Secret Meeting: Analyzing the Threat at the Temple of Akhenaten
After the fierce battle at the Temple of Akhenaten, the commanders and members of the Fifth Division headed to their designated rest areas within the fortress. However, exhaustion did not erase the shock from their faces, nor the terror from their eyes. Meanwhile, Emperor Ryohei Yamamoto was lost in deep thought about what had transpired at the temple, especially after the disappearance of the monster known as Exodin and the revelation of the mysterious forces that had taken it from existence.
That evening, an emergency and exclusive meeting was held in the fortress's secret assembly hall. All nine division commanders were present, along with representatives from the noble families.
Emperor Ryohei: (In a serious tone, surrounded by an aura of deep thought, his eyes scanning the tense faces) "We have gathered here today to discuss what happened in the desert city of Antika. This is no longer a mere reconnaissance; it is an existential threat to our kingdom and the entire world. Ryota, let us begin with your detailed report." Ryota Tsubaki (First Division Captain): (Standing confidently, but his voice carries a hint of seriousness and unease) "Your Majesty, gentlemen. At the temple, Raiden discovered massive underground laboratories containing numerous horrific and brutal experiments. The most prominent of these are the Exodin Beast and the Fusion Beast, which were the result of those diabolical experiments. Even more disturbing is that the scientists who worked there have been transformed into monsters, or rather, soulless, deformed beings, mere tools. We were able to identify two of them from the remnants of their records; the first is the missing scientist, Jung, and the second is the scientist, Kaori."
Everyone was shocked by what they heard, their gazes locked on one another, and silence fell for a moment before murmurs of concern began.
Yahiko Soran (Ninth Division Captain): (Shaking his head, his mocking smile vanished, replaced by absolute seriousness) "It's as if someone was striving to ensure the success of these experiments... or perhaps, to resurrect and collect these creatures. It's not just random mutations; it seems meticulously planned, and has been going on for a long time." Emperor Ryohei: "Yahiko, I understand your point, and that's precisely what worries me. But without further conclusive evidence about who's behind this, we can't take any hasty action that could harm us. We must be cautious."
Rindo Mutsu (Second Division Captain): (Concerned, her expression serious) "And what about those mysterious people who suddenly appeared and took the Exodin monster? Is there a specific goal they're trying to achieve by collecting these legendary beasts? And what is the nature of their power that froze everything?"
Zerf (Representative of the Takahashi family, his voice calm and thoughtful, but with a hint of danger): "During my research into forbidden magic, I came across a strange, demonic technique in one of the ancient history books in our family's possession. It's a highly forbidden magical technique, related to summoning entities from the underworlds, exploiting their powers, or even absorbing them." Emperor Ryohei: (Raises his eyebrows curiously, leans forward) "What do you mean by that, Zeref? Be more clear. Leave nothing ambiguous."
Zerf: "It seems there are some very forbidden and taboo rituals involved."
It is known as the 'Existential Energy Absorption Ritual.' What happened in Antika with the absorption of Exodin, and what happened in Dimas with the absorption of the Hydra, perfectly fits the description of this ritual. Perhaps what happened was a scheme by someone or the organization that appeared—I mean Diablos—who is well-versed in these forbidden magical techniques and aims to gather the power of these mythical beasts for a specific purpose... perhaps to break a barrier, or awaken a greater entity, or even an ancient god." The expressions of concern deepened on the faces of those present, and they sensed an existential threat looming. Togashi (representing the Sato family, speaking seriously): "Your Majesty, in light of these escalating threats and grave information, I propose that we begin forging alliances with all other kingdoms and empires. We need a united front to confront any impending danger; this is not a danger we can face alone." Emperor Ryohei: (Nodding slowly, a faint smile playing on his lips, as if he had been waiting for this moment) "And that is the primary reason we organized the Grand Centennial Competition!" The elite Tankio Academy is renowned among kingdoms and empires, making it the ideal venue for this event. Therefore, members from all nine teams will participate in this competition. Of course, participation is not mandatory; each leader must select the most deserving participants to best represent the kingdom and showcase our strength to the world. Yahiko: (His face lights up with an enthusiastic smile, his eyes sparkling with anticipation) "Exciting! We'll witness many exciting battles! It will be a fantastic opportunity to test our strengths and determine who is truly the strongest of this generation! And perhaps we'll even find some powerful allies."
Preparations for the Competition:
Preparations for the Grand Martial Arts and Magic Tournament were in full swing, amidst an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. Emperor Ryohei Yamamoto had sent official invitations to various prominent figures, as well as to the major academies in other kingdoms and empires, to participate in this prestigious competition, held every three years in each kingdom and empire.
Invitations reached various kingdoms and empires, as well as military leaders, noble families, and other prominent figures. This tournament would determine the best among the young fighters, who would capture everyone's attention and rise to prominence in the world of magic and martial arts, and perhaps even become the starting point for new alliances.
Each captain was required to select the participating members from his squad, with each squad limited to a maximum of three members.
_ Squad Leader Ryota Tsubaki: He selected Kasel-ko, Dan, Taro, and Lisha Sokai.
_Second Division Captain, Rindo Mutsu: Chosen Seido Takashi, Amania Nomizuku, and Vitzel Rusaki
_Third Division Captain, Tomio Fujiwara: Chosen Jack Newell, Bill Sadok, and Isami Watanabe
_Fourth Division Captain, Liria Kawasaki: Chosen Daisuke Honda, Sam Hokamo, and Rena Desi
_Fifth Division Captain, Raiden Mukane: Chosen Hakuba Node, Rayon Nisei, and Yuri Kamda
_Sixth Division Captain, Ken Rokshin: Chosen Taijo Tokabe, Celso Mazari, and Aiden Hosaki
_Seventh Division Captain, Hanamiya Aramaki: Chosen Karin Konsuke, Ona Amzaki, and Fanyori Sotase - 8th Division Commander, Makoto Ito: chose Mari Illustrious Makinami Makimachi, Momiji Oka
_ 9th Division Commander, Yahiko Soran: chose Naofumi Hanasaki, Hotaru Kaneo, Tao Sutami,
after Ivan Muto declined to participate personally.
Preparations for the grand tournament began, and prominent figures and noble families continued to arrive in the Kingdom of Union under top-tier security. Guards and defensive amulets were deployed everywhere, ready to welcome guests from around the world. The presence of two powerful Sacred Heroes from the mighty Troy Empire added to the excitement and anticipation.
Emperor Ryohei (speaking calmly to his aide, a smile playing on his lips, but his eyes betraying a hidden concern): "This tournament seems destined to be the best ever. It's our chance to demonstrate our strength and unity, and perhaps to forge the alliances we need to confront the approaching Shadow... the Shadow that is beginning to emerge clearly."
The battle arenas in the grand squares were prepared, and giant magical screens were erected, along with live broadcasts, allowing everyone in the kingdom and beyond to follow the diverse and thrilling battles that would take place in the Kingdom of Union. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and excitement, but beneath the surface lay a sense of impending danger.
What surprises would this grand gathering hold? Will the competition simply be a gateway to uncovering more secrets and hidden threats? And will the Diablos organization make an appearance at this large gathering?