Novel New Game+

Chapter Forty-One: A Message for Arthur
Lynd couldn’t believe it. He just did the impossible. The battle took a harsher turn. Luckily he watched Seeker's stream on the previous boss-fight and remembered all the patterns and attacks that Seeker did. He also remembered the basic attack patterns which the enemy also did. There were several close calls as Lynd would even shout in fear. There were even times when Lynd would pause the game as he was panicking and would resume the game when he calmed down. Seeker was sleeping soundly in all of these. Various cries of anger and complaints were voiced in the chat room but Meryl was mercilessly berating the haters.

Luckily LordChokeMeSenpai came to Meryl’s rescue and defended Lynd on his game.

Kristine’s constant cheering and commendation for Lynd was enough to push Lynd pass his limits and concentrate to the extreme. Even when Lynd was almost hysterical in his fear and panic, Seeker provided no help. He was in fact sound asleep and was even snoring.

The last boss, who had an anticlimactic name of ‘Dave’, continued to attack with a variety of patterns that would confuse first-time players. The majority of the time of this battle was spent in evading. Lynd new that one hit would kill him and crush Seeker’s career down to the ground. The pressure that Lynd felt was great but he would occasionally feel a strange calming sensation and reacted accordingly ont he most dangerous moments.

Lynd was well-aware of the harshness of facing this 'Dave'. Seeker said that in the future, Dave would be classified as the hardest boss on any game ever made. Its attack patterns were designed to be almost random. This was why the bets made against him rose all the way to 25,000 credits. But Lynd managed to persevere and got Dave's hit points down to half. It was then that the attack patterns became more intese. More viewers placed their bets at seeing the ruthless attacks. They expected Lynd to slip up and die at these attacks. But Lynd persevered. Slolwy he managed to attack Dave and later, the number of his attacks started to increase. Nearly an hour later, the hearts of these gamblers were shredded.

They wouldn't have dared to agree to this gamble against Casual Carlean but since it was this stranger was a nobody. Who would have expected that this Lyndiculous man proved to be almost as skilled as Seeker?

“He could be pro.” Cronus commended as Dave’s hit points became critical.

“Join us Lynd. Do you forever want to be under Seeker’s wings? Best friends are also the best rivals.”

Cronus offered. Everyone was shocked to see this offer.

“No way! Lynd would definitely join us!” LordChokeMeSenpai countered. Of course, she didn’t do it because she wanted Lynd to join but because Arthur motioned that she tried to take Lynd as well.

“We don’t know about that Meryl. But this Lynd is also a monster. Pseudo Instant Calculation and Pseudo Millisecond Reaction. He has both.” Arthur smiled. If honed, Lynd would be another figure that would rule the gaming world.

“The world isn’t as small as it was after all.” Arthur smiled.

As Dave’s hit points fell to critical, Seeker’s fans were cheering while those who placed their bet against Lynd were cursing.

The ending is as what Seeker expected. This was no gamble for him.

News reports of it circulated around the globe. The biggest gaming upset that has ever been streamed live concluded with the winning side being a young teen, Seeker Carlean. His official Gaming Handle was set at this victory. Every gamer knew of the name Casual Carlean.

Precept Gaming was blamed by many of the fans who concluded that Precept Gaming was collaborating with Seeker Carlean and was using him as an instrument to promote their game. Right now, Piercing:Bullet broke several world records. Some of the most known records included game with highest recorded bet, a game with the most purchases within one week, most talked-about game in the social media and several others.

Precept Gaming released a public statement denying to have any involvement with Seeker Carlean. They denied even knowing of the bug that Seeker Carlean revealed during his stream and that they are immediately working on a patch to fix these errors.

When asked for a statement regarding Seeker’s victory, Precept Gaming’s President Hisashi Suzuki applauded Seeker’s skill.

“We at Precept Gaming accept the faults that our game has. If Seeker Carlean was able to take advantage and exploit the bugs that were even unknown to us, then his victory is justified. Seeker’s stream was monitored by our own dedicated servers and we can assure the public that there were no cheats or hacks detected. Much so, on the impressive gameplay by that Lynd Indigo.”

While the world erupted in these news, a certain video call was happening to formalize the deals between Seeker and Covenant of the Strongest.

Seeker was happily tapping his fingers like a drum and had a glee smile on his face.

“Well?” Seeker smiled.

“We are willing to offer you two times my pay.” Arthur spoke blankly.

Seeker continued to drum his fingers on the edge of the table as he sat down. Lynd and Meryl could be seen sitting on the back.

“Not a bad start. I’ll take you up on that offer.” Seeker smiled.

Kristine was surprised.

“I was expecting you to demand more.”

“Oh. I can. I bet Git Godlike would offer me something close to four times Arthur’s. Not to mention since whoever gets me, gets little ol’ Lynd here. But I’m not greedy.” Seeker smiled.

Arthur had a slightly grave look.

“So about the trip…” Kristine began.

“We’ll talk about it after the Nations of the World E-Sport Meet. For now, the priority is joining your team and learning to play together as a team.” Seeker smiled.

“Alright.” Kristine nodded. A spark of excitement was in her eyes. They were sure to bring home the championship this year.

“Don’t worry about our travel expenses. We’ll go there on our own.” Seeker grinned.

“That’s good. If convenient, we would like to meet you on Monday.”

“That’s fine. Just send us the full details of our meeting and we’ll be there by Monday.” Seeker smiled.

“Let’s talk more then. Me and the gang have a party to celebrate.” Seeker waved goodbye.

The video call immediately ended.

Kristine sighed. Luckily Seeker didn’t make things hard for her and Arthur.

“You alright Arthur? I was expecting you to umm... talk.”

Arthur shook his head.

“He was tapping his fingers…”

“I was curious about that Lynd though. He seemed like a nice kid.” Kristine turned and noticed that Arthur’s look was very serious.

“He was tapping Morse code. He was clearly altering the speed of his taps to make it look normal.”

Kristine was shocked at this. Arthur was a master at many things. Morse code was one of them.

“You sure? What if he was just tapping playfully? I mean, remember the time you thought you were hearing some code and it turned out to be a baby banging his rattle?”

“Not this time. I was sure his message was ‘Lennox Danger.”

Kristine was shocked at the message.

Arthur opened the computer and replayed the video call. They recorded it in case any legal discussions would arise amidst the negotiations.

Arthur listened to the first part of the call.

“It’s really it. I’m not being crazy this time.” Arthur frowned.

“He knows your father?

“If he does, he should know the absurdity of what he just said. But the manner in which he said it was too precise. It’s as if everything he did so far, was to get that message to me.” Arthur frowned.

Kristine sat there silently. Her heart was in turmoil.

“Well at least we know now he’s not after your body.” Kristine smiled.

Arthur simply shook his head.

“I’m not sure whether I should be relieved or terrified. If what he just said is true, then the worlds about to change.” Arthur copied the file and deleted the one in the computer.

“Tell our sponsors that Seeker accepted and no legal issues were discussed. The fewer people who knows about this video, the better.” Arthur commanded.

News of the deal emerged online. Casual Carlean had officially joined Covenant of the Strongest.

These news its way to mainstream media as Seeker became highest paid E-sport player of all times without competing in any arena.

While the whole word was shaken by this, Seeker and his team continued with the celebratory party. It was late in the afternoon that they dined at Harker's restaurant and ate to their heart's content. But this wasn’t the celebration.

Upon arriving at the abandoned factory, Alean, Charles and a very depressed Cliff awaited the three.

“Congratulations on getting in the team.” Alean greeted Seeker. She then turned and gave Lynd a sweet smile.

Lynd blushed and nodded.

“Did you get the weapons?” Seeker immediately asked.

Alean sighed.

“It’s inside. But first, I have questions about everything.”

“Of course you have.” Seeker smiled.

“This Unlocking thing. Is that how you did it? Your sudden rise to the top in the gaming world. If it is as Charles say, then if one second felt like five or more, you could easily dominate most sports.”

“Yes. That’s how I do it. Of course, I may have overstrained myself a bit earlier.” Seeker laughed.

“Then why are you Unlocking me and Cliff?” Alean asked seriously.

“Well for you, Lynd likes you. So it’s best to save you. After all, you do have quite a pitiful life growing up under your father. For Cliff, it’s more of a whim I guess? I mean, I need someone to do the dirty work if you and Charles are busy.” Seeker laughed.

“Save us?” Alean asked in confusion.

“These are troubling times Miss. The world will soon change. A war will occur and throw this world in chaos. No doubt you’ve heard of the reports. The secret wars between Africa and Russia.” Seeker smiled.

A grave look surfaced in Alean’s expression.

“So you know even of that huh?”

“Dragon is the least of our problems. Why do you think Dragon’s after your dad’s tech? He’s preparing for it. It’s going to be a world where the unlocking would be your only option in order to survive.” Seeker smiled.

“Now let’s go see that weapon collection.” Seeker strode into the main building to find a collection of weapons hanging on various stands and laid out on a table.

Swords, spears, axes, maces, flails. It was an assortment of weapons. It was as if they entered a gladiators ring.

“Sweet. Looks like your contacts are very helpful. This collection pales from Charles’ set. Be sure to give Charles some. His got a thing for collecting weapons.

Charles gave a light smile. He didn’t dislike that suggestion.

Alean sighed and shook her head.

“Shall we get on with it then? The faster we get over this the better.”

“Pick a spot and pick your weapons. First, I’ll have one-on-one sessions with each of you. After that, we’ll do what we did last night.” Seeker smiled.

“Cliff. You’re up first.” Charles ordered.

Cliff’s face paled at Charles’ order.

Charles gave Cliff an ‘I’m sorry’ look. He dared not make the ladies go first. Nor did he have the courage to order Lynd who is a potential World Champion.

Cliff walked right in the center. His feet where shaking.

“Select a weapon my man.” Seeker grinned.

Cliff went and got a spiked club. He was a baseball player and he was confident of using it as a weapon. He turned to Cliff and had a questioning look.

“Really? That one? I hope you’re ready.” Seeker picked a large halberd. It was so large that people would assume that no normal teen could carry it. But Seeker picked it up and dashed towards Cliff with an unbelievable speed. He lifted the halberd and just the sight of it made Cliff lose his wits. The halberd that Seeker carried was nearly two meters long with an obscenely large axe head.

Seeker hacked his gigantic weapon downwards on Cliff.

Cliff was paralyzed as he saw the falling halberd. Everyone watching unconsciously closed their eyes. They didn’t want to see a halved Cliff. It was a grim reminder for them. Another night of terror was to come.

 

Chapter Forty-Two: Meeting the Covenant

A sudden pressure enveloped Cliff which further increased the weight of his body. However, unlike the previous sensation, this time, Cliff could now somehow control his body. Time slowed down as he stared at the terrifying axe head. Cliff stared at it and turned to look at his puny spiked club. It was like an ant compared to the two-meter-long halberd with a large sharp edge. The familiar sensation of fear enveloped him but this time, Cliff knew, somehow he could move.

He could see it more clearly. In fact, somehow he thought he could see the immediate environment around him. He could see his body standing and Seeker right in front of him who was about to attack him. He has had similar sensations and experiences on the previous sessions, but this time, Cliff felt that he could move.

Cliff forced his feet up and finally managed to jerk it awake. He took a sidestep and the sharp axe head crashed down on his previous location. The amount of force that Cliff exerted somehow catapulted him as if he exerted all his strength to jump. Cliff crashed on the ground to the side. Sweat was dripping all over Cliff’s body. From the perspective of others, Cliff made a ridiculously fast dodge on the last second of the hit.

Everyone stood amazed at the sight.

Cliff clutched his foot as he could feel he somehow sprained his muscles. However, he realized something and a happy smile surface.

“I did it! I saw it! I could see it!” Cliff shouted excitedly.

“Not bad. Looks like this training is effective after all.” Seeker smiled.

Cliff laid back down in relief. He finally managed to do the impossible.

“Let’s continue.” Seeker said as he dashed towards Cliff with the axe head held up in the sky.

“WAIT!” Cliff wailed in fright as he saw Seeker not giving him any moment to breathe.

The session continued for ten more minutes.

Cliff was trembling in fear as he lay flat on the back. His sweat spilled forth from his clothes and made the immediate dry pavement beneath him covered in his sweat.

“Next.” Seeker ordered.

No one took the initiative to step forward.

“Fine. I’ll choose.” Seeker immediately dashed on towards Charles who also ran towards the nearest weapon shack.

The round robin of repulsion continued until everyone had their session with Seeker. Like Cliff, everyone managed to adapt to the situation and make basic evasive maneuvers. However, an unexpected surprise was seen when it was Lynd’s and Meryl’s turn.

Alean and Cliff stared in shock at how the two teens managed to easily adapt despite the increasing harshness of Seeker’s training regime.

Meryl managed to continue evading Seeker’s attack for a full three minutes. It was only when Seeker attacked her with harsher techniques did she finally manage to succumbed to the fear. Lynd’s battle was even better. Unlike everyone else, he managed to defend against Seeker’s attack and even had the opportunity to attack. However, he also received the most beatings from Seeker as a result to this.

Charles was impressed. Future World Champions do have such terrifying potential.

“Monsters.” Charles shook his head as he voiced out unintentionally.

Alean who heard Charles sigh gave the two a meaningful stare.

“So that’s why Seeker keeps them.” She mumbled to herself and decided to look at these two in a different light.

Seeker and Lynd continued on with Lynd escaping and doing an occasional attack. Suddenly Seeker dove in and abandoned his weapon. His speed increased to a point that although he could see Seeker’s approach, he couldn’t do anything. Seeker ducked down and gave Lynd a strong punch at the stomach and as Lynd bent over on Seeker’s shoulders, Seeker immediately did ta shoulder toss. Lynd crashed on Charles and Alean.

“Now it’s time for the group session.” Seeker announced. He walked towards the side and dropped the halberd. He then eyed a magnificent silver broadsword. Seeker smiled before picking it up. He then turned to his friends and started marching towards the group who was still recovering from Lynd’s crash. The sudden change of events gave the group quite a panic as they ran to grab whatever weapons they could manage.

A scene that can only be explained as a massacre occurred. Only in this massacre, no one was dying. They were just being beaten up. Seeker who carried a blade that bigger taller than the wielder was a very intimidating scene for the group.

The night continued with a set of round robin followed by a group session. There were relatively no other improvements other than Lynd and Meryl being able to keep up on the relentless attacks of Seeker.

While the night of terrors passed by for the group, the world was celebrating the rise of yet another world famous figure that was birthed in the humble islands of the Phil-Pangea nation.

Seeker’s stream continued to circulate around the world as media groups covered and talked about this phenomenon. It created such a huge impact on the world’s culture that strange trends started. Experts on various fields of sports, arts and other odd jobs would stream themselves getting a massage while instructing a random Joe to perform the very skills that they were good at. The phenomenon was known as "Carleaning."

The term Lyndiculous found its way to the Internet and became a popular meme. Lyndiculous was used to describe a miraculous event or performance from the most unexpected person. Lynd’s image started to circulate around the globe as well. A random stranger who defeated the last boss with severe disadvantages such as weak weapons, low-leveled character, and no prior practice.

It was Monday and a group of four walked out of the Arrivals bay in the airport. There were several guards who walked in front of them to prevent others from running towards them. Most of the people would scream the name of the adult of the group.

“Charles! Marry me!” Several berserker cries from crazed fan-girls were made. Others spotted the team right behind them. And recognized them immediately. They have been circulating all over the news and net. Some of the gamers among the crowd ran immediately and wanted to get a picture of the most famous and highly paid pro-gamer. The Casual Legend, Seeker Carlean had arrived on Malay-Pangean soil.

A group of well-dressed professionals awaited their arrival and began to wave. They were the escort service hired to get the group.

At the very front of the group stood a tall, blonde woman. She was shocked to see Charles Lindmit together with Seeker.

“Dr. Lindmitt! What a nice surprise! I didn’t know you’d be going together with Seeker!” A tall woman with blonde hair and a very stylish sense of fashion walked forward to shake Charles’ hand.

“It a last minute decision. So I didn’t bother to announce it.” Charles replied with humility.

“Please don’t worry. We’ll be sure to accommodate you with the finest service. We insist! It would be our pleasure to serve a Pangean hero.” The woman smiled.

“Then I guess I’d have to trouble you.” Charles smiled.

“And of course, the Legend himself. It’s a pleasure to meet you Mr. Carlean, Mr. Indigo and Ms. Mikado.” The woman greeted.

“The pleasure is ours.” Seeker stepped forward and shook the hand of the woman.

“I am Halley Vagrant. The team manager of the Covenant of the Strongest. It’s a pleasure to have you on board.”

“Nice name. I bet people call you the Wandering Comet.” Seeker chuckled.

“Oh not at all.” The woman laughed.

“I’ve had other names, but that probably is the best one yet.” She smiled.

“You aren’t related to Stanley Vagrant of the WarFreakz are you?” Seeker asked.

“Actually, I am. He’s my nephew.” She smiled.

“Huh. Small world.” Seeker smiled as he entered the car.

The trip took them around the many famous sites around the Malay-Pangean area. Lynd and Meryl stared excited as they gazed on the many sites. It was there first time visiting a neighboring country.

Seeker had a nonchalant attitude but was secretly impressed at the beauty of this country. It looked beautiful considering it wasn’t a wasteland of fallen tanks as he remembered in his memories. The tall buildings would be halved buildings and surroundings would be littered corpses or body parts.

“Are you a fan of the WarFreakz? With your status I’m sure you can join them. They would probably be happy to have an Arthur-level player join them.” Halley smiled.

“Nah. I don’t want to be too busy. I’m doing all these for the fun of it after all. But I do want to meet him. The famed General himself.” Seeker smiled.

“Casual as ever I see.” Halley laughed.



The group eventually arrived at a very tall rotating building with a very eccentric design.

“The Gorde Tower. The first Malay-Pangean building to adopt a Supra-Modern design. Impressive.” Seeker smiled as he saw the unique tower.

“Our office is at the 35th floor. Arthur and his group should be waiting. More than the initial meeting with you, several of them wants to have a one-on-one battle with you.”

“I am as well. I am hoping that my friends here can humor them and display their own talent in the game.”

"Of course! Mr. Indigo made quite an impact!" Halley smiled.

The group immediately arrived at the 35th floor and the elevators where opened.

“Nutterballs!” Lynd cried out in excitement.

The gaming area where the Covenant would practice, study and basically live was an impressive room. It had several bathrooms, state-of-the-art computers, a very high-tech ambience in the room. The room was even better than most 5-star hotel rooms.

As the doors towards the office was opened, they were greeted with a group of seven teens. Arthur and Kristine stood at the middle. Surrounding them was the remaining members of the covenant.

The most good-looking youth stood at the far right. He was Danny. The most famous member of the Covenant and the only one who used his real name as his game-handle. Next to him stood a plain-looking man. He was the most silent member of the Covenant, the Range Master, Asterisxx. The official tank of the team stood next to him, a petite woman with a very heavy amount of make-up. She was the famed tiny warrior, MaliciousUnicorn. The last member of their group was an odd looking youth with buckteeth. His face was as odd as his name. Strawberry_Sit-ups.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, the newest addition to our team. Seeker ‘the Casual’ Carlean.” Arthur announced blankly.

“Wait! Is that Charles Lindmit?” Kristine exclaimed.

The members of the Covenant immediately rushed towards Charles excitedly. The petite woman even went to hug Charles intimately as there was unexplainable fanaticism on her eyes.

“Haha. Calm down. I’ll be hanging around here for a long time. Miss Halley, is it possible for me to request for a room somewhere near this floor? I do need to keep an eye out for Seeker.” Charles was politely trying to get the crazed woman off her sides.

“No need. Doctor Lindmitt can stay with me.” The petite girl gleefully announced.

“Dara. Please calm down.” Kristine frowned.

“No way. You’re just saying that because you want to be together with Doctor Charles.”

“Oh? Not at all. If anything, I’d rather have Seeker in my room.” Kristine gave a soft giggle.

Lynd was blushing to the extreme.

“You’re interested in him?” MaliciuosUnicorn laughed.

Seeker gave a confused look.

“Let me tell you something newbie. I made my way up this ladder giving everything I have. I conquered pros after pros until I reached this place. And now, someone like you could just pop out of nowhere and become a Covenant?”

“I understand. You reached these heights through your skill. So you look down on me for my method of getting here. Well, don't worry. Like you, it is also because of my skills. In fact, its skills that far surpass yours.” Seeker smiled.

"What are you saying newbie?" Dara glared.

“How about a bet? You, and two other members except Arthur, versus me my friends.” Seekers trademark devilish grin appeared once more.

 

Chapter Forty-Three: A Clash with the Covenant
MaliciousUnicorn gave a very angry frown.

“Seeker…” Meryl quietly tugged Seeker’s shirt.

“Umm… I think we all got off at the wrong foot.” Kristine began.

“No. It’s clear that some of your members don’t approve of how we got to where we are.” Seeker interrupted.

“Especially Ms. MaliciousUnicorn. I know the eccentric path I took. And it’s understandable that you won’t respect me because of this. Then allow us to prove you wrong. You pick any members of the Covenant excluding Arthur and we can have a three on three match.” Seeker smiled.

“I’m in!” Danny laughingly announced.

Asterisxx raised his hand up high as well.

“Alright. Then its settled a three on three match.” Dara didn’t even look back as she stormed off to the game room.

“Arthur…” Kristine whispered.

“Leave it. This is good for the team. It’s also a chance to see how good Seeker and his two friends are.”

Meryl and Lynd was shocked. While everybody was walking in towards their respective rooms, the two stood where they are petrified. They were going to fight the Covenant of the Strongest?

“Seeker.” Charles whispered.

“Yeah?”

“Is this a good idea? Can you win if you fight against the three of them??”

“No. I can’t. I’m fighting actual players here, not sequenced attacks. Not to mention you did tell me to cut down on my Unlocking at around 15%.”

“Exactly. You already fainted after the last fight. You cannot exceed 15%!”

“I won’t. Don’t worry.”

“Then why are you challenging them?”

“Because I’m certain we will win.”

“You just said you can’t handle them!”

“I just said that we will win.” Seeker smirked.

“Do me a favor and drag those two in the room.” Seeker pointed to Lynd and Meryl.

Charles sighed and went back to give the two paralyzed teens a little push.

“So what do we bet?” Seeker asked as he entered the lounge room. There were two separate gaming room. No doubt used by the Covenant for a practice match.

“Credits of course. How about 50,000 credits?” Dara dared.

“Nah. A little too boring if you ask me. How about this, if we win I get your spot at the 5-on-5 Championship matchup.” Seeker smirked.

Dara glared angrily.

“That way we know the Covenant is sending their best for the 5-on-5 Championship matchup.” Seeker laughed.

“What gives you the right to challenge me with that? Not even your sad credits can make up for that position.” Dara scoffed.

Seeker pondered for a bit. Then a devious smile emerged.

“How about this. I bet 30,000 Credits and if you win, Charles will be your boyfriend for a month. He’ll take you on as many dates as you want in that time period and is required to earnestly respond to you.” Seeker smiled.

“What?!” Charles asked in shock.

“What?!” Halley shouted in anger.

“What?!” Danny and Kristine exclaimed in surprise.

“What?!” Dara cried in delight.

“What?” Seeker asked in confusion.

“Are you serious?!” Dara asked immediately. Clearly the unreasonable gamble awakened a beast hiding within her petite frame.

“Of course not! Charles is a respected Doctor! He doesn’t have time to spend with you little kids!” Halley announced in anger.

“Charles, Agree to this.” Seeker commanded.

“Alright.” Charles sighed.

“What?!” Even Arthur was surprised at Charles sudden surrender. Everyone stared with mouth agape at how Seeker could control Charles.

“Zeek. This isn’t a good idea.” Meryl pleaded.

“Since were putting relationships on the line, Danny, why not go out with Meryl if we win?” Seeker smiled.

“Seeing as how Doctor Lindmitt is agreeing, how can I disagree?” Danny gave a carefree laugh.

“Let’s do it.” Meryl announced as she positioned herself on the seat. The colors of her eyes started to have a subtle change in color. Seeker smiled as he noticed the very almost unapparent change. It was no secret to Lynd and Seeker that Meryl had a poster of Danny on her bedroom.

Lynd gasped at Meryl’s sudden change of character. He was alone. There were tears in his eyes and he looked pleadingly to Seeker.

“I’ll have Miss Alean take you out on a date if we win, Lynd. I think I can even make her kiss you on the cheeks.” Seeker smiled.

Lynd nodded with determination. There were tears of joy as he hoped for the best in this battle. His Unlocking immediately soared to Unbecoming Advent.

Everyone else stood in great surprise at the sudden turned of events.

Charles was chuckling at the sight of the two friends. Then his chuckled turned to a gulp of fear as he noticed an eerie look from his sides.

Dara looked at Charles like she was eyeing a cake coated and overflowing with chocolates and all the sweetness of life.

“Let’s go guys!” Dara announced as she excitedly paced towards the first gaming room.

“Aren’t you worried? I must warn you Dr. Lindmitt, that Dara is not kidding. She’s a huge fan of yours and I’m afraid this could complicate your reputation! You shouldn’t have agreed to this!” Halley spoke to Charles with eyes full of worry.

“Don’t worry. Seeker seems confident that his team would win. I do have a feeling that his two friends would give you a nice surprise.” Charles smiled.

“Look. Even if Seeker could beat the game at record speed, any one of the Covenant could do just about the same. They are worlds apart from these students. I’ve seen Seeker’s stream and when Lynd played. I know he’s good but only that. They are both nowhere near a pro! It’s different when you fight the A.I and fight against players!” Halley continued to warn.

“Let’s just look at how this battle progresses.” Charles smirked.

“Lynd, use a tank build of Blade. Meryl, use whoever you feel using.” Seeker ordered.

“Oh. So Meryl knows how to play?” Charles asked curiously.

“You haven’t seen her play?” Halley asked in surprise.

“Yes. I assumed only Lynd and Seeker knew how to play.”

The worry on Halley’s face grew more.

“Doctor Charles. You need to talk to Seeker to stop this bet. This is crazy! You’re putting too much at stake here.”

“Seeker knows what his doing.” Charles sighed.

The Piercing series was so famous as an RPG that when it released a multiplayer online battle arena version, it immediately became the top e-sport that everyone followed.

The standard competitive game style was the 5-on-5 death match with the goal of destroying the enemies main supply building. However, its popularity rose as the amazing game features a very complex set of controls and diverse freedom of control. Due to this, Precept Gaming even released a specialized controller having 12 buttons, a d-pad and two analogue sticks. This very complex set of commands allowed players to control their characters precisely.

All characters of the Piercing series had specialized weapons, its own playing style. Adding from that was how players can assign the skills of their selected character to create a build. This ensured that no single character was similar. Even if two players used one character, its general playing style may be vastly different as players could tweak the skills of the character itself.

Lynd selected a character wielding a large broadsword. Meryl selected a female character wielding a pair of Sai which emitted electrical sparks. Seeker used the leading character of Piercing:Edge who carried two large handguns which could turn into a blade.

The fight began.

“Let’s kill the two first and focus and Seeker later!” Dara announced.

Their characters dashed towards the main base of Seeker’s team. And very soon the avatars of the Seeker’s team were on sight.

“Let’s show these twats what it’s like to mess with pros!” Dara screamed.

The battle didn’t take long. It was a one sided massacre. Barely 10 minutes since the game started, Seeker’s team had already won.

Lynd was unhittable. Not even the fast hands of Asterrisxx worked against Lynd as the harassment of Seeker’s handguns kept him from synching with Danny and Dara. Meryl played her usual playstyle which Seeker and Lynd were very comfortable with. Meryl kept ambushing and continued with her sneak attack as the three were already busy with Lynd and Seeker’s combo.

The clashes and battles eventually moved towards the base of Dara’s team and eventually, the main supply line was destroyed.

Halley was tongue-tied in her suprise. He never expected her team to lose so badly against Seeker.

Seeker stood up from his feet and started flexing.

“That was easy. Let’s go and have lunch somewhere.” Seeker smiled.

Arthur and Kristine was in their room the entire game. Kristine had a bewildered look on her face while Arthur looked as if he expected this result.

“Amazing! The three of you are so good!” Kristine exclaimed.

“Indeed. I knew Lynd had pseudo Millisecond Reaction, but now I’ve met another one.” Arthur stared at Meryl.

“Looks like bringing Seeker into this team is a good thing. We paid for the price of three.” Arthur spoke candidly.

“I trust, that you will put me on the Champions match.” Seeker smiled as he spoke to Arthur.

“We will need to sort some things out first. I request a private meeting.” Arthur announced.

“I believe that my two friends and the good doctor should join.”

Arthur’s eyebrow raised. But consented.

“Alright. Kristine, please join us as well. Would you be so kind as to keep everyone out of the room for now Miss Halley?” Arthur asked blankly.

Halley nodded and went out of the room. Arthur closed it and locked it

“This place is sound proof. We can talk openly.” Arthur immediately spoke with a serious tone.

“Who are you and what exactly is it that you want?”

“Down to business I see. Just like my old pal little Artie.” Seeker laughed.

“I’m from the future Artie. And I bring tidings of terror. Right now, with the way you are, you will die. You need to run back home and train with your old man if you want a shot at surviving.” Seeker spoke plainly.

Arthur frowned.

“This is a waste of time.” Arthur turned around and was about to leave the room.

“You haven’t found your sister yet, have you? I know where she is.” Seeker smiled.

Arthur froze. Suddenly, Arthur immediately dashed towards Seeker. He punched out his hand but his fingers we stiff and straight as if his very arm was a blade and wanted to pierce Seeker with it.

“Relax.” Seeker spoke. A massive pressure enveloped the room.

Kristine dropped to the floor and was gasping for breath.

Arthur managed to keep his footing though his movements drastically fell down. Seeker casually evaded the thrust and delivered a powerful punch on Arthur’s chest.

Arthur was sent flying back but managed to remain standing and immediately adapted a fighting pose.

“Disgusting monster. I see what you mean, Zeek.” Charles spoke jealously. His legs where shaking but he managed to withstand the pressure.

“Wow. He managed to stand after all that.” Meryl admired.

The fear that gripped Arthur’s heart clenched his throat. But despite the danger, Arthur did his best to turn his head around and check on Kristine.

“Will you behave now? If you do, I’ll stop this and Kristine will feel better.” Seeker smiled.

Arthur did his best to open his mouth. But to no avail. After a bit of struggling Arthur then nodded his head.

Immediately the pressure disappeared.

Kristine and Arthur was now gasping for breath. Kristine couldn’t stand up. She remained on the floor shivering. Arthur on the other hand kept breathing until he stabilized his condition.

Arthur stood and glared angrily at Seeker.

“Nutterballs. Ranked Heroes are awesome. He’s got to be on the Advent rank now!” Lynd admired.

“No. He’s not yet on the Advent rank.” Seeker smiled.

“How? I had to get use to your pressure and this is Arthur’s first time! How did he manage to remain standing at the full force of your pressure?” Charles spoke angrily.

“You haven’t met his father.” Seeker laughed.

“Anyways Charles, the reason I asked you to join, is precisely because of Arthur. One of three eccentrics of the unlocking. Those who broke through by studying and reading books. One of three people allowed to use a Nuke Emitter. Ranked Hero Arthur Humphrey. The Atomic Thresher.

 

Chapter Forty-Four: He Who treads the Threshing Floor
Arthur stood on the sandy beach as he gazed at the mountain range. Three Gargantuants could be seen hovering over the mountain range. The array of ships that floated on the sky as well as the enemy soldiers that rode huge mechs by the cliffs of the mountains seemed to blot out the light of the setting sun.

“You sure about this?” Seeker solemnly spoke.

“Yes. Thank you for not telling her.” Arthur replied with a smile.

“I’m not used to seeing you smile.”

“This will be the last time. I assure you.” Arthur continued smiling.

Seeker gave a sad glance at Arthur.

“You know, I never liked you.”

“The pleasure is mine Seeker. It’s funny how you get to love someone because you need them.”

The two silently stared at the army that could be their doom.

“There’s got to be another way. Your father said that-”

“My father knows that there is no time. If this army manages to break through then not even three World Champions can pull back the wave without getting killed. It’s still too early. We can’t afford to lose all our Queens.”

“So we sacrifice one Bishop?” Seeker asked slowly.

“Yes. You and I both know that we stand at the bottom among the Heroes. And of the two of us, only I can pull of this task.” Arthur smiled once more.

“At the bottom? Come on. At least you rank second to the bottom.” Seeker laughed.

“Well don’t beat yourself up. I always thought you didn’t belong among the Heroes. But seeing you that day, as you dove fearlessly into the fray risking your own life proved that you were better than me. If it was me, I wouldn’t have done it.”

“Really?” Seeker asked in confusion.

“Yes. You see on your debut as the Death Tide, there were too many factors in that little dive of yours. I’ve watched the video countless times.”

“Countless? Was the math that hard?”

“It wasn’t. Over ninety percent chance that you’d die. It was a stupid move.”

“I appreciate your calculations.” Seeker laughed sarcastically.

“And that’s why I wouldn’t have done it. It’s also the reason why I have confidence in taking this dive. It’s a twenty percent success rate by the way.”

Seeker’s eyes went wide open.

“Only twenty percent? Then why are you doing this anyway?”

“The same reason why you did what you did. You were confident. You were determined. You had to win." Arthur smiled as he recalled Seeker's attack.

"Trust me Zeek. I will succeed.” A bright smile was displayed on Arthur's face as he said that.

Seeker sighed. Tears started to roll down his eyes.

“What will your precious team think? Their Commander, the Death Tide shedding tears.” Arthur mocked.

Seeker took a deep breath. He calmed down and controlled his emotions.

“You know; you never did tell me why you used a mace as your weapon.” Seeker smiled.

“The mace seemed to be the most convenient. You see, I don’t want to use a sword or any blade. It cuts. I can’t determine the theoretical hit point of an enemy. If I cut of an arm or slice of a part, the calculations I need to make are frustrating.” Arthur laughed.

“What do you mean?”

“It’s another one of my math habbits. You see if I cut off a part or a limb, I have to change the theoretical 100% of the enemy.”

“Because it’s no longer attached to the enemy you have to reevaluate the theoretical 100%?”

“Yes. Hahaha.” Arthur laughed with a carefree expression. While Seeker had a bewildered look.

“Don’t tell anyone. You see, unlike the sword that cuts off the parts, the mace damages the enemy I can feel its vibrations and it can tell me how much damage I inflicted. Cutting of a limb or a part causes a lot of potentially unbalanced calculations. What if the users dominant arm was the other arm? How does he adjust to the circumstance? In the end, it’s easier for me to deduct the theoretical hit points rather than recalculate the theoretical 100%.”

“But that’s- I mean-you still damaged-” Seeker who could easily memorize and mentally read a 200-word essay within 5 seconds was fumbling in his words.

“Leave it Zeek!” Arthur laughed once more.

“It’s just a part of my obsessive compulsive behavior. When I used the sword it was so frustrating and annoying that I almost got hit. I switched to a mace and life was easy.”

Seeker was shaking his head out of disbelief. So this was why the most calculative Hero used the most inefficient of weapons.

“Sir.” A soldier suddenly arrived.

“They are ready.”

Seeker and Arthur’s expression returned to a solemn one.

“Get in to position Commander. The war will begin on my first attack. Stick to the plan.” Arthur ordered as he walked out.

Seeker stared at the departing figure.

“Tell her I’m sorry.” Arthur spoke calmly.

“Are you?” Seeker asked.

“Not really. The tears on her eyes wouldn’t be enough to sway me. As long as she can smile long after we win, it would all be worth it.” Arthur smiled. The four cylinders attached on his back started to glow.

The next second he was gone.

Arthur sped as low as he could go and approached the guarding forces. But before they could even react at the sudden bleep that appeared on their radar, the attack had already begun.

A mini- nuclear blast exploded on the East side of the mountain. The nuclear explosion itself looked contained. As if an invisible barrier prevented it from spreading out. The shockwaves of the blast however, was as strong as ever.

A battle immediately began. The enemy soldiers started moving and the Three Gargantuants that had long look to be on hibernation started to move towards the army. Several ports were opened and more ships started swarming out of the Gargantuant.

Huge electric sparks could be seen arcing all over the ship. Then suddenly the arc of lightning danced through the sky zipping through the swarm of flying allies and thundered on the UN Armies base.

“LIGHT SPEED ATTACKS!” A soldier warned as the three Gargantuants started sending out rains of thunder. It was blindingly fast. Even Inhumans would die without being able to make attempts of evading.

The swarm of enemies that descended on the U.N Armies arrived near the base and a chaotic battle began. People were dying left and right and the U.N Armies slowly dwindled in numbers.

Every now and the, a light-speed attack would shoot through the gaps of the battlefield. Though the African forces were as many as a locust swarm, it still managed to send attacks and killed UN soldiers. It was a massacre. The UN Armies took a lot of hits and its army was dwindling by the second.

Several attacks were executed to damage the Gargantuants but it was no avail.

Three Gargantuants, when positioned in the right way could create a gravity field. With this, light speed auto attacks could be made as it uses gravity to map the area and ascertain possibilities of attacking without causing friendly fire. Aside from this, anything within this zone would immediately be automatically shot if no friendly fire would be incurred. Three Gargantuants with light speed attacks was something that even a World Champion would not recklessly dive into.

The gravity field slowly reached the positions of the UN army and a light show began. The attacks would rain down whenever a gap was made. Every time there was a clear gap between the Gargantuant and the UN forces, a light-speed attack was made. This left zero casualties in the enemy forces while eliminating soldiers from the UN forces.

A soldier was using his Force Boosters to retreat when a light-speed attack struck the location in front of him, killing his ally. A huge Titan immediately reached down to cleave the soldier in half. But before the sharp strike reached the soldier was pulled to safety.

“Commander!” The soldier cried in relief as he was saved from the clutches of the huge Titan.

Seeker took him by the hand and was zooming to the north side of the battle.

“We can’t hold on!”

“Relax. Trust in your General. He’s just about to set the stage.” Seeker frowned.

Immediately after Seeker finished his sentence, several nuclear blast exploded on various areas of the battlefield. The sudden blast killed enemies and left several others disoriented by the shockwave. As the ring of explosions began, the enemy troops were thrown in disarray. Chaos ensued as the ships and mechs shuffled to regain their formation. Amidst this chaos was an arising order.

This order was achieved through the application of various mathematical variables. It took into account the possible behaviors, reactions, and the very psychology of the enemy. In the midst of the swarm of enemies, a path was made leading to the three Gargantuants.

The ‘path’ which was about 2 miles long had a lot of enemy ships and mechs. In fact, it didn’t look like a path. But for Arthur it was.

The path would exist barely a second long. If there were any more enemies in this path, Arthur would be unable to thread this path. But despite the long length and the short time that this path would remain open, it was enough. Especially since Arthur has Selective Unlocking.

Unlike all Ranked Heroes who used the Four Force Accelerator, Arthur used the gear that were granted only to World Champions. The Four Stellar Threads. Through Arthur’s amazing calculation skills, he could navigate through the skies with speeds that far surpass what the Four Force Accelerator.

Arthur looked at the path before him and smiled. Large ships and huge titans stood between him and his destination. It looked impossible, but in Arthur’s eyes, he never felt so sure of his math.

“Time to start threshing on the Threshing Floor.” It was now time for Arthur to attack.



A reading from the Book of Isaiah, Chapter 41, verse 15.

“Behold, I will make thee a new sharp threshing instrument having teeth: thou shalt thresh the mountains, and beat them small, and shalt make the hills as chaff.”



ZOOOOMMM!!

A sonic boom blasted through the path. Mechs of metal and ships of steel stood in front of him, but carved metals and splintered steel lay before him.

The Threshing Floor. This was Arthur’s most powerful attack. With speeds that only a World Champion could control, Arthur pierced through the swarm of enemies grinding anything along its path to dust.

The moment Arthur pierced through the last enemy ship, light-speed attacks pierced through his torso. A large hole could be seen. Without a doubt, Arthur would die.

Time seemed to stop for Arthur. He looked in disdain towards the three Gargantuants.

“Hmp! Idiots. We already won.” Arthur clutched the Nuke Emitter on his hand and it self-destructed.

A power nuclear explosion shook the three Gargantuants. The explosion was so big that it seemed to cover the entire mountain range. The explosion caused the three ships to move away from each other. Sadly, its hard armor plating resisted the blast and did not critically damage the ship. But what Arthur did was enough.

The World Champions made their move when the Threshing Floor started and even before the flames of the nuclear blast could recede, the World Champions pierced through and boarded their assigned Gargantuan.

The rage of the Champions could not be easily quenched during that battle. For in the entire history of the war, there was only one recorded instance that several World Champions manage to win a battle by deliberately sacrificing a Ranked Hero.

Seeker’s eyes grew red as he saw the powerful blast. It was beautiful. Arthur’s artistic side was clearly displayed as the explosion formed what looked like a gold crown in the sky. No doubt, a work of Arthur’s calculations. The UN Armies morale soared.

“There it is men! The last gift of your General! The Stephanos! The Victor’s Crown! We have won! Let us claim it!” Seeker roared.

He clutched his sword and flew towards the enemies with a berserker expression and the army followed.

Mission Hundred Mountain Hunt Successful.

The UN Armies of Asia successfully eliminated a third of the African forces. Victory attributed to the brave sacrifice of Ranked Hero, General Arthur Humphrey.

 

Chapter Forty-Five: The First Prophet

Charles sat down and listened as Seeker gave the summary of who he was, what he saw, as well as the future of Arthur. Seeker, who remembered the painful memories of how Arthur died contained his emotions. Seeker made no mention of that battle which he had just unconsciously remembered.

“What exactly is Selective Unlocking?” Charles finally interrupted at the conclusion of Seeker’s tale.

“It’s a state wherein the unlock individual managed to increase their Unlocking’s in certain specific areas.” Seeker explained.

Arthur and Kristine were now seated on the couch with hot teas served for them to calm down.

Arthur had a peculiar look on his face.

“Let’s take Arthur’s case as an example. Right now, by measuring the capacity of his brain, it definitely can go beyond the normal function, he isn’t Unlocked at all. He probably has about 12 percent of his unlocking complete and wouldn’t even qualify as an Unbecoming Advent.” Seeker sat down in front of Arthur.

“But this increase in 2 percent is specifically locked in certain areas. I'd say overall Mental fortitude. This means he cannot accomplish the usual things an Unlocked mind can. No improvement in sight, hearing, and all the other benefits that generally follow once you Unlock the limits of your brain.”

“What do you mean by mental fortitude?” Meryl asked as she served the remaining teas.

“Thinking of course. He can analyze data faster than normal people. That is why he has Instant Calculation. I can calculate things because of how my perception is faster than a normal person’s perception. Because of that, I have enough time to make the necessary calculation. For Arthur, it’s different. He can calculate things almost instantly.”

Arthur was silent. He continued to ponder Seeker’s words.

Kristine still had a very apprehensive look towards Seeker. She could still recall the deep fear that gripped her heart.

“Impressive.” Charles commended.

“And you’re saying that he managed to reach this far just by studying?”

“Yes. I’m assuming that Lennox managed to do the same. I’m pretty certain Lennox’s unlocking should probably be somewhere in between Unbecoming Proficient to Inhuman Proficient. Seeing as Arthur’s familiar with the pressure and stress I can release means he has been thoroughly baptized in that.”

Arthur’s eyebrow raised.

“You mean what my old man can do, is something these Unlocked can do?”

“No. It’s much more complicated than that. There will be only a few individuals who could do what you’re your father can do.” Seeker shook his head.

“I thought everyone could do that.” Charles reacted.

“If that were true, then we would have had more chances in fighting the war. Some would only manage to release this scent when they reached Ranked Hero.”

“So there are others who are far worse than my dad?” Arthur asked again.

“Not really. At most, they would probably be on par with your dad.”

“Then why did you say ‘Danger?’”

“To get your attention of course. Although there are some who can kill Lennox, myself included, it would probably a close fight or a pyrrhic victory. No one wants that. My intentions for saying that was to warn you. You'd probably ignore it if my message to you was simply 'danger.' So I had to say something as strange as that to make you want to meet me and allow a private conversation.”

“So the reason why you wanted to meet with me isn’t because of my father, but just to give me this message?”

“Yes. You are a rare case after all. If you do manage to break through to higher ranks, it would hasten the research of Charles. If we could improve the chances of directly creating an Inhuman without sacrificing hundreds. The procedure for creating Unlocked individuals have a high mortality rate after all. But if Charles can improve on it, then the chances of our winning the war may improve.” Seeker smiled.

“Exactly how can his Unlocking help me?” Charles asked immediately. His eyes sparkled with rich desire.

BEEP!

Seeker took a look at his phone.

“Oh. Just in time. Lynd, Meryl please ask Miss Halley to go down with you. Alean has just arrived. Go pick her up.” Seeker smiled.

Lynd hastily walked out the door while Meryl was laughing at Lynd’s sudden disinterest at the current unveiling news.

“Poor Kristine. And she seemed quite interested in you Lynd. Too bad you already have Miss Alean.” Meryl teased on her way out.

The door closed once again and Seeker’s smile faded into a serious one.

“Alright. Now that those two are out, I’ll be explaining this crucial principle to you Charles and why Arthur is important.”

Charles was surprised at the sudden seriousness of Seeker’s discussion.

“Are you familiar with the concept of Intuitive versus Sensing?” Seeker asked.

“Yes. The theory which states the two categories on how people perceives information.” Charles nodded.

“Good. You see, we have identified that there are three types of individuals who can reach World Champion. That stage is so hard, that it was said to be scientifically impossible to do so. Even among those who reached Ranked Hero, there were only a few who showed potential to actually be a World Champion.”

“Like Lynd." Charles murmured in disgust.

Arthur’s eyebrows were raised.

“Interesting.” Arthur voiced out. Seeker ignored Arthur’s sudden interest.

“Generally, most of those who have broken through to World Champion belonged the Sensing category. But not to say that all who belong in that group had a chance to reach it, rather, among those who managed to reach Ranked Hero, those with the potential to break through all were sensing types.”

“The Believers.” Charles realized.

“Yes. The Unlocking is a mysterious phenomenon. The problem with intuitive types is that they have to ‘think’ their way of understanding how to push the unlocking. But you can’t crunch numbers and achieve the Unlocking. How do you command your cells to alter your very brain? You can’t do that nor can that be taught. So only those with extreme sensing, like those two happy-go-lucky friends of mine can alter their brain naturally. Even I, at the peak of Ranked Hero, couldn’t do that.”

“Because you need to understand ‘how’ that happens...” Arthur added.

“Exactly. Though this seems like a little problem, it’s actually a huge one. Unless one has this ‘faith,’ the brain won’t ever change on its own. Thus many of those Unlocked would face a wall when they reach the higher ranks of Inhuman. And those who manage to conquer it are faced the incredible impossibilities of breaking through Ranked Hero.”

“Is this why Meryl managed to awaken her Unhindered Sight?” Charles asked.

“Yes. Everyone who reached the World Champion stage had their own ‘path’ of growth. Each Champion had things that no other Champion could do. And it was because of this that we believe only those who have those specific 'path' can reach World Champion."

“You aren’t seriously listening to this Arthur?” Kristine finally interrupted. She kept quiet during the strange talks that they had but when Arthur started joining in, she felt as if she had to voice out her thoughts.

“Yes, I am. It makes perfect sense. I’m skeptical about Seeker’s prophecies of the future, just as everyone should. But I do believe the Unlocking. It thoroughly explains the state of my father.” Arthur stood up and signaled Kristine to be quiet.

“This means that my father should fit into the other group of those who reached this so-called World Champion, correct?”

“Yes. Three people were recorded to have Selective Unlocking. You and your father belong to that group. If we can save your sister, then it’s possible that we would have a forth.” Seeker smiled.

Arthur gave a smile as well. Kristine was shocked when Arthur revealed a smile.

“Does that mean you will help me save my sister?”

“Of course. Why wouldn’t we? But we can’t be too hasty. Your sister is caught up with some very troublesome people. At the heart of our enemies to be in fact.”

Arthur frowned.

“So those Aragarian’s are holding my sister captive?”

“Yes.” Seeker quietly responded.

Arthur's face turned angrier.

“Is my father responsible for my sister’s demise?”

Seeker simply shook his head.

“I don’t know. It's possible that he had a hand to play. He never spoke of it. But what I do know is that when your sister died, your father brought Egypt to her knees, he went on a rampage and massacred over a million people.”

Arthur’s face finally relaxed a bit while Charles swallowed a mouthful of saliva. He hoped that Seeker was exaggerating the number.

“So my suspicions seemed misplaced.”

“There are forces at work on this planet that even your father fears Arthur. They are your true enemy. Your father may have a hand at how your sister was taken, but he isn’t your enemy.”

Arthur nodded.

“Then what do I need to do?”

“For now, we play along with the immediate events. We have a couple of things to do. I'll need your help in some matters and Charles needs to run his test on you." Seeker turned to Charles.

“Let me get this straight, you want me to take a look at Arthur because he’s one of the rare cases where a person with intuitive perception has the potential to reach World Champion?”

“Yes. On the Sensing side, we have the Believers, on the Intuitive side, are the rare cases of Selective Unlocking such as Arthur here.”

“What about you? Which one are you?”

“I’m an Intuitive, but I'm not a Prophet."

"A what?"

"A Prophet. I don’t have Arthur's potential. We call them ‘Prophets’ since the could teach others while Believers can’t.”

“What do you mean by teach?”

“Teach how to Unlock the brain further. Everything that I've been doing was actually based on a rough theory that Arthur developed."

Charles gave Arthur an angry glare. So he was the culprit.

"But what we've been doing won't help when you reach a certain stage. There has to be a scientific explanation and a step by step guide to help other push their unlocking. Believers were basically clueless about how they would teach others. It’s like asking musical advice from a prodigy. They can’t explain it even if they wanted to since these things come very naturally to them.”

“So that leaves us? The Intuitive types who can explain the very process.” Arthur murmured.

“Yes. Thankfully your dad was one among the Champions. He will be your best teacher. Hopefully, if you break through World Champion and once you develop the road of your ‘path’ then maybe more World Champions will appear.” Seeker smiled.

"Why not have my father teach?" Arthur frowned.

“You see, the problem is that your dad isn’t exactly a Prophet like you who broke through by studying. He is also a part of the third group of World Champions. Being part of that group drastically limited the things your father could teach.”

“The third type that reached World Champion?”

Seeker gave an exasperated sigh. It gave Charles and Arthur the impression that Seeker was actually depressed.

“The third group of Unlocked individuals was believed to be the only group that could reach the World Champion stage. They rose to that heights just after a few battles when they were unlocked. People who reached the World champion stage without facing any bottlenecks or problems whatsoever.”

“Impossible!” Charles was taken aback. They had just been discussing at length of the impossibilities in reaching World Champion and a set of individuals achieved it easily?

“Yes. These are people who were born with the very potential and experience, talent and skill which made them Champions. They made up all the World Champions until Lynd broke through.” Seeker gave a depressed laugh.

“Which is to say, the World Champion title was given exclusively to them as it was deemed humanly impossible to reach that stage. The Unlocking allowed them to maximize their almost demonic capabilities. It's as if they were the Unlocked among Unlocked individuals.”

“So they're just incomparable and vastly more powerful from the rest of humanity?”

“I don’t consider them humans. Arthur would agree.” Seeker laughed. Arthur nodded as he thought of his father.

“When Lynd broke through, we recognized that humans could break through as well. As for the original set of Champions, we changed the term to identify them. The overlords of the rebellion. The Overcomers.”

 

Just wanna ask, do you have a Ph.D at Neurology or something? This thing you're writing really astounds my mind.

 

No. just you're average Bachelor of Arts. My wife's a medical doctor. GP. So I do ask her a lot when i'm writing things that directly correlate to medicine or general biology. now if only I have a good friend with a Ph.D in physics. lol.

 

pepehands lol

 

Chapter Forty-Six: A Humbled Seeker Carlean
It was total humiliation.

As soon as her team reached Seeker, they were met with Lynd’s tank version of Blade. Yet despite the slow movements of this build, they could barely attack Lynd as he moved precisely on time using minimal movements to dodge the attacks.

Blade used the AOE attacks to disrupt the team from moving forward. Seeker’s player, Edge, was seen sniping them at a short distance behind Blade and kept shooting stun attacks. Though it had an 8-second cooldown, every shot would hit them squarely. And Seeker knew who to attack, and when to attack. Dara was the first to fall.

In fact, every time she would engage the opposing team, the similar scenario would play. She would receive the stun attacks from Seeker, get smacked with all the attacks that Blade had and lastly, Meryl’s agile Piercing: Dagger build would strike at the most critical of moments. Dara was undoubtedly the most useless player in that battle. Of their team’s total damage percentage, Asterisxx had 67 percent, Danny took the remaining 33 percent. Dara did not manage to do a single attack towards Seeker’s team.

Danny was laughing his head off after the battle. Being humbled by Arthur caused him not to worry about these trivial stats. But beyond this numb sensation to losing, was the most embarrassing stats he has ever seen from the profile of a Pro. A post-battle score of zero percent damage contribution.

Not even fighting against Arthur would give her this kind of score. This train of thought led Dara to consider one possibility.

During the battle, she realized that Seeker’s attacks were all timely and on the mark. Meryl’s attacks were terrifying, reckless and executed perfectly that she didn’t even manage to do a single strike. This was how people described LordChokeMeSenpai.

She argued with Danny and Asterisxx that it wasn’t Seeker, Lynd and Meryl they were fighting, but Seeker, Arthur, and Kristine.

Edge was played by Arthur who made precise control and memorized the timing of all attacks and knew when to disrupt them! Meryl was definitely Kristine! And Seeker, being a renowned evasive player would easily fit into as Blade!

Danny and Asterisxx did not agree as there was a clear difference in their playstyle.

But an innocent sigh drove Dara of the edge when Danny murmured that he had to date Meryl now. It was there that Dara realized that she has lost the bet.

Her dreams would no longer come true. Their date on the Sky Garden, the couples massage room plans she dreamt, the wine, candles, and whips. It was all gone.

The most frustrating thing to ever experience is to see a giant ray of hope that you thought you would have, only to disappear as the clouds of reality came to shade its rays.

This great frustration turned into anger. And so she did the only thing she could do. She took out her phone and used her secret weapon.

“Dad. I need your help.”

“Dara? What happened?”

“It’s this newbie that joined our team. He humiliated me and even replaced me as the main roster for the 5-on-5 battle!”

“WHAT?!” The voice in the other line took a sudden angry tone.

“It’s that Casual Carlean! He managed to trick us all and replaced three of the main roster. Even Danny’s off the team!” Dara complained.

“Even Danny? No way. The fans will go crazy! And Arthur knows that! Why isn’t he doing anything?”

“Probably blackmail! Arthur is definitely being used! Daddy do something! My career is on the line!”

“I’ll see if I can talk with Feltrick. He had his misgivings towards this Seeker person. I’m sure he’ll find a way to kick him out of the team.”

“It’s impossible! Arthur won’t agree to it! I’m sure! He’s even using Doctor Lindmitt to seduce Halley!”

“Doctor Lindmitt’s there?!” A surprised voice continued.

“Yes! I have this strange feeling that Seeker has been blackmailing him. And now he’s doing that to Arthur! You have to do something!”

“I’ll call Feltrick. He should be on his way right now!”

“Tell him to hurry. That Seeker’s on to something! I’m sure of it!” Dara abruptly ended the call. The anger in her eyes had not disappeared.

Meanwhile, back in the room, Seeker had just updated their new found ally of the current situation.

“I see. So you aim to start a Continental war. This could lead to a world war you know.” Arthur was deeply pondering the situation.

“Impressive. What gave you that impression?” Seeker smiled. He expected Arthur to predict this move.

“War is the only avenue for you to be able to sneak in and meet high-ranking officials. If you’re going to try to meet people like my father, then no doubt you will need to travel to enemy countries. War’s the perfect cover. Also, no doubt that you will use this opportunity to gather more resources and pilfer technology from the various armies across the world.”

“Exactly. Since a world war will soon happen, I’ll just cause one. Besides, it has to disrupt the Aragarian’s plan. A Continental war should be big enough to surprise the Aragarians. If that could disrupt their plans even by a few months, then it can give us even more advantages.

“But you’re diverting too much from the original timeline, things won’t go according to your memories.”

“It’s alright. Those high-ranking people that I need to meet are potential Overcomers. Several of the World Champions have often voiced out their lament when these ‘peers’ of theirs died during the early stages of the war. If we gain three to four new overcomers, then it’s definitely worth the trouble.”

“If these Overcomers are anything like my father, then I’d risk that change even for just one addition. However, you caused quite a ruckus with your actions tonight.” Arthur stared straight at Seeker.

“What? Why?” A confused Seeker stared back.

“Dara. She’s the problem. Your overwhelming victory was too showy. She would never believe that you three fought against them. She probably thinks that Kristine and I played instead of Meryl and Lynd. Also, considering her loss to a bet that would have fulfilled all her wildest fantasy, she's bound to do something... immature.”

“Eh? I’m too bored with a little child’s game. I’ll fix it just like I did Alean.” Seeker shrugged.

“Seeker! She’s a child!”

“You know that it is written doc. Spare the rod, spoil the child.” Seeker gave a malicious reply.

“I’m not talking about her. Her father is well affiliated with one of the Board members of our company. And that board member's a scrooge. He was initially against you joining our team considering your demanded salary.”

“Eh? It’s alright. I’ve blackmailed a corrupt general back in Phil-Pangea. I can handle this corporate scrooge.”

“That scrooge is Feltrick Ung-glaive. His secret background is the head of an internationally wanted criminal syndicate and weapons dealer. You cannot intimidate him.” Arthur spoke plainly.

Seeker frowned.

Even Charles felt his palms sweat. This background was not something they could easily mess with.

“I can do my best to water down the trouble. He won’t kick you out of the team, but he’ll do his best to intimidate you. Even my father refuses to cause problems towards his organization as it would lead to quite a troublesome task.”

Seeker was in deep contemplation.

“I swear I know that name. Ugh. Alright. I'll keep it low-key.” Seeker sighed.

A knock was heard.

“Arthur! Feltrick is here!” Halley spoke with a worried tone.

Seeker frowned.

“Speaking of the devil. I’ll deal with him. He will insult you and even resort to physically hurting you. You have to act humble. Don’t even dare to intimidate him, Seeker. He has full authority to kick you out of the team. It will cause too many problems for you and even more so for me.” Arthur glared.

“Alright. I promise I won’t intimidate him.” Seeker sighed.

The group went out to see a slightly chubby man with a strict face. He wore a brown tux and had a large walking stick. Surrounding him were his bodyguards. But everyone in that room knew they were Feltrick’s henchmen.

“So… You are the arrogant one who’s causing problems in my organization.” The fat man walked arrogantly towards Seeker.

Dara’s smile was beaming. This was quite a sight for her eyes.

“Out of respect to Doctor Charles, I won’t make it difficult for you. Confess to whatever crimes, Seeker. Blackmailing Arthur Humphrey and even cheating on your fights to win here. If you confess now, it will be simple. We will announce that you met a freak accident and that you fractured your arm. Outwardly, you will be treated as a part of the Covenant so not to break our contract. Do we have a deal?” Feltrick’s smile was a wicked one.

“Mr. Feltrick, with all due respect, Seeker didn’t cheat. I was there in the room and witnessed it. He is as good as the rumors have him to be.”

“Arthur. It’s alright. You don’t have to put up with his nonsense. We can get you out of this contract legally. Think of what your poor father will do if he finds out you are caught in the bad end of this deal.” Feltrick gave a ‘sincere’ smile.

DING!

The elevator opened a happy pair of teens walked out of the door.

“Hi guys! We’re back! Alean’s downstairs fixing up Charles room.” Meryl walked over. She looked at the fat man and immediately recognized him.

“Oh my! You’re Mr. Feltrick! I recognized you on the big picture on the lobby! It’s a pleasure, Sir! My name is Meryl!” Meryl happily approached the fat man with a hand extended forward.

Without warning, Feltrick suddenly threw a strong slap towards Meryl.

Meryl was about to evade the slap then she noticed Seeker shaking his head as he gazed straight at Meryl’s eyes. The confused Meryl stopped evading and allowed the slap to reach her.

SMACK!

Meryl stumbled sideward as the slap echoed through the room. Seeker gripped his fist tightly. He had to control it.

“He’s someone even Lennox wouldn’t touch. He’s someone even Lennox wouldn’t touch.” Seeker chanted under his breath.

Dara was laughing happily. This made Seeker clench his fist tighter.

“Don’t think you can fool me with all your acts! ” Feltrick screamed angrily. He walked towards Meryl and was about to deliver another kick while she was on the ground when Seeker suddenly appeared at the gap.

“Mr. Feltrick. There is no need to use violence in resolving this.” Seeker spoke righteously.

Feltrick gave an angry stare at Seeker.

“You faked your skills, blackmailed our team captain and you're even trying to turn my team against each other! Get out!” A sharp slap was made against but Seeker stood firmly in his spot.

The slap echoed throughout the room. Lynd was gripping his fist in anger. Charles glared angrily at this fat man. Dara laughed again.

Seeker, however, stood firmly with his eyes full of surprise.

Seeker stared deeply into the eyes of Feltrick and an unusual anger surfaced on his face. Everyone could see that Seeker was trying his best to contain his anger.

“What are you looking at?” Feltrick moved closer, challenging the scornful gaze of Seeker.

“I’m sorry for the angry stare. It was… instinct.” Seeker spoke slowly.

“To prove my humility, my master always told me, that when I am slapped on the right cheek, I should turn the other way to offer my left cheek.” Seeker turned and offered his left cheek.

“My pleasure!” The fat man stepped back and poised to slap Seeker. A powerful slap was then sent towards Seeker’s face. The large chubby hands moved with speeds that exceeded his first slap.

Seeker stood firmly determined to meet the velocity of this slap.

SMACK!

The strong slapped echoed once more.

Seeker stood undaunted from the slap. He turned his eyes towards Feltrick’s.

“What? You want more?” Feltrick angrily readied his slap, but before he could throw it, Seeker extended his right arm. A small glass-like blade extended from a small stick Seeker carried.

The next second, Feltrick’s arm was seen flying in the air as Seeker slashed mercilessly.

“Don’t worry Arthur. I won’t intimidate him. I’ll just kill him. Charles, Lynd, Meryl. Kill the guards.” Seeker announced as an overpowering pressure filled the room.

 

Chapter Forty-Seven: A Night to Remember
Feltrick was the last one to notice it. He felt the sudden fear that clenched his heart but failed to notice he was missing an arm. It was only when he tried to move his left arm did he realize it was missing. The odd sound of something falling off made him turn and realized the horror of his situation.

Pain crippled him. Feltrick fell down on the ground and started screaming.

Dara was the next one to react. The amount of dripping blood that started to pour out added to Seeker’s pressure made her vomit.

Everybody else started falling on the ground as the immense pressure covered the room.

“DON’T KILL ME! I’ll DO ANYTHING!” Feltrick pleaded as he crawled slowly away from where Seeker stood.

Before the guards could reach for their guns, they were immediately attacked.

Charles immediately stole the gun on the holster of the nearest guard and shot the guard on the head.

BANG!

A muffled shot resounded and everyone immediately watched in horror as a respected and renowned hero were executing two other guards.

BANG! BANG!

Lynd and Meryl also acted by attacking the nearest guards.

Meryl immediately aimed for the throat and then the groin. Taking advantage of the staggering foe, Meryl used several jujutsu techniques to break the joints of the enemy.

Lynd was more primitive. Imitating the same stomach-penetrating punch that he experienced on several occasions, Lynd’s mighty punch that made the enemy guard spit out a mouthful of saliva. As the guard bent over in pain, Lynd delivered a powerful knee strike and knocked the guard out.

Everyone in the room except Seeker’s friends shouted in fear. But no one could move due to the immense and heavy sensation that pulled them closer to the ground.

Lynd and Meryl stood over their respective guards and watched them in order to make sure that they wouldn’t do anything dangerous.

“I said kill the guards!” Seeker’s cold voice reverberated once more. This caused Lynd and Meryl to shake slightly at Seeker’s voice.

Unlike his happy-go-lucky smile which he would usually show, there was an unusual harshness around Seeker that even brought fear to Meryl and Lynd.

“Zeek…” Meryl slowly asked.

“You will be killing more people tonight, Meryl. So show me your resolve!” Seeker demanded.

What gripped Seeker’s two friends wasn’t the normal fear they felt towards Seeker. It wasn’t intimidation, it wasn’t a fear of having their life threatened. It was a fear that shook their hearts because their minds have suggested something.

“This isn’t Seeker.”

This simple thought overpowered the fear which tied their morals and their very humanity to uphold certain principles. Almost acting in synch, Meryl and Lynd reached for the gun that these guards had, aimed at their temple, and with fearful hearts and a tearful eye, they pulled the trigger which not only killed the guards in front of them but killed a part of their soul.

BANG! BANG!

The two guards were now dead.

Lynd and Meryl looked as if they were drained of life. A numbing sensation flooded the two. They did not shake, they did not move, their Unlocking allowed them this fortitude. But they stood there knowing that their morals have forever changed.

Charles looked with grim eyes towards the two teens. Charles disagreed with the timing but knew this was a trial that these two must face.

“NO! NO! NO! PLEASE! I’LL DO ANYTHING! HELP! CALL THE POLICE! ARTHUR DO SOMETHING!” Feltrick pleaded to Arthur as Seeker started to draw near towards him.

“Relax Arthur. There’s a perfectly sound explanation as to why I am killing this scum.”

“And that being?” Arthur demanded.

“I hate the sound of his heartbeat.” Seeker smirked evilly.

Arthur was enraged and attempted to move towards Seeker. But the pressure increased as he drew closer which almost sent Arthur stumbling down to the ground.

DING!

The elevator doors opened and a frowning Alean walked out.

“Charles. Good to see- oh…” Alean then felt the familiar sensation of Seeker’s killing intent. She then noticed the blood and dead soldiers.

“CIPRIIL!” Feltrick recognized the face of Harker’s daughter.

“SAVE ME! THIS MAN IS A LUNATIC!” Feltrick crawled towards the Alean.

Alean sighed and walked pass Feltrick.

“Here are the lollipops you wanted.” Alean handed a pack of lollipop treats to Seeker.

Even Arthur was stunned at the development.

“Really now… We’ve barely been here for 5 hours and you’re already causing a mess.” Alean sighed.

Despite the lack of limbs and the constant dripping of blood, Feltrick was tongue-tied. Why would the daughter of a renowned General, who held such prominence in the underworld, delivered a pack of lollipops to this young teen?

“Could you relax a little? This pressure’s quite annoying you know?” Alean insensitively berated.

Seeker frowned but realized that Alean was right.

Everyone else on the Covenant could now breath. They stumbled down on the floor and started gasping for breath. Dara continued to shake in fear as she gazed at Seeker and his friends. Even her dreamful gaze at Charles was replaced with that of horror.

“Anyone who attempts to escape will be stabbed.” Seeker announced. No one dared move towards the elevator doors. Dara vomited once more. She remained on the floor convulsing in fear.

“Exactly what is going on anyway?” Alean impatiently asked.

“I’ll leave the details to Lynd. You owe him a date and a kiss.”

Alean was shocked at Seeker’s statement. Lynd however, continued to stare at the dead guard he just shot.

Alean gave a small smirk.

“Looks like little Lynd is growing up.” She sighed.

“Please… Don’t kill me…” Feltrick begged.

Seeker kicked Feltrick on the face and then pinned his face on the ground.

“Move and I’ll kill you! Seeker warned as he stabbed the sword right in front of Feltrick.

Feltrick was wailing and convulsing but dared not to move or to agitate the angry Seeker.

“Charles, check his heart.”

Charles had an unusual look but immediately went to feel Feltrick’s chest.

After a few seconds of checking, Charles immediately went to check the right side of Feltrick’s chest.

“Sitrus Inversus.” Charles immediately announced.

“Meaning?” Arthur frowned.

“His heart. It’s not on the left side, but on the right. He has a rare medical condition where his major organs are mirrored. So basically his hearts on the right side and his organs are positioned on its mirrored location. Why is this significant Seeker?” Charles turned questioningly to Seeker.

“It’s significant because he doesn’t have Sitrus Inversus, Charles.” Seeker calmly responded.

“No. I’m sure he has.” Charles countered with a slightly confused expression.

“He doesn’t,” Seeker responded flatly.

The two stared at each other in silence. Then it hit Charles.

“Aragarian!” Charles exclaimed.

Arthur’s eyes went wide open.

“What did you say?” The pinned Feltrick immediately reacted. A trace of fear in Feltrick’s voice surfaced.

“Exactly. Aragarians have their heart and organs arranged in the exact mirrored opposite of ours. It will look like Sitrus Inversus. When he slapped me, that’s when I remembered where I’ve heard his name.”

Seeker unceremoniously stabbed the blade into Feltrick’s heart. After a few seconds of struggling, Feltrick died.

The sudden stab surprised everyone. Arthur glared at Seeker because of his sudden actions.

“His name must have been mentioned in passing in one of the reports we’ve had in the future. That’s why his name didn’t ring any bells initially. He was so unimportant in the reports that it didn’t cross my mind. But looks like he played a larger role during the pre-war era.”

“Then why did you kill him? He could have been connected to the group that kidnapped my sister.” Arthur demanded.

“Now is not the time, Arthur. If we manage to connect the dots and find your sister, it will arouse suspicion. Right now, we can all cover this up by making it look like that Harker Cirpril is trying to take over Feltirck’s organization.”

“Is that why you killed him immediately? So I can’t interrogate him?”

“Yes.” Seeker responded coldly.

“If you want your sister alive you will act in patience. Chasing after her now will lead the Aragarian’s to increase their caution. You could rescue your sister now, but she’ll die in the future.”

Arthur remained silent at Seeker’s explanation.

“You used Realm Somatotopy to map out his body when he slapped you?” Charles asked immediately.

Seeker had already explained the theory of Realm Somatotopy to the rest of his team. However, the lessons they’ve had were fruitless. Not even Lynd and Meryl could do the basics of Realm Somatotopy.

“Since I am limiting my Unlocking as you have prescribed, I could only use it if I were physically connected to him. The slaps he did, gave the right vibrations for me to feel his whole body.”

“Then why two slaps?”

“I didn’t know he was Aragarian. I was planning on doing what Arthur suggested. But when he slapped me, I accidentally mapped his heart and realized that his heartbeat was on his right side. Of course, he really could just have one of those rare heart disorders. So I asked him to slap me again. I mapped his entire anatomy and identified the other medical differences between his anatomy and ours.”

“So you weren’t just acting immature in slicing his arm off after that second slap.” Arthur raised an eyebrow.

“Don’t put me on your level of impatience, Arthur.” Seeker sneered.

“Are these guards Aragarian’s?” Meryl softly inquired as she stared at the dead soldier near her.

“Probably not. He’s probably the only Aragarian among them here. But we’ll have to kill his family. Their definitely Aragarian. A few of his closest associates should also be as well.”

An uncomfortable sensation clutched Meryl’s stomach once again. Her hands remained tainted.

“Arthur, tell us everything you know about Feltrick’s organization. We need to cut off the head of the organization tonight.”

“Are you serious? With just the five of you?”

“Six. Cliff’s downstairs. Don’t underestimate the Unlocking, Arthur. An Unbecoming is someone who essentially cannot die at the hands of normal humans. The added strengths of perception and reaction allow them to do impossible things. More so for my team. Despite the limited time and training, they are all capable of killing assassins and trained soldiers.”

Meryl and Lynd had an unsettling look on their faces.

“Alean, have some of your men detain the Covenant. No news of this must be reported. Also, we’ll need to clean up this place. We must make it look like Feltrick died on his territory.”

Alean sighed but immediately took her phone to call her father.

“Tonight will be your first field exam, students. We will split up into three groups to attack the known base of operations of the Filtrick’s organization. Alean, you’re with Lynd. Charles, take Meryl and Arthur with you. I’ll bring Cliff and Kristine with me.”

“This is crazy Zeek.” Meryl complained.

“We don’t have a choice. This organization must die tonight. The faster we destroy it and scavenge the remains, the more beneficial this will be when the war begins. You know the math Arthur, what do you think?”

Arthur was silent but sighed in contemplation.

“Seeker’s right. An organization this massive might have been providing the necessary weapons to start the wars that aim to benefit the Aragarians. We also don’t know where Feltrick used his funds on. He must have been using it to aid Aragarian’s around the world.”

“See? Even Precision understands.” Seeker smiled.

Charles gave a depressed laugh while Alean rolled her eyes in annoyance.

Lynd and Meryl had a conflicted look. They just killed for the first time, and now they were forced to walk the bloodied road.

That night was a monumental night for the people in the Pangean Nations. The horrors hidden within the darkest depths of their country would be put to light. A criminal syndicate which was tied to several terrorist groups crumbled and its spoils laid out in the open. The world was shocked at the existence of such an organization.

But who would have thought that at the epicenter of this war, which led to the death of 214 criminals, was a group of teenagers who massacred their way as they enjoyed watermelon-flavored lollipops?

 

Chapter Forty-Eight: Midnight Massacres
It was midnight. Several men in white coats were observing the status of the samples on the large room below. Various machines and computers were used to maintain and monitor every sample in the room directly below.

The main control room overlooked a larger room full of glass chambers with kids inside. Each glass chamber listed the age of the boy and each had a ticking timer. Some showed hours, while others already indicated a few days.

It was clear that those which had more days and hours looked sicklier than the ones with shorter times. Those who exceeded five days were even showing signs of rotting arms and legs.

“Interesting. Chamber 5-O is clearly resisting the drug.” The head scientist looked intently at the displayed status of the boy.

“That child was taken from the Maldives right?” He asked his subordinates.

“Yes. Is it because of the radiation levels there?” His assistant suggested.

“Probably. But we have three other samples which were born there. And none of them have that!”

“Should we report it to the boss?”

“It’s the Unlocking.” Seeker suddenly interrupted.

The two scientist was surprised at Seeker presence but lost the capability to scream as they throat were no longer attached to their heads.

Seeker was drenched in blood. Cliff stood beside him but had a cleaner attire since he used guns.

Kristine felt as if her stomach continued to clenched at the grotesque display of murders that these two teens did on the way to this room.

“Sickening. So this is how they created it.” An angry look once again surfaced on Seeker’s face.

Kristine and Cliff watched silently. Cliff had long observed that Seeker wasn’t his usual playful self. There was a spark of rage on his face. After having spent so long with him, and trained to the death with him, Cliff knew that the Seeker tonight was vastly different from the Seeker before.

Kristine soon noticed the poor rotting youths on the screen and gasped.

“The Plague of Locust.” Seeker started to operate the complex computers before him and observed the status of the children.

“The Plague of Locust?” Kristine wondered.

“As the war against the Aragarians began, this chemical warfare slowly made its debut. Those affected would slowly decay to the point that most of the person body part would rot. It was a painful and gruesome disease. The enemy used locust to carry and spread this disease across the world. Hence its name, the Plague of Locust.”

“How many did it kill?”

“It couldn’t kill. Rather it was designed not to kill.”

“Why would they develop a drug that couldn’t kill?”

“Simple. This drug was made to weaken all opposing countries. It weakened our armies in two ways. First, though it couldn’t kill, it greatly weakened our offensive power. As for the second reason, it explains why they chose to test it on children.” Seeker asked.

Cliff suddenly confirmed that what Seeker said was true. He gazed at the several chambers and not one were adults.

“How cruel…” Kristine was shocked. Especially after carefully observing the rotting bodies of the kids as displayed on the computer. They seemed to be constantly crying in pain. Scratching their arms as pus and blood would come out. Still, despite the wounds, the kids would continue to scratch it drenching their arms with blood.

“Because of this plague, it forced us to use up a lot of our medical provisions. There were very few fatalities from these diseases. With constant treatment, it would almost be impossible to die. But that was the point.” Seeker continued to read various reports on the computer.

“They were bleeding us dry. We would continually expend our resources to provide medical support…” Kristine realized the Aragarian’s plot.

“But why kids?” Cliff couldn’t help but be shocked at the brutality. It made his guilty heart grew lighter. Perhaps massacring those soldiers wasn’t necessarily a bad thing.

“Because of their immune system. If the virus manages to cause this decay for a long time without killing these kids, then the drug is successful. It seems that the development is still in the earlier stages. Over a hundred fatalities according to this report.” Seeker grimly reported.

“A hundred kids…?” Kristine was shocked.

Cliff stared at the various kids in the chamber.

“They’re as old as my younger brother.’ Cliff clenched his fist in anger.

“Cliff, secure this building. Massacre everyone. No exemptions.”

“My pleasure.” Cliff walked out angrily. He readied his handguns and dashed off to eliminate everyone in this den of evil.

“Now do you understand why we have to kill?” Seeker asked Kristine coldly.

“How did we ever survive this…?” Kristine asked as tears fell down her eyes.

“This plague actually brought more blessings than curse.” Seeker smiled.

“A blessing?”

“You see, the Unlocking is a very expensive and dangerous procedure. The success ratio was 1 in 30. But when this plague happened, we could finally identify who had the potential to be Unlocked.” Seeker smiled.

“How?”

“Do you know that Meryl and Lynd just began their physical training a few days ago?” Seeker smiled.

“What?” Kristine was confused at the sudden shift of topics.

“The Unlocking has a tremendous impact on one physical body. For some reason, an Unlocked brain would also ‘awaken’ the cells of a person. They have faster regeneration, faster muscle development, and would therefore easily make them physically formidable. That is why, Lynd, Meryl, and Cliff could easily pull off killing enemies bigger and stronger than them even though they only started training a few days ago.”

Seeker selected three chambers from the list and had it displayed on the screen.

“In other words, those who manage to show significant resistance towards this plague had the mental fortitude and potential to be Unlocked.” Seeker smiled as he stared lovingly at the three kids on the screen.

As these three kids continued to lay on their chambers with a helpless and depressed expression, three other kids were showing the exact opposite of this.

In a mansion at the edge of a hill, on the outskirts of the city, three kids were huddled up in their room as they continued to play on their respective handheld console.

“These games are awesome! They even beat the games that we had at home!” The youngest was a boy of ten years. He had a happy smile as he continued to control his avatar run across the grassy fields in order to catch more monsters.

“Yeah. If only we got this much earlier! Just look at all the versions they have out here!” The middle child was a cute girl of 12 years of age and was endowed in what could only be explained as a princess outfit.

“Papa said that he can make a lot of money if he sells these games back home.” The eldest was laid back boy who just reached his teens.

“Kids!” A shout was heard downstairs.

“It’s dinner time!’ The mother lovingly cried.

“Oh great! I wonder what country we get to try today?” The middle child excitedly walked down still holding on to the game console.

“I wonder if Papa’s home.” The youngest followed.

Several chefs stood at the side as the waiters served the array of dishes from all over the world.

“Oh! Italian!” The eldest excitedly ran and sat at his usual position.

“Mom! Can I have Japanese?” The youngest begged.

“You heard my son.” The woman turned to the chefs at the side.

Suddenly, a small glass cylinder was thrown right in the middle of the large dining hall. An immense pressure paralyzed everyone.

Meryl coldly walked towards the table. Tears continued to fall from her eyes. Blood dripped down her dress as she walked towards the center. She carried a glass blade which was also dripping with blood.

Everyone could only look in shock at the raging steps of the girl. They couldn’t scream as the deathly piercing pressure made them unable to breathe.

“Hello. Sorry for dropping in unexpectedly.” Charles suddenly greeted.

“We just had to visit your house after finding your little operation down the mountain. Impressive operation by the way. I counted about 300 organs harvested tonight! I wonder what the monthly quota is.” A sweet smile on Charles face appeared but a raging anger and disgust hid behind it.

“Your dad’s home.” Meryl then rummaged the white sack she carried and took out Feltrick’s head.

“I just had to take him along to show you what we’ve done to him after witnessing what you’ve been up to.” Meryl was smiling as she placed the head right at the center of the table.

Everyone else around the house was already killed off by Charles. He silently shot the heads of everyone other than the Aragarians in front of them.

The middle child had already fainted upon seeing the head of her father. The two others were trembling in fear. The wife could only stare in disbelief.

“Cruel? Not as cruel as you. We probably look like livestock to you guys.” Meryl slowly pressed the blade towards the right chest of the eldest child.

Meryl was not hasty in her push. She slowly and smoothly pressed.

It was as if it delighted her to feel the blade penetrate through the skin, tissues and finally the heart.

It took around five long seconds until the sword pierced through the back of the boy. The boy was gasping and struggling at first. But his life slowly dwindled until he couldn't struggle anymore.

The trembling mother couldn’t shout in horror but tears were falling down her eyes. She tried to slowly reach for her children but couldn’t.

Meryl slashed off the head of the middle child as it did not please her to slowly kill someone who already fainted. The youngest however, experienced the same thing his brother did.

Even Arthur had to turn around when Meryl started to slowly torture the mother.

“Sorry Arthur. Seeker’s orders.” Charles patted Arthur’s back who looked disappointed at the deaths of the family.

“You alright Meryl?”

Meryl remained silent. She sat down and stared at the lifeless bodies of the once happy family.

“Don’t think about the dead. Think of how many we saved.” Arthur comforted.

There was silence in the room. Tonight was just a surprise. Seeker was the first to report his findings and now Meryl’s team witnessed a nauseating scene of kids and adults slowly dying as their organs were harvested.

“Were they reserving this for their own army?” Meryl suddenly broke the silence.

“No. If Seeker’s story is correct, and they never planned to participate in the war but have us kill each other, then this family was harvesting organs and blood for their own pockets. Feltrick was probably planning on selling these organs towards the allied countries when the war starts.” Arthur said coldly.

“So, his reason for that massacre was so that he can make money during the war?” Meryl started to slowly sob.

Soon she started to cry.

The horrors she saw today weighed heavily upon her heart. The guilt of murder no longer remained but was replaced with a sense of guilt that she could have saved him.

A small boy was tied on a complex machine when they arrived. Meryl did her best to reach him, but it was too late. The boy died as the machine drained its blood. Everyone in the building who conducted the harvesting of organs was brutally murdered by Meryl.

Her anger was not easily satisfied as she saw hundreds of adults and kids in the mix. Charles later calculated that there were over three hundred bodies in that room whose organs were harvested.

Meryl couldn’t help but remember the clear look that little boy gave her. Her Unlocking made her capture that moment accurately. And Meryl could have saved him if she was stronger.

Meryl sat on the chair with no intention of moving.

Tonight, she killed plenty. But her enemy clearly massacred more.

Amidst the silence of the room, Charles phone began to ring.

Charles quickly answered

“Zeek?”

“Charles. Head for Lynd’s location.” Seeker commanded immediately

“Is he alright?” Charles was surprised.

“No. He went berserk and lost it.” Seeker spoke grimly.

“Was he shot?” Charles immediately signaled everyone to rush out. Meryl awoke from her stupor and immediately followed.

“Worse. I think he broke through and reached Inhuman!”

 

Chapter Forty-Nine: The Gentle Giant
“I couldn’t believe I would hear Lennox’s voice tonight.” Alean sighed.

“Tonight’s clearly a night of surprises. Are you OK?”

Lynd continued to gaze out the window of the passenger seat.

“I’m alright. Thanks, Miss.”

“How did you hear what Lennox was doing?”

“You didn’t hear it? I thought you guys would be done with Sense training.” Lynd asked in confusion.

“Of course not. We haven’t had Sense training yet! Only Surmounting Unbecoming could do that right? We’ve barely reached the edge of Advent. How could you do that?”

“I don’t really know.” Lynd shrugged.

Alean laughed happily at Lynd’s response.

“And a minute ago you were asking if you belong in this world of killers. If you could easily maximize your senses, you ought to be better at being a cold killer than me.” Alean smirked.

Lynd remained silent.

Alean could now see the port from the top of the mountain where they were driving.

“That’s the port. They should be on the north side as Lennox indicated.” Alean turned serious.

“I can’t believe I’m driving towards one of the most dangerous organizations on this planet, with a 17-year-old whose friend with someone from the future.” Alean laughed.

Lynd’s story gave Alean quite a shock. But after everything she’s witnessed, it didn’t take long for her to accept it.

Alean parked the car a long way from the port and the pair started to quietly move towards the buildings.

The pair kept on reaching the inner areas of the warehouse. As Seeker instructed, their priority is to kill the head. This person could flee if they caused a ruckus. So the pair decided stealthily infiltrate the warehouse.

The display of strength by Alean and Lynd outmatched normal human beings. The slowing of time allowed them to easily execute ninja-like moves of climbing jumping accurately through small gaps.

“Lynd. Be careful. I think I hear voices.” Alean whispered as they reached through an empty corridor.

They carefully observed the halls for any sign of humans.

“You know, you should show-off a bit more.”

“What?” Lynd gave a confused expression.

“Your skills. No need to be humble. You have to show people how strong you are. If you managed to almost hit Seeker, then you are probably ahead of me and Charles by a mile.”

Lynd didn’t know what to say and gave a shy smile, avoiding Alean’s stare.

“Seeker’s just being nice to me.” Lynd shyly replied.

“Really? Your too humble Lynd. That will be a problem.” Alean laughed.

“You should really show off once in a while. That way you’d be able to scare my dad.” Alean smiled.

Lynd had a confused look on his face.

“Why do I need to scare your dad?”

“It’s the easiest way to ask for my hand in marriage.” Alean chuckled.

Lynd gave a surprised stare towards Alean. Her smile was so sweet. Her lips, so ripe of moisture. It was intoxicating. Lynd suddenly desired to touch those, even to kiss those. In that brief moment, Lynd could feel time stop.

Lynd had seen Seeker do it on several occasions.

The area around Lynd then started to act in synch with his own senses.

He could feel her. The being of Alean who stood not more than a foot in front of her. Lynd’s senses took a full evolution. He could not only feel Alean but his sense of sound took a whole new level of transformation.

That’s when he heard it. Their cries.

Lynd awakened from his stupor. He was sure of what he heard.

“My God! Was that real?” An alarmed Lynd spoke out. His voice was loud. As if he wasn’t trying to hide anymore.

Alean was confused at first but before she could react, Lynd turned around and sprinted across the building.

His footsteps were loud but the closer he moved towards the source of the sound, the faster he started moving.

Lynd rushed towards that direction and zoomed towards the hallways. The surprised Alean could only follow.

A tall man went to the hallways to check on the strange sound he heard. He saw Lynd sprinting and was surprised.

The sprinting Lynd suddenly accelerated faster. He saw Cliff do it once. A sudden jolt and kick that went way beyond the norms of his muscles. Lynd zipped closer almost in an instant and punched the throat of the enemy and took the gun from him.

Alean did her best to run but her speed wasn’t anywhere near Lynd’s.

She dared not call out to Lynd for fear that it would call on more guards.

Lynd continued to run and took a sharp turn on the corner and started shooting.

Two men who guarded the door were shot in their hands and before they could even react, Lynd gave a strong uppercut to one and punched the throat of another. He kicked the door wide open and saw the horrors.

Several girls were in the room crying. Some were hung up on chains as blood continued to pour out of their genitals. The youngest in the room looked like they were about 10 years old while the oldest looked about 15. Some were unconscious while others continued to cry as they held on to cover whichever hole the three men used. The conscious ones kept crying in fear and kept pleading to their three captors.

Three men stood naked while having their way with the little girls. Each man had a girl to which they were intertwined with. Continuing the depraved sexual acts on their current girls, they hadn’t even noticed that Lynd already entered the room.

They were laughing excitedly and one of the naked men started stabbing the girl he was having fun with using an ice pick.

Realm Somatotopy remained activated. Lynd’s domain invaded the room and hovered over the girls held captive.

Among those who could use Realm Somatotopy, there have been a few managed to create a new phenomenon of sensation. Through the combination of sight, sound and feel, the viewer would be able to ‘feel’ what another one was feeling. Of course, not everyone had this ability. In the entire history of the unlocking, only one managed to accomplish this.

The Gentle Giant. Before he became known as Elijah, this was his title. He would always stand for the cause of the innocent and would avenge the blood of the weak. He was a terror to his enemies, but a benevolent angel to his friends. The Realm King once joked that out of everyone who was unlocked, he pitied the man who would enrage the Gentle Giant.

Everyone on that port that night was very unlucky. Out of all the people that could have barged in that room that night, the one that entered was this same person.

Lynd took one look and met the eyes of the little girl who was barely twelve years old. Realm Somatotopy made Lynd feel it. The harsh emotional pain of this girl was unimaginable. Not only was she disgraced beyond measure, but her rapist clearly drove an ice pick like weapon that punctured deep within her chest. She would die within the next few minutes.

There were several factors that could induce the Unlocking. Fear was only one of them.

A few minutes ago, Alean’s sudden display of interest already pushed Lynd’s Unlocking to the edge of Unbecoming Proficient. But now, a rage so huge and so ferocious erupted and Lynd could actually feel physical pain that weighed heavily on his chest.

It would have been impossible for Lynd to break through any more given his physiological, and mental state. However, the one thing that Seeker failed to calculate is how he still underestimated Lynd’s potential. Lynd had seen Seeker in a state that went beyond the Unbecoming. And given the brutal scene before him, this was enough.

That memory was the only thing that Lynd could think of. The strongest moment that Seeker had ever displayed. Almost instantly, Lynd’s Realm evolved further. His heart was in so much pain as he started to feel the pain of the other girls who were raped and killed within that room.

Lynd could no longer think straight. He just wanted to kill everybody in this port.

Lynd’s angry stomp left a huge crack on the marble floor. He zoomed quickly and reached the first man and gave a strong punch with the pistol still in his hand.

The pistol broke at the sudden punch, the barrel fractured the right rib of the first man before the barrel bent out of shape. The force was so strong that it left a hollow point on the right chest of the man.

Lynd wasn’t finished. Using the force of the impact, he pushed back and readied himself to deliver another punch. Lynd stomped forward once more and punched the exact same area.

The chest of the man caved in on the second punch. Lynd confirmed it. The man’s heart was on the right side of the chest.

The remaining two started to panic at the sudden appearance of Lynd. The man that Lynd just punched was gasping for breath and blood continued to pour out. Lynd managed to punch right through his ribs and beat the man’s heart. He was dying.

“Please… help….” The poor little girl who the punched man was raping voiced out once last time. Her wounds were too fatal.

She died.

The two started to panic and run towards the other room where they kept their guns.

Lynd stayed on the first room and looked at the little girls around. It dawned on him now, that the girls who he thought were unconscious were actually dead.

“Girls,” Lynd spoke as soft as he can to contain the rage that was bursting forth.

“Take a deep breath and cover your eyes.” Lynd smiled.

The girls who were unwounded did what Lynd said and took a deep breath as they shut their innocent eyes.

The two Aragarians rushed out of the small room at the back. They aimed their guns toward Lynd.

But then a shockingly powerful pressure filled the room.

Lynd jumped towards the first man and drove the man’s head towards the wall behind him. The man’s head was embedded in the thick pavement behind him.

The other man could only scream as he witnessed the brains of his friend being painted on the wall.

Lynd remembered the laugh of joy that this man had when he was raping the other poor 10-year-old. The only thing that Lynd wanted was to wipe that smile off his face.

Lynd angrily swooped his arm grabbing the man by the lips and Lynd pulled.

The entire skin on the lower jaw was ripped off cleanly.

“AHHH!” The painful scream of the man vibrated across the building.

Lynd grabbed the man and slammed him down the floor. Lynd took the enemy by the legs and smashed him on another side of the floor. Lynd kept doing that until bloody pulps are what you could see as the man’s blood was scattered across the room.

Several men reached the room and were horrified by what they saw. Their three bosses were beaten dead as a madman was smashing one of their bosses around like a hammer.

Lynd stared at the guards and roared once more.

The three guards couldn’t aim their guns as a powerful fear paralyzed them.

Lynd took one man by the arm and smashed him towards another. While still holding on to this man Lynd smashed him to the remaining guard. Lynd went back and forth using the man-made hammer to smash the other two guards.

The speed of Lynd’s hammering was getting faster and faster as his rage could no longer be contained.

Eventually, the arm of the man couldn’t handle the stress and his arm was torn off and the remaining dead body flew across the corridor.

Alean stood in terror at the sides not daring to even talk to Lynd. She quickly took out her phone and dialed.

Lynd dashed off towards another area and started a killing rampage that was gory as his first. Gunshots were heard but it was clear that they couldn’t kill this rampaging beast.

“Seeker! Lynd went berserk!” Alean shouted.

 

Chapter Fifty: The Way

Seeker was quickly tailing General Indigo as they walked through the piles of rubble around them.

The battle was a success. Three of the cities in the South-East Asian regions have been liberated. Soon their attack would finally return to the main Pangean nations.

The appearance of Ranked Hero’s shocked the enemy. Soon, more and more cities joined in the revolution.

“So much for Taiwan. You really need to control your attacks, Lynd.” Seeker laughed.



Lynd turned at Seeker, he wore an outfit that was similar to him. He gave a confused look at Seeker.

“Zeek. I thought you told me that you have to address me as General when we are around soldiers.” Lynd laughed.

“What? But there is no one around!”

“Come on! You really need to train more!” Lynd joked.

Seeker had a confused look.

“Alight. Enough joking around. Sorry. Colonel Irvana. I assume you’re here to report.” Lynd immediately spoke in a serious tone.

Seeker gave an empty glance at Lynd and suddenly slashed the area to his right even utilizing the fast movements of his Four Force Accelerator.

DING!

A metallic sound echoed as a figure appeared blocking Seeker’s attack.

“Colonel Irvana. Why would the Thief in the Night be sneaking around allies?” Seeker stared with a grim expression.

A red-haired woman donning the same synthetic outfit appeared resisting Seeker’s blades. She was barely in her twenties and had a white complexion. Her blue eyes continued to give off a cold look at Seeker.

“Colonel Carlean and General Indigo. I’m here to deliver my reports.” She stared at Seeker with an angry frowned before turning to Lynd and gave a respectful look.

A bluish glow appeared on Lynd’s Thought Transmitter.

“Colonel Carlean, please receive the reports. The General has summoned me.” Lynd gave Seeker a light tap and then suddenly disappeared with incredible speed.

“What exactly is the Thief in the Night doing here?” Seeker then removed all formalities as soon as Lynd left.

“I’m surprised that you are this friendly with the General. Considering you have this complicated relationship with-”

“Just give me the damn report Irvana.” Seeker gave an exasperated sigh.

“Well, quite honestly there’s nothing much to report other than the casualties of this battle.”

“How many?”

“None. General Lynd assisted us in today’s battle.”

“So you were really just looking for a reason to fawn after him? Please just accept the fact that he’s already with someone!” Seeker shook his head.

“This war will kill many. If she dies, I’ll be there to swoop him up.”

“Right... Good luck with that. Tyrant Empress is also after him you know? And with her around, You’d have a better chance at killing a World Champion Advent before you get to Lynd. If that’s all then you should go.” Seeker turned around to follow Lynd.

“Wait. There’s something else. You’re very close to him. Do you know what his path is?” Irvana asked before Seeker could activate his Four Force Accelerator.

“You know its classified to discuss his path of all people. Ranked Heroes cannot divulge their paths to another.”

She gave an angry stare at Seeker.

“Alright fine. I just think that it would be more beneficial for General Indigo to personally train me. Considering he could do what I could.” She suddenly asked.

Seeker laughed.

“Oh. Right. If it’s that, then I have permission to talk about it.”

“If it’s what?”

“Issues with insecurity. Did he manage to hide his presence better than you can?”

Irvana gave a surprised look.

“He did. He was right next to me and not even my Realm detected him.”

“Don’t get your panties in a knot. Amongst Champions only the Realm King could clearly detect him.”

“What?!” Irvana reacted.

“How is that possible? All World Champions could easily find me! And only the Realm King can detect Lynd?”

“It’s simple math really. You walk the path of the wind. When you accelerate at high speed, you are almost undetectable. Unseen, unheard and unknown.”

“I know. That’s why I am ranked four places above you. What’s this got to do with General Indigo’s path?” Irvana voiced out impatiently.

“Everything. This is the same reason why he’s called the Prophet Elijah. He Who Prepares the Way. He walks several paths. His unlocking is the path of two things. The first is what the Realm King called Incredible Sympathy.”

“Sympathy? How’s that any helpful?”

“Right. Coming from the woman whose path was formed by hiding herself in different parts of the house so she could hide from her abusive father.” Seeker gave a sarcastic smirk.

Irvana glared angrily at Seeker.

“We all know that all paths, regardless of their apparently worthless use, would result in incredible things. Colonel Meryl would be a good illustration. The General’s ability to somehow be able to sympathize with another in terms of emotions and feelings is remarkable. At his level now, he can literally feel the way you feel just by looking at you.”

“Wait. You mean… he knows that I like him?” Irvana cried in terror.

Seeker laughed.

“You’re such a child. You do realize, that the Realm King is here and he likes to tease his disciples right?”

Irvana almost choked as she forced her breath back down and used her technique. Almost suddenly, she turned invisible.

Seeker shook his head.

“Of course Lynd does. But don’t let it bother you. I mean, I’m around him all the time. Imagine how he feels?” Seeker laughed.

Irvana reappeared once again and gave Seeker a strange look.

“Anyway, the second path that Lynd has, is as annoying as the first. Observation.”

“What?”

“Observation. He has a knack for observing things. Back when before we were even Unlocked, he could always beat me after a few rounds of Piercing:Bullet. He could imitate the very skills that I have. It’s as if his mirroring me.”

A crazed look appeared on Irvana as Seeker explained.

“Looks like you got it. If he can sympathize with your heart and he observes things in a manner that no one else could, what would his path be?” Seeker smiled.

“The path of Imitation! He could imitate all the paths of Ranked Hero’s!” Irvana’s smile of delight suddenly appeared. Her idolatry and lust towards Lynd skyrocketed to World Champion level.

“Ugh. Sickening.” Seeker shook his head.

“But you’re wrong.”

“He can’t copy a Ranked Hero’s path?”

“Not just a Ranked Hero. That’s why all the World Champions value him. If he breaks through, then theoretically it would be possible to reverse engineer Lynd’s path and we could just have the ability to produce several Omni Champions. One who walks all the paths to form-”

“The Way.”

“Exactly. That’s why we call him the Prophet Elijah. The One Who Prepares the Way.” Seeker smiled.

This memory started to fade away as Seeker gripped the steering wheel tighter.

“I messed up.” Seeker voiced out unconsciously.

Kristine and Cliff continued to wonder why Seeker acted this way.

Seeker was thoroughly awakened from his recollection of the future as he saw the state of the port.

Kristine and Cliff stared in shock as they saw the port as if it was a war zone.

Seeker frowned.

“I hope Lynd's alright.”

“Don't worry. The destruction you are seeing must have been caused by him.” Seeker pushed the pedal harder as their car zoomed on.

Meanwhile, at the center of the war zone, Lynd was moving at speeds that couldn’t be considered human.

“How’s he doing that?” Meryl asked Charles as they just arrived at the port.

“I don’t know. He’s moving almost exactly like Seeker!”

“But how? Seeker said we can’t do that unless-”

“Unless we have the same physical attribute that Seeker has.” Alean immediately cut in as she jumped down towards the area Meryl and Charles were heading to.

“Alean!” Charles cried.

“What happened? How did Lynd end up like this?”

“I don’t know! He suddenly just went crazy! I tried to stop him but he threw me and attacked the soldiers!”

Another explosion went off and Lynd was seen charging at impossible speeds.

Three soldiers kept shooting at Lynd but Lynd’s speed was just too much.

Lynd easily avoided the aim of the soldiers. He could easily map out the area and feel what the soldiers around him were doing through echolocation and his increased perception of time.

The torrential rain of bullets could do nothing to Lynd.

“What did Seeker say?” Alean asked Charles.

“We have to kill everyone first. Seeker will take care of Lynd!”

Lynd hurled himself towards the location of several armed men. Lynd stomped on the head of one of the enemy effectively breaking the neck of the enemy. The neck was bent in a weird way with the head almost touching the back.

Lynd thrust his hand towards the neck of another soldier and his fingers pierced right through the neck. He grabbed the enemy by the spine of the neck and used the dead enemy like a shield. The Kevlar blocked most of the bullets while Lynd evaded the rest.

Lynd tall figure moved with incredible speed despite his large stature and the dead man he carried by the spine.

Meryl, Alean, and Charles were also moving stealthily around the base. The commotion Lynd caused took all the attention of the soldiers. With that, Meryl, Charles, and Alean sneakily killed soldiers that were shooting at Lynd.

Suddenly, a car broke through the ports barrier and went straight to the center of the war zone.

“Cliff, I’ll pin Lynd to the ground. When you see him down, throw Kristine towards us. Kristine, try to calm Lynd down.” Seeker ordered.

“What?!”

“Just do it. Get ready to jump out of the vehicle and close your eyes for five seconds. Then get ready to throw Kristine.”

The two hadn’t managed to react when Seeker suddenly turned the wheel and stepped off the car.

The car drifted sideways towards a concrete wall.

Cliff cursed and immediately grabbed Kristine and exited the spinning vehicle. The two jumped off and landed.

Seeker finally brought out a flash bang and tossed it right in the middle of the battlefield.

“MERYL! KILL EVERYONE!” Seeker ordered.

The sudden entrance of this car took the attention of everybody. And while everyone’s eyes were fixed at the center…

BANG!

The flashbang exploded. Everybody was blinded. Even Charles and Alean were affected by the light.

Lynd was startled at the sudden brightness and could not see.

Meryl however, took this opportunity and grabbed the gun of a nearby soldier and started shooting all the enemies in the area.

Seeker approached Lynd and delivered a strong punch. Lynd used his human shield to block it but at the last second, Seeker stomped his foot and threw himself sideways. While in midair, he continued his punch and it smacked Lynd right at the jaw.

Seeker took the opportunity to exploit Lynd’s groggy state and gave a sweeping kick to make Lynd stumble.

Lynd tried to regain his balance as he stumbled backward but was met with Seeker’s elbow strike which pummeled him down to the ground.

Cliff finally tossed Kristine after opening his eyes.

Seeker kicked the dead soldier off of Lynd’s hand while punching Lynd right in the chest to keep him down.

Kristine was flying over and Seeker gracefully caught Kristine to lessen the force of her fall while delivering her right on top of Lynd.

Seeker then started to pin Lynd’s arms to keep him from hurting Kristine.

“DO IT!”

The staggered state of Kristine was awakened by Seeker shout.

She stared at the angry Lynd and calmly talked to him.

“Hey, hotshot. It’s ok. It’s just us. You need to calm down. Your friends are here. We’re here to help you. It's ok.”

Kristine continued to soothe Lynd who was calming down.

Meryl continued to shoot around the base killing off the remaining blind soldiers.

Seeker gave a long look at Lynd and frowned.

“Alean!” Seeker shouted.

“Tell your dad to get his army ready. We need to invade a nearby military base tomorrow.”

Alean had a numbing feeling at Seeker’s orders.

“Do it.” Seeker emphasized.

“Why did I ever try to blackmail him?” Alean sighed as she took out her phone.

 

Chapter Fifty-One: General Of the Heroes Army

General Harker was overlooking a very important operation in his secret base.

Three of the leaders of the strongest media groups in the Pangean Nations were being operated on.

“I guess this isn’t so bad.” Harker sighed.

“Sir. The operations are commencing.” A soldier reported.

“Also, we have managed to secure a meeting with the remaining two targets.”

“Good. Looks like, with this, we can finally move forward with little problems. We will be ready, Dragon.” Harker smiled confidently.

Suddenly his phone rang.

“Alean?”

“General. We’ve just attacked three main bases of operations of Feltrick. You should know him as the head of the Malay-Pangean criminal syndicate group-”

“You attacked the Annals?!” Harker felt like his heart was jolted with a Defibrillator.

The Annals was a terrifying group in the Pangean Nations. If Harker ruled the underground of the Phil-Pangean, then the Annals were equal to a tri-nation criminal syndicate. The worst in South-East Asia.

“You’re crazy! We cannot afford to infuriate him! His organization is too strong! He’s in control with several military factions even on Phil-Pangea!”

“Relax. We already killed Feltrick. All his known officials are also dead. Whatever remnant remains will be confused and lost. We’ve already cut off the head and we’ve destroyed three of their main base of operations.”

“What?!” Harker exclaimed.

“You’ve barely spent a day at Malay-Pangea! How the hell did you guys kill him?”

“He came to us. It’s a long story. Listen, General. We’re very busy tonight. There are two more bases of operations that we need to take care off. I called because Seeker asked for you to prepare an army to attack Fort New Birth.”

“Why are we attacking Fort New Birth?! You’ve already raised hell in Malaysia now were attacking Australia?” Harker shouted in anger.

“Just do it. I will be taking over command of all military forces loyal to you here. Send a written command to promote me as Major so I can gain approval. We have a lot more to do. Also, play along with whatever you see in the news tomorrow. Seeker already has a plan to take advantage of this attack. He said you should be the new President of the Pangean Nations within a few days. Just make sure that your army is ready to attack by 11 pm tomorrow evening.”

Harker was about to shout back when the call disconnected.

His face looked like he aged a decade.

Seeker stormed straight to the room where Alean prepared Charles devices.

Meryl, Charles, and Lynd were still inside as Cliff and Seeker returned.

“Zeek. Lynd health is stabilized. But his brain activity is off the charts! Even when he’s unconscious it’s still acting crazy!”

“His wounds were never my concern Doctor.”

“Lynd tore several muscles, broke several bones and you’re saying that you’re not worried?”

“Yes. An Unlocked person can heal his body to a greater extent. I’m sure you’ve felt it. Your muscles don’t sore as much after our sessions. The increase of the brain will naturally improve the body. You called it the Neuro-transcellular phenomenon. At Inhuman stage, it is even possible for humans to regrow limbs.”

Charles was tongue tied at this random medical reveal that Seeker gave.

“Right now, it’s his brain that we should worry about. Once he stepped on the Inhuman stage it’s hard to revert back and his brain cannot take the stress! We need to get a certain coolant liquid that is used on modified humans.” Seeker announced.

“Is that why you’re attacking Australia?” Arthur interrupted.

“Yes. The Australians have yet to unveil their super-soldiers. They have been developing a technology that is aimed at creating super-humans. They’ve succeeded to a certain degree but the problem is that the entire body of the soldier would heat up too much. So a cooling liquid was created to counter this.”

“How sure are you that this technology is already developed?” Charles asked immediately.

“Almost a hundred. This coolant was supposed to be one of the first things which they successfully developed. And right now it’s our only shot. We need this to cool Lynd’s brain.”

“This will cause more ripples than you originally intend.” Arthur coldly answered.

“It’s not a problem. We already have a free ticket to Australia for the Nations of the World E-Sport Meet. This will make it easier. We infiltrate the base and disable the systems before Harker’s attacks starts. We can use today and tomorrows events to start a war with Australia.” Seeker smiled.

“What!” the group chorused. Arthur had a curious expression on his face.

“Tomorrow is a special day, even in my past life. If we take advantage of the coming waves, we can make Harker President, start a war, and declare martial law all in one go.” Seeker greedily smiled.

“Right now, we wait for Alean to do her job and pray that tomorrow will be a good day.”

The night soon ended and shocking news reports circulated the globe.

The news channels around the Malay-Pangean region all received unanimous tips and the news about the attacks on the five bases of Annals immediately caught media attention.

Harker watched in gripping tension at the very first news report.

A news reporter gave a hideous look as he looked directly at the camera.

“Ladies and Gentleman, we who report the news do so every day and are often numb to the vast abundance of crimes that are being held in this country. But this crime is so different, that the once numb sensations started to feel immense pain. The once dead heart started to beat due to the shocking nature of this news.” The man announced solemnly.

“Feltrick Ung-glaive, one of the richest man in the South Asian regions, was unmasked to be the head leading a criminal syndicate which was responsible for the worst known acts of human trafficking that this world has seen. The pictures that we will show all have contents of gore, violence and grave indecency that shouldn’t exist in this time of the world. Viewer discretion is advised.”

The news reporter then started to slowly and dramatically unveil the operations of Feltrick Ung-Glaive. Viewership to the news on that day skyrocketed. The entire world was shocked

One of the most inhuman organ trafficking centers was revealed. A total of 336 human beings were having their organs harvested. Less than half of them remained as the others were already harvested.

“Three hundred and thirty-six in one night ladies and gentlemen. Imagine how many lives were wasted in this sick operation. It is well-known that Feltrick Ung-Glaive is associated with many of the world’s richest and influential companies and medical organizations who are now being suspected of being in collaboration with these deals.” The reporter heartlessly accused.

“But there is more to this than just organ farming friends. The reason why we have this is all thanks to the brave efforts of General Harker Cipril of the Phil-Pangean nations.” The reporter boldly declared.

Harker’s mouth went wide open as he heard the reporter announce with fanaticism.

“Under the orders of General Harker Cipril, a special task force of soldiers attacked several organizations ignoring all the national and international laws imposed to crush this cruel and wicked criminal syndicate. Harker promoted his very own daughter, now Major Alean Cipril to take charge of the secret attacks against five rumored base of operations of this criminal syndicate, now revealed to be known as the ‘Annals.’ The first base revealed the first series of videos but I beg you to listen, friends. It’s far from over.”

A series of photos describing the location of yet another base was shown soon followed by pictures of rotting children who were used as experiments in a base. The reporter was shouting and describing with sheer hate at the brutality of this organization as the video of the children being rescued and escorted was being displayed live on the air.

“The ages of these children are from ten to fifteen. These are our children, our little angels, our little brothers and sisters and they were all used as experiments.”

The video switched to show Alean Cipril in full military gear.

“Our mission was to capture the base and ensure the survival of the children. But what we saw drove us to anger. Let the world forgive how we executed and tortured these men who stood to watch and experimented with these children.” Alean gave an impassioned speech which gave the reporter a teary-eyed look.

The video ended and the reporter continued.

“You will receive nothing but thanks for killing those demons, Major Cipril. But our sad news does not end here folks. More awaits.” The reporter glanced.

The news continued to show how Feltrick has managed to create a human-sex trade industry which was secretly at works. Soon, the videos displayed the weapons depot that Feltrick built. Several weapons of mass destruction were found. But of all these news, what gripped the world was the last base that was attacked.

“Ladies and gentlemen, what you have witnessed is the work of the devil. So much so in regards to the last base that General Harker attacked. My heart is personally crushed because I have an eight-year-old girl. I’ll just show you the videos and pictures.” The reporter announced with a fainting expression.

A series of videos and pictures were revealed showing a group of young girls who were being treated as the reporter announced that they were being used as sex toys by three men who were closely associated to Feltrick. It was with that, that the world cried out in terror and disgust.

It was only when Alean explained what was happening in the room that the world was jolted awake. The saw the faces and bruised bodies of the girl and also the dead ones who were killed in the depraved ecstasy of the three men.

Alean Cipril once again appeared on the screen.

“I personally led the attack in this building. When I entered that room, I was so shocked. One of General’s trusted men, who I will leave unnamed, went to such a rage that he immediately killed those three men in the most brutal harshest form possible.” Alean announced.

“This operation was not sanctioned by the Phil-Pangean government. We only knew that there were human-trafficking operations being performed here and in a flash of moral rage, my father, General Harker Cipril ordered his elite team, to charge in here and save the ones we could save disregarding the military code we vowed ourselves in. He said our vow is to the people!” Alean’s passionate speech caught the hearts of many.

“But let me tell you this! After what we’ve seen and who we have saved, I am proud that my father did that! I am proud that my father had the guts to stand up when no one else would! I’m glad that this country has General Harker Cipril!” Alean announced boldly.

Harker watched in surprise as the news continued displaying several of Harker’s achievements. Time slowly passed and Harker just sat there watching every detail of the news. He knew what Seeker wanted him to do.

“Sir! A crowd of reporters is outside demanding to have an interview!” A soldier excitedly reported.

Harker sat down and continued to remain silent as he was contemplating his actions.

BEEP!

His phone vibrated and he stared at the simple message.

You’re a hero now. Act cool.
–Seeker

Harker got up and wore his uniform.

He boldly walked out of his mansion and stared at the rushing reporters. But there was something in Harker’s stride that made him look larger. There was something in his expression that made the reporters silent.

There was a solemn spark that seemed to mix intensity and moral righteousness in Harker’s eyes.

The entire crowd was silent but everyone had their microphones on and their cameras taping.

Harker stood boldly, unafraid of the questions and gazed at the reporters one by one.

“This is a hero…” one reporter unconsciously voiced out when Harker met his gaze.

“No. The real heroes are my soldiers." Harker slowly responded.

The crowd was gripped with deep respect.

"Then who are you?" the reporter unconsciously replied.

"I…” Harker paused and took off his cap for dramatic effect.

“…am the General of the Heroes Army.”

 

Chapter Fifty-Two: An Unexpected Guest

The Nations of the World E-Sport meet is an event which is held once a year to host the most competitive e-sport competitions. As online gaming continued to gain highlight, a worldwide online competition easily emerged as E-sports could not be held in the Olympics.

Piercing:Bullet wasn’t the most popular game in the world. War of the Generals is an online shooter game which took the world by storm. The simple shooter game was so phenomenal that it was estimated that about 62% of the entire world plays this game.

War of the Generals had several distinct features that made it so different from other shooter games.

War of the Generals was like a real war. If one dies in a game, the player remains dead until the end of the game. It had the most realistic simulators on using tanks, helicopters and jet planes.

War of the Generals allowed over 300,000 players per team. The game was literally an army against another army. And at maximum, six teams were allowed to play an all-out melee or a cooperative alliance.

Each team would play on large maps that imitated actual terrains in the real world. The game became so attractive that its vast number of players led players of various origins and even non-professionals to have the chance to join the prestigious games even on the NoW.

Each team was to assign the very same ranks assigned in an army. Private’s who made up the soldiers, and a squad would have a Lieutenants, Captains, Majors and eventually a General.

The game immersion was so great that it would really feel like war. Whenever an event as huge as the NoW E-sport meet would be held, some schools would even suspend classes to give way for their armies to form. Later students would take turns controlling their soldiers in instances that the war would last days. The longest recorded fight for War of the Generals was three weeks long.

The top teams of this war game were the United America’s, New Republic of China and India. The reason behind these team’s constant victory is largely attributed to their number. These three countries could easily employ millions of players with above average skills in-game. But the best player from the humble lands of the Pangean Nation. His intellect and strategical skills were so eccentric and effective that he was primarily the reason why these three nations experienced defeat from the Pangean Nations even when the Pangean Nations was barely half of the enemy nations in terms of number.

Located in the most prominent city in Australia, a large tower stood towering above every other building.

A team of five people just checked in on the Stormson Tower. But the paces of these rowdy teenagers garnered respect towards all the staffs of the building. They were the highest ranking members of Team WarFreakz. Because of the amazing skills that this team has displayed, they held on to this prestige and continued to act as the official Generals of every National-level War of the Generals competition. For the last five years, this team continued to remain unchallenged. In that group, was Halley’s nephew, Stanley Vagrant, commonly known for his game handle. “NoMoreSpice!”

Stanley continued to talk and berate people on the phone as his other team members did. Only their team leader did nothing but silently pace the hall towards their lodging.

“Boss! The teams under my regions are all ready to go. We’ve exceeded the initial count. My team has an 8000 strong army and-”

“How many could be considered special forces?”

“Two hundred and eighteen.”

“Good. Tell them to join a room I’ll create, to listen to the plans.” The leader coldly replied.

“Roger!” Stanley smiled and continued to call on the phone.

At the second floor, overlooking the lobby was Seeker and Arthur.

“There he is. Lowengren.” Seeker smiled.

“Is he strong?” Arthur asked.

“Not really. He couldn’t go over the Inhuman hurdle. But that doesn’t mean he isn’t important. No Inhuman would ever compare to the worth of Lowengren.” Seeker smiled.

“His that good as a General huh?” Arthur almost smiled.

“Yes. Although he was immediately overshadowed when World Champions started appearing, no one would doubt his worth during the war. He stood in equal standing with World Champions in terms of respect. His efforts on the initial stages of the wars led to many victories which allowed the United Earth Armies to be formed.”

“I always thought he was good. My father is particularly interested in him more than his father.”

“Well, right now Lowengren’s only of secondary importance. Our mission is to meet and talk that father of his alone.”

“Malay-Pangean President Albert Hoross. So this is what we need to do in order to kill time before invading Fort New Birth?”

“This is an important step to ensure that our actions in New Birth won’t leave problems in the future.”

“I take it you’ll be trying to recruit Lowengren?”

“I’m still thinking about it. I do have plans to have him taken by Harker. After all, he can try out his skills in a real war soon.” Seeker smiled.

“The world falls into disorder because of your schemes. You don’t feel bothered by that?”

“I’d feel bothered if I give the Aragarian’s more opportunities to grow powerful. We still have more than half of the world to fight against us. As long as I don’t harm the nations that will aid us, I couldn’t care less about the disorders and deaths I cause.”

“Harsh. Fitting for a leader. My father expressed that he would like to meet you. Though I’m not sure why he cannot meet you immediately. I imagined him to come running here if he knew about you.” Arthur frowned.

“Don’t blame your dad. He wasn’t as free as you think he was. If I’m not wrong, he must have been killing people as you talked.” Seeker laughed.

“What?”

“Realm Somatotopy remember? Although I couldn’t mimic the Realm King, I could still hear and thereby have a rough understanding of what your father was doing. At the start of the call he probably was bound and was undergoing interrogation but when he picked up the phone and talked to you he started untying himself and proceeded to silently kill his captors.” Seeker laughed.

“You’re kidding right?”

“I’m sure of what I’ve heard. So don’t blame him for his apparent apathy at your report. He must have his hands full right now. But enough of that. We got our hands full as well. Look.” Seeker pointed to a group of well-dressed businessman.

“It’s a cover. All of them except the man in the middle has guns. He must be our target. What a doting father. He is the president, yet he secretly comes over to an enemy country just to wish his son good luck.” Seeker laughed.

“Zeek. We have movement here. There seemed to be suspicious looking janitors arriving in the queue.” Charles reported over the intercom.

“Alright. Keep them busy for a while so I can talk to the President. Remember, you cannot kill anyone.”

“Not allowed to kill anyone? That doesn’t sound like the sweet Seeker I know.” Alean laughed on the other line.

“You should have met my past self. He was sweet. Oh, wait. You did and you made his life a living hell. Be glad that I’m not getting back at you for that.” Seeker smiled.

“How do you still cause dread to my heart despite being so far away?”

“Advance sound technique. My very voice could cause fear.” Seeker casually remarked.

“Seriously?”

“Get in position. We’re moving Arty.” Seeker ordered.

Seeker and Arthur immediately rode the escalator.

“Send us to the penthouse,” Seeker ordered.

“Roger sir.” A voice responded on the other end of the intercom.

“I wonder if I should start training these soldiers that Alean brought? Nah. Can’t trust them yet.” Seeker spoke to himself.

“Half of the troops would be suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder if your training is anything like last night.”

“Was I too rough? Come on Arty. I know it wasn’t your first time.” Seeker perversely laughed.

“Still, it’s impressive that you easily reached the Unbecoming Stage, Arty.” Seeker smiled.

“Thanks for your… help. But I wished you were more gentle with Kristine.” Arthur clenched his fist containing the deep rage within.

“Relax. I needed to be that harsh. Unlike you who have a freakish dad, she needed to be thoroughly baptized in it. She’s not any closer to being unlocked. Although I’m sure I pushed her brain a bit last night.” Seeker calmly answered.

“Who is she to you?” Arthur asked directly.

“Where is that coming from?”

“You’re from the future, you tell me. I’ve spent a greater half of my life being with her. I know what her path will be if she becomes Unlocked.”

“Oh. So that’s where it comes from. Emotional Discernment right? She must have been feeling queasy every time I look at her.” Seeker took a more serious look.

“She said she can’t tell what. As if regret, pain, and longing are mixed into one.”

“You can’t tell even after what she explained? Or is it that you don’t want to admit it?” Seeker sneered.

“She’s my sister. And you know how heavily I weigh upon that.” Arthur glared at Seeker.

Seeker paused in silence and stared back at the serious Arthur.

Seeker finally sighed.

“She’s mine.”

Arthur froze at that statement.

“And what does that mean?”

“What it means Arthur. We’re here.”

The elevator doors opened. Seeker moved out and saw several dead bodies in the hall. These were the same men who guarded the Malay-Pangean President.

Slightly ahead of them was a group of soldiers who were forcibly taking the President.

“Are we too late?” Arthur immediately inquired.

“Relax. They wouldn’t kill him. Let’s go look for him.” Seeker smiled.

Seeker and Arthur took the guns belonging to the dead guards and continued down to the main door to which was the entrance to the penthouse.

“Five enemies. Will you do the honors?” Seeker asked Arthur.

“Fine.” Arthur dashed forward and immediately kicked the door open.

The armed guards were surprised at the sudden entrance of Arthur. At the center of the room was a bound man who Arthur recognized to be the president.

The enemies wore a padded armor over their chest but it meant nothing to the reborn Arthur.

The moment Arthur caught sight of the enemies, he immediately unloaded five shots that pierced through the skulls of the enemies.

“Done. Seeker, the President awaits.” Arthur coldly announced.

Seeker remained unmoving. He continued to gaze back to the elevator shafts to which they came from.

“Seeker?” Arthur called out once more and turned to check on Seeker.

Arthur then realized that at the very end of the hall, a figure was walking out of another elevator.

He was a skinny man. He wore a stylish tuxedo. He looked at Arthur and Seeker and had a disappointed expression. But then he saw the dead soldiers and an impressed smile appeared on his face. Behind him was another person. He looked like a simple businessman and didn’t even have any armor on.

Seeker was frowning.

“Everyone, change of plans. Knock all the enemy soldiers out and immediately head towards the penthouse. I need you all here in four minutes. Extraction team, maintain a distance of about two kilometers from this building. Cliff, I need you holding a sniping rifle. Prepare to back me and Arthur up.” Seeker immediately ordered.

Arthur was surprised at Seeker’s orders.

“I take it that we are in danger with the appearance of these new guests of ours. Who is he?” Arthur aimed his gun at the approaching man.

“The businessman should be an Aragarian. But it’s his bodyguard that I’m worried about. I didn’t think he’d be here.” Dread appeared in Seeker’s eyes as his glass sword immediately extended out.

“This serious huh? A powerful enemy of the future?” Arthur aimed his gun at the walking man.

“Worse. Arthur, if anything happens to me, you take command. That’s not just any random bodyguard.” Seeker readied the gun with his left hand.

“That’s an Overcomer.”

 

Chapter Fifty-Three: The Terror of the Overcomer’s Name
Arthur’s expression suddenly changed. Another being just like his father stood not far from him. Only this one would definitely try to kill him. The thought alone caused Arthur’s spine to chill.

The skinny man had a tall frame. As tall as Lynd and had very pale blue eyes. He held a scabbard with a sword that had the handle similar to a curiously small broadsword.

Seeker fixed his gaze at the monster approaching.

“Hey there. I take it you guys want to threaten this Pangean President?” Seeker smiled.

The businessman had a confused stare. He then noticed that his other henchmen are dead.

“Who are you? What are two kids doing up here?” The businessman frowned.

“Careful Gary. Those two is the reason why your men are dead. The one with the glasses killed them. Entered the room and shot five rounds, one round for each head of your men.” The tall man smiled.

Arthur frowned.

“And why do you say that? We’re just kids who're at the wrong place at the wrong time.”

“I trust my instinct. So mind telling me who you are and how you managed to kill five trained men in what might have been less than a second?” The tall man smiled.

Arthur was shocked. How did he know the manner of Arthur’s attack?

“What else can you expect from Lennox’s own flesh and blood?” Seeker interjected.

The tall man had a surprised look.

“You’re Arthur? No wonder you looked familiar. And who might you be, my young brave friend?” The tall man turned to Seeker as he was impressed with Seeker’s demeanor.

“You somehow feel more dangerous than Lennox’s son.

“Casual Carlean?” The businessman gave a surprising stare as he recognized Seeker.

“The gamer?” The tall man gave another surprised look.

“So exactly why is the Covenant here?” The businessman asked with a confused face.

“We’re here to save the President of course. General Harker sends his regards.” Seeker declared immediately.

The businessman who was called Gary suddenly had an angry expression.

“That guy again?” Gary roared.

“Kill them!” He ordered the tall man.

“Give me a sec, Gary. You’ll be in a lot of trouble if we don’t deal with this situation carefully. Lennox is strong. Even I don’t want to face him.” The tall man laughed.

Gary was shocked at this simple sentence. There was someone in this world that he wouldn’t cross?

“Listen, kids, we just want the President. I suggest you retreat. You are no match for me. I’m doing you a favor. Don’t get in between me and my mission. I’m sure even your father would want you to retreat.”

“What’s his path, Seeker?” Arthur asked seriously.

“Six Sense.” Seeker immediately replied.

“What does that mean?” Arthur replied coldly.

“You see a tiger lying down on the ground, in a zoo. Does it scare you?”

“No.”

“You see a crouching tiger approaching. Ready to pounce on you. Are you scared now?”

“Of course.”

“Why? And I’m not asking this on a philosophical level.”

“The information I’ve processed has alerted my brain of the impending danger which results in fear, caution and other corresponding emotions that naturally appears in that given scenario.”

“You sound just like your old man.” The tall man chuckled.

“Alright Arty, take that process but imagine your brain being able to process these dangers on a different level. You feel things instinctively. A bomb disguised as a simple toy somehow gets your attention. You feel unexplainable fear from it because somehow your senses instinctively warn you that it is dangerous. That’s this guy’s path. Perfect Prediction.”

Arthur’s eyes went wide open.

“His prediction is so precise, it’s like your father’s calculation skill. The only difference is that your father calculates, but this guy knows what to do by instinct. This means-”

“This is bad. Of all the Overcomer’s we actually are faced with someone who can negate all our surprising advantages?” Arthur was deeply worried. A surprise display of skill won't be effective.

Seeker laughed.

“Funny right? We’re really screwed big time.”

“Perfect Prediction, huh?” The tall man stroked his chin.

“I like the name. You are very informed. And I thought Arthur would be the smart one of you two.” The tall man laughed.

“Alright. Before we begin this deadly dance, what’s his World Champion Title, Seeker?” Arthur took a serious stance. He knew that he could die in this battle. But even in these last moments, Arthur still yearned for knowledge. And at this point, he simply wanted to know the terrifying name of this Overcomer.

“Richie.” Seeker replied solemnly.

Arthur paused for a bit to process the information.

Did he hear the name correctly? Richie?

“Who’s Richie?” Arthur asked with a confused expression.

“That guy over there! Who else?” Seeker gave a why-wasn’t-it-so-obvious reaction as he pointed to the tall man.

“Richie? That’s his World Champion name? Richie?” Arthur replied angrily.

“Yes, Arthur! That man’s name is Richie!” Seeker replied with an angrier tone.

“I didn’t want his name! I wanted the name he is known as!”

“That’s what he’s really known as!”

“You’re telling me that whenever the most powerful and cruel men of the underworld need someone to assassinate someone with impossible chances of success, they open their phone contacts and they dial the number registered under the name Richie?” Arthur expressed in frustration.

“What can I say? That’s what people call him!”

“He’s a world-famous assassin! How can he not have a domineering name?!” Arthur demanded.

“If an assassin is famous, he’s not a very good assassin is he?” Seeker argued.

“Ahem.” Richie gave a cough to interrupt the conversation of the two.

“I was clearly asking for his Overcomer Title! His World Champion name!” Arthur ignored Richie’s attempt.

“Well, I’m sorry.” Seeker gave another angry and sarcastic reply.

“He really just goes by the name ‘Richie!’” Seeker countered.

“Guys…” Richie interrupted once more.

Seeker and Arthur turned back to Richie.

“First of all, it’s surprising that you know even my real name. But why the rude response, Arthur?” Richie gave a very displeased reply.

“It’s not the name. It’s just that with everything I’ve been hearing from him, there’s always a domineering title or name. So when he unveiled your name, it was very anti-climactic and given the very dangerous situation we are in right now, it caught me off guard. I apologize.” Arthur gave an apologetic look at Richie.

Seeker just stared at Arthur with a look whose anger was building.

“What are you talking about? I’ve mentioned the names Eagle and Hermes and you didn’t bat an eye at those names!”

“Those names had qualities of being domineering in the first place! So forgive me for not taking this entire Richie fiasco seriously!”

“Alright. Enough.” Richie interrupted once more.

“Moving to my second point of interest, I know of Hermes, but I haven’t heard of Eagle. Is he as strong as Hermes or Lennox? The only Eagle I know is that American Pastor, Calvin Luther Eagle.”

“That’s the one. That very same Eagle. You should try and kill him. You’re into one big delightful surprise.” Seeker smiled wickedly.

Richie’s gave a curious expression as his eyes opened wider. It looked like he was excited at the thought of fighting Eagle.

“Duly noted. I’ll take that advice.” Richie paused as if he was waiting for something.

Arthur’s heart was throbbing. They managed on time. It looks like Seeker has finished delivering his coded message.

“Thirdly, I know you’ve been wasting my time so you can deliver that Morse code signal to the sniper on the chopper on how to kill me discreetly. So let’s just start the dance since I know of the plan already.” Richie smiled mischievously.

Arthur's face was flustered. Richie could hear the silent taps that Seeker made on the Intercom?

“Dammit, Richie!” Seeker cursed.

“Alright, Cliff. That was a stupid plan. As expected of a freaking Overcomer. Maybe I should just order you to shoot me instead to send me to the afterlife painlessly. Ugh! Just fire at will, Cliff.” Seeker was about to dash towards Richie when Richie held his hand forward.

“Hold on. You sure you want to do this? Even with that sniper, I can easily kill you. You seem to like to have understood my skills. Do you know how I feel towards you three?” Richie sneered.

“Cautious?” Seeker hoped.

“Unless your Lennox or Hermes, then maybe I’ll be.” Richie laughed.

“I don’t feel threatened.” Richie unsheathed his sword. It was a broadsword which had a unique design. Its handle followed the typical broadsword, but its blade looked more like a katana.

“I’ll give you one more chance to escape since you two are associated with Lennox and Hermes. But this is you’re last warning. I do have a job to finish after all.”

“Whatever, Richie. Now that I know your name, you don’t seem that scary.” Arthur stood bravely.

“Arthur, support me. I'll attack him head-on. Keep distance and continue shooting. Cliff, fire at will.” Seeker immediately pushed his Unlocking as high as he possibly could. His perception and sense improved as he reached the Inhuman Proficient stage.

Immediately, Seeker sprinted and fired several rounds as he was running.

Richie carefully tugged the businessman sideways using the sword sheath he carried when Seeker started dashing. The man was safely pushed towards the inside of the elevator where he was safe from all the gunshots and possible sniping attacks aimed at him.

Richie then smiled at the array of bullets sent out by Seeker, Arthur, and Cliff.

With his perception, evading bullets was like a game of dodgeball. His perception was at best, on par with Arthur’s. His movement, however, was a different story.

Richie swung his sword to redirect and block the array of bullets. His movements were graceful and he smiled in delight at the dance. Finally, a group of friends that made him enjoy the battle.

Seeker continued to shoot with his left hand while his right hand was holding the sword. The sword was held over his extended left arm as Seeker readied to give a powerful slash.

Cliff had fired several shots but as Seeker drew closer, his concentration pushed to the extremes. He heard the entire discussion and knew what they were facing was a monster. Within the milliseconds in which Seeker was drawing closer and closer towards Richie, Cliff aimed for Seeker’s head and without hesitation, he fired.

Faithful and reliable Cliff got the message hidden in their odd conversations and shot around, aiming to pierce through Seeker’s head. Cliff had no knowledge of Morse code, however, he understood Seeker’s reference when Seeker expressed a though of Cliff to ‘shoot’ Seeker.

Seeker’s head was already getting lower and lower as the demand of his forward sprint allowed it to naturally happen.

Arthur understood this plan as well. They both made sure to fire the few shots that the very little time they had to corner Richie into receiving Cliff’s shot. If they could wound Richie, this battle would be easier when the rest of their team arrived.

Seeker blocked the view of Cliff’s fired bullet with his head. As he drew closer Seeker delivered a powerful slash aiming for Richie’s leg. Seeker also fired another round at Richie. Arthur had long anticipated Seeker’s attack and was shot at various locations to pin Richie in this position.

Like a helpless King who had no other place to go, Richie stood and had to meet Seeker’s slash and his gunshots.

The final chess piece was also moving in. Utilizing the highest stable state of Realm Somatotopy that he could manage, Seeker adjusted his head to make sure that the passing bullet would be buried in his thick hair, unseen until the last possible moment.

The bullet was passing through Seeker’s hair now. Even an Inhuman wouldn’t be able to evade an attack as fast as this bullet that would suddenly appear without warning.

Richie, after all, was only an Unbecoming. What chance could he have to evade this attack?

Sadly, they were facing Richie.

Richie simply smiled. He didn’t feel any form of threat even in this situation. Somehow, he knew that a surprise attack would appear from an unlikely place. Knowing that there was such an attack was enough for the Overcomer.

But then, he caught a glimpse at Seeker’s serious gaze.

Strange.

Why was Seeker’s gaze as calm as his?

 

Chapter Fifty-Four: To Overcome an Overcomer
General Lennox theorized that an average Unlocked individual would be able to evade and initiate high-speed attacks based on two factors; perception and their skill. The common ratio to an average Unlocked follows that 70% of their total evasive capabilities are based on Perception. The remaining 30% relies on the individual’s skill and techniques.

The odd-ones-out in this theory, are individuals with Selective Unlocking, like Arthur, who through their unique state can allow improving their reliance on skill to a greater extent.

Another group who do not apply to this theory, are Overcomers. Lennox believes that to be an Overcomer, the individual must have at least 50% of their evasive capabilities dependent on skill.

And amongst all Overcomers, there was one who had the highest skill-dependent, evasive capabilities. The more his Perception grew, it would be multiplied by his high skills and technique.

That Overcomer, brought terror towards his enemies.

Gargantuant’s would even gather together and form a gravity field to maximize their light-speed attacks but use this immense firepower only as a defensive measure. It was reckless for them to attack as this Overcomer could “dance” in the midst of light-speed attacks.

Lennox, who constantly clashed and sparred with this Overcomer, estimated that nearly 80% of this Overcomer’s evasive capabilities is based on skill alone.

Seeker knew of this Overcomer’s strength. Simply put, an Unbecoming Advent Richie, can face an average Inhuman Proficient in battle and evade attacks.

The hidden bullet zipping through his own hair wasn’t Seeker's trump card.

The bullet zoomed quickly towards Richie’s face, but with a simple raise of his blade, Richie made the bullet ‘slide’ on the blade and redirected the trajectory of the bullet. As he was used the blade of his sword to redirect the bullet, he was already moving this same sword to slash Seeker.

Seeker stomped his right food hard the moment the sniping bullet came into view and evaded the quick slash attack by jumping towards the left. Seeker then used his own sword to stab the nearest door to halt his flight.

The sword penetrated through the locking mechanism of the door and pierced through it. Richie was just behind him and was readying an upward slash as a combo to his previous downward slash which Seeker had just evaded.

Seeker stomped his left foot on the wall to stop the force of his jump and with another strong push Seeker was now jumping upwards and was hurled nearly an inch away from the ceiling. He left his sword to remain lodged through the door. There was no time to retrieve it. However, Seeker was able to recover his balance from the piercing thrust and his kick made him soar higher.

This sudden change of direction made Richie miss yet another attack. His rising slash had to redirect some gunfire along the way and these milliseconds allowed Seeker to stay alive.

But this midair evasion was more than reckless. Seeker was sure to die this time. Cliff and Arthur’s attacks would not be enough to hinder this certain-kill strike.

Richie readied his blade to slash. He wouldn't need to look back at Seeker. He was confident Seeker would be sliced.

Seeker turned midair and aimed his gun at Richie. These attacks would mean nothing.

Just then, the door where the sword was lodged in suddenly burst wide open.

Strangely, the sword that was once stuck also gave out and flew to the side as the door itself also opened.

Richie glared at the figure that stood behind this suddenly opening door and had one simple thought.

“That’s one hell of a shotgun.”

Charles had entered this room through the window. But knowing that Richie had an absurd sense of hearing, Charles made a strong jump from the window towards the door. He shoved the shotgun onwards to push the protruding blade off the door. And thanks to the powerful thrust that Seeker did to destroy the locking mechanism, the door could easily give way when Charles kicked the door.

Without missing a single second, Charles opened fire.

The pellets of the shotgun were zooming in towards Richie. Even Richie wouldn’t be able to evade all of these bullets or use his sword to redirect every single pellet.

Or so they thought.

They weren’t called Overcomers for nothing. Whatever the challenge, they would overcome. The moment the Richie heard the door opening, he knew he would die if things remained the same. It had been a very long time that he reached this level of danger.

Richie was so angry. He underestimated his enemies and he would have died. But this raging pride and the desire to live allowed him to reach what Seeker and his friends called the Unbecoming Proficient stage.

The sudden increase of his capabilities surprised Richie. He knew what to do if he needed to survive this surrounding barrage of bullets.

The moment he heard the door opened, Richie had already stepped back instinctively.

As if acting in synch with Charles' attack, everyone else were firing gunshots at the same time.

Richie frowned. Despite his new unlocked potential, he was still in a pinch. The bullets were traveling in a direction which anticipated his moves. Seeker had shot a bullet at his location. If he remained there he would deal with the shotgun pellets and Seeker’s attack.

Richie jumped headlong towards the incoming shotgun pellets. He used his sword and with a rotating sweep, he redirected the bullets that would meet him in the trajectory of his dive. The sweeping attack redirected the bullets and created a small gap which in the middle and allowed him to dive through the shotgun attack unscathed.

Charles was already backing away to ready his shotgun for another attack. Seeker was preparing his footing to kick the wall and maintain his aerial advantage.

As he landed on the ground he easily dodged the incoming bullets that were sent by Arthur and Cliff.

Richie’s speed was faster than ever. His adaption to his new speed was so disgusting that it made even the midair Seeker feel so frustrated at his own skills.

Richie swiped the last incoming bullet away and was one step closer to killing Charles. The last step was to deal with Seeker’s second gunshot.

He turned around to peek at Seeker’s attack readying his sword to swipe the bullet that he expected to be one foot away from him. But as he turned, no bullet could be seen. He quickly observed Seeker and noticed that Seeker’s second shot wasn’t aimed at him, but the door opposite of where Charles entered.

The shotgun pellets had shot through the middle of the door leaving a circle of bullet holes since Richie redirected the ones in the center of the shot radius. Seeker was executing a back dive as he shot the remaining parts of the door to complete this circle of holes.

Richie felt a chilling sensation on his spine. This was something new for an Overcomer. The smell of fear usually does not affect Overcomers. Even Seeker’s full-blown scent would have not been helpful.

The sensation Richie felt was simply, fear. True fear brought about by worries and uncertainty. His Perfect Prediction had always allowed him to be wary of any dangers. But somehow, when facing these group of kids, Richie felt uncertainty and even confusion. Even on the onset, Perfect Prediction did not work. His instincts kept telling him that these kids wouldn’t be a threat to him.

And his building fears came through. The circle of bullets had already weakened the integrity of the door and Seeker’s finishing touches were just enough for her to enter.

SMASH!

A figure smashed through the circular wreckage. It was a small girl who held a sword and a handgun.

She was using the hilt of her sword to break through the door and aimed her gun towards Richie.

She opened fire immediately. Seeker was falling towards the location where his sword was thrown to and Charles continued to keep his distance. Ready to shoot at Seeker's command.

Richie stood at the center dodging and slashing the attacks, it was then he noticed that the girl who just entered had thrown away her gun and ran towards Richie with a slashing attack.

Richie frowned. It was one thing for these kids to shoot him, but to challenge him in close combat?

Richie launched himself to meet the girl's slash. However, Seeker suddenly appeared on his peripheral vision. Seeker was holding his sword with both of his hands. His left hand continued to clutch the gun with his left forefinger on the trigger with the edge of his other fingers clutching the sword handle.

“A gun-blade huh?” Richie laughed as he recalled his younger days.

Seeker slashed and pulled the trigger at the same time. Meryl also slashed her sword to cut Richie’s head off.

Arthur stopped his rush and started shooting at Richie’s leg.

While all of these were happening, Seeker winked signaling Charles to prepare for his attack.

Richie immediately knew that staying in this position would lead to another shotgun attack.

Richie used the tip of his sword to push Meryl’s slash upwards allowing him to evade the slash as he jumped back to evade Arthur’s attacks on his legs.

Richie executed a mid-air twist to evade Seeker’s slash-and-shoot attack. Using the inertia of his thrust which redirected Meryl’s slash, he thrust his sword downwards as he turned towards Seeker.

Seeker tried to dodge the falling thrust, but he was too late. The thrust slashed downwards on Seeker's chest leaving a large wound. Seeker's ribs could even be seen.

Richie was confident that this was enough to make Seeker relatively weaker and unable to fight properly. Richie landed and he then set his eyes on Charles who was inside the room.

He moved carefully avoiding the gunshots and sprinted towards the inside of the room.

That’s when he noticed it.

A grenade was happily rolling towards the door of the room's entrance.

“Carlean…” Richie thought as he deduced that Seeker must have rolled this grenade discretely on the floor when he landed. The grenade rolled inside the room and was out of Richie's sight.

Seekers rushed attack was to redirect his attention. The rolling sound of the grenade which bumped on the nearby lamp and rolled back towards the entrance was not noticed by Richie. Never did Richie expect that this group would willingly put their life on the line by exposing themselves in the radius of a grenade's explosion. Seeker even deliberately allowed himself to be wounded to make Richie dive onwards and aim for Charles.

The grenade exploded. But instead of fire and shrapnel, what came out was a bright blinding light. It was a flashbang. This was once again, out of Richie’s calculation. Why would they blind themselves? It made more sense for them to use a grenade!

Richie failed close his eyes and was engulfed in the blinding sensation that the flashbang gave.

Richie had no time to be disoriented. He tried his best to make a decent landing and jumped to the side as a precaution in case his enemies would shoot through the open door.

As he dove and rolled on the floor, a painful stab was felt as a sword pierced through his right leg while in midair.

Meryl kept her eyes wide open during the explosion and rushed to stab through the wall and pierced through Richie’s leg on the other side of the wall.

With his right leg pierced mid-jump, Richie's immediately used his sword to stop the force of his jump by latching it on Meryl's sword.

As the rest of his body fell, Richie used his left hand to hold him up high as the slightest twist in his position could add more wounds to his pierced leg. His right hand was just about to stab through the wall when several gunshots were heard.

Richie's right arm was wounded and another bullet pierced through his palms.

The sword dropped on the floor.

“Give up, Richie.” Arthur ordered.

Richie continued to use his left arm to keep him up in midair.

"I can shoot your head anytime and Meryl can slice your leg too."

"Impressive. Did you calculate my position like your father? Is that girl your long lost sister?"

"Yes. And no. This is Meryl. She has a unique talent for being unaffected by bright lights."

Richie laughed.

"That's new. Oh well. I guess the younger generation has bested the older."

The door of the elevators opened once more. But instead of Gary the Aragarian, Alean walked out holding Gary’s head.

“Your boss is dead.” She calmly explained as she tossed Gary’s head into the room for Richie to see.

“Well… I guess I should stop trying to kill you. Lucky you.” Richie laughed.

 

Chapter Fifty-Five: Epilogue of Act One
Meryl unceremoniously pulled the sword out of the wall. Richie grunted as he fell down the floor. He sat upright and stared at everyone who entered the room.

Charles had already rushed towards Seeker’ to tend to his wounds.

“So this is why I never felt threatened by you. You kids never wanted to kill me. If anything, I feel that you…. value me.” Richie laughed.

“Yes. That’s exactly why Perfect Prediction failed you for the first time.” Arthur answered coldly.

“I get it. You value me. And you know my capabilities. Therefore, trying to kill me isn’t really killing me? So I can’t perceive the threat if you guys know that you can’t kill me.” Richie laughed.

“Yes. And that’s precisely why you failed. Our Commander had to sacrifice himself though.” Arthur shook his head.

“Change of plans guys.” Seeker struggled as he slowly walked into the room with Charles assisting him.

“Seeker? You alright? Your eyes look empty.” Alean noticed.

“I’ve cut off all senses except hearing. My brain overloaded in that fight back there. And I’m about to put myself in a forced coma.”

“What?!” The team asked in surprise.

“He sensed your entries at the windows and made the necessary preparations to make you and Charles enter at the most necessary moments. We neither had any prior plans nor communicated with each other yet we somehow managed to beat Richie. Seeker was obviously pushing his Realm Somatotopy to its limits. Your entrance, your very attacks, and how he set the stage of the battle was part of a meticulous plan.” Arthur explained.

“Thanks for the documentary Arty.” Seeker responded sarcastically. Charles positioned Seeker down on the floor.

“As you suspect Arty, I might have gone a bit over the Proficient level. Thankfully my brain’s physiology has already been changed which allows me to reach levels higher than what Lynd could reach.”

“So you’ll be alright?”

“No Meryl. I’ll just leave a few instructions and will force myself into a coma. You need to get the coolant liquid otherwise my brain will fry if I awaken.

The team looked grim.

“Enough of that grim face. I could hear your heart rate changing.” Seeker laughed.

“Richie. I bet you have a lot of questions but I won’t answer any of it.”

“Smart.” Arthur reacted softly.

“But you need to answer mine. Who are Gary Corners’s closest associates?”

“Gary Corners?” Alean gave a curious look.

“He’s an Aragarian. Seeker felt it when he pushed his Unlocking the moment he laid his eyes on Richie.” Arthur responded again.

“I’m a professional, kid. I don’t talk about the people who hire me.” Richie smiled.

“Fine then… Guys, push your unlocking to your highest capacity and get your weapons ready just in case.”

The entire team immediately went on full alert and readied their weapons.

“Using torture? How pathetic. As if death can make me squeal. You will kill me but don’t think I can’t give you hell even when I’m in this state.”

“This isn’t for them to kill or torture you but to protect me because of what you might do with what I’m about to say next.”

“Oh?” Richie had a curious look.

“Before I say it, know that I’m extremely frail right now and if your anger causes any… uncanny results I might go into an unwanted coma and you’d only have yourself to blame for losing it.” Seeker spoke strictly.

Richie’s now had a confused look.

“I know a way to beat Tyrant Empress.” Seeker spoke loud and clearly. He then braced himself for the pressure.

Richie sat down looking straight at Seeker. His confused look suddenly turned into an angry glare.

His face didn’t reveal a speck of this anger. But his eyes carried the entirety of his emotion.

“I’m listening.” Richie slowly spoke.

His voice was like a light breeze of air that paralyzed whoever heard it.

Arthur collapsed as he heard this voice. It was unlike the sensation that Seeker brought.

His mind went blank. His control over his senses weakened.

Alean, Charles, and Meryl were barely able to maintain their stand. Their guns and swords were held with shivering hands.

Seeker seemed like he was struggling with something. But he managed to withstand it.

“Still the short-tempered Richie eh? “ Seeker tried to bring out a smile.

“Try to kill Meng the Dragon. He has an ability similar to that of the Tyrant Empress. But his skills are also similar to yours. It’s just a difference in how you apply it.” Seeker finally managed to smile as he spoke. Sweat was pouring over his face. Even the wound on his chest didn’t make him fidget, but Richie’s voice penetrated deep into his hearts and clenched it.

“Skill?” Richie then asked once more.

The pressure slowly disappeared. Arthur came back to his senses while the three standing were gasping for air.

“What? Is it gone? Oh no. You haven’t mastered it yet. Maybe I shouldn’t have said what I said.” Seeker just had a panicked expression. Then his expression immediately turned into a mischievous smile.

“Oh… never mind. That could work too.” Seeker had a confusing worried look which then turned into a mischievous smile. Seeker took out his phone and began typing something.

"Arthur decode this and send this message to Richie in three days time."

For some odd reason, Richie had an even more confused look. He couldn't understand what Seeker was typing and due to the lack of senses, his Perfect Prediction couldn't pick up any information.

“Now, answer my question, Richie.” Seeker then laughed.

“Meng is not an easy guy to find. Even Arty’s father can’t bring him out of his cave.”

“Tell him Rosa says ‘hi’ and he’ll try to kill you.” Seeker laughed.

Richie maintained his deadly gaze. He sat there silently as a few seconds passed.

“Richie. I only have about 3 minutes left. Tell me who Gary’s associates are.”

“I’ll tell you if I can fight Meng.” Richie responded coldly.

“That’ll work too. Alright, guys. I don’t have much time left. So Arty, you’re in charge.

“What?” Meryl suddenly interjected with a surprised expression.

“Trust me, Meryl. Right now what you need is strategy and I don’t have time to explain things. Arthur takes charge of this team. I trust you can manage the upcoming battles?”

“No problem” Arthur nodded.

“My recovery process might take a bit of a time. I’ll try to break through and get a permanent seating in the Surmounting level and this could take weeks. So other than the obvious task, make sure to gather intel so that you can protect the Jews.”

“The Jews?” Charles was bewildered at this order.

Alean and Meryl looked at each other.

“I see. Of course. Why didn’t I think of that? Makes sense.”

“What?!” Meryl shouted in frustration.

“All my earnings from my streams, use it to buy a convertible. It should be just enough. Look for the ones with-”

“The ones with the best handling.” Arthur interrupted.

“That’s my Arty. Always quick on the uptake. If you’re confident, you can use it on the next battle. Lastly, things haven’t been going exactly as planned.” Seeker smirked.

“Oh. Whatever gave you that idea?” Charles remarked sarcastically. Almost every plan they had gone sideways thanks to unexpected situations.

“My mistake is that I was so fixed on events that I know of, that I never expected those happy revelations to cause things to escalate this quickly. But it was all worth it. When I’m out, I’m not sure what could happen. Killing those Aragarian’s might have caused a ripple of events that even I cannot foresee and you might fall into little surprises like when we met Richie here. So I don’t want you guys to make any regrets in the choices you make while I’m out. I can’t protect you all. So right now, fearing the future, I’ll just leave you with these tidings from the future.”

Seeker then faced Alean’s direction.

“Alean. You better take advantage of this freakin’ chance I’ve given you with Lynd. He might wake up sooner than I will so make the most of every moment. Use seduction if you must.”

“What do I need to do? How will this benefit his Unlocking?”

“His Unlocking? There’s nothing you can do to help him with that. Just do that to make him happier. Now, Meryl.”

“What? That’s it?” Alean complained.

“You’ll be in charge of training. I need you to build a special task force. Our special task force. Take only those who you can trust with your life. A few of the Programmed Slaves should do. Once Lynd is awake train together with him.”

Meryl was surprised.

“Me?” She voiced out hesitantly.

“No need to be surprised. Among all of you, Lynd was always first with you tailing a close second. So you’re the best person for the job.” Seeker commended.

“Arthur. You’ll be in charge of this group for a bit. So while I’m gone I’ll leave you with an important reminder.”

Arthur listened attentively.

“You know who the most important people in this team are. But for you, there is someone whom you should consider to be more important than the rest. I do not want you to have any regrets. You’ve had quite a lot in the future. So should the situation arise, protect Meryl at all cost. You don’t know it yet, but you will fall desperately in love with her.”

Everyone was shocked at Seeker’s statement.

“What?!” Meryl cried in surprise.

Arthur just wore a frown. He then started to look at Meryl.

“I don’t feel it yet,” Arthur responded.

“I know. Just trust me in this, Ok Arty? I might have altered the progression of your developing romance but knowing that you should be keeping her alive is important as it may help you reach World Champion. At least now you know what not to risk.”

Seeker then faced Charles.

“Charles, there’s something you should also know about your future love life. In a world without hope, you will need that love to be stronger. And so because I don’t want you to have any regrets… remember…” Seeker began.

Charles was listening attentively. Romance had never been Charles strong suit. His strings of relationships left him broken and confused. It was a series of betrayal that led him to his books, to the army and even to his now accomplished fame. But out of all the girls in his life, who would it be that would be the remaining joy in a dark world?

“Protect Ricardo at all cost.” With the crucial information passed, Seeker then forced his brain to shut down. Seeker’s eyes which were opened slowly closed as he entered his peaceful comatose state.

Charles looked at the feinted Seeker. He did not know what to do. Suddenly the urge to slap Seeker awake appeared and he lifted his hands.

“NO! Charles! Seeker’s already unconscious!” Meryl grappled Charles arm to prevent the downward bitch slap.

“WHO THE HELL IS RICARDO?!” Charles shouted in anger.

“I see. It all makes sense” Arthur seemed to understand.

“You know what he means?” Charles turned to Arthur. Arthur has been able to understand Seeker’s minimal instruction. Hope rekindled as Charles begged with his eyes on this ice cold being birthed for information.

“It makes sense. Your careful attention to your good looks, the modeling jobs you do, your perfectly smooth skin… You have latent homosexual tendencies.”

Agony, confusion, and fear crept into Charles' heart. Was this his end?

“Great. I just lost to a prophet of the future, some army Major who is about to get into some major pedophilia, two kids in puberty, and a potentially gay national treasure.” Richie laughed in the background.

“That’s why I love life. It’s things like this that makes you want to live for it.”

About an hour after the attack on Stormson Tower, the world was shocked at the events that occurred that day. The Malay-Pangean President was attacked on Australian soil and met the worst kind of opposition. The Australian government revealed it was done by an extremist military group which was tied with several international crime syndicates.

The Australian Secret Service pulled no stops in revealing their suspicions to stop a possible war between two countries. Gary Corner was one of the possible leaders behind to this syndicate and was even connected with Feltrick Ung-glaive’s organization.

President Colestar immediately addressed the nation and believed that it would be a terrible mistake to immediately begin a war.

“A Continental war is not the answer. We have all seen its dangers and the damage it creates. It leaves families desolate, our landscape changed and the very way of life altered. I urge the masses to not make hasty assumptions and not take any critical actions towards Australia. We must strive for peace and resolve this issue without causing massive deaths on both nations!” President Colestar announced with a grave expression. The entire Pangean Nations watched and observed this broadcast. But then a sudden twist occurred.

All major media station stopped broadcasting the address and started airing an emergency broadcast coming from the Military office of Harker Cipril.

“Citizens of the Pangean Nations! I come to you now in what is the darkest moment of our history since its founding alliance. I have discovered a malicious plot aimed to take over our nations!” Harker announced with terror in his eyes.

“Everything which you have witnessed these past days, the horrors of Feltrick Ung-Glaive’s organization were all linked to Australia. They have been using our country as a harvesting ground and even utilized one of our nations as its main base. This was done to shift international attention if ever their operations would be discovered.”

The world was shocked at the sudden development. The State of the Nation Address of President Colestar was cut short and a new broadcast was playing. The poor President was not aware of this development and failed to realize that the eyes of the world were no longer on him.

The media reporters present did not even inform the President of what had occurred. Station managers claimed that their system was hacked. And while many of the most prestigious reporters knew that the company had intentionally stopped airing the State of the Nation Address, they did nothing to inform the President or other government officials while the speech continued. They simply acted as was ordered of them.

“Early today, I had received reports of an attempt to kidnap Malay-Pangean President, Albert Hoross. Luckily, the Heroes Army was able to stop the plan. President Hoross who secretly went to Australia to show support to his son who is known as Lowengren were faced with assassins aiming to blackmail him or possibly kill him. The Stormson Tower were infiltrated with various military soldiers as you can see in this clip.”

Suddenly a video clip of the military surrounding the Stormson Tower was shown as several armed forces were entering the building.

“We managed to save the President who is now with my daughter, Major Alean Cipril. She also confirmed my suspicion. Gary Corner, President of L-Corp has been using his companies influence to support the human, sex, and organ trafficking operations are done in the Pangean Nations. Australia wanted to protect him. To bad. We have his head with us. Enjoy what remains of his body, Australia!” Harker spat in disgust.

The broadcast continued with most of the Pangean Nation getting enraged at what had been happening.

Harker then expressed his disgust at how the President is still pushing for peace when one of the Presidents of their nation had just escaped death. This was considered an act of war and should be reciprocated with war. The entire nation was reacting to this sudden news. Many were enraged and urged Harker to attack Australia immediately while others feared for their lives for a possible war that could destroy their very home.

As the world shattering news continued to broadcast creating forth a wave of unknown reactions, Arthur was already strapped in full military gear and was already explaining the plan of the attack. They used one of the home appliance factories which secretly belonged to General Cipril. Despite the loud sounds of the military equipment’s being built the none of its surrounding neighbors found it suspicious.

Arthur stared at the satellite images that were being displayed on a large screen and started to mumble numbers under his breath. Soldiers were moving back and forth in this building. Some carrying weapons, others tinkering with devices and others locked on their computers. Charles, Meryl, Alean, and Cliff stood in the background awaiting the orders of their new commander.

“So Act Two begins huh?” Charles sighed as he looked at the detailed maps produced on the screen.

“Act Two of New Game+. And Chapter One opens with a war.” Meryl gave a worried sigh.

“New Game+? Is this what Seeker called it?” Arthur asked.

Meryl just nodded at Arthur. She couldn’t maintain eye contact for even a second. Arthur however, had no problems to peer deep into Meryl’s face.

“You're not that bad. I guess it's alright.” Arthur mumbled carelessly while Meryl was blushing red.

“Alright Commander. I’ve told my soldiers that you are the acting leader now. How do you plan to act on this?”

“First, but me this convertible. I have decided we are ready to use this to attack the military base.”

“Well, you sound as crazy as Seeker. So I guess it’s a relief. " Charles laughed as he saw the image of the convertible in Arthur's smart device.

"Without Seeker… things are bound to get harder. I hope we all live through whatever hell awaits.”

“We can only hope, Doctor. For now, let’s hope that Seeker’s trust in me was well-placed. New Game+, Act Two, Chapter One: Arthur’s Acts, begins.”

 

Chapter Fifty-Six: A New Commanding Officer
Olax Industries took a large bulk of this block. It was a simple factory but had a dark secret. Harker Cipril used this as a base to hold every kidnapped child that his human trafficking business could manage. But what once was a simple ploy to hide a terrible secret was now transformed into a military base.

Deep inside the large warehouses of this buildings, weapons, rockets, and ammo were carefully placed in order as soldiers continued to gear up or tinker with new weapons.

“Have you met the new Colonel? I can’t believe that he’s in command!” A soldier asked his fellow platoon member.

“You don’t know who Colonel Arthur is? He’s kind of like a star in the gaming world!”

“Oh! So that’s why looked familiar!”

“Still… I couldn’t believe that he carried with him such a commanding aura.”

“Tell me about it! It felt like I couldn’t breathe!”

“Enough.”

“Lieutenant!” The two soldier saluted.

“I advise you to stop talking about Colonel Arthur. I just saw him questioning several Australian soldiers. He’s far scarier than that. I don’t want any trouble.” The Lieutenant could not help but sweat at the memory of what he just witnessed.

High up on the buildings top floor, several Australian soldiers were laying on the ground. What once was a simple office, was now transformed into a torture chamber. Blood and limbs were laid all around the room. Some of the Australian soldiers had several limbs missing while those with their bodies intact had a very traumatic look in their eyes. and somewhere even whimpering in tears.

Albert Hoross, the Malay-Pangean President stood in shock. But his shock wasn’t due to the site of Arthur torturing the soldiers and one particularly stubborn scientist. It was due to the revelation of Australia’s technology.

Human enhancement programs? EMP Satellite attacks? With these two things, the Pangean Nations do not stand a chance of winning if Australia declares a Continental War.

New Birth Fort was not just a military base; it was a national treasure. During the previous Continental War, Australia was at its last leg and was about to be conquered by the One South Asian army. After several pseudo-nuclear attacks that penetrated deep in their territory, most of Australia was turned into a heaping wasteland.

But on its last retreat, at their last stand, Australia decided to rename Sydney into New Birth City. A victorious declaration even on the brink of extinction. That was the start of their counter-attack. After several key battles, Australia was able to push back the enemies and even began their counter-attack.

At the aftermath of the Continental Wars, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea fell into a leaderless state and was later absorbed by Australia. Australia was then considered a superpower and the neighboring countries feared the powers of the nation’s surrounding them and this led to the unification of the three South-East Asian countries which is now known as the Pangean Nations.

With its new standing as a powerful nation, New Birth Fort later extended its borders and now it was a megalopolis with a huge chunk of its territory part of the city.

“This is crazy!” President Hoross sighed. He glanced at the torturer who didn’t seem afraid of their enemies.

“Alright. Now let me present to you what I think is our best option. This is only a draft plan and I cannot take command of the entire battalion. Lowengren. You have to take control of this army.”

Sabastian Hoross sat there with a panicking expression. He always had a cold and unwelcoming appearance but the very things that he just witnessed within the last few hours drove him to a very scared and nervous state.

“What?” Sebastian Hoross looked at the crazy declaration of Arthur.

“This is crazy. Why are you involving my son in this?” Albert Hoross voiced out.

“Because if there’s any hope for us to leave this country alive, then he has to hold command. I need to take part in this battle. My team is the only ones capable of killing those modified humans.”

“We had the chance to escape! But the planes and ships you sent didn’t have us aboard!” Albert roared in anger.

SLAM!

Arthur slammed a large sledgehammer on the ground. This was the same device used for torturing.

“I suggest you calm down. Keep in mind that you are not needed back in the country but this is where you are needed, Mr. President.” Arthur glared. A familiar pressure enveloped the room.

Cold sweat started to fill Albert’s back.

“That’s right! I am the President! General Harker falls under my-”

“General Harker is not the commander of this army. Our real General is out cold and right now, I am in charge. General Harker answers to me. And I won’t take no for an answer. War is on the horizon President. So it's better that we take the first strike rather than have them attack us. You will do the video shoot and Lowengren will become the commanding officer of this army.” Arthur declared coldly.

Albert and Sebastian could not even whimper in response as the bloodlust of Arthur made them shiver in place.

“Interesting pressure. Strong as Meryl.” Alean finally entered the room.

“Seeker?” Arthur asked.

“Stable. Meryl’s also started doing one session per squad. Though I cannot say how that will help. I doubt any of them will be unlocked after one session. Also, the training Meryl does is a lot weaker than Seeker's training. These soldiers can still stand and talk after each session. Seeker's would leave you in a state of shock." Alean shivered as she recalled Seeker's training.

“I’m making them go through that not to Unlock them but to have them experience a bit of hell before they dive into a real one.”

“Why?”

“The modified humans of Australia could be stronger than Seeker anticipated. Most of your soldiers will die. So they'll need to experience a little bit of what it means to fight against monsters like these. You have to steel your heart, Cepril. You yourself might even die.”

“It’s that bad?” Alean frowned.

“Yes. Seeker’s out of the count so invading and destroying this base will be impossible. We just need to draw the battle out and have someone sneak in while all the ruckus continues.”

“So the army will be the diversion while we sneak in?”

“No. The army will probably be dead too soon before we manage our objectives. We will be fighting alongside the army. Meryl will be tasked to get the coolant.”

“Is that wise?”

“If all things work out, then everything outside of that base will be more dangerous than the things inside it.”

"Haven't you just heard their report? Cybernetic humans and modified ones? EMP satellite blast? No matter what this is a lost battle!" Albert yelled angrily.

“It is. But it’s a necessary battle. We need to get our General and our strongest man bac. Alean, show the President and Lowengren Meryl’s training so that they can get a rough idea of what we can do.”

On the other side of the building, a battalion of soldiers presented themselves with their respective platoon. But with all the soldiers standing, there was silence.

Right in the middle of the wide hall was a room fortified with bulletproof concrete. The soldiers would be thrown into this room and try to wound a small timid Asian girl.

All the soldiers could see through the video feed was the image of the girl, which then would be followed by a blur of movements leaving all the soldiers down.

This girl carried a variety of weapons. Some even bigger than herself and would use these humongous weapons to attack and slash the soldiers who tried to use all their tactics to kill the girl. But it was pointless. The girl would easily sneak up on them and demolish their formation followed by what looked like a massacre. It was amazing how no one would be critically wounded or found dead at the heart-clenching attacks this girl would make.

The next three squads who was in line for a pre-battle training session was walking towards the room. All of them had petrified faces. The previous squads hadn’t even managed to scratch or graze Meryl. And all of them experienced hell inside.

As the platoon entered, Meryl did something totally different. She stood right in the middle of the room exposing herself.

“I’ll give you ten seconds. Try to kill me.” Meryl sweetly announced.

A heart clutching sensation gripped the soldiers who immediately reacted by reaching for their guns and aiming at Meryl.

Meryl sighed as the soldiers aimed their guns. Time was slower than ever.

Unbecoming Proficient was a totally new sensation for Meryl. Her reactions were more concrete. Her initial response when faced with guns, was to ensure that the nozzle wasn’t aimed at her. But now, she could evade bullets at a more efficient speed.

She waited for the soldiers to pull the trigger.

Three of the soldiers managed to reach for their guns and started shooting.

“My timings getting better.” Meryl smiled.

The moment she saw these soldiers were about to pull the trigger she moved her body immediately. The fast motions that Meryl made, gave the illusion that she was evading the bullets.

As more and more soldiers managed to start shooting, Meryl started to run around. Each of her strides made her leap several meters. Her speed, paired with her drastic movements allowed her to easily take down all the soldiers while giving them the maximum fear she could do.

Charles continued to observe Meryl from the camera feeds. Nearby were two pods holding two special bodies.

Charles had a monitor up which was typing down everything that Charles was saying.

“Each stage of the Unlocking seems to improve the overall physical capabilities of a person by over a hundred percent from its original form. The effect is extremely fast. Within a day of being Unlocked, the human body seems to be enhanced as well. Muscle density seems to improve as well over time.”

Charles then smashed his right hand with a small hammer.

SMASH!

Charles observed his right hand and saw a reddish spot.

“Third hammer test reveals astonishing results. The third test is dated three days after test two. In that short time, my muscle density has improved once more. I barely felt any pain with this strike. It looks like my overall body can endure up to four times of what a normal human being can endure. But training muscles are harder. No wonder Seeker still remained thin even though he eats and workout a lot. No significant muscle gains...”

Charles gazed back at Meryl’s screen.

The ten seconds were long over and the soldiers were being tossed and slammed like pieces of ragdolls.

Meryl slashed her sword towards the neck of one soldier. As the blade approached, Meryl quickly turned the blade so that the blunt side would hit the soldier. The speed was fast that all the soldier could see was a blade rushing towards his neck. So when he felt the hit, he could only conclude that the blade pierced through his neck.

The next sensation that he felt was being turned and tossed away like a piece of rag. The soldier fell on the floor and could only think of his home.

“Goodbye.” He cried in his thoughts.

“Next!” Meryl announced.

All the soldiers who were down the found themselves alive. They touched the vital parts which they thought Meryl attacked and was confused to find that it wasn’t wounded.

The team left the room groggy and confused. Others limping while others couldn’t stand and had to be assisted out of the room.

Albert was tongue-tied with what he saw. Sebastian's eyes were shining.

“What was that game? Piercing something? I guess you could say that we can do what the people in that Piercing game can do.” Alean laughed as he saw Sebastian’s expression.

“Of course, Meryl’s probably the strongest among us. Either that or Arthur is.”

Alean smiled but she was tightly clenching her fist. She knew she was at the very bottom in terms of strength in this team.

“And those two at Doctor Lindmitt’s office?” Sebastian could not help but ask.

“If any of them wake up, they should be stronger than all of us combined.”

Sebastian could not help but grin. Something sparked within him. He then witnessed Meryl carrying a large halberd and was using it to attack the soldiers. Meryl seemed to be recklessly thrusting the halberd but it would only cut through the clothes. Meryl would then pick up and toss these soldiers.

A once hopeless battle was now turning into a game that Lowengren was so desperate to play.

“Who are you? No! What are you? What inhuman creatures are you?” Albert stared in terror at Alean.

“Not Inhumans. Were just Unbecoming people.” Alean laughed.

 

Chapter Fifty-Seven: The Opening Salvo
The meeting was finally underway.

Several soldiers stood by. Sebastian was also among the participants along with a group of teenagers.

Right at the very center of the room stood Arthur and his team.

“Ladies and gentleman. Allow me to formally introduce myself and my team. I am Colonel Arthur Humphrey and next in command is Major Alean Cipril.”

Arthur carried a domineering pressure. The soldiers had already witnessed how this small teen tortured the Australian soldiers to get what he needed. They knew that this wasn’t a normal kid. And with Major Cipril bowing to his every whim, they knew that this was someone they should respect.

“You are all gathered here so that we can discuss the plans of our attack at New Fort Base.”

A hologram displays of the entire city appeared in the middle.

“Obviously, one brigade is not enough to conquer this city. Our mission is not to destroy this base but to infiltrate it. There is a key technology that we must retrieve. Once we accomplish that, our victory is secured.”

“The problem is, infiltrating this base is extremely hard to do so. The technology that defends it is not to be underestimated. We have received reports that Australia is now capable of creating an EMP satellite attack. Rendering most of our technologies useless.”

“Won’t that also be bad for them Major?” A Lieutenant Colonel inquired.

“We can’t be too sure. We must attack under the assumption that they have means to resist it.”

“That is why we will be taking part in this battle. I will also lead the attack along with Major Cipril, Doctor Charles, Cliff Fangwood and of course, Meryl Mikado.”

Meryl and Charles gave a slight nod while Cliff silently stood by observing everyone in the room.

The soldiers in the room gazed in surprise.

“This battle is a suicide mission. This is why my team will start the attack. Leading this army will be President Hoross’ own son, Sebastian Hoross or Lowengren as you may know him.”

The soldiers gave a confusing look at the set of teams.

“Lowengren, what are your plans.” Arthur immediately asked seriously.

The team leaders of Warfreakz was in the room. Each of them had a scared expression.

“We’ve discussed it in our team.” Lowengren began. Sweat continued to pour out on his back. It was his first time talking to such an elite group of warriors.

“The best way to infiltrate the enemy base is to create a massive distraction that will pull away a bulk of its forces leaving fewer obstacles for your team to face.”

“So an old-fashioned surprise attack?” Charles immediately asked.

“Well… No. We don’t want that. If we do that, the army will overwhelm us. What we need is to do, is make smaller bits of distractions. This will draw out either the police force or a few soldiers which we can overpower.”

“We maintain a level of discretion in our attacks and slowly build up as they continuously send more forces.” Arthur summarized.

“I see. So by the time they know that it’s an actual battle, they would have already lost too much and we would have established our foothold.”

“That’s right. That’s the first step.” Lowengren nodded.

“Create a distraction that would draw out the police and possibly the military. We also use the chaos to immediately secure key areas of the city. These places are marked on your individual files.” Alean started handing out small digital chips to the Lieutenant Colonels in the room.

“Distractions? Like what? Fire?” Meryl innocently suggested.

“Too small. Maybe a bomb threat will do.” Charles mumbled.

“Terrorist attacks?” Cliff immediately remarked.

“Public shootouts?” Charles joked.

“As we are deep in the Network of Australia, using comm systems would be dangerous. That is why some of you are tasked with setting up our own Comm Arrays. These must be completed as soon as possible. Until we can set those up and reconfigure the communication towers within the city, we cannot communicate with each other.” Arthur explained.

“After you complete your individual task, a ping will be sent out to all your devices which will tell you when you can freely use the comm systems. Commander Lowengren will then assign you your next task once we set up the communication array.”

“Sir! I question the credentials of our new Commander.” A soldier couldn’t help but interject. He knows what Alean and her team could do. But doubt was in the hearts of this new face.

“He’s the best general we have here. Don’t underestimate his skills just because he has been using it in games. At this point in time, we don’t need a proper commander but someone who can think outside the box.”

The soldiers stared at Lowengren and his team. Most of the soldiers knew who Lowengren was. War of the Generals was such a popular game that many in the army actually play the game.

“Lowengren and his team have been considered the best generals in the War of the Generals. And as you may know, some even use actual army General’s to tutor and guide teams while in other countries, real Generals play the game. Yet of all the names that could easily have reached the top, Lowengren is still considered to be the best in the game. So believe in your Commander. Colonel Arthur and I have also discussed the plans together with Lowengren and I can vouch for his skills.”

The soldier gave a quick look at his commander and immediately nodded.

“We’re in your hands, Commander.”

“You will receive further specific instructions once the comm system is set up. Dismissed.”

The soldiers slowly went out of the room and were looking grim as they were to set out what would possibly take away their humanity.

“Are you sure you want your team to be your assistants in this battle, Lowengren?” Arthur asked as he scanned by each member of the Warfreakz.

“They’re not ready.” Cliff softly spoke.

“They know my plans better than anyone else’s. If you trust in my skill, then having this hesitant team would still be better than any other soldier in this building.”

“Alright. Let’s get ready for battle. Warfreakz, please follow me upstairs for the last briefing session.” Arthur then signaled Meryl to follow as well.

Meryl followed obediently and went with Lowengren and his team.

“Where are they going?” Cliff asked as he watched the group walk out the door.

“What else? That last briefing must be a little scare tactic to get the Warfreakz's hearts in order. I pity them. The soldiers only had to deal with Meryl…” Charles shook his head.

“At least Seeker was gentle with girls. That Arthur really doesn’t show mercy.” Alean sighed.

Cliff then offered a silent prayer to the Warfreakz. Sounds of screams and terror filled the room above as Meryl and Arthur utilized every scare tactic they have. As the session continued, Arthur started reminding the group of Australia’s sin.

“I hope with this; you realize the weight of the Australian’s crimes. And if they were willing to do that, what more will they do to you? You live in a different world now. If you fail in this mission, you will all die. I can only hope that you won’t experience hell before you die.” Arthur strode out the door and threw the pickaxe towards one of the Warfreakz. The pickaxed was pinned on the wall and was not an inch further from this member’s face.

“Ummm… You better get ready. We’ll be heading out to proceed with the mission.” Meryl gave a respectful bow before leaving.

Meryl and Arthur soon reached the basement where several armored vehicles were parked. As it was in all places of the factory, soldiers were running around this area and many were configuring and adding more specific configurations to their car.

“Took you guys long enough.” Charles greeted.

“Is that the car?”

“Yes. As you ordered, a blue Marex Convertible. The engineers just finished tinkering with it. This could easily go three kilometers in ten seconds.” Alean opened the hood.

“It’s got the speed and the handling you requested. It can zoom in and out and with our perception, we could easily evade mortars and missiles.”

“I’m no expert. But I’m pretty sure that the engine of this car’s pretty flammable.” Charles worriedly pointed to the engine.

“It is. With the nitro device, any stray bullet could set this entire car on fire.” Arthur immediately jumped into the car.

“And we're using this?” Meryl gave a worried reply.

“Don’t worry. With the equipment’s I’ve prepared, this car will probably not get a single scratch on it.” Arthur then signaled for everyone to jump in.

“Does everybody understand each of your mission?” Arthur asked.

“Wait. I haven’t received any yet.”

“You’re with me.” Arthur then started driving out.

“Was it you who came up with that crazy plan?” Cliff asked.

“No. I explained what we needed and Lowengren immediately came up with it.”

“What a cruel man.”

“Not cruel. He’s just a gamer. He is approaching this war just as how I hoped he would. A gamer with no morals to bind him. Just victory in mind.”

Meryl had a worried look.

“What exactly is the plan?”

“I’ll tell you later.” Arthur immediately answered before anyone else could.

Alean and Charles had a complicated look on their faces.

Arthur drove out of the warehouse and zoomed towards the heart of the city.

Arthur continued to drive and dropped Alean, Cliff, and Charles in different parts of the city. Meryl continued to look in amazement at the sights of New Birth City.

She also wondered what it would look like by the time tomorrow arrives.

New Birth Memorial Park.

It was one of the biggest tourist spots in the entire nation. It was an outdoor park with lush green trees and shrubs and was a popular picnic spot for families to go and enjoy the day. The park was even more popular at night as the light show in that park would continue all evening to the break of dawn. It was because of this that it was a popular place for concerts to be held at.

Meryl could not help but admire the park. She looked in pain at the people who were here and was secretly apologizing for the war that they will bring.

“So what’s the plan?” Meryl finally got the nerve to ask. After Seeker’s revelation, Meryl found it extremely awkward to talk to Arthur.

Arthur kept quiet and took out a pair of the mask and tossed one to Meryl.

“Wear this.” Arthur then parked the car deep in the park’s parking grounds. He then grabbed his suitcase and started walking towards the center of the park.

The park had a huge crowd at a concert was currently underway. A barrier was set at the entrance where people would pay to enter.

“We're the opening salvo. It will be the first distraction that will get the media and the polices attention.” Arthur explained as they neared the concert grounds.

“But how? You or Lowengren didn’t explain what to do back then.”

"There was no need to. You already discussed the answers.”

Meryl was surprised.

“What? Which one? I remember us talking about a fire, then a bomb threat, a terrorist act, and Charles even said something about a shootout! Which one of those is the right one?”

“All of them.”

Meryl gasped in surprise.

“So what do we do? Start a fire? Or is it a bomb threat?”

“Lowengren’s already prepared for setting up bomb threats all throughout the city. And Charles and Cliff are out starting fires. But they will do so only after our act. If we start one fire after another, or one bomb threat after another, the military could get suspicious and send their forces immediately.”

“So what’s our opening act?”

Arthur then suddenly stopped walking. The security guarding the entrance gave a curious stare at the two masked teens. Arthur opened the suitcase.

“I kept quiet because I didn’t want to spend my time arguing with you on the way here. But this is the plan. If you do not follow my orders, we will lose Seeker and Lynd. So show me your resolve now.”

Arthur took out two sub-machine guns from the suitcase and tossed it to Meryl. Arthur quickly picked up the remaining guns in the case.

The guards were panicking at the sight of the guns. They started shouting and warning Arthur.

"Let's begin."

With that Arthur immediately unloaded a full magazine of bullets on to the guards at the gate and then suddenly started shooting everyone else in the vicinity.