength. The once-unified Alliance found itself teetering on the precipice of decline, as the specter of weakness threatened to undermine the arduously won progress against Eternity''s dominion.


    Year 230,029. Following the advent of the year 100,000, the Alliance found itself enduring relentless onughts across all fronts, a tumultuous phase that endured until the dawn of the year 150,000. This marked the final instance when Eternity orchestrated any form of assault against the Alliance. The toll exacted on both sides was considerable, casting them into a defensive stance. For the subsequent 80,000 years, neither side ventured to make a decisive move, resulting in an enduring period of uneasy stillness.


    Rules within the Council''s Dominion:


    1.	Sole Dispute Resolution: Any disputes spanning aary scope shall find resolution solely within the purview of the council.


    2.	Defensive Armament:s shall solely employ their armed forces for defensive measures, safeguarding rather than aggression.


    3.	Controlled Utilization of Power: The use of mana or aura withinary borders is strictly reserved for authorizedw enforcers (who operate under the council''s direct jurisdiction¡ªbypassing evenary leaders.)


    Bnce of power across the universe:


    1.	Council''s Dominion: Spanning a staggering 69% of the universe, the Council''s far-reaching influence extended like a tapestry, weaving together the diverses under its auspices. Their mantle of governance epassed realms both near and far, fostering unity through shared purpose.


    2.	Eternity''s Realm: Eternity held sway over a substantial 21% of the universe, carving its dominion with a determination rivaling the stars. Their rule cast shadows across gxies, a testament to their unwavering ambition and determination to assert control.


    3.	Neutral Sanctum: Amidst the cosmic intery, a tranquil haven emerged¡ªan enigmatic 10% expanse untouched by the ambitions of council or eternity. This neutral realm existed in harmonious equilibrium, a sanctuary for wanderers and explorers, free from the empires'' grasp.


    ----


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 1

    Note:- I already mentioned the names of a few characters that will be required for the first few chapters. The only motive behind this is to get you(the reader) to know at least the name and upations of these characters.


    - Brandon Thomas: Head/Owner of Corth 5LU.


    - Adam Thomas: Son of Brandon Morgan.


    - Fletcher Byrne: Commander of theary army.


    - Anthony Jordan: Assassin under Fletcher Byrne''smand.


    - She Hanson: Member of the 6th Army.


    - Lacey Lloyd: Member of the 6th Army.


    - Chris Lloyd: Magician within the 6th Army.


    - Eva Riley: Captain leading the 6th army.


    - Joshua Booth: Technician serving in the 6th Army.


    - Wyatt Miller: Operator of spaceships.


    - Galil: Officer.


    - Renna: Officer.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 3 2 Corth 5LU.

    Corth 5LU a?? Earth.


    In the dimly illuminated chamber of Corth 5LU, Brandon stood gazing out through a transparent window, his gaze sweeping across the sprawling urban expanse thaty beneath him. This city, a manifestation of his vision and ambition, thrived under his watchful eye. Its towering spires reach towards the heavens, while intricateworks of transport weave seamlessly through its streets. Bioluminescent flora casts an ethereal glow upon the cityscape, painting a breathtaking tapestry of colors as day transitions into night.


    Beside him, his son, Adam Thomas, held a tablet, his expression expectant. With a poised demeanor, Adam inquired, "Father, how should we address this proposal?" His voice bore a resolute determination, a reflection of his upbringing.


    As his father pivoted to face him, the weight of their impending decision hung heavy in the air. "Take a moment, read the offer once more," Brandon requested, his tone carrying a sense of urgency, yet tempered by years of experience. The young Adamplied without protest, the tablet''s glow casting a faint light upon his features.


    "Father, the offer entails a shift in allegiance from the Alliance to eternity," Adam Thomas began, reciting the terms from memory, "In return, they present us with apelling proposition:


    8,000,000,000,000,000 gctic credits.


    A  stake of 30% in the revenue generated from our''s endeavors.


    Advanced Technological Coboration.


    Exclusive ess to Arcane Knowledge."


    "This is their proposition, and the terms are elegantly straightforward," Adam Thomas asserted, his voice steady and resolute. "Our shift of allegiance should be formally announced during the uing Ceremony of Freedom, which is mere two days away."


    Contemtion clouded Brandon''s features as he mused aloud, "How many among us may have already betrayed our cause? It''s confounding how the council seems oblivious to such intricate dealings. What are your insights, my son?" The weight of uncertainty lingered in his words, torn between the allure of the offer and theplexity of the situation. Should he expose this to the council or covertly entertain it?


    "I''m inclined to rmend against epting this offer," Adam Thomas replied thoughtfully. "Granted, the prospect of 80 trillion credits and 30% of our''s revenue is immensely tempting, particrly when contrasted with the meager 5% we currently receive. However, we mustn''t overlook the reality of our military capabilities. The council holds power sufficient to mount an offensive against us, should they so decide. On the other hand, we could potentially safeguard our interests if any of our neighboring entities opt to break away from the council."


    Brandon''s gaze sharpened as his son''s strategy unfolded. "You''re contemting the deployment of the 6th army, aren''t you?" he inquired, a faint glimmer of admiration in his eyes. "Indeed, they represent our trump card."


    Returning his attention to the cityscape beyond the window, Brandon reached a pivotal decision. "We shall decline this offer," he dered resolutely, "and present it to the council in a manner that conceals our involvement."


    "Understood, father," Adam Thomas acknowledged, a sense of purpose emanating from him. With determined steps, he exited the chamber, his course set, leaving Brandon to contemte the gravity of their choice, the city of Corth 5LU poised on the precipice of a decision that would shape its destiny.


    Adam''s footsteps echoed through the pce corridors as he made his way to the designated guest chamber. As he entered the room, the Eternity agent rose from his seat, a smile gracing his features. "The offer on the table is rather enticing, I dare say it eclipses what you might earn toiling for the council over a decade," he remarked, the smirk on his face widening.


    "Indeed, the offer is intriguing," Adam acknowledged, his tone contemtive. He moved with an air of casual confidence towards the room''s open bar, a sense of purpose emanating from his every step. "However, there''s a crucial aspect you seem to have overlooked."


    Curiosity sparked in the agent''s eyes as he inquired, "And what might that be?" He observed as Adam deftly filled two sses, extending one toward him.


    Adam''s gaze met the agent''s as he offered a knowing smile. "It''s imperative to delve into the ancestral lineage of any prospective invitee, especially in this scenario," he replied cryptically. The tinkling of crystal against crystal apanied his gesture, the second ss being imed by the agent''s hand.


    The agent raised an eyebrow, intrigue mingling with his curiosity. "And what significance does that hold?" he probed, his lips touching the rim of the ss before sipping the liquid within. Only after Adam mirrored the action did he fully indulge in his drink.


    "My great-grandfather, a war hero, was the sentinel of sector 958th," Adam recounted, his voice tinged with pride. "He stepped forward to lead after the assassination of the fleet''smander, ensuring our victory against the odds." His words prompted a perceptible shift in the agent''s demeanor, who lowered himself cautiously into his seat. As the agent drained his ss, a bitter awareness settled upon him a?? this could very well be his final indulgence before imprisonment.


    "Then take me into custody. Incarcerate me," the agent retorted with a veneer of defiance, his voiceced with an undercurrent of resignation. "Your only recourse is imprisonment, for youck the audacity to execute me outright. Remember, I am a harbinger of Eternity. Should harm befall me, the wrath of those you call neighbors, now aligned with us, shall descend upon you."


    In response, Adam''s voice hardened, taking on an unexpected edge. "But will you live to witness their retaliation? The wine you consumed wasced with ''Bleak Mist,'' a poison. It remains dormant unless ingested in substantial quantities within a short span. You have barely a minute before its effects consume you. Now, I suggest you reveal their identities before your time runs out," he pressed, his tone carrying an ominous weight that belied his calm exterior.


    "You wouldn''t dare," the agent''s voice seethed with rage, yet his defiance was short-lived. His words were abruptly stifled by a fit of coughing, prompting him to hastily retrieve a handkerchief. Though the coughing subsided, an insidious weakness invaded his limbs, his handkerchief now stained a grim shade of crimson. His legs faltered, and rather than copsing into the seat, he crumpled to the floor, his strength utterly drained.


    "You should have heeded my words; time was not on your side," Adam remarked with a solemn detachment. With a parting farewell, he exited the room, the door sealing the agent''s fate. From beyond the closed door, Adam could still hear the agent''s agonizing coughs, confirming his grim prognosis.


    The turn of events didn''t sit well with Adam, a sense of frustration gnawing at him. His hopes of extracting valuable information had been thwarted by the agent''s abrupt demise, Unbeknownst to him, he hadn''t anticipated consuming the drink so rapidly. However, it was a reminder that not every maneuver unfolds ording to one''s intentions.


    Steeling himself, Adam altered his course, veering away from the pce and its unsettling aftermath. Instead of returning to his father with news of the agent''s demise, he chose a different path, one that led him out of the pce and into the city beyond.


    Descending the pce''s grand staircase, Adam reached the ground level where his awaiting vehicle stood poised. Settling into the plush seat, he was greeted by the driver''s inquisitive query, "Where shall we venture, young master?" Without hesitation, Adam''s voice held a sense of purpose as he instructed, "Head to Riddle."


    ---


    Amidst the cascading rain, the bouncers stationed before the nightclub struggled to maintain order among the increasingly agitated crowd vying for entry. Tempers red as frustrated shouts pierced through the relentless downpour, a crescendo of impatience borne from the dyed entrance they sought.


    Suddenly, a vehicle of opulent grandeur pulled up at the club''s entrance, casting an air of extravagance that eclipsed even the allure of the establishment itself. The guards, momentarily halting their attempts at crowd control, turned their attention to the regal car''s arrival. Abandoning their posts, they hastened to the vehicle, their actions imbued with a sense of deference reserved for a select few. As the car door swung open, its upant emerged, shielded from the rain by the vignt extension of an umbre a?? a symbol ofvish care amidst the drenched chaos.


    ----


    Amidst the deluge, a figure of dignified poise emerged from the luxurious car. d in a tailored midnight blue overcoat, the man exuded an aura of refined elegance that mirrored the very opulence of the vehicle he had arrived in. Each step he took, measured and deliberate, seemed to carve a path through the rain-soaked air.


    The silhouette of his chiseled features, partly obscured by the y of shadows and raindrops, held an air of aristocratic allure. His hair, tousled by the rain, glistened like strands of onyx against the backdrop of the night. Eyes that mirrored the storm''s intensity bore a glint of shrewdness, betraying a mind keenly attuned to the intricacies of his surroundings.


    With an air of assured authority, he moved gracefully, almost as if the rhythm of the rain had synchronized with the cadence of his steps. As he emerged from beneath the sheltering umbre, it became apparent that this figure of enigmatic presence was none other than Adam Thomas.


    Adam''s gaze swept over the moring crowd, and an uncanny hush descended like a shroud. The once raucous atmosphere of exasperation now ceded to a profound silence, where the relentless rhythm of raindrops seemed to echo like distant thunder. With measured grace, Adam navigated through the stillness, his path clearing as if guided by an invisible hand.


    As he approached the entrance, the very owner of the nightclub himself emerged, a deferential respect in his stance. The doorway yielded to the owner''s touch, unveiling a passage into the heart of the establishment. Adam, bearing an air of quiet authority, addressed the owner, his tone tinged with anticipation, "Where can they be found?"


    "This way, young master," the owner responded, guiding Adam towards the stairwell that ascended to the second level of the club.


    Stepping onto the second floor, the owner led Adam towards a particr chamber, distinct in its solitary guardianship. Unlike the others, this room''s entrance was vigntly protected, a pair of keys manipted in unison to unlock the threshold. As the door yielded to their synchronized touch, Adam and the owner crossed the threshold, swiftly apanied by the closing of the door, now safeguarded by sentinels.


    Within the confines of the room, a tapestry of luxury unfurled, surpassing the boundaries of mere imagination. The air itself seemed to shimmer with opulence, an ambiance where extravagance had been meticulously woven into reality. From intricately carved furnishings adorned with precious gems to cascading chandeliers that bathed the room in a soft, ethereal glow, every detail spoke of a world crafted from dreams.


    Silken drapes, awash in hues that mirrored the twilight sky, cascaded from floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a mesmerizing view of the rain-soaked city below. Plush velvet seating beckoned with invitingfort, while ornate art pieces adorned the walls, their intricate beauty capturing the eye and holding it captive.


    A grand piano stood sentinel in a corner, its polished surface a reflection of the room''s refined elegance. Crystal decanters cradled the finest libations, their contents a testament to the discerning tastes that frequented this hidden haven.


    The owner''s steps diverged from indulgence as he meandered towards a grand piano stationed at the room''s corner. His skilled fingers danced upon the ivory keys, evoking a sequence of intricate notes that seemed to be more than mere music. In response to this harmonious melody, a concealed mechanism stirred, and a sleek screen gracefully unfurled from the ceiling above.


    With a keen understanding of the unfolding sequence, Adam approached the luminous screen. Knowing theyers of authentication required, he engaged in a biometric verification process, presenting not only his fingerprints but also the unique imprint of his irises. As the system recognized his identity with certainty, the scene set in motion an orchestration of events that revealed a concealed chamber concealed within the very fabric of the room.


    A subtle symphony of shifting mechanisms resonated through the space, as the expanse of wall behind the piano gradually pivoted, unveiling a previously hidden room that had long eluded casual observation. The revtion unfolded before him, a testament to the enigmatic legacy concealed beneath the veneer of extravagance.


    In the wake of this revtion, the owner tactfully stepped aside, his role in this journeyplete. With a graceful bow, he pronounced, "Young master should you require my aid, you can call me through the phone avable here."

 Chapter 4 3 6th Army.

    Adam''s silent nod served as an affirmation, his purposeful strides leading him toward the veiled entrance. As the wall yielded, it unveiled a ce veiled frommon sight a?? an expanse that housed the ndestine sanctum of the 6th army. This covert bastion emerged as a ce of its own, a hidden base fashioned by the artistry of space magic. In a breathtaking disy of magical mastery, the expanse that should have spanned hundreds of miles waspacted, seamlessly condensed into a mere matter of meters.


    Upon his arrival, which had been discreetly ryed by the owner, Adam was orded a reception befitting his stature. The echoes of anticipation reverberated through the chamber, materializing into the form of Captain Eva Riley, poised and ready.


    Her tall stature was entuated by a lean, athletic build, hinting at her formidable capabilities as a leader. A cascade of dark, chestnut hair framed her face, falling in loose waves that seemed to mirror the fluidity of her movements. Her sharp, hazel eyes held an intensity that spoke of both wisdom and a history of battles fought. Dressed in a tailored uniform that bore the insignia of her rank, Eva emanated an aura of authority, her every gesture reflecting the weight of her responsibilities.


    "Mr. Thomas, your presence here is rather unexpected. What brings you to our midst?" Eva inquired, her tone tinged with a mixture of curiosity and anticipation. The umon urrence of his visit piqued her interest, and she motioned towards her office, inviting him to delve into the matter in privacy.


    Acknowledging her gesture, Adam offered a curt nod before the two of them traversed the familiar path to her office. Upon arrival, Eva took her customary ce at the head chair, his demeanor revealing an uncharacteristic gravity. Instead of joining him, Adam approached the window, deftly manipting the shutters to seal off their surroundings from prying eyes.


    With a reassuring nce around the secured confines of the office, Adam eventually sank into the sofa. His exhtion bore the weight of impending discourse, a precursor to the revtion he was about to share. "Eternity has made contact," he disclosed, a grave tenor infusing his words. The atmosphere seemed to shift, the gravity of their conversation settling upon them both.


    Eva''s countenance reflected her own heightened tension as she leaned in, seeking rity. "For what purpose?" she questioned, her voice measured.


    His gaze steady, Adam recounted the events sinctly,ying bare the sizable offer they had rebuffed and the consequential fate of the Eternity agent. Eva''s features tightened as the narrative unfolded, her mind no doubt racing to decipher the implications of this encounter.


    Pausing, Adam met her gaze, his expression reflecting the gravity of their situation. "In light of this, I believe we should be prepared, ready to reveal our forces should the need arise," he proposed.


    Eva''s brows knitted as she pondered Adam''s words, a momentary silence enveloping the room. With a contemtive exhale, she refocused her attention on him. "Should the need arise for us to reveal our strength in the face of an attack, I''ll ensure the order is set in motion," she affirmed, her tone resolute.


    "What about him?" Adam queried, his voice carrying a tinge of concern. "He''s been the very reason we''ve maintained your secrecy, treating you as our ultimate trump card."


    "He''s present here. Would you like to meet him?" Eva offered.


    "Not at this moment. Simply inform him to prepare. We could be confronting 4-star magicians. Farewell for now," Adam responded, rising from his seat and departing.


    -----  After Adam departed from the base, Eva, too, exited her office, her brisk steps a testament to her newfound urgency. She left behind a trail of orders, mobilizing the entire army for an imminent battle. With resolute purpose, she embarked on a stroll towards one of the base''s hidden gems-an unassuming tavern nestled within its confines.


    From the exterior, the tavern exuded an inviting charm, its rustic fa?¡ìade adorned with softly hued wooden nks and meticulously carved pirs. A sense of cheerfulness emanated from its very being, a stark contrast to the impending storm of conflict that loomed.


    Peering through the stained-ss windows, one could only imagine the convivial hubbub resonating within-the clinking of cutlery, the tter of drinking sses, and an echo of waves ofughter that extended beyond its walls.


    Stepping over the threshold, the tavern''s worn metal door yielding to her touch, Eva was met with a palpable hush that seemed to envelop her. Eyes fixed upon her; patrons watched in curious silence as she navigated the dimly lit interior.


    Behind the bar, the bartender remained engrossed in the pages of a newspaper, his indifference palpable. Eva''s presence, though unannounced, prompted no change in his demeanor, a testament to the establishment''s enigmatic charm.


    An unwavering principle governed within the confines of the 6th Army''s tavern-a code dictating equitable treatment for all, regardless of the exalted titles they bore beyond its walls. Eva, too, adhered to this egalitarian ethos as she navigated her way toward a secluded corner. A subtle gesture beckoned the bartender, a silent request for her favored drink.


    Approaching a table that was already graced by another upant, Eva showed no hesitation in settling into one of the unupied chairs. The silence from the person already seated offered no protest, an unspoken agreement of their shared domain.


    As if summoned by her intentions, a waiter materialized at their table, presenting Eva''s drink. "A war looms on the horizon," she remarked, her words punctuated by measured sips from her ss. Her gaze remained affixed upon the other individual, her discerning eyes capturing every nuance.


    Seated at the same table, the other person had an air of mystery around them. Their clothes matched the rustic feel of the tavern, and they seemed quietly confident. They had dark, slightly messy hair and a thoughtful, observant look on their face. A strong jawline suggested strength.


    Their eyes were a mix of blue and gray, holding deep stories within them. A faint scar near their eyebrow hinted at past challenges. As they sat, you could sense a controlled power about them, like a strong energy held in check.


    Lost in their thoughts, they traced their drink''s rim with their fingers, aware of their surroundings. Amidst the tavern''s noise and the tension of theing battle, they appeared remarkably calm, like the calm before a storm.


    "So, are you ready?", Eva''s question hung in the air. "Never been more so," came the gravelly response from the other person. "Excellent. Freshen up, and grab new clothes. Just two days remain before we''re plunged into a relentless battle," Eva''s voice was swift, fueled by urgency, her drink vanishing in a single gulp.


    "You ought to linger a bit, savor something," the other person chimed with a hint of humor.


    Eva scoffed; her amusementced with a touch of exasperation. "Chris, you know I''m no good at this. Besides, if you hadn''t turned down this position, I''d probably still be nursing drinks in some corner of this tavern. Thanks for shaking things up, you wretched soul," she yfully retorted before departing, leaving behind a trail of banter.


    Following Eva''s departure, Chris lingered a while longer, leisurely concluding his drink. With deliberate pacing, he savored each sip, embracing the temporary sce.


    Setting aside his emptied ss, Chris approached the bartender, his stance steady as he leaned against the bar table. "What''s the damage?" he inquired casually.


    Without ncing up, the bartender provided the tally. "120 credits a?? 10 from your end, and 110 from the captain''s tab."


    The revtion struck like a sudden gust of wind, causing Chris''sposure to waver. "That woman," he muttered beneath his breath, a blend of irritation and exasperation tinging his words. Nheless, he settled the bill, his hand producing the requisite payment despite the evident discontent that lingered in his expression.

 Chapter 5 4

    Departing from Riddle''s, Adam promptly directed his driver to steer a direct course toward the official military base. As the car drove through the expanse of the base, Adam gazed out of the window, absorbing every detail with unwavering attention.


    Nestled within a sprawling expanse, the military base stood as a bastion of technological marvels and strategic prowess. Commanding attention with its imposing architecture, the base seamlessly fused utilitarian efficiency with futuristic innovation. Rows of sleek spaceships, each an epitome of advanced engineering, stood poised in their berths, their polished hulls gleaming under the watchful gaze of vignt sentinels.


    The air crackled with electrifying energy as personnel bustled about, engaged in meticulous preparations. Officers, adorned in their resplendent uniforms, moved with a sense of purpose, orchestrating the ballet of operations that defined this celestial stronghold. The rhythmic hum of power generators, intermingled with the asional roar of engines being primed, reverberated through the atmosphere-a symphony of ambition and readiness.


    In the hangars, teams of engineers and technicians swarmed over starfighters and colossal battleships alike, ensuring everyponent was calibrated to perfection. Arcing beams of energy emanated from diagnostic tools, revealing the intricate dance of circuitry that powered the behemoth vessels. The scent of ozone and the echo of metal nging against metal pervaded the air, a testament to the ceaseless dedication.


    Adam strode purposefully toward the headquarters building, his steps resolute and unwavering. He bypassed any distractions along the way, making a beeline for themander''s office. Stepping into the room, an unexpected chill grazed the back of his neck as a de pressed against his skin. Swiftly, he identified the familiar presence responsible for this abrupt intrusion.


    "It''s me, Anthony," he calmly assured, prompting the cold edge to retreat as quickly as it had materialized.


    Themander, Fletcher, remained engrossed in his documents, seemingly absorbed in the flurry of administrative tasks. Without looking up, he remarked, "Anthony does have a penchant for drama when ites to unscheduled visits."


    Taking a seat across from themander''s desk, Adam forged ahead with his purpose. "Important matters demand our attention," he intoned, his tone betraying the gravity of his words.


    Before he could delve into the heart of the discussion, Fletcher pre-empted him, his focus squarely on the impending conflict with Eternity. "Your father already informed me about Eternity. Preparations are underway, with the protective ring''s activation and fleet deployment scheduled for 2300. I''m in the middle of overseeing these operations."


    However, Adam''s agenda reached beyond the anticipated battle. His words grew frostier as he imparted a new development. "There''s more, Fletcher. The 6th army is officially joining our ranks for this battle."


    The mere mention of the 6th army ignited a visible reaction in Fletcher. His head snapped up, his pen finding a reprieve as he leaned back, contemting the significance of the announcement. The weight of the moment settled between them before a chuckle erupted from Fletcher''s lips, a hint of amusement in his eyes.


    "They''re finally on board, huh?" Fletcher mused, a triumphant grin forming. "Those traitors who aligned with Eternity are about to get their asses handed to them."


    "Be patience till the ceremony," Adam chimed in, a knowing smile shared between him and themander.


    ------------------------------------------


    On the Ceremony of Freedom Day:-


    The Ceremony of Freedom stood as a universal celebration, embraced bys across the cosmos. It marked the monumental day when the tapestry of governance was woven anew. This vibrant festival radiated joy, color, and a palpable sense of unity.


    Streets and zas were adorned with a dazzling array of gs, each emblem representing the diverses that hade together for amon cause. Parades of all shapes and sizes meandered through the heart of every city, showcasing captivating floats and performers from different corners of the universe.


    Laughter filled the air as vendors lined the pathways, offering an enticing array of intergctic cuisine and exotic treats. Children''s faces lit up with wonder as they indulged in sweet concoctions from distant realms. Musicians and dancers intermingled, their lively performances transforming the streets into a vibrant, living canvas of sound and motion.


    As day transitioned into night, the sky ignited with a dazzling disy of fireworks, each explosion painting the heavens with bursts of vibrant colors. Amid this cosmic spectacle, the grand centerpiece of the festival awaited-the ceremony itself.


    In a magnificent amphitheater, people from every, resplendent in their traditional garb, converged. Dignitaries and citizens alike listened intently as the tale of unity and the birth of a new governing body was recounted. It was a narrative that transcended worlds, a reminder of the boundless potential when disparate voices harmonized toward amon vision.


    As the event reached its crescendo, leaders ascended the stage. It was the expected script a?? praises for the council''s efforts, anticipation for the uing year''s ceremony, and expressions of unity. However, what unfolded next caught everyone off guard. A seismic shift rumbled through the gathering as a multitude of leaders, seemingly out of nowhere, dered their allegiance to ''Eternity'' instead of the council.


    The shockwave of this announcement rippled through the crowd, leaving jaws agape and minds reeling. Even the council''s headquarters, known as "The Spectacle," wasn''t spared from the tidal wave of unsettling news that swept across the universe. Within a mere day, the Alliance was hit with a devastating blow, losing the allegiance of a considerable number ofs a?? an unprecedented turn of events.


    The fallout was more than just a series of defections. The renegades swiftly transformed from allies to aggressors,unching offensives against those who remained loyal to the council. The swift and coordinated nature of these attacks left no doubt that careful nning had gone into this betrayal.


    In the wake of the Ceremony of Freedom, the council''s dominion was eroded at an rming rate. In just over a month, their territory suffered a significant contraction, shedding more than a tenth of its holdings. The impact was profound, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the council''s ability to withstand this unforeseen storm.


    As the council struggled to maintain its footing, an entirely different narrative was unfolding on Corth 5LU. Among the twenty-four neighborings, a staggering eighteen had aligned themselves with Eternity. Within the span of a single month, Eternity had managed to conquer every within five sr systems adjacent to Corth 5LU-every, that is, except Corth 5LU itself.


    The''s unique defensive measures proved formidable. They had swiftly activated protective rings and rallied their armed forces, rendering invasion attempts by the opposition a daunting task. Despite the intense pressure, Corth 5LU remained unconquered.


    However, the situation teetered on the brink of change. A pivotal moment loomed as a massive fleet, three times the size of Corth 5LU''s own, gathered just beyond their protective barriers. The tide of events was about to shift, for today marked a turning point-an unveiling of the''s most formidable asset, the 6th army.


    Amid the tense discussion, Chris''s demeanor stood out as he lounged at the round table, sharing space with She, Lacey, Eva, and the holographic projections of Adam and Commander Fletcher. With an air of detached disinterest, he appeared visibly uninvolved as the others debated over strategic ns. Gradually, he withdrew his phone from his pocket, sumbing to the allure of digital games.


    Initially, his actions went unnoticed amid the intense focus of the group. The fervent exchange of ideas and proposals held their attention, overshadowing Chris''s virtual pursuit. However, a shift in his demeanor became ringly apparent as his casual gamey devolved into muttered expletives. This abrupt change in tone jolted the room, causing heads to turn and gazes to narrow in his direction.


    Caught off guard by Chris''s sudden outburst, hispanions momentarily ceased their deliberations, their expressions transforming into a blend of astonishment and irritation. All eyes converged on him, a unified stance of displeasure emanating from his colleagues. Amidst this stern tableau, a solitary figure remained immune to the unfolding spectacle-Adam, who, being a longtime acquaintance of Chris, found amusement in the situation, recognizing the idiosyncrasies of his friend''s behavior.


    "Chris, if you can''t manage to pay attention here, at least have the courtesy to refrain from disrupting our work," Eva admonished, her voice tinged with a thinly veiled threat, her frustration palpable.


    At the sound of his name, Chris looked up from his screen, his nonchnt expression unaffected. "What''s the fuss? It''s not as if they''re formidable. I can make things plenty ufortable for them, paving the way for an efficient resolution. I''m fully capable of handling this solo."


    "We''re well aware of your capabilities, Chris. Yet, consider this: what if their ranks include a 4-star magician, much like yourself? You''d effectively be a target, a prime specimen for their spaceship practice." Lacey, a striking presence at the table, chimed in, her voice carrying a mix of caution and rationality. She was a woman of distinct elegance, her presencemanding attention. Her auburn hair cascaded gracefully over her shoulders, framing a countenance that exuded both intellect and strength. Her gaze held an unwavering determination, reflective of her role as a vital cog in this intricate machine. Her words bore the weight of strategic foresight, emphasizing the potential risks that Chris seemed to dismiss with his casual attitude.


    "Not that I''ve sensed anyone exceeding 3-star within their fleet," Chris retorted, his confidence evident.


    Commander''s authoritative voice interjected, infusing the room with a sense of purpose. "True, Chris, but they boast Advanced-3 models, which surpass our Advanced-2 ships in terms of both speed and potency. This is a crucial detail you must not underestimate. Now, onto the finalized n. Chris, you''ll lead a teamprising 30 3-star and 200 2-star magicians. Your objective is to sow chaos, carefully maintaining a magic output resembling that of a 3-star magician. Are you following so far?"


    "Yeah, I get it," Chris responded, his tone reflectingprehension. "I''ll be steering a bunch of babies, giving off the impression that I''m no different from any other 3-star magician. Once they unleash their heavy artillery to wipe us out, that''s when I unveil my true power and obliterate their defenses. Afterward, I''ll move swiftly, inflicting more damage before they mount any substantial retaliation and make a hasty retreat. After that, you will take over." He summarized the n, infusing it with his analytical insight.


    The Commander appeared momentarily lost for words, caught off guard by Chris''s astute summation that aligned so closely with his thoughts. Adam, standing beside the Commander''s holographic projection, couldn''t help but chuckle at the Commander''s brief speechlessness. The Commander swiftly regained hisposure, addressing Chris with renewed determination. "Indeed, that''s the n. So, when can we expect the operation tomence?"


    In response, Chris rose from his seat, tucking his phone back into his pocket. "Right now. When their guard is at its lowest."


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 6 5 Power Of 4-Star Mage

    Within the confines of the mothership, two figures stood to watch as their fleet came to a halt just beyond the perimeter of Corth 5LU''s protective rings. The duo patiently awaited the meticulous alignment of their ships into formation. Typically, their approach presenteds with a binary choice: submit or face the full might of their forces. However, this scenario deviated from the norm. The fleet''s Commander had received a direct mandate from the upper echelons-an order that left no room for negotiation. Their mission was clear: to eradicate every soul on this as retribution for the execution of an Eternity agent.


    Amid the fleet''s reconfiguration, a sudden burst of brilliant light erupted just ahead of their formation. As the radiance waned, it revealed the presence of approximately 200 figures effectively obstructing the fleet''s trajectory. Observing this development from within the mothership, one of the upants scornfully remarked, "Mages, do they truly believe this to be child''s y? Instruct the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd squads to engage and swiftly dispose of these nuisances." His attention shifted past the gathered mages, his gaze seemingly dismissive as it fixated on the verdant beyond.


    With themand ryed from the mothership to the designated squad, detachment from the fleet was immediate. The unit hurtled towards the assembled mages, its numbers totaling over 100 vessels-a formidable force capable of quelling a group of 200 individuals whobeled themselves as mages. Such a calction seemed logical; after all, it required just that many of these ships for subduing a collection of 2-star mages. Yet, the impending sh held a surprise unounted for by the aggressors.


    As Chris perceived the approach of more than 100 ships converging upon his position, a flick


    er of frustration sparked within him. Their calcted underestimation irked him, the notion that a mere hundred vessels would suffice to challenge him igniting his ire. Swiftly, he quelled the mes of anger, mindful that battlefield emotions were a futile indulgence.


    He looked back at the cadre he was in charge of, and he ordered them, "All 3-star mages get into position with defensive spells, block every attack that wille to you. meanwhile, the first group of 2-star mages will use spells that can increase the mobility of everybody. The second will be responsible for our offensive output, fire the spell when I say so. Get into position quickly."


    (Note:- Anybody who is or above 2-star level can operate in space without any problem.)


    Before long, the formation of ships reached their target, unleashing a barrage of energy beams in their direction. Ordinarily, a single volley of such attacks should have sufficed to obliterate any collective defensive efforts put forth by the assembly of mages. Upon impact, wisps of smoke wafted from the magic shield, a testament to the sheer force of the onught.


    Undeterred, the group of ships reformed their attack formation andunched another salvo, their confidence bolstered by the belief that this assault would eliminate everyst mage present. Among those ships, the leader of the 1st squad-charged with overseeing this particr mission-wore a triumphant grin. He anticipated receiving substantial recognition for orchestrating this apparent triumph. Yet, his tion was swiftly erased as the dissipating smoke revealed an unforeseen reality.


    With a dawning realization, the squad leader''s jubnt expression morphed into one of shock. Urgently, he barked orders through the squad''smunication channel, his voice tinged with urgency, "Assume a defensive formation! We''re up against 3-star mages!"


    Before the defensive formation could take shape, Chris issued amanding directive, his voice ringing with authority, "Open fire." In response to his order, a torrent of diverse spells surged forth,unching a relentless assault against the encroaching fleet of ships. The atmosphere crackled with mana as hundreds of distinct magical manifestations converged upon the vessels.


    The onught of spells unleashed by mages wreaked havoc upon the approaching fleet. Explosions erupted in brilliant bursts of light as magical projectiles collided with the ships, tearing through their shields and hulls. The once-confident vessels now found themselves embroiled in a desperate struggle, their defensive systems overwhelmed by the sheer ferocity and variety of the onught."


    The battlefield became a spectacle of dazzling colors and chaotic bursts, each spell adding to the cacophony of destruction. Inside the mothership, the atmosphere shifted from arrogance to urgency. The figure who had earlier belittled the mages now barked out orders, his voiceced with a mix of panic and disbelief. "Retreat! Fall back and regroup! 5th squad use S482 missiles."


    Responding swiftly to the orders, the fleet sprang into action, desperately attempting to disentangle itself from the magical onught. Chris remained at the helm, deftly orchestrating the attack with calcted precision. His strategic acumen became evident as he singled out pivotal vessels, triggering cascades of explosions that propagated through the ranks of the encroaching adversary.


    The stage was set for the entry of the 5th squad, armed with S482. These specialized anti-mage missiles possessed the capability to breach most magic shields. As the missiles wereunched, Chris issued a tactical retreatmand to the mages. Unconventionally, however, he opted to remain in the fray. A sly smirk graced his countenance as he extended his arms wide, a resolute determination gleaming in his eyes. With a resonant utterance, he invoked his devastating spell, "Starfire ze."


    As Chris invoked the incantation, a surge of potent energy emanated from his outstretched arms, coalescing into a brilliant and searing sphere of light. The sphere expanded rapidly, its luminous radiance transforming the battlefield into a realm aze with otherworldly brilliance. The air crackled with raw power, and a palpable wave of heat radiated outward, causing the very atmosphere to shimmer and distort.


    Upon impact with the enemy fleet, the Starfire ze erupted in a cataclysmic explosion of scorching mes, consuming everything in its path. Ships were engulfed in a tempest of searing inferno, their hulls melting and disintegrating as the congration raged.


    In the wake of the devastation, a trail of smoldering wreckage and dissipating energy remnants marked the path where the enemy fleet once stood. The mes eventually subsided, leaving behind a dark void marred by the remnants of shattered vessels.


    His efforts were far from exhausted, as he promptly cast another spell. This time, a teleportation incantation was invoked, transporting him directly before the remnants of the fleet, which remained stupefied by the revtion of his 4-star mage. With remarkable speed, he materialized in their midst, wasting no time in executing yet another spell. In an awe-inspiring disy, he summoned the power of "Void Bomb."


    The air crackled with electrifying energy as Chris channeled arcane power for his next spell. Focusing intently, he cast the potent "Void Bomb" incantation. His hands weaved intricate patterns, conjuring a sphere of shimmering darkness that pulsed ominously.


    With unwavering determination, Chrisunched the Void Bomb at the remaining fleet. The impact triggered a cataclysmic explosion of ethereal shadows, shrouding the area in an all-consuming void. Ships disintegrated, their structures unraveling amidst gravitational anomalies unleashed by the spell.


    Reality itself seemed to twist and distort as if the fabric of space was being warped by the spell''s overwhelming forces. Those caught within the st were engulfed in a disorienting vortex of darkness, their senses overwhelmed by the chaotic turmoil.


    As the aftermath of the Void Bomb subsided, the fleety crippled and broken. Debris floated amidst the ruins of once-mighty vessels. The mark left by the Void Bomb was undeniable. Chris''s audacious maneuver had effectively decimated a significant portion of the opposing forces, creating a strategic advantage for his allies and altering the course of the battle.


    With over half of his fleet decimated, themander within the mothership erupted in furious screams. He hastily issued a full retreat order, seething with anger and regret for not knowing about the presence of a 4-star mage among their opponents. If he had been aware, he would never have engaged in this operation, to begin with.


    However, regrets were of no use now. The retreatmand quickly spread among the surviving ships, prompting a hasty withdrawal. Chris had the opportunity for further devastation, but he too chose to pull back.


    Inside the mothership, the enemymander unleashed his frustration, venting his rage on anything within reach. Precious items were shattered as he grappled with the shocking revtion. "How? How does that insignificant possess a 4-star mage? How? We don''t even have one, despite our overwhelming power."


    An assistant to themander, speaking hesitantly, suggested, "Perhaps they employed a rare artifact. It''s unlikely they could afford to hire a 4-star mage as a mercenary."


    "That''s the only exnation," themander, in a state of denial, conceded.


    "Or perhaps we cultivated him in secrecy, nurturing his talents from the very beginning," a sudden voice interjected.


    Themander''s initial response was dismissive, "There''s no way a backwater like this could have nurtured a 4-star mage."


    His confidence wavered as he realized the voice didn''t belong to his assistant. Turning around, his eyes widened in horror as he witnessed a scene of carnage. Everyone in the room, from his assistant to the ship operators,y lifeless. A chilling silence enveloped the space, broken only by his breathing.


    The intruder, Anthony, unveiled his face by removing his scarf. Without hesitation, he lunged at themander, flinging a dagger in his direction. The de bounced off a protective shield enveloping themander, but upon impact, the dagger detonated, weakening the shield.


    Themander, recovering from his initial shock, attempted to regain hisposure. However, his efforts were futile. The second daggerced with aura, propelled by Anthony, breached thepromised shield and found its mark. Themander''s life was extinguished in an instant, the de piercing his neck and sealing his fate.


    After themander''s demise, themand room''s door swung open, revealing a group of marines who had rushed to the scene upon hearing the explosion. Their swift arrival, however, was in vain; Anthony had already vanished from the room after aplishing his mission.


    Meanwhile, Chris managed to reach the awaiting ship, stumbling as he entered. Joshua, quick to react, caught him at the doorway. "You never learn, do you? I''ve been telling you to use my teleportation device to conserve your mana, but you always ignore my advice," Joshua scolded.


    "I''m fine, just tripped. Let''s go, I want to get some rest," Chris retorted, brushing off Joshua''s concerns in a somewhat petnt manner.


    Chris made his way to his cabin on the ship, while Joshua headed to the main helm. Conversing with Wyatt, Joshua arranged for their return to headquarters. "He''ll probably sleep for a day or two, as usual," Joshua remarked.


    Wyatt nodded in agreement and began manipting the ship''s controls. They veered away from the battlefield, their course set for Corth 5LU. As they navigated, numerous ships passed them in the opposite direction. Commander Fletcher had decided it was a critical moment to seal the battle''s oue, preventing any enemy escape. Part of this strategy involved eliminating the higher echelons of the enemy fleet''smand structure, which has already been aplished.


    In a span of two hours, the once-mighty enemy fleet was decimated, dwindling to less than 100 ships. A fleet that had once proudly boasted over 5000 vessels was now reduced to a mere fraction of its former strength. The subsequent phase of the conflict extended over two more days, during which Commander Fletcher''s fleet tirelessly pursued and eradicated any remaining stragglers that managed to flee the initial engagement.


    After a day of rest, Chris awoke from his slumber, asserting that his fatigue was not the reason for his rest, but rather a chance to provide the rest of the army with real-life battle training. Despite his ims, nobody believed him. His desire to join the battle and eliminate the remaining ships was met with a refusal from Eva. She reminded him of his earlier intention to allow the rest of the army to gain experience in battle. "Why don''t you take a break and let us handle this? You wanted to give us a chance to experience realbat, so now it''s our turn," she said, asserting her point.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 7 6 The Spectacle

    Inside The Spectacle, a sense of urgency filled the air as people hurriedly moved about, their voices raised in animated discussions. This was the nerve center of the council''s operations, where all their strategic decisions were made and executed.


    Five years had passed since the fateful day when Eternity had struck the alliance. Initially, the alliance struggled to regain its footing, facing both internal strife and external attacks from Eternity. The alliance found itself caught in a dual struggle a?? an internal civil war and a conflict on its borders. It was a challenging period, but the alliance managed to regroup and organize its response.


    To ovee these challenges, the council devised a two-step approach. First, they dispatched reinforcements tos in need, fortifying their defenses to prevent further losses. The second step involvedunching counterattacks to reim lost territories. In just five years, the council''s coordinated efforts and strategic prowess had turned the tide of the war in their favor.


    Inside the strategic room, two officers were engaged in conversation. One was an elf named Renna, and the other was a centurion named Galil. Their interaction carried a yful tone.


    "Galil, what brings you here? I don''t recall you being summoned back to headquarters," Renna inquired teasingly.


    "It''s none of your concern, Renna. And I hardly consider myself a burden to you," Galil retorted with a hint of aloofness.


    Renna chuckled. "Rx, I''m not out to get you. By the way, have you heard about that incident in the 958th sector?"


    Galil nodded. "Yes, the case involving the breach of rules and harboring a 4-star mage without council approval. If it''s the one I''m thinking of, then yes, I''m aware."


    Their exchange carried a sense of intrigue and familiarity, hinting at theplex dynamics and rtionships within the council''s ranks.


    "Oh? But I don''t see it as a wrong move. They not only survived but also caught the enemy off-guard, helping our cause," Renna chimed in.


    Galil''s expression remained stern. "Regardless, they vited the rules, and they''ll face consequences for it. Our opinions don''t matter, especially now that Ravenbard may have already arrived," he exined before walking away.


    Renna wasn''t ready to drop the topic. "Don''t you find their situation a bit too fortunate?" she pondered aloud.


    Galil paused and turned to Renna, curiosity in his eyes. "What do you mean?"


    "As I was reading the reports, I noticed something intriguing. They activated their protective ring a day before the Ceremony of Freedom. There''s only one usible exnation a?? they must have had prior knowledge of the attack," Renna said, a smile ying on her lips.


    Galil burst intoughter. "The message the council received five years ago... They truly outyed us, didn''t they?"


    Renna joined in theughter. "Indeed. Now not only can we not me them for bending the rules, but we might even have to reward them. And who knows, they might even ask for their 4-star mage to be set free," she added with a yful grin, her eyes reflecting the humor in her words.


    Hovering just beyond the atmosphere of Corth 5LU, outside the protective ring, a colossal gship materialized. Its sheer size made the beneath it seem minuscule inparison. The spaceship resembled a behemoth of metal and technology, its imposing form radiating an aura of power and sophistication. Its sleek, angr design spoke of meticulous craftsmanship, with every line and curve purposefully sculpted for aesthetics and functionality. Gleaming panels of metallic alloy covered its surface, reflecting the light of distant stars and casting an otherworldly sheen.


    Massive engines protruded from the rear of the spacecraft, their intricatework of exhaust ports and thrusters hinting at the vessel''s formidable propulsion capabilities. The hull was adorned with intricate engravings and patterns, a testament to the dwarven artistry that went into its creation.


    A series of massive, retractablending gear extended from the ship''s belly, resembling the legs of some futuristic mechanical creature. Thesending struts provided stability as the vessel hovered in space, ready to descend upon a''s surface if needed.


    Clusters of sensor arrays andmunication dishes adorned the spaceship''s upper sections, allowing it to scan and interact with its surroundings. As it floated majestically against the backdrop of stars, its presence exuded an air of authority and dominance, a testament to the advanced technology and engineering prowess of the dwarven race.


    Upon its arrival, the space station situated near the protective rings of Corth 5LU sprang into immediate action, alerting everyone on board. Commander Fletcher was swiftly contacted, and within moments, two holographic figures materialized within the station. As Commander Fletcher observed the colossal gship through the window, he exchanged a knowing look with Adam, who stood by his side, a smile ying on his lips.


    "Just as you predicted, they wasted no time toe soon as they stabilized the situation," Commander Fletcher remarked pleasedly, his confidence evident.


    "It was the logical course of action. Whoever holds that position must possess a sharp mind. Now, establish amunication link with them," Adam instructed themander, prompting the necessary actions to connect the space station with the gship.


    With a nod from Commander Fletcher, an operator swiftly initiated themunication sequence, resulting in a window materializing in front of themander. On the screen, a dignified woman of the dwarven race appeared, her voice carrying a certain regal tone.


    "I seek an audience with themander of your space station," the woman dered with authority.


    "You are addressing Commander Fletcher," he responded, matching her tone without hesitation.


    "Very well, that simplifies matters. Your has been found guilty of six distinct vitions, and Ravenbard has been dispatched to administer the appropriate punishment. Remove your shields, or we shall bepelled to breach them ourselves," she stated firmly, her words unwavering and devoid of any pleasantries.


    "Understood, as you wish, servant of esteemed Ravenbard," Commander Fletcher conceded, his tone respectful yetced with a subtle assertion. He gave the order to the operator to deactivate the protective shields surrounding Corth 5LU. On the women''s end of themunication, fury surged within her. She seethed with indignation, for it was a widely recognized fact that even though they were in service to Ravenbard, none dared to address them as mere "servants." To hear themander of this rtively obscure brazenly utter those words was an affront she could not easily ignore.


    A storm of anger churned within her, fueled by wounded pride and a desire to assert her authority. The audacity of this backwatermander had lit a fire in her determination. With her influential position and connections, she harbored the capability to request her masters to focus their attention specifically on him. In her mind, a n was formed to make him endure the consequences of his words. Thismander''s boldness would not go unanswered, and she was poised to ensure that his life became an epitome of unrelenting trials under her watchful gaze.


    The deactivation of the shield rings was swiftly executed, and emerging from the gship was a vessel of considerable size, resembling the mothership from the attack that had transpired five years prior. This massive ship set a course, hurtling towards the capital city of Navia, its destination being the pce nestled within.


    Adam couldn''t help butment on the audacity disyed by Commander Fletcher in addressing the woman as a servant. "You certainly didn''t hold back there," he remarked, acknowledging the bold move.


    Themander''s response was resolute, "I wasn''t about to allow her to undermine my authority."


    Chuckling at themander''s determination, Adam deactivated his hologram, following suit as Commander Fletcher closed his own, a satisfied smile gracing his features.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 8 7 The Ravenbard

    As the imposing spaceship drew closer to the pce, it gracefully descended, hovering above the lush gardens that adorned its surroundings. A luminous radiance emanated from within the ship, casting a soft glow over thend beneath. Gradually, as the light receded, the scene revealed ten enigmatic figures, each cloaked in a hooded mantle, apanied by an equal number of attendants.


    To extend a formal wee, both Brandon and Adam had assembled a group of workers, prepared to receive the hooded figures who had descended from the impressive spaceship. As the figures closed the distance while remaining suspended above the ground, an air of intrigue enveloped the gathering. While the specific race of the enigmatic Ravenbard remained unknown, it was well-known that their presence couldpel truthfulness a?? a unique trait that nobody could defy. Another distinctive characteristic was their inclination to remain aloft, never touching the ground.


    Functioning just below the council, the Ravenbard''s primary role was to maintainary order and administer punishment to those who transgressed. Their arrival at this moment signaled their intent to investigate and potentially impose sanctions upon the''s leader, Brandon, should they find any wrongdoing.


    In a disy of deep reverence, both Brandon and those in his vicinity knelt before the Ravenbard figures, acknowledging their authority. "Rise, child," one of the hooded figures spoke, prompting everyone to stand. Another figure added, "Lead the way. Time is of the essence. This matter must be expedited."


    Their telepathicmunication bypassed the need for vocal cues, making it challenging to discern the sequence of speakers. Brandon took the lead, gesturing towards a designated area within the garden where a makeshift court was to be established.


    As Brandon led the procession to the designated area, the hooded figures followed in an almost ethereal manner, their feet never making contact with the ground. The gardens, usually a ce of tranquility and beauty, now held an air of solemnity as the group gathered in anticipation of the impending trial.


    Upon reaching the chosen spot, Brandon turned to face the Ravenbard, his expression a blend of seriousness and respect. "Honored milord Ravenbard, we have prepared this space for the proceedings. Please, let the trial begin," he requested, his voice steady despite the weight of the situation.


    At its center stood a raised tform, serving as the focal point for the trial. Constructed from sturdy, weathered wood, the tform provided a clear vantage point for all those gathered to witness the proceedings. Its surface had been meticulously cleared, leaving ample room for the essential figures involved in the trial.


    A small, ornate table was positioned at the forefront of the tform, its surface adorned with a few scrolls and objects of significance. Surrounding the tform were rows of simple wooden benches, hastily arranged to amodate the member of Ravenbard.


    The hooded figures arranged themselves in a semi-circle, creating a focal point that drew the attention of all present. Their mysterious aura seemed to intensify, filling the air with an almost palpable energy. With a subtle gesture from one of the figures, the atmosphere shifted, and an invisible force seemed to envelop the area.


    Momentster, translucent images materialized in the air, disying scenes from various incidents that had taken ce within the''s domain. The images spanned a wide range of events. One of the images was of the hidden 6th army hideout, another of Chris who could be seen chilling inside his room drinking and reading something.


    The hooded figures maintained an enigmaticposure, their inscrutable gazes riveted to the shifting images before them. After a prolonged period of observation, one of the hooded figures finally spoke, their voice carrying an air of authority. "Leader Brandon, after scrutiny of the charges, you have been found guilty of multiple offenses that are punishable by death. First, employing space magic without the requisite authorization from the council. Second, sheltering an unregistered 4-star mage. Third, utilizing forbidden spells capable of unraveling the very fabric of reality. Topound this third transgression, the fourth charge pertains to the external repercussions caused by the damaged reality."


    A deliberate pause ensued, allowing the weight of their pronouncement to resonate within the minds of those present. The hooded figure then resumed, their tone measured yet unyielding. "Any single one of the aforementioned offenses would warrant capital punishment. However, you stand used of all four. Do you have any defense to present before us?"


    At Brandon''s signal, he stood, addressing the hooded figures directly. "No, milord. But I do possess a piece of information that might intrigue you." A subtle smirk graced his features as he extended a document to one of the servants nearby.


    The document was promptly presented before the Ravenbard figures, just as the previous images had been disyed. Audible disapproval emanated from one of the Ravenbard servants upon reading it. The document highlighted that it was Corth 5LU that had alerted the council about the widespread betrayal across variouss. However, the council received this crucial information toote.


    As the Ravenbard figures concluded their scrutiny of the document, a collective chuckle reverberated through the minds of those present, punctuating the unveiled truth. "So, it was your hand that sent forth thismunication. Tell us, what are the rewards you seek in return?" inquired one of the hooded figures.


    Brandon''s smile was unwavering as he responded, "My desires are modest. I request theplete exoneration of all charges filed against us, and the freedom of our 4-star mage." He presented his terms with a sense of resolve.


    The response from Ravenbard was measured yet firm. "Considering your noble actions, your first request is amicable and can be granted. However, the second term poses a challenge. Crossing the threshold of the 4-star realm entails certainmitments, particrly military service. We cannot circumvent this fundamental principle."


    Brandon''s voice tinged with a hint of bitterness as he replied, "Milord, I understand the constraints, but I intended to grant him the freedom I never had. To unshackle him from the confines of duty."


    "We acknowledge your intentions, young one," Ravenbard responded, empathetic yet unwavering. "Although we cannot grant your exact request, we propose an alternative. The 4-star mage in question may choose the officer he wishes to serve under, as well as select apanion to join him."


    Another Ravenbard figure interjected, "However, your actions cannot go without consequence. For your orchestrated upheaval, we shall strip you of the 6th army. You shall henceforth be limited to the ownership of five armies, and the current 6th army shall be integrated into the council''s official forces."


    Brandon lowered his head in deference, acknowledging the verdict. "As youmand, Milord."


    "With these terms epted, the trial now concludes, and we extend our well-wishes for your endeavors ahead," the solemn pronouncement from Ravenbard marked the definitive closure of the trial. Their words held an air of finality.


    As the final decree resounded, the hooded figures began to withdraw. Their movements were deliberate and graceful, their enigmatic presence fading into the backdrop as they embarked upon their journey back to the towering gship that loomed above the. The air seemed to regain its normal rhythm, though the residue of their presence still hung like an intangible thread.


    After Ravenbard''s departure, Brandon and Adam returned to the pce, the weight of the recent trial still hanging in the air. As they entered Brandon''s office, Adam couldn''t hold back his curiosity any longer. "How did you manage that, Father?" he inquired with a puzzled expression.


    Brandon''s smile was both knowing and mncholic. "What are you talking about?" he replied, though he understood exactly what Adam was referring to.


    Adam''s confusion deepened. "You know exactly what I mean. How did you lie in front of Ravenbard? You were never bound to this ce; you''ve always had the freedom to leave. As far as I recall, my grandfather opted to bind the soul of one of his servants to the, granting you the gift of freedom."


    With a faint smile, Brandon chose to remain silent, his thoughts echoing in the stillness. "Go, convey the verdict to the 6th army and themander. There is much to be done, especially now that we find ourselves considerably weakened," he instructed, his voice carrying a weight of responsibility.


    Sensing the futility of seeking further answers, Adam left the office, his mind already racing to fulfill the tasks at hand. As he departed, Brandon let out a resigned sigh, the weight of a secret he bore revealing itself in his weary demeanor. "I''m sorry, Adam. I can''t allow you to learn the truth about your father''s transformation," he whispered to the empty room, the weight of his decision settling upon him like a shroud.


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 Chapter 9 8

    Inside one of the rooms at Club Riddle, an intense staring standoff ensued between Adam and Chris. The tension between them was palpable, an indication of a prolonged argument that had transpired. Eva, who stood nearby, wore something different from her usual army uniform, opting for a short dress that added a touch of both elegance and informality to her appearance. The choice of attire seemed to reflect the unique circumstances and the need for a more rxed environment for their discussion. Her presence, however, carried an air of exasperation, evident in the furrowed brow and clenched jaw that apanied her stern gaze.


    Frustration mounting, Eva''s patience wore thin. "Are you two ever going to put an end to this? I have important tasks to attend to. Did you bastards just bring me here to witness your pointless standoff?" Her voice grew louder, but the two men remained unswayed by her outburst. Fed up with their unresponsive behavior, Eva seized a nearby ss and flung it towards Adam, making him the unwilling intermediary in their impasse.


    The ss whizzed through the air, catching Adam off guard. Instinctively, he raised his arm to shield his face, and the ss shattered against his forearm, sending shards scattering across the room. Chris burst intoughter at the unexpected turn of events, while Eva''s frustration seemed to escte even further.


    "Oh, now you decide to react!" Eva eximed, her voice tinged with both annoyance and amusement. "If you''re quite done with your little staring contest, maybe we can all get back to more important matters?"


    Adam let out a chuckle as he inspected his arm, relieved that the ss hadn''t caused any serious harm. "You know, Eva, you could have just asked us to stop," he quipped his yful tone a stark contrast to the tension that had filled the room moments ago.


    Eva crossed her arms and shot an exasperated look at both of them. "You both are impossible. Fine, whatever. Just don''t drag me into your nonsense again." She turned on her heel and headed towards the door, but before she could leave, Chris finally spoke up.


    "Wait, Eva. There''s something we wanted to discuss with you," he said, a more serious tone in his voice now.


    Eva paused and turned back; her eyebrows raised in curiosity. "What is it?"


    "We brought you here to decide the" Chris dered, drawing out the tension before revealing the trivial nature of their standoff. Eva, clearly expecting something significant, was seated expectantly in her chair. "Ultimate staring champion," Chris concluded.


    Upon hearing his revtion, eva pounced on chris, unleashing her purse as a weapon. "You idiots! Can''t you ever take anything seriously?" She turned her attention to adam after delivering a thorough punishment to chris. "And you, are you also curious about the champion?"


    "No, no," Adam hastily replied, retreating in his seat as eva continued her retribution on chris. "I certainly wouldn''t want to challenge someone who can beat her superior and the future leader of her."


    "You better be," Eva retorted, her demeanor transformingpletely from her usual army uniform-d persona.


    "Setting that aside, I called you here for a more significant matter than a staring champion," Adam resumed with a serious tone. "You''re aware of Ravenbard''s impending arrival, right?"


    Eva, now ceasing her assault on Chris, returned to her seat. "Yes, I was going to ask you about the verdict, but you were engrossed in your ''very important'' standoff," she retorted.


    Adam cleared his throat with a feigned cough and proceeded, "Well, the verdict is in our favor. However, there have been some notable changes from our previous prediction."


    "Firstly, Chris has the choice to join the army of any officer he prefers, and he can bring one person as his +1. Secondly, Eva, your 6th army has been disbanded," Adam delivered the verdict.


    Upon hearing the verdict, Chris adopted a more serious expression, while Eva maintained a knowing look on her face. "Not much of a surprise, but it falls within my expectations," shemented.


    "Third, Eva, you and your entire army will be integrated into the council''s official army," Adam delivered the final piece of news with a solemn tone.


    Eva''s eyes showed a mixture of dread and understanding. She was well aware of the implications a?? those who became part of the council''s army often faced dangerous missions, enduring a relentless cycle of high-risk assignments without respite or holidays.


    The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on their minds, especially given the dire state of the alliance. The sense of dread that Eva felt held an additionalyer of meaning a?? unlike other circumstances where those who joined the council''s army could typically opt to leave after a decade of service, this was different. In this case, joining the council''s army was deemed a form of punishment by Ravenbard. As a result, escape from this challenging and demanding service was only possible through death or by progressing to the next level.


    "Do we have any other options?" Eva inquired, even though she was well aware of the inevitable answer.


    "No," Adam responded. "However, I can offer some assistance to make things more bearable for you."


    "How?" Eva''s surprise was evident in her voice. Chris, too, found himself taken aback, knowing the challenge of altering a Ravenbard verdict once it had been issued.


    "It''s quite simple, we will be there for you" Adam exined, gesturing between himself and Chris.


    Chris initially failed to grasp Adam''s point, but it didn''t take long for the realization to dawn on him. "Hold on a second. When did I agree to join the council''s army? And who gave you the authority to be my +1? Thest time I checked, I have the freedom to choose my path. I''ve heard Officer Vish''s army has some pretty attractive recruits, and Officer Leo''s team is known for itsid-back approach. Either of those would suit me better."


    Adam chuckled at Chris''s reaction, seemingly unfazed by his protests. "Come on, Chris. You know you wouldn''tst a day in Officer Vish''s army or Officer Leo''sid-back brigade. And besides, who else is crazy enough to be your +1 in those situations?"


    Eva couldn''t help but smile at the banter between the two. Despite the seriousness of the situation, their friendship was a wee relief. "All right, fine. Having you two around might make things a little more bearable," she admitted.


    Adam nodded, pleased with the oue. "See, it''s settled then. We''ll face whatever challengese our way together, just like old times."


    Chris rolled his eyes but couldn''t hide a smirk. "Yeah, yeah, fine. But if I have to wear that ridiculous council uniform, I''m ming both of you." They all shared augh.


    Their drinks arrived promptly, carried by a small robotic server. Chris and Adam had chosen Delle, a milder option, with Chris avoiding stronger drinks due to his preference and Adam because of his impending work responsibilities. On the other hand, Eva had boldly selected Braumbleque Doux, the most potent concoction the club offered.


    As they began to sip their drinks, Chris and Adam paced themselves with a sip every minute or so, while Eva wasted no time and had already polished off more than two bottles. The ambiance was lighthearted, yet a tinge of mncholy was palpable.


    Eva''s voice carried a hint of sorrow as she spoke, "How long has it been since we''ve sat together like this, without a care in the world? And even now, it''s only because we''re about to leave this behind."


    Adam''s response held a touch of sadness, "It''s been 35 years, 9 months, and 4 days since we graduated andst shared a drink."


    Observing the emotional weight in their expressions, Chris felt unsure about how to uplift the mood. Adam''s sadness was understandable, given his deep attachment to his father. Witnessing Eva, his usually fierce and unshakable captain, disy emotions was a new experience altogether.


    However, the momentary somberness was soon broken as Eva and Adam snapped out of their reverie. Yet, Adam''s embarrassment and Eva''s annoyance took the forefront as chris eximed, "I had no idea you two were so sentimental! I would''ve dly given you some privacy if I had known." This was followed by eva taking out her frustration on Chris,unching yet another round of good-hard beating which natured teasing andughter.

 Chapter 10 10 Secrets

    "Commander Fletcher, you may proceed with Project 999," Brandon instructed Fletcher, a calcted undertone hinting at a concealed agenda meant to be kept from his son''s awareness.


    Respectfully, Fletcher raised a query, "Sir, if I may, isn''t it a bit premature? Your son still hasn''t left the."


    Brandon''s response was swift,den with chilling indifference, "It''s of no consequence. They''ll be upied with other matters, and I sense some skepticism in your tely, Fletcher.


    "As you wish, sir," Fletcher replied his brow dampening with a nervous sheen, acknowledging his subordinate role.


    Clearing his throat, Brandon delved further, "So, who are we using as a test subject this time?"


    Fletcher''s expression tightened slightly, "Sir, due to the partial sess of thest trial, we have decided to elevate the level of test subjects. We n to utilize 3-star warriors instead of the previous 2-star ones."


    Brandon''s voice turned colder, his gaze fixed on Fletcher, "And who is the designated test subject?"


    Fletcher''s unease was palpable, "I apologize, sir. It''s Anthony."


    Brandon''s eyes narrowed, "Anthony? Your personal assistant? You''re willingly using him?"


    Fletcher swallowed hard, his answer, "Yes, sir. He''s the sole survivor from ourst experiment. We believe he has developed some level of resistance, enough to withstand another trial."


    "So, he''s one of the three survivors," Brandon remarked, his voice devoid of emotion.


    "Yes, sir," Fletcher confirmed with a heavy sigh.


    "Very well, then proceed with it," Brandon concluded, allowing Fletcher to leave the room. As Fletcher exited, Brandon remained seated, gazing out of his window with a contemtive expression.


    After seeing both the heavily intoxicated Eva and Chris to their respective homes, Adam ascended the grand staircase of the pce. Their party had stretched into the night, and Eva''s indulgence in wine had surpassed the week''s stock. Adam, well ustomed to such scenarios after their years together, had taken it upon himself to assist her. He had guided her out of her wine-soaked attire, dressed her in fresh clothes, and gently ced her into bed, a routine borne from their shared history.


    As he ascended the staircase, Adam crossed paths with Commander Fletcher, who had recently emerged from Brandon''s office, his expression stern and unwavering. Fletcher acknowledged Adam''s presence with a nod of his head.


    Adam took a moment to address the situation, "So, I assume you''re aware of the verdict. I was actually on my way to inform you."


    "Yeah, I had something important to discuss with your father, and he shared the details," Commander replied, his departure momentarily halted as he descended a couple of staircases. He paused again, casting a knowing nce back at Adam. "Although the aroma of alcohol hints that you intended to keep me in the dark until the eleventh hour." With his words delivered, he resumed his journey, reaching his car a few steps away.


    Adam''s response carried a hint of sarcasm, "Well, I don''t see the need to divulge every detail to you, Commander." His tone held a yful edge, an unspoken challenge in his words.


    "As you see fit, young master," he uttered before departing in his sleek vehicle.


    Once, their camaraderie was unshakable, a bond built on trust and shared experiences. However, as the onught of attacks grew more relentless in the past five years, themander''s strategic decisions led to increasingly perilous cements of the 6th Army. This didn''t sit well with Adam, for he had dedicated his efforts to shaping the 6th army into its current formidable state. Despite the growing tension, both knew better than to let personal differences cloud their professional responsibilities.


    "Father, what brought Commander Fletcher here? I can''t recall any ongoing matters that would require his discussion with you," Adam inquired upon entering his father''s office.


    Brandon shifted his gaze toward his son. "It''s nothing of great concern, Adam. He needed my approval for a certain project."


    Adam''s curiosity was piqued. "A project? Why wasn''t I informed about it? Shouldn''t I be the one to review and verify any proposals?"


    Brandon sighed his expression a mixture of reluctance and concern. "Just some old unfinished matters from before you assumed that position," Brandon responded as he made his way toward his desk. "So, how did your celebration go? I received a call from our financial advisor, and he informed me that you managed to spend over a million gctic credits. Quite an extravagant party for just a trio of friends."


    Adam blushed, momentarily forgetting about the topic of Commander Fletcher. "Yeah, well, we were catching up, and before I knew it, Eva had practically turned the entire room into a sea of bottles. You''re well aware of Eva''s appetite for food and drink."


    Leaning back in his chair, Brandon''s expression shifted as a memory resurfaced. He leaned forward suddenly. "Ah, I recall now. I believe I''ve heard the name Eva before. Was she the same youngdy you brought home for dinner back when you were still in college?" His tone held a yful note.


    Adam''s embarrassment intensified, his face reddening like a tomato. "Could you please forget that? I''m out of here." Without waiting for a response, he hurriedly left the room, the door closing behind him.


    Brandon chuckled as he leaned back in his seat, still amused by his son''s reaction. Theughter soon subsided, and he let out a sigh. "Tsk tsk, it''s so simple to divert your attention, my boy. A mere mention of the past, and your original question is out the window."


    "But it''s all good, otherwise I''d have to take care of the matter myself. And I don''t fancy going through that phase without a son by my side again," Brandon mused to himself, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. He remained seated, lost in thought.


    The following days passed quickly as the members of the 6th army, along with Adam, tirelessly prepared to depart the. The initial strategy Adam and his father had hatched upon receiving the offer from Eternity was to exploit it to evade the consequences of their transgressions. However, the extensive devastation wrought by Chris during the battle hade back to haunt them.


    As the departure day neared, Brandon convened a dinner gathering for all three of them in his pce. Eva and Adam navigated the corridors with a familiarity that indicated their previous visits, while Chris trailed behind, still acquainting himself with theyout. "It''s been so many years since Ist visited your home, isn''t it adam?", eva asked yfully, she had her uniform.


    "Don''t, Eva. Don''t dredge up those memories," Adam''s voice held a sense of restraint, and Eva pouted in response. She quickly shifted her expression upon hearing Adam''s next words, adopting a more serious demeanor as he continued, "We''re not outside right now. We''re here on official business, so let''s keep our focus."


    Chris couldn''t help but chime in, his frustration evident in his tone, "Can''t you two just reconcile? Your initial breakup was due to the rigid army regtions. But technically, now that we''re not part of the army anymore, those rules shouldn''t apply."


    "We can''t, Chris. And it wasn''t just about rules; we chose to go our separate ways," Eva''s tone was resolute as she rified their history.


    "That''s right", Adam interjected; his gaze steady as he halted in front of the door. He turned back to face Chris and Eva, emphasizing the gravity of the situation,


    "Remember, this dinner isn''t just a casual gathering between a father, his son, and his friends. It''s a meeting between aary ruler and those who serve under him."


    With that, Adam pushed open the door to the dining room. Eva turned her attention to Chris, her smile small but warm, as she added, "And Chris, just remember my advice: don''t get too awestruck."


    The grand dining hall spread before them as the door swung open. The dining room exuded elegance and opulence, adorned with intricate historical tapestries on its walls, illuminated by the soft glow of chandeliers. A long, polished wooden table dominated the center of the room, lined with ornate silverware and crystal sses. The table''s surface was set with an array of delicacies, each dish meticulously crafted and ted.


    At the head of the table, Brandon sat with an air of authority, his expression calm yet contemtive. He looked up as Adam, Eva, and Chris entered the room, offering a warm smile to each of them. The dining chairs were plush and cushioned, inviting them to take their seats. The room was adorned with tall windows that overlooked the pce gardens, allowing the soft moonlight to filter in, casting a serene ambiance over the scene.


    Despite Eva''s warning, Chris couldn''t help but be utterly surprised by the view that greeted him. The grandeur of the dining hall left him momentarily awestruck, rendering him almost immobile. He stood there, his gaze fixed on thevish surroundings, as if unable to process the scene before him. It was Eva who eventually intervened, helping him regain hisposure and guiding him to his seat.


    Brandon''s chuckle resonated in the room, adding a touch of amusement to the atmosphere. "Quite a nostalgic sight, isn''t it, young miss? You had the same reaction when you first came here, although you weren''t too embarrassed afterward."


    Eva''s face turned a deep shade of crimson as she dropped Chris to the ground in her embarrassment, her own memories flooding back. Chris''s abruptnding on the floor jolted him out of his stupor, and he quickly scrambled to his feet, his eyes darting between Eva and Adam. Both of them seemed to be stuck in a simr state of embarrassment, frozen in ce by the shared reminiscence.


    Brandon''sughter subsided as he looked at the trio with a mix of fondness and amusement. As the echoes ofughter and the weight of nostalgia settled in the air, Brandon gestured toward the table. "Please, everyone, take your seats. Dinner is served."


    With a mixture of sheepish smiles and shared nces, Chris, Eva, and Adam took their respective ces around the ornate table. The ambiance was serene, the dim lighting creating an atmosphere of intimacy. The table was adorned with an array of delectable dishes, reflecting the diverse culinary palette of the gctic region.


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 Chapter 11 10 Start.

    (Note:- There was mistake withst chapter the Chapter will be 9th not 10th.)


    As they began to dine, the initial awkwardness slowly dissipated, the clinking of cutlery and asional chuckles filled the room.


    As the dinner drew to a close, Brandon leaned back in his chair, studying each of them with a mix of pride and fondness. He raised his ss, a signal for the others to follow suit. "Tomorrow marks the day you''ll be departing from this. The world outside offers more opportunities than you''ve encountered here, but that doesn''t imply it''s a walk in the park. Keep in mind, you''re no longer the ruler''s son, the captain of your army, or the most skilled mage around. You''ll encounter individuals like yourselves at every turn, in every nook and cranny, whether it''s in a tavern or on the streets asking for spare change. Don''t underestimate the challenges that lie ahead."


    "As you step out into the wider universe, remember the lessons you''ve learned here," Brandon continued, his gaze shifting between the three of them. "Chris, your recklessness and power are a double-edged sword. Use them wisely and remember the responsibilities thate with your abilities. Eva, your determination and fierce loyalty have always driven you. Just ensure they don''t blind you to the bigger picture. And Adam, your intelligence and strategic mind are your greatest strengths. Trust in your decisions and don''t let doubt undermine your choices."


    The room was filled with a heavy silence as Brandon''s words sank in. The gravity of their impending journey weighed on each of them, and their expressions became more serious.


    "However," Brandon''s tone softened, "I have faith that you''ll all find your way and thrive out there "To new beginnings," he proposed, his voice carrying a note of sincerity.


    "To new beginnings," they echoed, clinking their sses together, the sound resonating as a testament to their shared journey and the uncertain path thaty ahead.


    Eva cleared her throat, breaking the solemn silence. "Well, I guess that''s the end of the lecture, right?" She grinned at her two friends, trying to lighten the mood.


    Adam nodded, a small smile forming on his face. "Yes, I suppose it is."


    "Then let''s conclude this dinner on a lighter note right here," Brandon proposed, rising from his seat.


    "I guess that works," Adam agreed, and they all began to stand up.


    As they left the dining hall, the atmosphere seemed a bit more rxed. The corridor felt more familiar, the walls echoing with theirughter and banter.


    Eva walked alongside Adam, yfully nudging him, "You know, for a serious ruler, your dad sure knows how to throw a surprise dinner."


    Adam grinned, "Yeah, I guess he does have his moments."


    Chris caught up with them, his surprise from earlier still evident in his expression, "I still can''t believe this ce exists inside the pce."


    Eva chuckled, "Well, it''s a hidden gem, and I''m d we could share it with you."


    The following day, a congregation of over 10,000 soldiers stood ready for departure within the army base. They awaited the arrival of the official spaceship sent by the council, with Eva among their ranks. However, both Adam and Chris were conspicuously absent, as they were scheduled to board a separate spaceship designated for them.


    The distant hum of engines began to reverberate through the air. The official spaceship from the council gradually descended, its imposing silhouette casting a shadow over the assembly. The soldiers straightened their posture, standing at attention as the ship touched down. The tform extended, creating a ramp for them to board.


    Meanwhile, within the army headquarters, Adam and Chris were making their preparations. They had receivedmunication that their spaceship was ready for departure. Chris was impatient, his excitement tangible, while Adam appeared moreposed, his thoughts perhaps burdened by the weight of his responsibilities.


    As they left the pce and approached thending zone, they could see the spaceship assigned to them. It had a sleek design, exuding an air of technological sophistication. The pilot was already on board, waiting for their arrival.


    The pilot weed them aboard, and the spaceship''s hatch closed behind them. The engines roared to life, and the craft lifted off the ground. Through the transparent viewport, they could see the 6th army boarding the council''s spaceship.


    As their spaceship ascended, Adam and Chris gazed out at the they were leaving behind. It was a poignant moment, a farewell to their past and an embrace of an uncertain future.


    The spaceship surged forward, its engines propelling it into the reaches of space. Inside the vessel, Adam and Chris could feel the subtle vibration as they elerated. The pilot''s voice came over the inte, announcing that they were about to engage the hyperdrive-a technology that would allow them to traverse vast distances in a fraction of the time it would take using conventional propulsion methods.


    As the hyperdrive activated, the stars outside the viewport began to stretch and elongate, creating streaks of light that blurred into a luminous mosaic. The ship seemed to be enveloped in a tunnel of energy, hurtling through the fabric of space itself. Colors shifted and merged, forming a mesmerizing disy that danced on the edges of perception.


    Inside the ship, time seemed to bend, and their journey felt both swift and timeless. Hours passed like moments as they transcended vast interster distances. Eventually, the hyperdrive disengaged, and the streaks of light converged back into individual stars.


    Their journey continued, and after a series of hyperdrive jumps, they approached the artificial wormhole generator. The pilot''s voice crackled over the inte, exining that this device was a feat of advanced technology, capable of creating stable wormholes for rapid travel. The generator hummed to life, projecting a brilliant shimmering portal before them.


    "Watch closely," the pilot''s voice echoed through the ship. "We''re about to enter the wormhole."


    As the artificial wormhole formed, the ship''s surroundings would transform into a mesmerizing disy of shimmering colors and distortions. The visual phenomenon was a direct result of the bending and folding of spacetime, creating a kaleidoscope of hues that danced across the viewport.


    As the spaceship entered the artificial wormhole, the reality seemed to twist and distort around them. The surroundings became a kaleidoscope of colors, and the sensation of movement was disorienting yet exhrating. Energy rippled across the ship''s hull as they navigated the tunnel of spacetime.


    Then, in a sh of brilliance, they emerged from the other side of the wormhole, greeted by a breathtaking view of an entirely new gxy.


    "That was our creation," the pilot exined, his voice filled with pride. "By manipting subspace fields and gravitational forces, we can create temporary wormholes for efficient intergctic travel."


    Throughout their journey, the spaceship would traverse these artificial wormholes, each experience unique and wondrous. Every time they found themselves in a new region of space, surrounded by the shimmering beauty of a distant gxy. The stars there had a different hue, casting ethereal glows that painted the spaceship''s interior with otherworldly colors. Adam and Chris couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder as they gazed out at the cosmic tapestry before them.


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 Chapter 12 11 First Mission.

    After numerous hyperspace jumps and wormhole transitions, their journey reached its culmination. The spaceship''s navigation system announced their approach to the final destination-the headquarters of the council, known as the Spectacle. As they neared the Spectacle, the view outside the viewport transformed once again.


    The Spectacle was a colossal space station, a marvel of engineering that defied imagination. It was a sprawlingplex adorned with intricate architecture, massive docking bays, and an array of interconnected modules that stretched out like the arms of a celestial being. Lights twinkled and danced across its surface, creating an enchanting disy that highlighted the vastness of the structure.


    As their spaceship entered the docking bay of the Spectacle, the transition from the vibrant expanse of space to the interior of the station was seamless. The docking bay was bustling with activity as various ships from different parts of the universe arrived and departed. Automated systems guided their vessel to a designated spot, and the ship''s engines powered down with a gentle hum.


    Adam and Chris exited the ship and stepped onto the deck of the docking bay, surrounded by the hum of machinery and the echoes of footsteps. The scale of the Spectacle was truly humbling, as they could see the intricatework of walkways, corridors, and tforms that extended throughout the station.


    Upon disembarking, they were guided by a worker robot to their respective assigned areas. The robot efficiently directed them to their rooms and provided information about the uing procedures. They were told that a representative from the council''s army would meet them shortly to provide further instructions. The robot meticulously ryed all of this information.


    Interestingly, despite the advanced technological capabilities of the council, including inventions like hyperdrives and artificial wormholes, they had not yet ventured into utilizing robots for tasks likebat or spaceship piloting, a contrast to the moremonce presence of such automation in other areas of their society.


    They followed the robot through sleek corridors and arrived at a set of doors, which slid open to reveal their assigned living quarters. The room was spacious and modern, with minimalist furnishings and arge viewport that offered a stunning view of the spaceport and the distant stars.


    As they entered, the robot''s voice spoke again, "Please make yourselvesfortable. A council army representative will be with you shortly to discuss the uing procedures and your integration into our forces."


    After waiting for over 6 hours, a knock finally resounded at the door. Eager to break the monotony, Chris quickly opened it. Standing before them was a pale man, presumably a vampire, appearing to be in his twenties. His very presence seemed tomand the room, and he entered with an air of overwhelming arrogance. He passed by Chris as if he were invisible and took a seat in a solitary chair. His demeanor exuded arrogance in abundance.


    "You must be the ones joining the army through the backdoor. Regardless, allow me to brief you about the Council''s official army," the vampire spoke, his tone matching his attitude. "The army is divided into ten divisions, each under the leadership of ten different officers. You will be joining Officer Renna''s division, the same as the other soldiers from your," he continued.


    "In addition, each division is further divided into multiple squads based on experience andbat style. I''ve observed your fighting styles; you, the 4-star mage who favors destructive spells, and you, the 3-star warrior who relies on strategy. Unfortunately, both of you would be of little use against thes that betrayed us. We have more capable individuals who share your fighting styles. Therefore, you''ll be assigned to my squad," he dered. "I''ll exin our dutiester. Pack your belongings and be ready to depart in ten minutes. Meet me at Dock 61," he concluded before leaving abruptly.


    He strode in, exined everything within a mere minute, and departed as though he were too important to spare more time. Chris and Adam exchanged a nce, a shared realization that they were being treated with an unprecedented level of disregard. This new experience was unsettling, especially for two individuals who had rarely encountered such indifference. However, Adam swiftly broke the silence by grabbing the bag he had brought with him and signaling to Chris to do the same. He didn''t want to give the enigmatic vampire any more ammunition to belittle them.


    Leaving the room in a hurry, they dashed through the space station''s corridors, their urgency causing them to inadvertently collide with others along the way. They offered hurried apologies as they hurriedly inquired about the location of Dock 61. For the next eight minutes, their journey resembled a chaotic sprint, a whirlwind of running and idental collisions that garnered them a few choice words from irritated bystanders. However, their determination pushed them forward until they finally arrived at Dock 61, slightly out of breath but relieved to have reached their destination.


    Standing outside the spaceship was the familiar vampire, holding a stopwatch in his hand. As Adam and Chris approached, he halted the stopwatch, his gaze fixed on them. Both of them were visibly sweaty from their rushed journey. "Eight minutes and 19 seconds, not bad. Get on board the ship; you''ll receive a mission briefing during the journey," he informed them before ascending the ramp into the spaceship.


    Taking a moment to catch their breath, Adam and Chris remained outside for a few seconds. Then, with their pulse gradually returning to normal, they followed the vampire inside the spaceship.


    Gathered around a waist-high table were a total of six individuals, excluding Adam, Chris, and the vampire taking their ces. There were two additional upants in the spacecraft-the operator and the technician. Among six of them, there were two Werewolves, a giant, two demons, andstly one dwarf creating a diverse group of beings.


    Seated at the head of the table, Ishmael, the vampire, initiated the briefing. "Our target for this mission is this individual," he announced, causing a hologram to materialize above the table. The holographic image depicted a blue-skinned goblin.


    "His name is Kozz," Ishmael continued, his gaze fixed on the hologram. "Our objective is to capture him-dead or alive. He''s located on a called Pandora 9."


    The demon''s skepticism was evident as he voiced his concern, "Why? You''re aware that due to the historical conflicts between our races, demons are despised by goblins across the universe. And now you''re leading us to one of their centrals."


    His objection was grounded in reality, as Pandora was indeed the goblin''s homeworld. The war that had transpired 50,000 years ago had irrevocably severed their ties on a universal scale. The animosity was so entrenched that not even a goblin officer would tolerate the presence of a half-demon, let alone a demon, within their ranks.


    "Rest assured, both of you will have crucial roles in this operation. You will act as our eyes and ears, providing us with constant support from this base. Meanwhile, the others will be divided into teams responsible for investigating, gathering intel, and identifying his potential hideouts," Ishmael borated. "This individual, Kozz, is directly involved in smuggling advanced weapon blueprints to traitorous factions. Alongside our primary mission to eliminate him, there is an additional objective: extracting information about his suppliers or the mastermind behind this. However, if obtaining that information proves difficult, prioritize his elimination instead. Is everything understood? "


    "Yes sir," everyone chimed in, offering salutes in unison.


    "Given that we have some fresh faces among us, lend a hand in familiarizing them with our operational protocols and the system of rewards," Ishmael instructed, then made his exit from the room.


    "So, what''s your ssification?" one of the werewolves inquired, eyeing Adam and Chris.


    "What do you mean?" Chris responded, clearly puzzled by the question.


    "I believe he''s asking whether we''re mages or warriors," Adam interjected to rify.


    "Yeah, that''s it," the werewolf confirmed.


    "Oh, got it. I''m a 4-star mage, and he''s a 3-star warrior," Chris answered on behalf of Adam, who was about to respond himself.


    "Excellent, we were short on mages. Our squad used to have only one mage, the leader, but he rarely joinedbat situations. But with you on board, things might just get a bit more interesting," the werewolf added with a grin. "I''m Lycus, by the way. That big guy over there is Brutus, and the demon twins are Zara and Zephyr. That dwarf is named Boyd andst one is carey."


    Adam and Chris nodded in acknowledgment as they were introduced to the squad members.


    Brutus, the giant, leaned in and rumbled in a deep voice, "d to have some fresh blood in the squad. We''ve been doing this gig for quite a while now."


    Zara, one of the demon twins, offered a sly smirk as her gaze settled on Adam. "About time we had some fresh energy around here. Maybe these missions won''t feel so monotonous now."


    Not wanting to dwell on that scrutiny, Adam swiftly changed the topic. "So, what exactly are these protocols and the reward system you mentioned?"


    Lycus, the werewolf, answered Adam''s query. "Protocols essentially constitute the code of conduct that must be adhered to. Viting them can lead to charges of marital misconduct. Some of the crucial rules involve respecting your superiors and following orders, simr to what you''d expect on your. As for the reward system, it''s a distinct feature of the council''s army."


    Zara interjected, her voice carrying an enchanting tone. "Let me exin. You earn points based on your mission performance, which trantes into rewards. When you return to headquarters, you can exchange these points for various items-spaceships, weapons, magic scrolls, talismans, and even skill advancements. It''s a way to improve your arsenal, enhance your magical abilities, your aura or even elevate your rank in the army."


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 13 12 Mission -I

    The briefing concluded, and the team settled into their spacecraft, ready for their mission on Pandora 9. After some time as the ship hurtled through space, the view outside the window shifted from the expanse of the cosmos to theary horizon. Pandora 9 came into view, a lush world with sprawling cities that seemed to blend seamlessly with the naturalndscape.


    From above, the appeared to be a patchwork of vibrant green forests, crystal-clearkes, and towering mountains. The advanced civilization that inhabited this had managed to harmoniously integrate technology with nature. The cities were adorned with sleek architecture, interwoven with vibrant gardens and open spaces. Skyscrapers reached into the sky, their surfaces glistening with reflective materials that caught the sunlight.


    As the spacecraft approached the''s atmosphere, thending zone outside the city became visible. It was a marvel of engineering, an expansive tform built with advanced materials that seemed to resist wear and tear. Thending pads were automated, adjusting to amodate the iing spacecraft with precision.


    Thending area was a testament to Pandora 9''s technological prowess. It was equipped with holographic information disys, providing real-time updates about the city, local weather, and even details about iing spacecraft. Automated robots moved around, maintaining the area''s cleanliness and assisting passengers disembarking from other ships.


    As Adam, Chris, and the rest of the team except the demon twins disembarked from their spacecraft, they were greeted by a hum of activity. People of different races moved purposefully, engaged in conversations, or focused on their tasks. Transparent walkways glided above the ground, allowing pedestrians to move effortlessly from one point to another.


    Ishmael stepped forward, addressing the team, "Wee to Pandora 9, the heart of the goblin civilization. Remember, our mission here requires subtlety and efficiency. Blend in, gather information, and locate Kozz. Let''s proceed with caution."


    With Ishmael leading the way, the team entered the bustling city. The streets were immacte, bustling with people and vehicles that moved smoothly along maic pathways. Glowing holographic signs indicated shops, entertainment venues, and information centers.


    Despite the advanced technology, there was a sense of unity with nature. Greenery flourished everywhere, from rooftop gardens to hanging nts that adorned the city''s infrastructure. Even in the heart of the metropolis, the sounds of birdsong could be heard, blending seamlessly with the city''s background hum.


    Amidst the vibrant cityscape of Pandora 9, the team ventured further, their steps guided by Ishmael''s knowledge of the local area. After a while, they stumbled upon a quaint inn nestled amidst the bustling surroundings. It was a charming establishment with a fusion of modern design and natural elements. The inn was named "Verdant Haven," and it promised afortable stay for travelers.


    Ishmael''s authority as a council operative allowed them to secure the entire inn for their team''s use. The inn''s staff,posed of various species from the, weed them with respectful nods and efficient service. They were guided to their rooms, which were equipped with advanced amenities, holographic interfaces, and spectacr views of the city.


    With the amodations settled, the team convened in a designatedmon area within the inn. This space was strategically chosen to ensure privacy while they nned their next steps. The council had provided them with aprehensive map of the city, highlighting potential locations of interest, including markets, technology hubs, and areas with potential connections to Kozz.


    They arranged their equipment, including weapons,munication devices, and a sophisticatedputer system capable of tapping into the''sworks for gathering intelligence. The hum of theputer''s processors filled the air as they synchronized it with their devices.


    They adjusted the holographic disy, projecting the map onto a nearby wall. The map was dotted with markers indicating possible locations where Kozz might be active. Ishmael joined them, and they began discussing their initial ns.


    "We''ll need to divide our efforts," Ishmael exined, his focus unwavering on the holographic disy. "Boyd, ensure that all the data we gather is linked to the spaceship''s mainputer. This will allow the twins to analyze information by tapping into the''swork. Brutus, your post will be here, guarding this location in case of any potential threats. The rest of you, get some rest and be prepared for what''s toe."


    "Once we start collecting data, we should be able to pinpoint any unusual activities ormunications rted to our target," Boyd exined.


    Brutus, the giant, stood near the entrance, his massive frame providing a physical presence to deter any potential threats. "Okay, I''ll keep watch outside. Let me know if anythinges up," he rumbled.


    As the hours passed and the city''s vibrant lights transitioned to the softer glow of the night, the team continued their preparations. The holographic map disyed new data points and potential leads, guiding their strategy. Boyd and the twins worked diligently, their expertisebining to make sense of the intricate web of information that surrounded them.


    With the n in ce and their initial tasks assigned, the team members took a moment to rest. Thefortable inn provided a ce where they could recharge both physically and mentally.


    As the first rays of dawn illuminated the city, the team reconvened in themon area. Boyd and the twins had gathered valuable insights from thework, identifying possible locations where Kozz might be involved.


    Boyd''s voice resonated in the room as he presented the new information they had gathered, his gaze fixed on the holographic disy. "There are three potential locations where Kozz might have established a hideout. These are the possibilities: 3rd Street, Cleard Road; 19th Street, Preetart Avenue; and finally, near Sroh Corner."


    Ishmael nodded thoughtfully, his eyes narrowing as he evaluated the options. "Those points are quite spread out across the city," he mused. After a brief pause, he continued, "All right, we''ll have to split into three teams to cover all the potential hideouts. Boyd, Carey, and Brutus will form one team. The rest of us will make up the second team, and I will be the third team."


    "Remember, our presence must remain discreet. We don''t want to alert the local security forces or draw attention to our mission. As far as they''re concerned, we''re here on official council business. Disperse," Ishmael''smand echoed in the room, signaling the end of the briefing. He gathered a selection of tools from the arsenal, his movements purposeful and efficient. Without a word, he made his exit, leaving the team to prepare for their respective roles.


    As Ishmael left, the remaining members of the team began to disperse throughout the room. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of anticipation and determination. Each operative approached the arsenal, evaluating the array of modern weapons before them. The weapons, thoughpact, were potent and versatile, capable of transforming from inconspicuous boxes into deadly instruments with a simple activation.


    With focused deliberation, the team members made their selections. Some chose firearms, their sleek designs hinting at their advanced technology. Others opted for melee weapons, embracing the bnce between tradition and innovation. Among them, Brutus stood out, his massive form drawn to a single choice a?? a colossal battle axe, its weight, and heft a testament to the giant''s immense strength.


    Adam''s decision was deliberate and calcted. He selected twopact guns that fitfortably in his hands, their ergonomic design suggesting ease of use. His third choice, however, was a sword.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 14 13 Mission -II

    Adam, Chris, and Lycus formed one group, and they decided to investigate the 3rd Street, Cleard Road area. Their journey took them through bustling markets, where holographic disys showcased a myriad of goods. They passed by technology hubs where advanced gadgets were showcased, and information centers where holographic screens provided updates on various topics. Despite their mission, the team couldn''t help but marvel at the city''s sophistication.


    As they approached the 3rd Street, Cleard Road area, they maintained a low profile, avoiding unnecessary attention. They blended in with the crowds, their attire and demeanor reflecting that of ordinary citizens. It was a delicate dance, maintaining the facade of normalcy while keeping an eye out for any signs of Kozz''s activities.


    The streets leading to their target location were alive with activity. Shops and cafes adorned the sidewalks, each offering a unique glimpse into the lives of Pandora 9''s inhabitants. The aroma of exotic dishes mingled with the soft hum of conversations.


    They opted for a caf¨¦ strategically chosen as it was on the opposite side of a potential hideout. Its fa?¡ìade exuded an air of normalcy, contrasting with the enigmatic aura of nearby ces. Settling into a corner booth, they blended seamlessly with the caf¨¦''s environment. The menu presented to them featured delicacies from across the universe.


    Adam and Chris made their selections, opting for Slow-Cooked False Uakari, a dish known for its rich vors. Lycus, ever curious about local vors, ordered Etenda Bonbons, eager to experience local unique culinary offerings. The caf¨¦ itself was a throwback to a bygone era, with visible culinary activity and a staff that seemed to enjoy every aspect of their work, from food preparation to service.


    As the aroma of their chosen dishes wafted through the air, they engaged in light conversation, enjoying a respite from their mission''s intensity. The atmosphere was conducive to their role as observers, providing them with the perfect vantage point to monitor their surroundings.


    Midway through their meal, their focus shifted. A series of movements near their designated target location caught their attention. A car pulled up nearby, its upants stepping out onto the bustling street. Two towering figures, both giants, emerged from the vehicle, nking a goblinpanion. The goblin walked briskly towards a nearby building, while the giants positioned themselves as guards at the entrance.


    As they observed discreetly from the caf¨¦, Adam, Chris, and Lycus exchanged meaningful nces. They continued to savor their meals, their focus shifting between their food and the unfolding events just beyond the caf¨¦''s windows.


    "How do we approach this situation?" Adam''s voice carried a tone of seriousness, reflecting the weight of their decisions.


    "We have two potential options," Lycus responded, his voice equally serious. "Firstly, we could approach them under the pretense that their boss had a meeting with us. The second option is more aggressive-neutralizing them and going for the kill. However, thetter approach risks drawing the attention of the police force before we can even reach that goblin."


    Adam contemted the choices, his mind quickly weighing the pros and cons of each course of action. "Most likely, we should go with the first option. The goblin seemed hurried, suggesting that he might be waiting for others or his clients inside the building."


    Lycus nodded in agreement. "Then we wait. Let''s split into two teams. I''ll tail the car once the goblin exits. Meanwhile, you enter the building and search for anything that might lead us to capture Kozz."


    "Why are you speaking as if the goblin entering the building isn''t Kozz?" Chris inquired, his confusion evident.


    Adam shook his head, his expression serious. "No, that''s not Kozz. Remember the briefing? Kozz is a pure-breed blue goblin. The goblin we see going inside is a half-breed. He''s likely Kozz''s son."


    Chris''s face lit up with a hint of excitement. "Well, that''s an advantage, isn''t it? We could use his son as leverage to bring Kozz out."


    Adam''s response was quick and decisive. "Unfortunately, that won''t work. Goblins, especially the blue ones, are inherently greedy. They''re unlikely to give anything up in exchange for their offspring. We need toe up with a different approach."


    With their n set, Adam, Chris, and Lycus kept a vignt watch on the building, anticipating the exit of the goblin''s son. Minutes stretched into an hour, testing their patience. Finally, the awaited moment arrived-the goblin stepped out of the building.


    Seizing the opportunity, the trio sprang into action. Lycus walked toward the road, hailing a passing taxi to follow the goblin''s vehicle. Meanwhile, Adam and Chris maintained a discreet distance, moving parallel to the building. The car carrying the goblin started up, followed by Lycus in his taxi. This diversion created a window of opportunity for Adam and Chris to explore the building without raising suspicion.


    Knowing that the building was likely to be well-guarded, and any tant attempts to breach it would set off rms, they employed a specialized device provided exclusively by the council. This device was capable of circumventing a wide array of security measures that the building''s owner might have implemented. It was a tool reserved for such covert operations, allowing them to navigate the security without alerting the owner.


    Inside the building, they remained cautious, moving stealthily as they searched for any signs that might lead them to Kozz or provide valuable information. The air was charged with tension as they treaded carefully, their senses heightened, and their focus unwavering.


    The interior of the building appeared fairly unremarkable, featuring three floors in total. Adam devised a n where he would search the upper two floors while Chris would focus on the ground floor, with particr attention given to identifying any potential ess points leading to a basement.


    Adam''s deduction led him to believe that the building''s upper floors might be a facade, designed to divert attention from the actual operations taking ce in the basement. With this theory in mind, he assigned Chris the task of locating any hidden entrances or routes that could lead down to the basement.


    Havingbed through the first floor, Adam found no tangible leads or clues that could aid their mission. However, the second floor presented a unique scenario. It consisted solely of a single room, setting it apart from the rest of the building''syout. Upon approaching the entrance to the room, Adam had a distinct feeling that someone or something was present within.


    In response to his instincts, Adam adopted a defensive stance. His sword was poised in one hand, and a gun was held firmly in the other. Activating his protective armor, a transparent radiance enveloped him, augmenting his defenses and readiness for any potential confrontation.


    Exercising meticulous caution, Adam applied gentle pressure to the door, easing it open while maintaining his alertness for any potential danger that might lie within. From the shadows of the room emerged a solitary figure, shrouded in an air of enigma that beckoned Adam to uncover its secrets. The room''s minimalistic d¨¦cor, intentionally stripped of embellishments, heightened Adam''s senses, drawing him into the charged atmosphere. Suspense hung heavy, akin to a tautly wound string, as he confronted this enigmatic presence with unwavering focus.


    With resolve ringing in his voice, Adam directed a pointed question at the figure before him, his tone firm and resolute, "State your identity."


    As the room''s lighting revealed more details, the figure solidified into the form of a golem, its robust, elementalposition bing apparent. The initial wariness transformed into fascination as Adam grappled with the realization that he was facing a construct, an entity of earth and magic, rather than a conscious being.


    However, before he could react, the golem surged forward with immense force. Its charge tore through the floor, leaving gaping holes in its wake, as the structure struggled to bear the weight of the collision. Caught off guard and unprepared to withstand such a brute-force impact, Adam was sent hurtling across the room, crashing through a wall in the process. The impact shattered the wall as he collided with it, the protective armor he wore flickering momentarily before stabilizing. The gun he held in his left hand was flung from his grip due to the force of the charge.


    Yet, the golem showed no sign of relenting, already gearing up for another charge. Adam, determined not to be overpowered, swiftly retrieved the sword he had brought with him. The de gleamed with light as he readied himself for the impending sh.


    Channeling and focusing his aura into the de, Adam prepared to intercept the golem''s charge with a counterattack of his own. As the golem lunged forward once again, its sheer momentum propelling it with undeniable force, Adam met the assault head-on.


    With a powerful swing, he aimed his sword at the golem''s massive form, the de infused with his aura enhancing its cutting edge. The collision was explosive, the impact resonating through the room as Adam''s sword shed with the golem''s elemental body. The sh sent shockwaves outward, causing the very air to tremble with the force of their collision.


    For a brief moment, the golem''s charge was halted as its energy was absorbed by the aura-infused de. The room was filled with a blinding light, emanating from the point of impact. The golem''s elemental form crackled with energy, its stone-like exterior showing signs of stress under the strain of the sh. It attempted to break free from the deadlock, but adam wasn''t letting him go.


    With a final surge, adam unleashed a burst of aura energy through his sword. The concentrated energy flowed into the golem''s body, disrupting itsposition and destabilizing its form. Cracks spread across its elemental structure, and with a resounding shatter, the golem disintegrated into a shower of fragmented elements.


    The room settled into an eerie stillness, the reverberations of the intense sh fading into the air. Amidst the scattered fragments of the golem, Adam stood, his breathsbored from the exertion. The brilliant aura that had enveloped his sword began to wane, gradually fading until the once-potent de was left in its original state. As the aura dissipated, the sword, which had been empowered enough to ovee the golem''s might, fractured and splintered.


    Realizing that the sword''s integrity depended on the sustaining aura, Adam let out a frustrated sigh. He discarded the shattered de and retrieved his gun, wasting no time in the face of his mission''s urgency. Resolute and undeterred, he set to work scouring the now-ruined room for any potential clues or leads, as if the intense battle had never unfolded mere moments before.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 15 14 Warlock - I

    Chris surveyed the first floor, his meticulous search yielding no clues or hints about essing the basement. Frustration crept in as he pondered the situation. "Could Adam be wrong about this?" he wondered, his mind searching for any overlooked possibilities. Yet, he decided to employ a magical solution he had up his sleeve-Pathfinder, a spell known for its utility in guiding one toward their desired goal.


    As the incantation flowed from his lips and the spell took hold, Chris''s head was bombarded with a multitude of paths, each branching in different directions. The overwhelming influx of possibilities pulsed through his mind, causing his temples to ache with the influx of information. Most of the paths led outward, dissipating into the streets beyond. Amidst the chaos, a single path stood out, directing him toward a seemingly ordinary bookshelf near the entrance.


    The barrage of information became too much to bear, prompting Chris to swiftly halt the spell''s flow of mana. His head cleared as the spell deactivated, leaving him with a single viable lead-the bookshelf. He took a moment to catch his breath, his mind reeling from the onught of information.


    Determined to unravel the mystery behind the bookshelf, Chris meticulously examined its surface, searching for any concealed mechanism that might reveal a passage to the basement. His efforts, however, proved futile-there were no discernible hidden buttons or levers to manipte.


    Frustration boiled over as Chris reached his limit. "F*** it," he muttered, his patience worn thin. With a surge of energy, he conjured a Fire st spell and directed it at the bookshelf. The incantation unleashed a torrent of mes that battered the shelf, triggering its protective shield. But the sheer intensity of the fire overwhelmed the shield, rendering it inoperative. The resulting explosion of heat and force tore through the shelf, sending splintered debris scattering in every direction.


    Amidst the aftermath, a concealed door was revealed. Chris stood amidst the settling dust and wreckage, a mix of satisfaction and anticipation coursing through him.


    Utilizing the same stealth device that Adam and he had previously employed to ess the building unnoticed, Chris stepped into the basement. However, what he encountered was far from the conventional notion of a basement. It was an intricatebyrinth, extending downward into an abyss that seemed to defy the concept of limits. The space was a puzzle in itself, offering both intrigue and challenge.


    Two distinct pathways led further down into the depths-a traditional elevator and a winding staircase. Chris surveyed his surroundings cautiously, crouching to minimize his visibility. The basement was alive with activity, with guards stationed strategically throughout the area. The sight of these guards prompted Chris to proceed with utmost caution, wary of the potential threats they posed.


    (Note:- I know many of you might be thinking if the story is taking ce so far in the future, why is there no new and innovative technology used? That''s because all the races that live in this universe including humans are heavily reliant on mana and aura, which made the scientific advances too slow.)


    In a deliberate motion, Chris retrieved apact box from his pocket, which then transformed into a specialized wand designed to enhance his mana utilization. As he held the wand in his hand, he invoked a spell known as "Shadow Clock," a clever enchantment intended to render him nearly imperceptible to any external senses. This magical cloak of concealment enveloped him, blending him seamlessly into the shadows.


    Silently and methodically, Chris advanced toward his first target-a guard stationed within thebyrinthine basement. His steps were calcted and fluid, his presence veiled by the mystical shroud of the Shadow Clock. As he closed in on his target, a curious development transpired-an unusual sensation tugged at the edges of his awareness.


    From the ceiling above, peculiar formations resembling tumors began to descend, capturing the guard''s attention andpelling him to gaze upward. This momentary distraction provided Chris with the perfect opening. Swiftly and decisively, he swung the wand and conjured a spell that was both lethal and discreet, tailored to minimize any unduemotion within the confined space.


    The spell''s effects were swift and precise, neutralizing the guard with a quiet efficiency that left no room for rm. The guard''s form crumpled soundlessly to the floor.


    Chris intended to capitalize on the guard''s presence to navigate through the basement without arousing suspicion. Engaging in a seamless exchange of attire, he swapped his clothes with those worn by the incapacitated guard, ensuring that he acquired everything the guard had on him. As Chris approached the elevator, poised to descend into the depths of the abyss, a resonant voice echoed in his mind, bearing a directive from Ishmael: "Cease your exploration. The mission has been aborted. Return to base immediately."


    Chris responded to the telepathic message with a casual shrug, his actions undisturbed by the sudden change of ns. He retraced his steps along the path he had taken earlier, reiming the device he had deployed to gain entry. En route, he encountered Adam in the hallway leading to their initial entry point. Adam appeared virtually unchanged from when they had embarked on their mission, save for the smudge of dirt on his shoes.


    Curiosity getting the better of him, Chris inquired, "Who was your opponent? It''s not often I see even a speck of dirt on your attire."


    Adam''s response was sinct, shedding light on his encounter, "An earth golem. An unusual presence outside the domain of warlocks."


    As they made their way back to the base, Adam and Chris were eventually joined by Lycus. The journey was marked by a silence that spoke volumes, a shared understanding that something of considerable significance must have transpired to prompt Ishmael''s mid-mission recall. The trio progressed onward without engaging in much conversation.


    Adam''s voice broke the tense silence. He turned to Lycus, seeking information about any potential leads or clues they might have uncovered.


    Lycus shook his head with a frustrated expression. "No, nothing. He took the car to a restaurant and stayed there the whole time. I was tailing him, but he never left until I received a call from the leader."


    Upon reaching the base, they were greeted by the assembled squad members, except for the twins and Ishmael. Lycus wasted no time in voicing the query that was on everyone''s mind, "Where''s our leader?"


    Boyd, one of the squad members, responded promptly, "He''ll be here shortly. Meanwhile, take the opportunity to freshen up. This abrupt recall suggests that whatever awaits us is pretty big. This level of mission alteration is uncalled for; evenst year, when we suffered significant losses, such an action wasn''t taken."


    With Boyd''s words echoing in the air, the squad dispersed, each member finding sce in the brief intermission as they awaited Ishmael''s imminent arrival. The anticipation was palpable, a tension that underscored the gravity of the forting revtion.


    After an hour had psed, Ishmael finally made his way to the base. His arrival was met with a collective hush, the squad members'' attention drawn to the leader who bore injuries that would have been fatal for any ordinary being. However, given Ishmael''s vampiric nature, the wounds that marred his form held little threat to his existence, serving as a testament to his resilience.


    The injuries he sustained were substantial, and the sight of them left no room for doubt that he had endured a dire encounter. Yet, as Ishmael stood before them, his demeanor exuded an aura of strength and authority, undiminished by the physical toll he had paid.


    Taking a seat to rx, Boyd couldn''t help but voice his curiosity, "Ishmael, what did you encounter to sustain such severe injuries?"


    Before Ishmael could respond, Adam interjected, "A warlock. An earth major warlock."


    Ishmael affirmed with a nod, "Precisely.  Seems like you''ve encountered his creation. Whoever is orchestrating this smuggling operation wields significant power and wealth, evident by their ability to deploy a yellow warlock."


    (For reference, a warlock''s power level corresponds to the colors of the rainbow. Red indicates a 7-star mage, while violet signifies a 1-star mage.)


    Lycus raised a question, "Shouldn''t you be stronger than him? Warlocks usually hold lesser power than vampires of the same rank. Isn''t that the case?"


    "Indeed, that would have been the case if he was alone. However, he was well-prepared for an attack and hadid numerous traps. As you know, the longer a warlock has to prepare, the more dangerous they be," Ishmael exined.


    The group exchanged nces, the weight of the situation settling upon them. Carey posed the pressing question, "So, what''s our next move? Do we call for reinforcements or proceed with the mission?"


    "We''ll proceed with the mission, but with a strategic shift. Instead of dividing our forces into three fronts, we''ll concentrate on just two," Ishmael dered, taking a moment to snack on an energy bar. "The first team will include everyone except the two recruits, which means the demon twins will also be part of it. We''ll strike at the 19th Street, Preetart Avenue hideout alongside me. Meanwhile, both of you will be positioned at the 3rd Street, Cleard Road hideout."


    Ishmael''s finger pointed toward us, underscoring his words. "Your task will be to intercept anyone attempting to flee from us. As each hideout is linked by spatial magic, escape routes can be easily established. To prevent this, I''ve ced explosive traps near the Sroh Corner hideout. Anyone attempting to evade us will meet a fatal end. After the death of that warlock Kozz is given to reveal himself, we just have to capture him then and there."


    He meticulously outlined the new n, ensuring everyone understood their roles and responsibilities.


    "Keep in mind that the n''s details may vary, so be ready to adapt based on your roles," Ishmael emphasized before turning his attention to Boyd. "Boyd, get in touch with the twins and instruct them to join us. They should wear attire that conceals their horns and scent. I''ll be taking a short break." Ishmael left the room, allowing the team to prepare and coordinate their actions ordingly.


    "Take this time to rest and explore the city if you''d like," Boyd suggested as he headed towards his room. The team members dispersed, each finding their way to unwind and prepare for the mission ahead, giving Ishmael the necessary time to recover.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 16 15 Warlock - II

    The sun rose on the following day, signaling the team to gather once again in themunal area of their base. Ishmael''s condition had visibly improved since the previous day, with his injuries showing signs of healing. The air was charged with a mixture of tension and determination as everyone grasped the importance of their mission.


    Taking his position at the head of the table, Ishmael projected aposed demeanor as he addressed the team. "Our objective remains unchanged-the 19th Street, Preetart Avenue hideout. Our strike must be swift and resolute. Keep in mind, the element of surprise is on our side; they won''t anticipate two assaults in a span of a single day."


    Ishmael''s voice resonated with authority as he concluded, "In one hour, we advance. Maintain focus, and remain vignt. The sess of our mission hinges on seamless coordination and wless execution."


    Boyd initiated remote contact with the demon twins to confirm their readiness, while the other team members meticulously readied themselves. The room resounded with the tter of armor adjustments as Brutus amplified his already imposing presence, and Adam and Chris meticulously inspected their enchanted equipment.


    As the preparations continued, Ishmael delved into further details about the hideout''syout, the estimated number of guards, and potential escape paths. The team absorbed this information, each member mentally rehearsing their roles in the uing operation.


    With the final hour approaching, the team''s anticipation and readiness became increasingly palpable. Boyd confirmed the twins'' status, ensuring their alignment with the n. Ishmael''s voice rang out once more, concise andmanding, "Our time hase. Move out." With those words, the team sprang into action, executing their maneuvers with calcted precision.


    Amidst the bustling city, the team''s approach was a masterss in stealth and coordination. Ishmael, leading the way alongside the demon twins, directed their focus towards the 19th Street, Preetart Avenue hideout. Simultaneously, Adam and Chris took their positions at the 3rd Street, Cleard Road hideout, their vignt gaze fixed on the potential escape route-the hallway leading from the concealed door to the outer entrance.


    Inside the 19th Street, Preetart Avenue hideout, Ishmael''s group moved with swift precision, incapacitating guards and neutralizing threats with calcted efficiency. "In the third room, fifth shelf, neenth book. Take that book out, and a hidden door to the basement will open," Ishmael directed. After entering the basement, Brutus apanies me. The rest of you, eliminate any guards you encounter. Ensure our battle is undisturbed."


    Upon entering the basement, the team encountered a defensive line of guards, well-prepared for their arrival. "Seems I underestimated them; they''re truly ready for us. Lycus, Carey, Zara, and Zephyr, handle them," Ishmaelmanded.


    Reacting swiftly, the designated team members moved into action as soon as Ishmael''smand was issued. Lycus, known for his close-quartersbat expertise, utilized specially crafted knuckles that emitted lightning upon contact. Each strike immobilized enemies temporarily, rendering them unable to move for a brief period.


    Carey, a skilled sharpshooter, possessed a diverse arsenal of over 20 guns, each tailored for various battle scenarios and terrains. Each bullet she fired carried a unique effect, making her a versatile force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Zara and Zephyr were both adept swordsmen. Zara''s style was characterized by rapid, precise strikes with her rapier, focusing on offensive maneuvers. On the other hand, Zephyr assumed a defensive role, wielding his shield adeptly to protect himself and his sister from iing attacks.


    As the confrontation erupted, Lycus charged forward with his electrified knuckles, his movements a blur as he closed the gap between him and the guards. His lightning-charged strikes connected with precision, rendering his opponents momentarily incapacitated as they convulsed under the electrical shock. The guards'' attempts to retaliate were thwarted by Carey''s sharpshooting skills.


    Carey maintained a calcted distance from her targets, her shots finding their marks with unerring uracy. With each pull of the trigger, a different bullet was unleashed, each one causing diverse effects. Some bullets caused disorientation, while others emitted blinding shes of light or released tranquilizing agents. The guards'' formation quickly crumbled as confusion and panic spread among their ranks.


    Zara and Zephyr moved in tandem, their swordy a graceful dance of offense and defense. Zara''s rapid strikes kept the guards on their toes, her rapier slicing through their defenses and leaving them vulnerable. Meanwhile, Zephyr''s shield was a formidable barrier, intercepting iing attacks and deflecting them with practiced skill. His vignt stance protected his sister and himself, ensuring they were shielded from harm.


    Despite the guards'' initial readiness, they found themselves overwhelmed by thebined prowess of Lycus, Carey, Zara, and Zephyr. The sh was brief but intense, ending with the guards subdued and incapacitated on the ground.


    "Well done," Ishmaelmended, his gaze sweeping over the subdued guards. "Continue to handle them while we pursue the warlock."


    He and Brutus left to jump deep downwards into the abyss while the quartet decided to move down the stair unlike those two who can survive any kind of fall.


    On the other side, Adam and Chris remained on high alert, their weapons at the ready. The basement remained ominously quiet, devoid of any signs of activity from below.


    Meanwhile, as Brutus and Ishmael descended, they plummeted through the depths for over ten seconds before reaching the ground level. The space was considerably more expansive than the upper levels, yet it was dimly lit, adding to its eerie ambiance.


    "So, you''ve chosen to return once more, even after the humiliating defeat of yesterday," a harsh voice suddenly reverberated throughout the space. "Ah, it seems you''ve brought along some vermin for assistance. Yet, the ultimate oue remains unchanged-I shall eliminate you all." The horrid voice echoed, dripping with malice.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 17 16 Warlock - III

    The source of the voice materialized, revealing a tall figure draped in dark robes, his presence exuding an aura of malevolence. The warlock''s eyes glowed with an eerie yellow hue, matching the potency of his power. With a cruel smile, he raised his hand, and the very ground beneath Ishmael and Brutus trembled.


    Massive stone spikes erupted from the ground, aiming to skewer their opponents. Ishmael swiftly summoned a barrier, deflecting the deadly spikes. At the same time, Brutus swung his heavy axe with precision, shattering the iing projectiles into fragments.


    The warlock''s sinisterughter echoed as he pped his hands together, and the earth itself responded to hismand. Golems of varying sizes emerged from the ground, their stony forms solidifying before the eyes of Ishmael and Brutus. These earth golems charged forward with relentless determination, their strength and size posing a formidable challenge.


    Brutus positioned himself as a steadfast wall, using his massive body and formidable strength to intercept the charging golems. With each swing of his axe, he cleaved through the rocky figures, sending fragments scattering. Meanwhile, Ishmael weaved intricate spells, his magic searing through the golems and rendering them into rubble.


    (Note:- The closer the golems are to the owner more powerful they be as they are fed with power regrly.)


    The warlock''s onught continued his control over the earth''s elements evident as he conjured traps from the ground. Fissures cracked open beneath Ishmael''s feet, and treacherous pits formed around Brutus. But Ishmael''s mastery over magic allowed him to levitate above the ground, and Brutus''s sheer size enabled him to bridge the gaps without much trouble.


    As the battle raged on, the warlock''s hexes became more insidious. He conjured thick walls of stone to impede their movement and summoned torrents of mud to ensnare them. Ishmael countered with counterspells, his incantations dispelling the hexes as quickly as they formed. Meanwhile, Brutus''s indomitable size allowed him to power through the obstacles, his massive form proving nearly impervious to the warlock''s attacks.


    Yet the warlock wasn''t alone in his assault. He continued to summon additional earth golems to aid him in battle, overwhelming Brutus and Ishmael with sheer numbers. With each strike theynded, more golems emerged, their rocky fists and heavy stomps creating an unrelenting assault.


    Brutus''s resilience began to waver under the onught, his body bearing the brunt of the attacks. Ishmael''s magical energy dwindled as he expended spells to hold the line against the ever-growing forces.


    As Brutus weathered the unrelenting assault, a fierce determination burned in his eyes. Summoning every ounce of his immense strength, he unleashed a thunderous roar that seemed to shake the very ground. Ignoring the pain and fatigue that coursed through his body, he charged forward with an earth-shattering bellow.


    Swinging his mighty axe with primal ferocity, Brutus targeted the warlock. In a split-second decision, he sacrificed his own well-being to strike a powerful blow. The impact was tremendous, as the force of his attack severed his own hand in exchange for connecting with the warlock''s form.


    The warlock, caught off guard by the unexpected attack, was sent hurtling through the air. His sinisterughter turned into a startled cry as he collided with the chamber''s wall, his body mming into the stone surface with a bone-jarring impact.


    Seizing the opportune moment, Ishmael channeled his remaining magical energy into a spell of immense power. Mana crackled around him as he invoked incantations. The very air seemed to pulse with his spell''s intensity as he directed his magic toward the warlock.


    A blinding burst of light erupted from Ishmael''s outstretched hand, a surge of energy that engulfed the warlock in its brilliant radiance. The malevolent figure convulsed as the spell''s potency overwhelmed him, his body wracked by searing energy that defied his attempts to resist.


    With a final, anguished cry, the warlock''s form disintegrated into motes of shimmering light, his once formidable power reduced to nothingness. The echoes of his presence faded, leaving only the lingering remnants of his malevolent aura.


    As the chamber fell silent, Ishmael''s breathing was heavy, his energy depleted from the intense spellcasting. He cast his gaze towards Brutus, who stood panting and bloodied from his sacrifice. Despite his severed hand, a fierce determination glinted in his eyes, a testament to his unwavering resolve. The remnants of the earth golems, robbed of their master''s control, crumbled into lifeless heaps.


    "You did well," Ishmael rasped, his voice filled with respect. "We''ve achieved what we set out to do."


    Meanwhile, a message of the warlock''s defeat was swiftly ryed to Kozz through a magicalmunication device. The news struck him like a bolt of lightning, shattering his confidence and leaving his once-assured ns in ruins. His cold, calcting eyes flickered with a mixture of rage and apprehension, realizing that his grip on power was slipping away.


    In a swift and decisive move, Kozz issued amand to his subordinates through themunicationwork. The message was terse, conveying the urgency of the situation. As the news spread throughout the hideout, panic and chaos ensued. Kozz''s orders were clear: abandon the basement and make their escape.


    As the underlings scrambled toply, many chose the route through Sroh Corner, unaware of the trap that awaited them. Their desperate flight was cut short as the explosive devices nted by Ishmael detonated, the st consuming the unsuspecting and leaving destruction in its wake.


    Amidst the turmoil, Kozz took a calcted gamble, directing his path towards 3rd Street, Cleard Road. He was apanied by his giant bodyguards, ast line of defense against the encroaching threat. Their footsteps echoed through the dimly lit passageways as they navigated thebyrinthineyout of the hideout, urgency, and danger thick in the air.


    Kozz''s mind raced, his once meticulous ns now crumbling around him. His escape route was fraught with uncertainty, as the threat from both Ishmael''s team and the explosives loomedrge. The very walls of the hideout seemed to close in around him as he fought to maintain hisposure.


    As Kozz and his giant bodyguards made their way out of the basement, their footsteps echoed through the dimly lit corridors. The tension in the air was palpable, a sense of urgency and impending confrontation thickening the atmosphere. Kozz''s mind raced as he navigated the twisting paths, his escape route fraught with danger on multiple fronts.


    Unbeknownst to Kozz, Adam and Chris had strategically positioned themselves at a vantage point near the exit. Their gazes were locked on the approaching figure of Kozz.


    As Kozz emerged from the shadows and his bodyguards came into view, Chris initiated his spellcasting. With a flick of his wrist and a muttered incantation, he conjured a focused burst of energy. The spell surged forth, manifesting as a searing bolt of lightning that struck one of the bodyguards with pinpoint uracy. The bodyguard convulsed as the spell''s deadly effects coursed through him, his form copsing to the ground in a lifeless heap.


    At the same instant, Adam lunged forward, his movement swift and calcted. With a single fluid motion, he swung his de in a decisive arc. The de met its mark with unerring uracy, severing the head of the second bodyguard in a clean and brutal strike. The bodyguard''s massive form crumpled to the ground, his demise swift and final.


    Kozz''s eyes widened in shock and horror as he witnessed the swift and deadly precision of Adam and Chris''s assault. His guards had fallen in the blink of an eye, leaving him vulnerable and exposed. The realization that hisst line of defense had been shattered.


    For a fleeting moment, Kozz''s mind raced for an escape, a means to evade the imminent threat that now loomed before him. But before he could react, Ishmael''s voice resonated from behind him, cutting through the tension like a de.


    "It''s over, Kozz."


    Ishmael''s arrival marked the final convergence of their carefully orchestrated n. The noose had tightened around Kozz, leaving him with no room to maneuver. As Ishmael''s team closed in from multiple directions, the bnce of power had shifted irreversibly. Kozz''s shoulders slumped, defeated by the overwhelming odds stacked against him. With a resigned eptance, he raised his hands in surrender.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 18 17 Future - I

    After enduring weeks of travel, Eva and her army eventually reached the base belonging to Officer Renna''s forces. The prolonged journey had begun to wear on Eva, leaving her with a sense of restlessness and boredom. In the beginning, their movement had been swift, harnessing the power of hyperdrive to cover vast distances efficiently. Yet, the sheer size of their colossal vessel, different from the smaller ships used by Adam and Chris, rendered the use of artificial wormholes impossible. This logistical challenge forced them to navigate through natural wormholes, elongating their voyage to a considerable extent.


    Throughout the voyage, Eva managed to establishmunication with Adam. In these exchanges, she gleaned valuable insights. Adam updated her on his and Chris''s sessful assimtion into their new squad, recounting thepletion of several missions. Through these conversations, Eva gained an in-depth understanding of the coborative dynamics between therger army and the more specialized squads. Moreover, she grasped the intricacies of the protocols and guidelines that guided their operations.


    As they finally reached their destination, Eva''s anticipation grew. Guided to a designated meeting room, she prepared herself to engage with a representative from Officer Renna''s forces. Yet, akin to Adam''s prior experience, she found herself waiting for an extended period before the privilege of attending the meeting was granted to her. The anticipation and curiosity within her intensified during the wait.


    Entering the meeting room, Eva came face-to-face with the thirdmander of the army. A hint of sarcasmced her greeting, as she remarked, "Good morning, I would assume, unless my internal clock ispletely off after spending an eternity in transit."


    Themander reciprocated the greeting, acknowledging, "Yes, good morning. I can only imagine you''ve had quite the journey."


    As both took their seats, Eva wasted no time and cut straight to the point, inquiring, "So, what''s the purpose of this meeting?"


    Themander proceeded to hand her a holographic document, stating, "All right, here''s what you''ll be focusing on this month. Given that you''re new to the army, we''ve assigned you tasks that won''t overwhelm you. If you''re looking to get a head start, I''d suggest beginning your work early."


    Eva perused the contents of the document, her expression gradually morphing into a frown. Much of the so-called "simple work" involved assisting in the construction of bases on deserts and aiding citizens in returning to normalcy after the remation ofs.


    Taking a moment to process, Eva voiced her concerns, "It''s not necessarily difficult, but it will require us to stretch our manpower thin. When ites to traveling, do we have ess to smaller spacecraft or are we expected to use that colossal vessel we arrived in?"


    "No, we''ll provide you with spaceships. Given your neer status, you''ll be granted two HWSS Carthage (heavyweight spaceships), along with seven LWSS Fafnir (lightweight spaceships). Additionally, there''s a Grade-2 cargo ship at your disposal. These ships are stationed at the 13th dock. I assume you''ve already received theyout of the entire base?" themander exined.


    "Yes, I have theyout and thank you for the information. I''ll take my leave now," Eva responded as she rose from her seat, preparing to depart from the meeting room.


    Navigating through the corridors of the base, Eva pondered over the logistics of their uing assignments. She knew that the tasks themselves weren''t inherently challenging, yet the execution would demand precise coordination and resource management. The distributed nature of their workforce across variouss and projects meant that every move had to be calcted.


    Arriving at her temporary quarters, Eva took a moment to review the holographic document once more. She mentally mapped out thes where bases were to be built and citizens assisted. Some were remote desert worlds, while others were recovering from recent conflicts. Each assignment had its unique set of challenges, from the harsh environment of deserts to the delicate task of aiding citizens in reiming their lives.


    Eva''s gaze shifted to the ships allocated for their use a?? the heavyweight and lightweight spaceships, along with the cargo vessel. She knew that proper allocation and deployment of these ships would be crucial in optimizing their efficiency. The heavyweights could handle more resources but might struggle with maneuverability, while the lightweights were faster and agile but had limited carrying capacity.


    Sitting down at a console, Eva began to create aprehensive n, detailing the order of operations, timelines, and resource allocation for each assignment. She calcted the travel times betweens, considering the capabilities of the different ships and the need to ensure that every member of her team was assigned effectively.


    As the n took shape on the screen, Eva felt a surge of determination. With her detailed n in hand, Eva left her quarters and made her way back to the main assembly area where her army was gathered. The familiar faces of her fellow soldiers greeted her as she entered the room, Eva''smanding presence drew their attention, and a hushed silence fell over the room.


    "Attention, everyone," Eva''s voice rang out, carrying authority and confidence. "We''ve received our assignments for the month, and I''m here to brief you on our tasks."


    As she projected the holographic document onto arge screen, Eva began exining the various assignments outlined in the n. She described the deserts where new bases needed to be established and themunities that needed assistance recovering from conflict.


    Eva stated firmly. "I''ve organized our team into fivepanies, each led by."


    She paused, her gaze sweeping over her team before continuing, "Lacey, She, Wyatt, Joshua, and myself will each lead apany."


    Eva then proceeded to outline the roles of eachpany. She assigned Wyatt and Joshua''spany to the construction work, utilizing their skills in engineering and resource management. The cargo spaceship would be used to transport materials and resources to the deserts for the base-building projects.


    Eva turned her attention to Lacey and She. They would focus on working closely with the citizens of recoverings, providing aid, support, and assistance in rebuilding their lives.


    Amidst the otherwise serious and focused atmosphere, Chris sat in a chair, his attention absorbed by his phone screen as he yed games. His rxed demeanor seemed out of ce in the meeting room, but he was not alone in his distraction. Lycus and Zephyr had joined him in his yful defiance, their once-serious expressions now mirroring Chris''s carefree attitude.


    Zephyr, known for his quiet nature, had sumbed to the allure of the games as well, engaging in friendlypetition with Chris and Lycus. The usually reserved man had found a way to let loose, his focus shifting from the solemn matters at hand to the digital challenges on the screen.


    Zara, on the other hand, was visibly perturbed by the scene unfolding before her. Her brother''s transformation into a gaming enthusiast, courtesy of Chris''s influence, was something she did not appreciate. As she rhythmically drummed her nails on the table, her frustration was evident in the fiery gaze she directed at Chris. The anger simmering within her seemed on the verge of erupting.


    In a sudden burst of emotion, Zara stood up, her voice rising as she prepared to unleash her frustration on the chris. However, before she could unleash her tirade, both Chris and Lycus cursed loudly in response to something happening in their game. It became apparent that Zephyr, with his quiet and unassuming demeanor, had emerged victorious against both Chris and Lycus, a fact that astonished everyone present.


    Zephyr''s unexpected triumph had momentarily defused Zara''s anger and redirected the energy in a lighter direction. While her brother had changed under the influence of Chris''sid-back attitude, it seemed that Zephyr''s hidden talents had surprised everyone.


    The room''s atmosphere shifted abruptly as Ishmael burst into the meeting room, his entrance marked by an angry m of his hand on the table. The abruptness of his arrival caught everyone off guard, their lighthearted mood disrupted by his intense demeanor.


    His voice carried a tone of frustration and urgency as he addressed the team, his words cutting through the air like a sharp de. "Get ready, everyone. We''re heading out on a mission instead of getting the rest we anticipated." Chris''s voice mirrored his exasperation as he questioned the sudden change in ns, still carrying the remnants of his gaming defeat.


    Ishmael''s response was curt and firm, his anger palpable. "It''s important, far too important. We''ve received new information, and we''re the only squad avable to mobilize. We''ve been tasked with capturing one of the agents of Eternity. The mission will take us to the Strapus B42. We don''t have a clear timeline for when the agent might arrive, so consider it a working vacation of sorts."


    The news hit the team with a mixture of surprise and resignation. The promise of a break after their previous mission seemed dashed in an instant, reced by the realization that their responsibilities were far from over. The mention of Eternity, an enigmatic force they had encountered before, only added to the gravity of the situation.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 19 18 Sensei S - I

    Okay, this type of chapter will usually be things that are hard to integrate into the story with the current storyline but will be very useful. Do remember this is just informal information so there will be many grammatical mistakes.


    For first let''s talk about the council, first point will be their revenue system. Each that is part of the council must pay about 80% of the revenue they generate. Th e revenue that the council gets is then divided into two equal parts. The first part is given to the officer representing that nexus, the second part is given to the council.


    The second point will be how the council operates. As I mentioned in the prologue, the council has over 1000 officers. Even though each officer rules over a single nexus some of those nexus might be poor while others are rich. The seven richest out of all the nexus get the chance to be part of the council''s board, but not to let them monopolize everything three poorest nexus are also part of that board.


    The very first members of the board created a system that is still ongoing. Just like any democratic nation, the government of the council works in the same way, just in ce of the Prime minister or the president as the head of the country they have a board of officers. In case of the demise of any officer, the next one muste from the same nexus.


    The third thing is the council army, there are a total of ten divisions of the army each led by an officer. They are given tasks by the board directly.


    In the case of Officer Renna''s army, it is divided into four main parts.


    First a?? Main army.


    Second a?? Special force.


    Third a?? Squads. (Adam and chris are part of these.)


    Fourth a?? Support. (Eva and her army.)


    Strcture of Fleets:-


    Fleet:-  Every flee is made up of more than 1000 Lightweight spaceships (LWSS), about 100 HWSS, and little more than 10 Cargo ships and a mothership.


    Star Fleet:- Every hundred fleets create a star fleet. At max, there can be a 10-star fleet. After that, you count for example as one 10-star fleet and one 2-star fleet.


    Nexus Fleet:- Every hundred 10-star fleet turns into a Nexus fleet. Same as star fleet at max there can be a 10-Nexus fleet.


    Death fleet:- Every death fleet consists of min. of a trillion LWSS and HWSS with more than a billion Cargo ships. There are only 1250 death fleets.


    Hierarchy:-


    Board of Officers. (Min. a?? 30 death fleets.)


    Top:-                      Officers. (Min a?? 10 death fleets.)


    Chief Marshal. (Min a?? ten 10-Nexus Fleet.)


    General. (Min a?? 1-Nexus Fleet.)


    Middle:-                 Lieutenant General. (Min a?? hundred 10-Star Fleet.)


    Major General. (Min a?? ten 10-Star Fleet.)


    Commander. (Min a?? 1-Star Fleet.)


    Captain. (Min a?? 10 Fleets.)


    Lieutenant. (Min a?? 1 Fleets.)


    Bottom:-                Sargent. (Min a?? 100 ships.)


    Squadron leader. (Min a?? 10 Ships.) (Eva is a squadron leader currently.)


    Soldiers.


    Imp Point:-


    1)     You can identify who is at what power level by seeing their color of aura. Violet means 7-star and red means 1-star.


    2)     In the case of mages, usually their robes can define their power level, in reverse to aura red meaning 7-star and violet meaning 1-star. But in case the mage hadn''t worn his robe, then the only way to guess the power level will be by calcting the number of stones on the wand, 7 stones means the mage is 1-star and 7-star mages don''t use wands.


    3)     The threat level is quite simple. 1-star is city-level, 2-star is multi-city level, and 3-star is a state-level threat. 4-stars are national-level threat and 5-stars are continent-level. 6-star is-level. 7 stars are sr system-level threats.


    4)     The threat level is just the average threat level because each officer is more than powerful enough to destroy multiple sr systems with just one of their spells. And the strongest spell is enough to destroy a whole gxy.


    5)     Last but most important point, every owner is a 7-star mage or warrior, but the oath they had taken at the time of bing owner prevents them from participating in any kind of battle. If they did participate, they would die immediately.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 20 19 Another Place -I

    Fifty years ago, within the confines of Eternity''s territory on a distant, a young boy could be seen situated amidst a training ground scattered with multiple practice dummies. His focused attention was evident as he engaged in meticulous breathing exercises, each inhale and exhale contributing to his state of readiness. With determination, he rose from his seated position, exhaling resolutely as he assumed a poised stance. In this stance, one hand firmly gripped the hilt of his katana, while the other hovered over the de''s handle. It was a posture akin to the preparation for executing the swift Iai technique.


    After a brief moment, he gradually rxed his stance, drawing the air back into his lungs. In the span of a single breath, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. With uncanny swiftness, he unleashed a series of shes, and in the blink of an eye, three out of the six dummies surrounding him were cleaved cleanly in half. However, rather than eliciting satisfaction, an overwhelming sense of dissatisfaction clouded his demeanor. This sentiment was made evident by the stern voice of his master, whose presence materialized abruptly.


    A stern reproach resonated through the air, emphasizing the gravity of the boy''s mistake. "How many times must I impart the same lesson to you? Mastery requires ceaseless practice until each move is executed wlessly. You shall remain within this room until you can demonstrate proficiency in your technique." His master''s words were punctuated as the door to the chamber was shut and locked from the outside, leaving the boy alone with his thoughts and the weight of his unmet expectations.


    (Note:- The whole novel will be around humans and other races. So, unless I say explicitly the character''s race, it will be human by default)


    250 years ago, on one of the most backwards in the universe.


    In a small vige, nestled on the outskirts of a dense forest, lived a timid but curious ten-year-old boy named Frank Levine. The vige was known for its close connection with nature and the tales of mythical creatures that roamed the nearby woods.


    One day, driven by a mixture of curiosity and the desire to prove his bravery, Frank found himself wandering along a seldom-trodden path that led deep into the heart of the forest. As he ventured further, the eerie silence was broken by the sight of lifeless monster bodies strewn across the path. Fear gripped his heart, and his wide eyes darted anxiously from one shadow to another, dreading the possibility of another terrifying creature lurking nearby.


    Clutching onto a small, worn-out map he had discovered among his father''s belongings, Frank hesitated. He had followed his adventurous father into this nightmarish realm, eager to mirror his bravery. But amid a chaotic battle with the fearsome monsters, Frank had lost sight of his father''s familiar figure.


    As Frank stood at a crossroads of fear and determination, he noticed something unusual a?? a faint trail of footprints leading away from the main road. His heart skipped a beat as hope surged within him. Could these footprints belong to his father? Gathering his courage, he decided to follow them, even though he couldn''t shake the gnawing fear that he might encounter more menacing creatures along the way.


    With each step, Frank''s imagination ran wild with possibilities. The woods seemed toe alive with eerie sounds and rustling leaves, but he pushed himself forward, driven by the hope of reuniting with his beloved father. In his pocket, he carried a trinket his dad had gifted him - a small, glowing crystal that was meant to keep him safe.


    As Frank ventured deeper into thebyrinth of trees, an unexpected sight greeted him. A friendly, luminescent creature with soft, kind eyes emerged from the darkness. It was unlike anything he had seen before, resembling a blend of a small woond animal and a magical being. The creature beckoned him closer, emitting a warm, reassuring glow.


    Though still wary, Frank felt a curious connection to the creature, sensing that it meant him no harm. Intrigued, he decided to follow its lead, and as he did, he noticed more of these mystical beings appearing, almost as if they were guiding him on his quest.


    As Frank continued to trail those enchanting creatures, they led him deeper and deeper into the heart of the forest. The shadows grew thicker, and the air filled with an otherworldly aura that both thrilled and unnerved him. Finally, as they emerged into a small clearing, he beheld a sight that took his breath away.


    There, standing regally amidst a soft, glowing mist, was the most majestic beast he had everid eyes on. Its massive form exuded an aura of ancient wisdom and grace. Frank''s heart raced with a mixture of awe and trepidation, realizing he was in the presence of something truly extraordinary. Comparing it to the count of his town, whom he had once thought of as the epitome of majesty, now seemed like an insignificantparison.


    The creature''s fur shimmered with a mesmerizing blend of colors as if reflecting the hues of a thousand sunsets. Its eyes, wise and gentle, met Frank''s gaze with a profound understanding that transcended humanprehension. For a moment, time seemed to stand still as they locked eyes, and an unspoken connection formed between the young boy and the magnificent being.


    As Frank absorbed the majestic presence of the creature, he was startled by the unexpected sound of speech. His heart skipped a beat as he turned to see one of the majestic beings speaking. His mind raced with a mixture of astonishment and fear. He had never heard of any beast capable of coherent thought and speech. The tales his father had shared about his hunting adventures had never mentioned anything like this.


    The realization that these creatures couldmunicate in words left Frank bewildered. It shattered his perception of the world he thought he knew. He trembled with uncertainty and fear as he tried to process the creature''s unsettling words.


    "He is not enough. He is too small for the stomach."


    Those words echoed in his mind, and the implication struck him like a bolt of lightning. The magical creatures he had followed, the ones he admired for their beauty and grace, had something far more sinister in mind. The realization that he might be on the menu for these creatures filled him with terror. All thoughts of awe and wonder were reced by a primal instinct to survive.


    In his distress, Frank''s eyes welled up with tears, and he cried out for his father with all the strength his little voice could muster. The forest seemed to echo his desperate calls, but there was no response. He felt abandoned, alone in a world that had suddenly turned dark and treacherous.


    As Frank''s wails filled the air, the magical creatures huddled together, conversing in hushed tones about their gruesome n. It seemed they were deciding among themselves who would have the unfortunate honor of feasting on the boy. In the eerie silence that followed, one of the creatures was chosen as the designated one to devour the trembling child.


    As the chosen creature prepared to strike, extending its menacing w toward Frank, a sudden and unexpected intervention disrupted the malevolent act. Before the creature could reach the boy, a swift and precise motion sliced through the air, and its w was severed cleanly from its body.


    A new figure emerged from the shadows, d in a mysterious cloak that seemed to blend with the darkness of the forest. This enigmatic savior wielded a gleaming de, and with unparalleled skill, they had thwarted the creature''s deadly assault.


    The creature recoiled in shock and pain, emitting an anguished cry that pierced the night. It red at the cloaked figure with a mix of fury and fear, now realizing that their prey was not as defenseless as they had assumed.


    Frank''s tear-filled eyes widened in astonishment and relief as he witnessed the unexpected rescue. His cries began to subside, reced by a sense of hope that had been nearly extinguished moments ago. He watched in awe as the cloaked figure moved with grace and precision, a warrior of undeniable prowess.


    Slowly, the creatures began to retreat, their confidence waning in the face of the cloaked figure''s intervention. However, before they could make their escape, the majestic creature let out a resounding howl that echoed through the forest. Its voice carried both a warning and a threat, one that struck fear into the hearts of the other beasts.


    "Run away, and that will be thest day you and your kin will ever live. Fight, die, and kill that human, and you will live."


    The beasts, frozen in their tracks, exchanged anxious nces. The weight of their decision was evident in their hesitant eyes. They were torn between the desire to flee for their lives and the fear of losing their loved ones if they didn''tply with the creature''smand.


    Yet, even in the face of uncertainty, there was an air of resolution that overcame them. Their bond with their kin ran deep, and their instincts to protect their kind prevailed. With a newfound determination, they turned their backs on escape and chose to confront the cloaked warrior.


    As they charged toward the mysterious warrior, their aggression and desperation were palpable. They were willing to go to any lengths to protect their families, even if it meant risking their own lives in the process. But the cloaked figure remained unmoved, disying an aura of unwavering strength.


    In a swift, fluid motion, the warrior unsheathed their de, and the air seemed to crackle with energy. The creatures closed in, their sharp ws aimed to tear the warrior apart, but before they could evene close, their attacks were met with an imprable defense.


    He moved with unparalleled grace, deflecting the iing strikes effortlessly. With each movement, the air around them seemed to hum with power. The forest bore witness to a mesmerizing disy of martial prowess and mystical abilities.


    Despite theirbined efforts, the creatures were no match for the warrior''s skill. With each swing of the de, the cloaked figure left a trail of destruction in their wake. The creatures'' attempts to harm the warrior only led to their demise. They were shattered into small pieces, their menacing presence extinguished in an instant.


    "I warned you to run away, but you didn''t want to listen," he said with a voice of authority, standing amidst the remains of the defeated creatures. "So now, I shall take your head and ce it where everybody can see you. A lesson for any others who dare to challenge the safety of these woods."


    And after that, the mysterious warrior fought a great battle against the beast, all the while bearing the responsibility of protecting little Frank. Despite the disability, the warrior''s skill and valor proved unmatched, and the fearsome creature stood no chance against him. With every strike of his de, warrior exhibited a prowess that defied imagination. The battle raged on, but victory was ultimately imed by the warrior.


    As the dust settled, Frank rushed to reunite with his worried family. They embraced him tightly, relieved to see him safe and sound. Gratitude filled their hearts, and they turned to thank the mysterious warrior who had saved their beloved son. However, before they could utter a word of thanks, Valorius Sentinel had already vanished, as if he was a fleeting gust of wind. That fateful encounter marked thest time anyone everid eyes on Valorius Sentinel.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 21 20 Another Place - II

    From that day forward, Frank''s life took a new direction. The memory of the cloaked warrior, Valorius Sentinel, ignited a fire within him. He yearned to embody the courage and strength he had witnessed that night. Frank''s determination to meet Valorius Sentinel and be like him became his driving force.


    With unwavering resolve, Frank channeled his energy into his studies and training. He realized that education and skill were the paths to his goal. Frank knew that the first step toward his dream was education. He recognized that college would provide him with the knowledge and wisdom he sought. The journey wasn''t easy; his academic challenges were significant.


    His efforts paid off when he received the news of his college admission. Beyond academics, Frank trained tirelessly to build his physical strength. He engaged in rigorous exercise routines and martial arts practices.


    As time passed, Frank''s dedication became evident to those around him. Professors admired his thirst for knowledge, and peers respected his unwaveringmitment. Upon graduating college, Frank transformed into a remarkable young man. His understanding of the world had deepened, hisbat skills had sharpened, and his spirit had grown unwavering. With his heart set on meeting Valorius Sentinel, he embarked on a journey, seeking out the stories and legends that could lead him to the enigmatic hero.


    Frank''s quest took him to ancient libraries, remote viges, and mysticalndscapes. He listened to tales from wise elders and explored forgotten texts, piecing together the scattered fragments of Valorius Sentinel''s legacy.


    After dedicating over a century to the search for Valorius, Frank''s perseverance finally bore fruit. Amid his unyielding quest, he stumbled upon a vital clue that held the promise of uncovering the truth about Valorius. It was a carefully preserved letter, penned by the hero himself, addressed to those who sought to understand his legacy.


    With trembling hands, Frank unfolded the aged parchment and began to read Valorius''s words.


    Dear Seeker,


    If you''re reading this, you''re on a quest to uncover my journey''s truth. I, Valorius Sentinel, haven''t vanished. I sought greater power to benefit our world. Challenges demand more than might.


    With a heavy heart, I''ve embarked on this path. I''ve joined a mercenary group to fulfill my vision. I''ve left amunication device, connecting you to them. Together, we can carry my legacy of valor andpassion.


    Activate the device to connect. Be an agent of change, driven by valor.


    With hope,


    Valorius Sentinel


    Emerging from hyperdrive, the squad''s spacecraft navigated its way toward the outskirts of the Strapus B42. As they drew closer, the celestial body came into view, its features gradually bing distinguishable. Strapus B42 was a world characterized by vast and ruggedndscapes, with sprawling terrains that ranged from arid deserts to towering mountain ranges. The''s surface seemed to be a canvas painted in hues of dusty reds and burnt oranges, a stark and unforgiving environment that spoke of the challenges thaty ahead.


    Inside the spaceship, the atmosphere was palpably somber. The squad members, usually a spirited and lively bunch, were now marked by downcast expressions. The weariness of their extended interster voyage had left the squad members with little enthusiasm for their impending mission. The repetitive nature of their tasks, moving from to, weighed heavily on their motivation.


    After their spacecraft made a controlled descent, they touched down in one of the semi-habituated cities on Strapus B42. The had earned a reputation for its unique natural terraforming processes, resulting inndscapes that were both awe-inspiring and diverse. The cities in this world were designed with a deliberateck of excessive technology, embracing a more organic and harmonious rtionship with their surroundings. This distinctive approach established Strapus B42 as a sought-after destination for those seeking vocational respite.


    However, the allure of this vacation spot also came with a shadow side. The squad knew that the tranquil surface concealed a bustling undercurrent of dubious activities and illicit transactions.


    Several years had passed since the young boy hadst trained within the confines of that room. The setting remained unchanged, a familiar scene of practice dummies surrounding him. The boy, now older and more experienced, engaged in his breathing exercises with intense focus. Every inhale and exhale held profound meaning as he prepared for what was toe. With the exercisesplete, he rose from his seated position, his breath released as he assumed the Iai stance once again.


    At this moment, the atmosphere held a charged energy, and a sense of anticipation hung in the air. As his stance rxed, the boy''s swift movements seemed almost imperceptible. Yet, despite his efforts, no physical oue was visible in the training room. However, this time, there was no shadow of disappointment or frustration. Instead of dwelling on perceived failure, the boy calmly walked to the door.


    Exiting the room, he exhaled and closed the door behind him. As he moved away, an inexplicable transformation took ce within the training room. Inside, the dummies stood seemingly untouched, but the reality was drastically different. Slowly, the evidence of his prowess became apparent. One by one, the dummies were sliced in half, the precision and speed of the cuts leaving no doubt that the boy had indeed made progress over the years. By the time the room''s contents were fully revealed, it was clear that every dummy had been reduced to fragments, a testament to the mastery he had achieved.


    Stepping out of the training room, he was greeted by the sight of his master. The master, an Aer''eok alien, was seated in a distinctive pose. His one leg was drawn close to his face while the other was tucked beneath it, his hands resting on both knees. The alien''s appearance was unique, with elongated limbs and a physique that reflected his race''s inherent traits.


    The master''s voice held a mixture of approval and caution as he spoke, acknowledging the young boy''s sess. "So, you''ve finally achieved it. That should suffice for now. The patriarch is awaiting your presence. Remember, you still have much to learn. Do not be overly confident. If you truly aim to be the strongest, return swiftly. My time is limited."


    The Aer''eok master embodied the characteristics of his race. Known for their exceptional teaching abilities, the Aer''eok were renowned throughout the universe. Despite their inherent physical frailty, even their strongest members only reached a mere 1-star level. However, their teaching prowessy in their racial traits -an ability to unlock the maximum potential in anyone, regardless of their origin or abilities.


    "I will fulfill my duty, neither more nor less. At this moment, I see no reason to squander time merely for the pursuit of power," the young boy, Rager de Vent, dered. His words might have seemed brash, but they reflected the upbringing he had received under his master''s guidance. In different circumstances, his demeanor would have been vastly different.


    With his master''s understanding gaze upon him, Rager strode down the corridor. Despite the decades that had passed since hest left that room, his steps bore the confidence of someone well-ustomed to such movements.


    Rager''s lineage was deeply intertwined with Eternity, spanning many generations. However, the recent setbacks faced by his family in thest two generations had resulted in their once-prestigious position at the high table being lost. (Yeah, John Wick ref.)


    Upon entering the grand hall of his family''s estate, Rager respectfully inclined his head towards an empty seat. This particr seat held great significance-it was meant for the patriarch of the Vent family. However, on this asion, it remained vacant due to the patriarch''s recent passing. Neither Rager nor his master had been privy to this news, having been isted from the world during their intensive training.


    Despite the emptiness of the seat, Rager''s countenance remained unchanged. Instead, he turned his gaze toward one of the attendees present in the hall and inquired, "What happened?"


    "The esteemed Patriarch was assigned a mission by Eternity on the Corth 5LU. Where he became part of an experimental endeavor that involved infusing blood from higher races to enhance our strength. Unfortunately, the oue was far from desirable-Patriarch met his demise in the throes of unimaginable agony," the attendee conveyed the solemn news to Rager with a tone of deep respect.


    Unperturbed by the revtion of his patriarch''s death, Rager continued his line of questioning, as if seeking more information. "Did the experiment yield any positive results?"


    "Yes, indeed. Among numerous test subjects, only a single survivor emerged. He was administered the blood of the Onziads race, an extinct civilization with the remarkable ability to manipte dark matter. Their thirst for power ultimately led to their downfall, as they believed they could consume the entire universe with their abilities-an endeavor that ultimately led to their extinction. Their entire race was condemned to destruction due to the consequences of their actions," the attendee borated on the history.


    Upon absorbing the information, Rager nodded thoughtfully as he began to walk away. However, after a few steps, he halted abruptly, his curiosity getting the best of him. Turning back to the attendee, he posed two pressing questions, "Who is currently overseeing the family''s affairs in the patriarch''s absence? And what has be of the proposal I presented years ago?"


    In response, the attendee provided the details, "The current steward of the family is your third uncle. He has assumed responsibility for addressing the family''s myriad concerns, and it is projected that he will continue in this role until the selection of the next patriarch." Pausing briefly, the attendee locked gazes with Rager before continuing, "As for your proposal, it was elevated to the high table for consideration. Remarkably, the proposal garnered approval from the council. However, they stipte that our operatives carry out the mission of infiltrating the council''s to convert their allegiance into traitors."


    Rager''s curiosity didn''t waver as he continued to inquire, "That''s promising news. How far along is the progress?"


    With a hint of pride in his smile, the attendee responded, "We are approaching the final stages of the n''s implementation. It''s conceivable that within the span of a year or two, we will witness the fruition of our arduous efforts, aided by your strategic insights."


    Although he might have been perceived as a mere attendee by outsiders, his role was far more significant. In truth, every attendee within the Vent family held a distinguished position. They were either former patriarchs or the second-inmand to their predecessors.


    Within the Vent family, a significant gathering convened every century to determine the new patriarch for the uing hundred years. This decision remained unswayed by the patriarch''s fate, whether they served their entire term or met their demise during their tenure. The selection of the patriarch was a single-term affair, unwavering in its approach.


    "Before you embark on your journey to gain experience, do not overlook the tasks that may be assigned to you by the family," the attendee advised as Rager made his way towards the exit.


    Rager turned to the attendee. "Do you think I would forget?"


    "You''ve been confined for far too long. We don''t even know what you might achieve or if it will meet our expectations," the attendee said with a hint of frustration. In response, Rager left the hall in silence, his thoughts racing.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 22 21 Events - I

    It had been a little over a hundred years since Frank had made contact with the mercenary group known as the ''Order of des.'' This specialized group wasprised solely of warriors, with not a single mage among them.


    Upon establishing contact, Frank shared everything he knew and expressed his desire to meet with Valorius. However, what he remained unaware of was that valorius had previously scammed this group out of a substantial sum of money. Originally, they had intended to sell Frank on the ve market to recoup a fraction of their losses. Yet, after witnessing his extraordinary prowess and recognizing his potential, the leader of the mercenary group decided against such a sale.


    In the years that followed, Frank became the central figure within the Order of des. However, as time passed, he grew increasingly insistent on meeting Valorius. To both motivate and cate Frank, the group''s leader employed a doppelganger who would impersonate Valorius. To prepare this imposter, the leader meticulously studied all avable footage of Valorius. With this ruse in ce, Frank continued to work with the group without further inquiry.


    Over the course of a century, the mercenary group, initially operating only on a gctic scale, expanded its reach to epass entire star sectors. During this time, Frank, who had already attained a 3-star level of power when he first joined, further honed his abilities and ascended to a 5-star level.


    Frank''stest assignment was a crucial one: protecting a convoy from any potential threats for an extended period of over five years. This was an umon arrangement, as mercenaries of Frank''s caliber were typically hired for much shorter durations due to their high fees. However, the man who had contracted Frank was not just any client; he was the principal sponsor of Frank''s entire mercenary group. This substantial backing allowed for a unique, long-termmitment.


    Brandon had urgently summoned Fletcher to his office, causing the already stressedmander to dash over. In the office, Brandon wasted no time inquiring, "How far along is Project 999? You know we have to submit the report soon."


    Fletcher swallowed hard; his anxiety palpable. "Sir, the project is nearlyplete. We''re just awaiting Anthony''s awakening. Regarding the report, we can onlypile it once we''ve run tests with him conscious."


    "Excellent. At least I didn''t have to wait for years this time for results," Brandon remarked with a touch of sarcasm. "Once he wakes up, expedite the tests; we need to deliver that report as swiftly as possible. Now, you may leave."


    However, as Fletcher was about to exit, Brandon stopped him. "Hold on a moment. I''ve hired a group of mercenaries. Ensure they are treated exceptionally well," he instructed before dismissing Fletcher.


    In a remote, uninhabited corner of ay an astonishing sight-a multitude of monstersy dead, their demise shrouded in mystery. The sheer number of deceased creatures reached into the billions, and this was only one side of the. On the other side, Rager was locked in what could hardly be called a battle; it was more of a relentless massacre. He systematically dispatched thousands of monsters, their bodies hitting the ground before they could even react.


    This relentless ughter had been Rager''s way of life for over a year. His journey to this was a quest to refine his fighting skills. As he continued his merciless onught, his phone began to buzz incessantly. Ignoring it for the moment, he focused on eliminating the monsters around him.


    After thest creature had fallen, he finally checked his phone. A message from the family hade through. It instructed him to journey to a known as Strapus B42. His mission was to meet an individual from Corth 5LU who would provide him with a report and demonstrate the power of a sessful test subject. With the majority of the''s monster poption nearly eradicated, Rager had already made up his mind to depart soon.


    As the days of rest passed, Frank''s employer finally decided to leave the. Opting for discretion, they chose to travel in a single spaceship cleverly disguised as a merchant vessel. The ship was set on a course for Strapus B42, carrying a total of three other individuals besides Frank himself.


    Several weeks had passed since Adam and his squad''s arrival on the. Initially, there was a sense of wariness among them, as the prospect of work loomed over their heads. However, as days turned into weeks and there was no sign of any activity or Eternity-rted issues, a sense of rxation settled in.


    The had only one city, which made it convenient for the squad, as they didn''t need to divide their attention or spread their resources thin. However, thisck of prior information about the mission posed a significant disadvantagepared to their first mission.


    At this moment, everyone in the squad had chosen to take a break, enjoying the warmth of the sun as they lounged on the beach, appreciating the brief respite from their usual tasks.


    Beneath the gentle embrace of the sun''s rays, the squad members discovered a moment of calm amid the tranquil surroundings. The rhythmic symphony of waves caressing the shore served as a soothing soundtrack to their leisurely respite. It was a precious break, a chance to rejuvenate after weeks filled with uncertainty and constant vignce.


    Carey had sought out a quiet spot near the shoreline, sitting cross-legged and contemting the boundless ocean''s horizon. Her trusty sniper rifle rested nearby, a silent sentinel. Nearby, Zephyr, Chris, and Lycus indulged in a friendly game of beach volleyball, theirughter harmonizing with the peaceful setting.


    As for Ishmael, ever the vignt one, he perched atop a substantial rock, engaged in meditation with closed eyes. His connection to mana remained unwavering, and soft incantations asionally escaped his lips, a subtle reinforcement of his magical prowess.


    Meanwhile, Adam stretched out luxuriously on a beach towel, sunsses resting on his nose to shield his eyes from the sun''s brilliance. Hey next to Zara, both of them enjoying the soothing warmth of the sunlight. Brutus, like a vignt guardian, stood watch nearby.


    During Adam''s first mission on the Pandora 9, Brutus lost one of his hands. Thanks to magic, his hand had been miraculously regenerated, but he had begun using a protective handguard to prevent any future injuries.


    These handguards were cutting-edge technology designed to instantly replicate a lost hand if there was a possibility of it being ripped apart. The recement hand was identical to the original, with no discernible difference in shape, form, or sensation for the user. The only drawback was that it could only be used three times. Given the high cost of this advanced technology, Brutus might not have been able to afford one under normal circumstances. However, thanks to Kozz''s mission, the team had umted a substantial number of points, making the purchase possible.


    While the rest of the team enjoyed their mission vacation, Boyd was the lone half-worker among them. The half-working state meant hebined his duties with the asional sip of a drink. He sat sipping a drink, his eyes fixed on a screen disying a multitude of data points. His task was to monitor thework system on the, watch for shifts in weather patterns, and even keep an eye on changes in the''s core. Boyd meticulously analyzed every conceivable element that might reveal anomalies.


    Suddenly, Boyd bolted out of his monitoring station,pelled to ry urgent news about unexpected shifts in the''s atmosphere and tectonic activity. He sprinted out of the building, to inform both the squad and Ishmael. As he reached the doorway, he was met by the sight of Ishmael and Chris, both of them gazing intently at the southern horizon-the exact direction where the anomaly had just manifested.


    Startled by themotion from the building, both Ishmael and Chris turned their attention toward Boyd, who affirmed their concerns with a nod. "It''s not a typical monster. No creature on this possesses that level of strength. This could be rted to Eternity, and whoever it is, they''re stronger than a typical 4-star level," Boyd informed them.


    Chris, taken aback by the revtion, questioned, "Even stronger than me?"


    "Yes, and approaching the leader''s level," Boyd confirmed. He quickly moved on to a suggestion, "We should take action immediately before they finalize whatever their transaction is and manage to escape."


    Their conversation had not gone unnoticed by the rest of the squad, as the sound of their discussion had reached their ears from a distance. The other members of the team quickly congregated around Ishmael, Chris, and Boyd, ready to address the imminent threat.


    Meanwhile, on the opposite side, Anthony had just showcased his formidable power to Rager. With a disy of his abilities, he had effortlessly reduced a nearby mountain to rubble. Witnessing the extent of the destruction, Rager, who had maintained an impassive expression until then, couldn''t help but furrow his brows. The ease with which Anthony had unleashed such destructive force left Rager contemting the gap between his capabilities and what Anthony had demonstrated.


    "See, it''s as simple as that," Anthony remarked, producing a small chip from his pocket and handing it over to Rager. "This chip contains all the necessary data you''ll require. Don''t forget to send the requested items."


    Rager took the chip, his hand brushing against it as he pocketed it. As he did so, he sensed a sudden change in the readings from the detectors he had strategically ced. Anthony also reacted to the shift in the atmosphere, his gaze turning back to Frank and his group of mercenary allies. "Prepare yourselves. It might be people from the Council," he advised, pulling his hood over his head in a manner that obscured his features from any potential onlookers, ensuring their anonymity.


    Frank, who had been calmly seated on a nearby rock, sprang into action. With a swift movement, he grabbed the twin swords that had been resting beside him. As he rose, determination ignited in his eyes, and he set off toward the northern section of the area. His jog steadily escted into a full-fledged run, his pace building momentum. Sensing the impending confrontation, his heart raced with anticipation.


    The rhythm of his strides synchronized with his breath as he charged forward, the wind whipping through his hair. His muscles flexed with each step, propelling him with undeniable force. As he neared the edge of a cliff, he summoned his strength for a leap. His body soared through the air, a testament to his mastery of his physical abilities. During his aerial ascent, he bent backward, his feet almost brushing against his back, maximizing his kic energy. In his hands, his twin swords gleamed with a radiant blue hue, exuding an aura of raw power.


    Time seemed to stretch as Frank''s aerial maneuver continued. His body hung suspended, covering a remarkable distance within a mere fraction of a second. Hovering directly above the Council''s spaceship, his calcted trajectory allowed him to descend with pinpoint precision. Like a plummeting meteor, he descended at breakneck speed, his swords poised for a devastating strike.


    The Council''s spaceship, equipped with protective shields and reinforced by an additionalyer of magical shield, was prepared for a potential confrontation. Yet, the sheer force behind Frank''s dual sword sh was beyond expectations. The protectiveyers of the ship''s defenses strained and crackled under the impact, struggling to contain the immense power unleashed by his des. A spectacr collision ensued as the protective shields gave way, culminating in a resounding explosion of energy.


    As a result, the spaceship, now vulnerable and off-bnce, descended in a chaotic, uncontrolled manner, finally crashing violently into the unforgiving ground below. The colossal impact sent shockwaves rippling through the area, the ship''s metallic frame groaning and creaking under the stress of the crash. Smoke billowed from the damaged vessel, creating a chaotic scene of destruction.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 23 22 Event - II

    Eva''s voice cut through the bustle of the transport ship''s hangar-like amander''s whip. Her soldiers, each d in their formidable battle gear, stood at attention as she addressed them.


    "Listen up!" she barked, her tone demanding immediate attention. "We''re here to assist these people, not intimidate them. Remember our purpose a?? we''re helping them relocate to a new home. Many of them have lost everything. They''re scared, confused, and vulnerable. So, I want you to go easy on them. Showpassion and respect. Understood?"


    The soldiers, ustomed to Eva''s no-nonsense leadership, nodded in agreement.


    "Good," she continued. "We''re better than the enemies we face, and that includes how we treat these civilians. Now, get to work, and let''s make this transition as smooth as possible."


    As her soldiers dispersed to carry out their duties, Eva retreated to her office within the transport ship. She closed the heavy door behind her, creating a momentary oasis of silence amidst the organized chaos.


    Seated at her desk, she activated her holographic interface and began reviewing the reports from her team members scattered across differents. First, she delved into She''s detailed ount of their efforts to assist citizens who had lost their homes. The reports were filled with stories of resilience and tragedy a?? families torn apart,munities in upheaval, and the valiant efforts of her team to provide shelter, supplies, andfort.


    Moving on, she essed Lacey''s reports, which echoed the same sentiments of heartbreak and hope. It was clear that her squad was doing everything in their power to ease the suffering of the disced people they encountered.


    Eva''s eyes then turned to the reports from Wyatt and Joshua, who were tasked with constructing outposts on variouss. The documents were filled with technical specifications, progress updates, and logistical challenges they faced. Despite the obstacles, they were steadilyying the groundwork for the new outposts.


    After digesting the reports from her team, Eva knew that she needed to remain sharp and ready for whatevery ahead. The training was her sanctuary, a ce where she honed her skills and pushed her limits.


    Eva grasped her spear, a weapon she used over the years. Its sleek, metallic form gleamed under the training room''s lights. She moved with grace, her movements fluid and precise.


    She began with basic thrusts, each punctuated by the hum of the spear slicing through the air. These were the foundations of her technique, the bread, and butter of herbat style. They were quick and efficient, capable of piercing through most defenses.


    Next, she transitioned into sweeping strikes, using the spear''s length to create a barrier of steel around her. These wide, arcing motions were excellent for crowd control, clearing space in a chaotic battlefield.


    Eva then incorporated her acrobatic skills into her routine. She leaped into the air, twisting and turning, her spear dancing with her. Mid-air, she performed agile spins and flips, showcasing her agility and bnce. These moves allowed her to evade enemy attacks and strike from unexpected angles.


    Her training session continued with intricate footwork, a dance of steps and pivots that allowed her to maintain her distance from her foes. She shifted seamlessly from offense to defense, always ready to react to any threat.


    As Eva''s training progressed, she transitioned to more advanced dummies equipped with high-level AI to enhance her practice. Her movements evolved, culminating in intricate techniques that seamlessly wove together a rapid barrage of basic attacks. Her spear became a blur of deadly precision, a swirling tempest of lethal finesse. Eva delved into counterattacks, mastering the art of deflecting blows and retaliating with potent, calcted responses.


    But Eva''s training epassed more than just physical prowess; it delved deep into her mental discipline. She meticulously practiced her breathing techniques, honed her focus, and sharpened her ability to anticipate her opponents'' actions. Her tactical instincts grew razor-sharp, always positioning her several steps ahead of those dummies.


    Time seemed to blur as hours slipped away, with Eva wholly immersed in her training. Beads of sweat glistened on her determined brow as each strike and movement forged an unbreakable connection between her and her weapon. As she gradually eased her pace, her breathing returned to its regr rhythm.


    Amidst the wreckage of the crashed spaceship, the ishamel''s squad scrambled to extricate themselves from the twisted metal and damagedpartments. Groans of pain and frustration filled the air as they struggled to regain their bearings.


    Frank, his swords still aglow with their blue hue, descended gracefully to the ground near the crash site. He surveyed the scene, his steely gaze locking onto the council''s operatives as they mbered out of their damaged vessel.


    Meanwhile, Ishmael, his magical prowess at the ready, stepped forward. With a calm and determined demeanor, he addressed the squad members gathered around him.


    "I''ll handle him alone," Ishmael dered, his voice resolute. "The rest of you, intercept the deal. Boyd, you''re in charge of fixing this ship. We''ve got one minute before the authorities arrive. Move!"


    Boyd nodded in acknowledgment, already assessing the extent of the damage to the spaceship. His nimble fingers worked swiftly, manipting a blend of technology and magic to initiate the repair process.


    As the squad members scattered to fulfill their respective tasks, Frank and Ishmael stood facing each other, a tense anticipation hanging in the air. The seconds ticked away, a looming confrontation on the horizon, while Boyd worked diligently to beat the approaching deadline.


    Ishmael recognized the precarious situation they were in, knowing that this territory was a neutral zone where escape was not an option without consequences. If caught in a confrontation, the cost in terms of money and privileges to maintain their neutrality could be exorbitant.


    With this in mind, Ishmael swiftly drew his wand and activated his protective shield. This battle was vastly different from their encounter with the warlock, which had involved long-range attacks. Now, he was facing a swordsman in close quarters.


    Before Ishmael could initiate his incantations, Frank propelled himself towards Ishmael,unching one of his swords in his direction. The de was enveloped in an aura, meaning that Ishmael had a choice to make a?? either dodge the iing attack or attempt to deflect it with his magic. However, dodging would expose him to a potential follow-up assault by Frank, while attempting to deflect the weapon might leave him vulnerable to Frank''s close-range attack.


    As Frank''s sword hurtled toward him, Ishmael''s response was immediate and seamless. With unwavering determination, he initiated an incantation, his voice resonating with calm and unwavering confidence, "Sanguis Ferrum Revulsio." These words unleashed the "Bloodsteel Repulsion" spell, renowned for its effectiveness in deflecting metallic objects, including ded weapons.


    In an almost imperceptible instant, the incantation triggered a controlled surge of magical energy, harnessed from Ishmael''s very blood. This potent energy coalesced into a concentrated and maic burst; its potency precisely calibrated for the impending sh. The magical burst surged toward the iing sword.


    The aura-d de collided with the spell, and a dynamic fusion of energies ensued. The inherent maic properties of the spell came to the forefront, opposing the sword''s trajectory. The resultant interaction deflected the sword''s course, narrowly averting a direct hit on Ishmael.


    Undaunted by his initial failure, Frank swiftly closed the distance between them, exhibiting remarkable speed and agility. His remaining sword gleamed with a sinister glint as he unleashed a flurry of blindingly swift shes and thrusts. Each movement was executed with surgical precision, and the de seemed to be an extension of his very will.


    Ishmael, in response, met every one of Frank''s assaults with a graceful and precise defense. His lithe form allowed him to evade the razor-sharp de by the slimmest of margins. Simultaneously, he wove intricate patterns of counterspells and enchantments, each strategically designed to disrupt Frank''s relentless offensive.


    The ground beneath their feet bore witness to the fierce duel, its surface marked by the impact of their deadly exchange. Ishmael''s protective shield shimmered with the iridescence of magical energy, effectively deflecting the crushing force of Frank''s blows. The atmosphere crackled with the essence of their conflict, a tumultuous convergence of spells and swordsmanship forming a harmonious yet deadly symphony.


    Despite the ferocity of their battle, bothbatants maintained an eerie silence, their expressions fixed in masks of unwavering determination. Ishmael''s thoughts raced as he continued to parry Frank''s ceaseless onught, tirelessly seeking an opening to exploit. Each parry and strike was executed with a level of precision that showcased their extraordinarybat prowess.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 24 Event - III

    Just as the intensity of their duel hinted at an impending esction, Frank abruptly disengaged from the battle, stepping away from the fray to retrieve his fallen sword. His voice broke the silence as he addressed Ishmael, his words carrying an enigmatic tone.


    "The timing isn''t right for this, my friend," Frank dered, his eyes locked on Ishmael. "Let''s hope our paths cross again under more favorable circumstances," he added before swiftly retreating, his gaze never leaving Ishmael''s form.


    Observing Frank''s departure, Ishmael made a rapid decision, his instincts guiding his actions. He initiated contact with Boyd, his voiceced with urgency. "Boyd, how much time do we have left?"


    Boyd''s reply was swift andden with concern. "Leader, we might have less than two minutes. I''ve infiltrated their system and made some adjustments, but our actions won''t stay hidden for long."


    Acknowledging the tight timeline, Ishmael didn''t waste a moment. "Excellent. Prepare the ship and pilot it toward our location. Simultaneously, gather any information you can through hacking," he instructed Boyd. With that, his bat-like wings unfurled, propelling him forward at astonishing speeds, and transforming him into a blur as he raced toward the rendezvous point.


    On the other side of the battlefield, Adam and his team, separated from Ishmael and Boyd, raced toward the designated rendezvous point. Their approach brought them within view of two spacecraft: one a nondescript merchant vessel and the other a sleek ck scout ship renowned for its incredible speed. However, before they could reach their destination, an unexpected interruption urred.


    A mysterious object sailed into their midst, and Carey, the squad''s weapons expert, swiftly identified the threat. Her voice rang out with a sharp warning, "Jump away, it''s a grenade!" The urgency in her tone propelled the team into immediate action. They scattered in all directions, each member except Adam seeking refuge from the impending explosion.


    In contrast to hisrades, Adam responded with a calcted, almost audacious move. He drew his sword and assumed a protective stance, summoning forth a translucent shield of energy to envelop him. As the grenade detonated, releasing a violent burst of force and fiery chaos, the protective shield absorbed the brunt of the impact. It shuddered and rippled under the explosive assault, but Adam remained steadfast, locked in position.


    What followed was a striking sh of swords, with Adam''s weapon engaging in a fierce duel against Rager''s de. Rager had anticipated that his adversaries would be thrown into disarray by the grenade''s explosion, providing him an opportunity to swiftly kill one of them with his rapid swordsmanship. However, the oue yed out quite differently from his expectations, drawing a sardonic chuckle from his lips.


    "You''re rather alert, aren''t you?" Rager inquired, impressed by Adam''s quick response.


    In the midst of their intense standoff, Adam decided to add a touch of provocation to the mix. He began a bit of trash-talking, his wordsced with a cheeky tone. "Your boots," he began, "they''re a bit too noisy for your sword style. And as for your fashion sense, well, let''s just say even a beggar might outdress you."


    Adam''s sardonic remark appeared to have rattled Rager. His confident smile vanished, reced by a determined expression. He decided to disengage from the verbal sparring and distance himself from the confrontation. With a swift, fluid motion, he sheathed his sword, locking eyes with Adam as he spoke to someone behind him.


    "Mr. A, please leave this kid to me," Rager instructed, his tonemanding. "You can handle the rest of them."


    A voice from the shadows responded with a chuckle. "As you wish, Mr. Rager. You and the kid can have fun. I''ll take care of the others."


    With this agreement, Rager adjusted his posture, subtly preparing for an Iai strike. His gaze dropped from Adam''s eyes to the ground, breaking the intense eye contact. On the other side, Adam remained in his defensive stance, his unwavering gaze locked on Rager''s katana. In this suspended moment, the settling dust from the grenade explosion created a striking picture, capturing the essence of two swordsmen poised for battle.


    The moment of stillness was abruptly shattered as Rager, with a sh of movement that defied human perception, drew his katana in an Iai strike. The de sliced through the air with incredible speed, aiming for Adam''s midsection.


    Adam, relying on his heightened reflexes and skill, managed to twist his body just in time, narrowly avoiding the deadly edge of Rager''s katana. The de missed him by a hair''s breadth, but the sheer force of the strike sent a shockwave through the air, rustling Adam''s clothing.


    Without missing a beat, Adam retaliated. His sword left its scabbard in a blur of motion, meeting Rager''s sword in a resounding sh. The force of their collision sent sparks flying, creating a dazzling disy of steel against steel.


    The duel intensified as they continued their intricate dance. Rager unleashed a flurry of rapid strikes, each one meticulously aimed at Adam''s defenses. Adam, equally skilled, parried and countered with a mix of precision and fluidity.


    The battle between Adam and Rager reached a fevered pitch, eachbatant pushing the limits of their skill and stamina. The air around them crackled with energy as they continued their relentless exchange of strikes, parries, and dodges.


    Amid their fiercebat, Adam''s keen eyes finally spotted a minuscule opening in Rager''s defense. It was a split-second opportunity, a momentarypse in Rager''s otherwise impable technique. At that moment, Adam seized his chance.


    With precision and swiftness that bordered on the supernatural, Adam executed a masterful feint, leading Rager tomit to a strike in the wrong direction. It was a calcted risk, and it paid off. As Rager''s de whistled past him, Adam capitalized on the opening.


    In one seamless motion, Adam shifted his weight and brought his sword around, striking Rager with a force that was both surprising and devastating. The de connected with Rager''s side, sending him hurtling through the air. With an impact that reverberated through the ground, Rager crashed to the earth, his sword ttering beside him.


    The battlefield fell silent for a moment as dust and dirt settled around the fallen swordsman. Adam stood there, panting heavily, his sword held firmly in his grasp. Rager, on the ground, grimaced in pain, clutching his side where Adam''s de had struck.


    As the squad members found themselves separated into three groups of two after leaping away from the grenade, they quickly realized they were each confronted by an opponent. The division ced Chris with Lycus, Zara with Zephyr, and Brutus with Carey. Each opponent was a 4-star levelbatant, but this particr match-up favored the squad, as they were all at this level, except for Adam, who stood apart.


    Without hesitation, Chris unleashed a spell known as Frost Spikes, his instincts guiding his actions. The magical attack formed a cluster of icy projectiles that surged toward his adversary. Chris aimed to gain the upper hand swiftly and reunite with Adam, who was locked in a duel with the swordsman Rager.


    Just as it appeared that Chris''s opponent would be overwhelmed by his spell, the adversary uttered a single word, "Disintegrate." In response to hismand, the rapidly approaching ice projectiles dissolved into nothingness, as if they had never been conjured in the first ce.


    Witnessing his spell being dispelled so effortlessly, Chris''s brow furrowed in frustration. He had anticipated that his attack might not cause significant damage, but this level of counteraction was beyond his expectations. He didn''t divert his gaze from the opponent but directed his words to Lycus without turning, a sense of gravity in his voice.


    "Lycus, nk him from the right. I''ll engage him with spells to keep him upied while you search for an opening. This must be the individual Boyd warned us about." His tone conveyed a deep sense of seriousness.


    Undeterred by the apparent futility of his magical onught, Chris continued to unleash one spell after another in rapid session. His determination to breach his mysterious opponent''s defenses fueled his relentless assault.


    First, he cast Frost Nova, spreading his palms wide to summon a sudden and biting cold. The spell generated an icy shockwave that extended outward, but before its frosty tendrils could reach the adversary, they inexplicably vanished into thin air.


    Next came Lightning Bolt. Chris directed a bolt of crackling electricity from his outstretched fingers, intending to strike his foe with a jolt of electrifying force. Yet, like the previous spell, it too dissolved harmlessly mid-flight.


    Undeterred, Chris conjured a Fireball, gathering mes in his palm and shaping them into a fiery projectile. With a deft flick of his wrist, heunched the searing sphere toward his opponent, only to witness it disintegrate into nothingness upon approach.


    Throughout this relentless magical barrage, the enigmatic adversary remained eerily still, his sole focus on negating Chris''s iing spells. A palpable sense of frustration surrounded Chris as he continued to fire spell after spell, each one dissipating into the void without making an impact.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 25 24

    On the other side of the battlefield, Ragery on the ground, his body racked with pain and his wound pouring blood. He was utterly dismayed, unable to fathom how he had ended up in this situation, defeated by someone of equal power. His mind, ovee by the agony and shock, was nk, and all he could do was clutch his grievous wound.


    Adam, observing Rager''s dire condition, recognized that escaping in such a state would be nearly impossible. He decided to leave Rager be, turning his back to help hisrades. However, as he covered a few meters, a sudden gunshot echoed through the air. He turned back swiftly, only to find Rager holding a vintage firearm, the smoke still drifting from the barrel.


    This firearm was a rarity, utilizing gunpowder instead of sma, and was known for its formidable power. Such weapons were possessed by only the wealthiest individuals. Adam''s gaze fell upon his own body, and he saw arge, bloody hole where the bullet had struck him. He fell to his knees, blood spilling from his mouth, before copsing to the ground.


    Witnessing his opponent''s fall, Rager staggered to his feet and rushed toward his spaceship while simultaneously contacting Anthony. The call quickly connected, and he urgently ryed, "Mr. A, you need to leave the area immediately. I''ve detected a signal indicating the approach of multiple security forces."


    In Chris''s corner of the battle, he continued to barrage his opponent with spells, aiming to keep him distracted. Amidst his magical onught, the opponent''smunication device rang, prompting him to pick it up, seemingly ignoring Chris''s presence. Although the call was brief, it led to an unexpected turn of events.


    The man who had maintained a distance from Chris throughout the battle suddenly disappeared. In the blink of an eye, he reappeared directly behind Chris, his hands wielding a dagger aimed at Chris''s shoulder. The de was on the brink of making contact when it was abruptly halted by a protective shield. Zephyr had intervened, shielding Chris from the potentially fatal blow.


    Anthony swiftly retracted his dagger upon the failed attack, but he found himself nked by Zara and Lycus, each armed and ready forbat. He wielded two daggers, using one to deflect Zara''s attacks and the other to parry Lycus''s strikes.


    What He was unaware of, however, was the unique effect of Lycus''s knuckles. Electric energy surged through the dagger that blocked Lycus''s blows, coursing toward Anthony himself. Realizing the danger, he quickly disengaged from all three opponents, discarding one of his damaged daggers due to the electrical charge.


    Yet, just as he came to a halt after relinquishing his weapon, a colossal shadow cast itself upon him, steadily expanding. In a swift and instinctual move, he leaped away, narrowly evading the impending threat. Brutus swung down a massive axe, its impact creating a crater evenrger than the ones formed during the spaceship crash or the battle between Ishmael and Frank.


    After narrowly avoiding Brutus''s massive axe and relocating to a new spot, Anthony was suddenly struck in the leg. The sharp report of a gunshot rang out, signaling Carey''s sessful sniper shot a?? the first hit since the battle began. Anthony''s confidence, which had remained somewhat intact despite the odds, began to wane as the situation spiraled out of his control with all six of his adversaries now united against him.


    Adding to the chaos, the Council''s spaceship was approaching their location, its engine roar underscoring the ongoing battle between Frank and Ishmael. Ishmael had managed to catch up to Frank after thetter had initially retreated from their confrontation. With the two mercenaries apanying Frank now deceased, their numbers had dwindled to just Frank, him, and Rager. But even that diminished force was soon reduced further as Anthony witnessed a sleek ck spaceship speeding away from the conflict, disappearing into space at an astonishing velocity.


    Exhaling audibly, Anthony spoke with a mixture of resignation and a veiled threat, "Looks like the game has ended too early. Let''s hope we meet again." His tone then grew more ominous as he added, "But remember, the next time we meet, I won''t go easy on you."


    With those words, he vanished from the battlefield, leaving the scene behind. Gradually, the mor of the battle between Ishmael and Frank began to wane. Boyd''s urgent voice broke through the fading sounds, directing their focus, "Get Adam, he''s been hit. He''s lost a lot of blood. And Leader, let them go; we don''t have time."


    Hearing about Adam''s injury, Chris swiftly employed a teleportation spell, arriving beside Adam. rmed by the volume of blood that had been shed, he immediately applied a basic healing spell. While he wasn''t a master of healing magic, he possessed enough skill to staunch the bleeding for the time being.


    With Chris having stabilized the wound on Adam''s body to prevent further blood loss, Ishmael arrived at the scene to continue the healing process. His vampire nature made him adept at handling blood-rted matters, and he swiftly infused Adam with a carefully modified portion of his own blood, tailored to suit Adam''s needs.


    After some time had passed and their injuredrade was in a more stable condition, Boyd arrived to collect them. He ushered them aboard the spaceship and, with a sense of urgency, initiated a rapid ascent into the atmosphere. As they ascended through the mesosphere, the pursuing ships of the security forces came into view, but their superior spacecraft allowed them to evade their pursuers and eventually escape the, albeit not without taking a few hits along the way.


    A little over a week had passed since the intense battle between the squad and Rager and his allies. During this time, Adam remained unconscious, and Eva was currently transporting him back to their home for better care. Meanwhile, the rest of the squad found themselves confined within an army base, eagerly awaiting any updates or news about their next steps.


    During their escape from the security forces, Boyd had managed to glean some information about the mysterious deal orchestrated by Eternity. He had discovered that Eternity had devised a method to enhance the base power of ordinary individuals. However, this was the extent of the information he could ess before encountering a highly secure firewall that prevented further data retrieval. Boydmented that, given more time, he could have unearthed more details, but for now, they were left with unanswered questions and a sense of uncertainty about the future.


    Ishmael''s entrance into the room was marked by a heavy air of defeat that seemed to hang around him. Boyd, noticing the despondency on Ishmael''s face, couldn''t help but inquire about the reason behind it. He asked, his voiceced with concern, "What happened? Why the long face?"


    Ishmael, weariness in his eyes, gazed at Boyd and replied, "We''ve been demoted. Our mission was too critical, and we made a significant mistake. We''re stuck here at this location until Adam recovers and joins us again." His anger was palpable, a testament to how much this demotion weighed on him. He had worked tirelessly to reach his recent promotion, only to find himself back at square one due to a single mistake.


    In response to the somber news, Chris abruptly stood up and made his way toward the door. Perplexed, Lycus questioned his actions, "What are you doing? Didn''t you hear what the leader said? Don''t try to do anything reckless."


    Chris turned to look at Lycus, a hint of exasperation in his expression. "I''m just going to the store," he rified. "Since we''re going to be stuck here for a while, I thought I might as well learn some new spells that could be useful in the future."


    His unexpected decision left the rest of the squad momentarily dumbfounded. Even Ishmael, after a moment of surprise, rose from his chair, his resolve hardening. "Chris is right," he dered. "We can''t afford to waste our time idly. We need to be stronger and regain what we''ve lost."


    -- End of Arc a?? 1 a??


    All spells used in first arc by Chris (Later I might add the ones used by rest of the characters for now this is it.):-


    1) Magic Shield: A protective spell that forms a barrier to deflect iing attacks.


    2) Starfire ze: A spell that creates a searing sphere of light, radiating intense heat and destroying everything in its path.


    3) Void Bomb: An incantation that summons a sphere of shimmering darkness, disintegrating anything it touches upon impact.


    4) Shadow Clock: An enchantment that conceals the caster, making them imperceptible to external senses.


    5) Firest: A spell that releases a powerful st of fire.


    6) Frost Spikes: An ice-based spell that forms sharp ice projectiles.


    7) Frost Nova: A spell that conjures freezing tendrils of ice in a cold snap.


    8) Lightning Bolt: A spell that generates an electrifying bolt of energy.


    9) Fireball: A spell that hurls mes as a fiery projectile.


    10) Teleportation Spell: A spell enabling instant teleportation to another location.


    11) Healing Spell: A spell used for healing, with limited proficiency.


    asionally missing content, please report errors in time.

 Chapter 26 25 Mystery

    In a ndestine meeting room, the atmosphere was heavy with secrecy and tension. Three shadowy figures, their faces veiled by dim lighting, huddled around a circr table, engaged in hushed conversations as they deliberated their next moves.


    The first figure, an imposing presence, leaned forward and spoke in a low, almost conspiratorial tone. "The method we seek is now within the grasp of the de Vant child."


    The second figure, with a more feminine voice, chimed in with curiosity. "The one they''vebeled as the Chosen One? It''s been years since west heard any mention of him."


    The third figure, their voiceced with gravity, responded, "That''s irrelevant. The question at hand is: who do we send to retrieve this information? Our options are limited; weck many trusted agents to carry out the task. The only ones currently avable are the outer members or, perhaps, ourselves."


    The second person interjected with caution, "We can''t afford to go ourselves at this moment. You''re well aware that the High Table and the Council are patiently awaiting our reappearance."


    Just as they contemted their limited choices, a discreet knock echoed through the door, and it slowly swung open to reveal a fourth figure, draped in a cloak of shadows. Their presence seemed to add an even deeperyer of intrigue to this ndestine gathering.


    The fourth figure entered the dimly lit room, casting an even deeper shroud of mystery over the gathering. Without uttering a word, they took a seat at the table, joining the trio in their hushed deliberations.


    The first figure, shifting the topic from the de Vant child, spoke in a graver tone, "Let us set aside the matter of the de Vant child for a moment. Our focus should shift to the recent developments involving our outposts. Both Eternity and the Council have hit us hard."


    The third figure nodded in agreement, acknowledging the urgency of the situation. "Yes, you are correct. Our operations are at risk, and our forces are stretched thin. We''ve lost valuable assets, and our presence in several key sectors ispromised."


    The second figure leaned in, her voice tinged with concern. "We need to shore up our defenses, rebuild ourworks, and re-establish our influence in those sectors. If we continue to suffer losses, our ability to operate in the shadows will be severely hampered."


    The fourth figure, who had been silent until now, finally spoke in a raspy, low voice, "I have information on a potential ally, a faction that has shown interest in our cause. They have the resources we need to counter both Eternity and the Council. However, allying with them won''te without its own set of risks and challenges."


    Back on Corth 5LU,


    Some time had passed since Adam was brought back to his home. It was an unusual situation. While the Council had ess to many talented healers, the problemy in the unique nature of the poison Adam had been injected with. After extensive analysis, the healers reluctantly concluded that there was no known antidote for this rare toxin, and their only course of action was to wait for Adam to naturally awaken.


    Currently, Adam was lying in his bedroom, with Eva faithfully at his side. Her face bore the evidence of sleepless nights and worry, evident in the dark circles under her eyes. She had been diligently caring for Adam during hisa, patiently waiting for any sign of improvement.


    Eva''s unwavering dedication to Adam''s well-being was a testament to her love and determination. She understood that waiting for his recovery was the only viable option, yet it did little to alleviate the constant stress that weighed on her. Her days were filled with tending to his needs, adjusting the monitors that diligently tracked his vital signs, all while holding onto the hope for even the slightest positive change.


    Still holding Adam''s hand, Eva nced towards the door as it swung open, revealing Brandon''s imposing figure alongside Commander Fletcher. She quickly rose to her feet and executed a crisp salute, acknowledging Brandon''s presence, before addressing him with utmost respect.


    "Sir, it''s an honor to have you here. Commander Fletcher, how may I assist you?" Eva began, her voice maintaining a steady tone despite the weariness that clung to her.


    Brandon nodded his expression a blend of concern and authority. "Eva, you can take your leave now. You''ve spent considerable time here, and I''ll take over from here," he said, gently patting Eva''s head.


    "Of course, sir," Eva replied, a faint but genuine smile touching her lips as Brandon patted her head. With a respectful nod, she stepped aside, granting Brandon and Commander Fletcher ess to Adam''s bedside. Her departure carried a mix of relief and lingering concern for heratose charge.


    As Eva left the room, Brandon turned his attention toward Fletcher, his expression stern and resolute. "Fletcher, prepare ''the method''. There''s only one way to wake him up, and that''s to administer the bloodline injection."


    Fletcher nced at Brandon and then back at Adam, concern etching lines on his face. He hesitated before voicing his reservations, "Sir, I understand your urgency, but using ''The method'' on someone affiliated with the council carries significant risks."


    The moment Fletcher uttered those words, he felt the weight of pressure bear down on him, a crushing force that seemed to constrict his chest and steal the very air from his lungs. It was as if an invisible vice had mped around him, and he crumpled to the floor, his knees unable to support him any longer.


    Brandon''s voice came out sharp and unyielding, "It appears I''ve granted you too muchtitude recently, wouldn''t you agree? When I say ''prepare the tubes,'' I expect you to do just that, not stand here questioning my decisions."


    Fletcher struggled to regain hisposure, beads of sweat forming on his forehead as he nodded frantically, "Yes, sir. Right away, sir." He knew better than to further challenge Brandon''s authority, especially in such a critical moment.


    With Fletcher efficiently preparing the required process, Brandon orchestrated the seamless transfer of Adam to a highly secure and ndestine facility, hidden away from prying eyes. This facility was a well-kept secret, known only to a select few.


    Stepping inside the facility felt like entering a different world altogether. The corridor leading to theb was dimly lit, and the sterile scent of antiseptic hung in the air. Security measures were stringent, with biometric scans and retina recognition required at every checkpoint. It was a ce where curiosity and innovation thrived, far removed from the public eye.


    Upon arrival in theb, the stark contrast between the sterile environment and the delicate, life-changing work being performed was immediately apparent. The walls were pristine white, illuminated by the harsh re of overhead fluorescent lights. The air held a palpable tension, disrupted only by the mechanical whirring of advanced machinery and the low, hushed conversations of researchers d in pristineb coats. This was a realm where the limits of human potential were stretched to their extreme, and the boundaries of science blurred with the ethereal.


    Adam''s unconscious body was gently ced on an impably clean examination table, surrounded by an intricate web of tubes and wires. These connected him to various monitoring devices, their screens disying an array ofplex data and graphs. The room itself seemed to pulsate with technological sophistication, and the weight of responsibility hung heavy in the air.


    Brandon, with Fletcher by his side, stood as a vignt overseer. The medical team moved with the precision of experts, their collective focus solely on theplex procedure ahead. The bloodline injection was a meticulous and delicate process, one that required unwavering precision. As the team worked, Brandon''s thoughts were a turbulent storm of concern and determination. Adam''s fate teetered on the precipice, and Brandon was willing to take whatever risks necessary to bring his son back from his sleep.


    With the medical team having meticulously arranged the equipment, they discreetly retreated from the examination table. One of the team members activated a small microphone within the room, connecting them to Brandon and Fletcher, who observed the unfolding procedure from behind a one-way ss panel.


    "Sir, which bloodline should we use?" came the inquiry through the microphone.


    Brandon leaned closer to the microphone, his voice clear and unwavering, "Use the blood of Equilixians."


    The very mention of the name sent shockwaves through the room. The researchers froze in disbelief, their ears unable to reconcile the request they had just heard. The man who had initially posed the question swallowed hard, his expression a mix of astonishment and trepidation. The silence that followed was so profound that even the slight sound of his gulp resonated audibly, a stark contrast to the soundproof design of the room meant to eliminate any external noise.


    The Equilixians, a race enveloped in myth and dread, possessed an otherworldly dominion over Equilibrium that had earned them a notorious reputation throughout the cosmos. Their mastery extended to the maniption and distortion of the very bnce that underpinned the fabric of existence itself.


    Legends and ancient texts spoke of their extraordinary prowess, and these stories served as a chilling cautionary tale for anyone contemting contact with this formidable race. In the annals of cosmic history, there existed ounts of an inadvertent intervention by Equilixians that had disrupted the delicate equilibrium between celestial entities. The repercussions of this cataclysmic event had radiated across the cosmos, leaving behind a trail of obliterated gxies and countless cosmic entities meeting their untimely end.


    This tragic episode had be a haunting reminder of the Equilixians'' immense and potentially cataclysmic power. It had instilled a deep-seated fear that persisted through the ages. The stunned reaction of the medical team stemmed from their acute awareness that invoking the bloodline of such a race was akin to wielding a double-edged sword-one capable of either delivering salvation or unleashing unparalleled devastation. The room was filled not only with anticipation but with an unspoken acknowledgment of the profound risks they were about to undertake.


    "Sir, I implore you to reconsider this decision. Should the procedure fail, we may inadvertently release the soul of a deceased Equilixian, potentially reviving ancient powers we cannot control. You are well aware of the catastrophic consequences that could ensue if any soul from that era is awakened," the same individual beseeched Brandon, a tone of urgency and apprehension in their voice.


    Brandon''s patience, already frayed, grew thinner with each word of opposition. His low, menacing voice cut through the air like a de. "It appears that I''ve been overly lenient with all of you. It seems that nobody cares to heed my counsel anymore."


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