《CODE: ZERO》


 Prologue

    In the dawn of time, humanity was blessed with extraordinary abilities known as "Tenzen." This power gave rise to the art of Sorcery, elevating humans to unprecedented heights of power and dominance over the earth''s creatures.


    For eons, humans lived in a world where sorcery was a part of everyday life. They used their powers to build, create and explore, wielding their powers to achieve greatness.


    However, a thousand years ago, things took a dark turn. Mysterious, non-human entities emerged, inhabiting the land and preying on humans.


    These creatures, dubbed "demons," sparked a brutal war between humans and the demonic forces, causing great destruction. However, despite their valiant efforts, human sorcerers suffered heavy losses, unable to counter the demons'' overwhelming might.


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    Then the unthinkable happened: the arrival of the demonic army''s archon, "The Great Aidra." He was unlike any demon humans had ever seen. This powerful demon king wreaked havoc on humanity, annihilating the largest continent and its inhabitants with a single attack.


    The aftermath was devastating: two-thirds of the human population perished, and 50,000 sorcerers vanished without a trace.


    The day of Aidra''s manifestation became the darkest in human history, and after that day, Aidra was never seen again.


    Five centuries after Aidra''s attack, humanity teetered on the brink of extinction. In response, sorcerers worldwide united to form the World Association of Sorcerers (WAS). This organization united sorcerers from all over the world, giving humans a fighting chance against their age-long enemies.


    With its headquarters in Berlin, Germany, and branches globally, humans began to fight back. A new era of hope dawned, promising an end to the carnage and torment.


    But despite the progress they''d made, lingering mysteries continued to haunt the minds of sorcerers: where was Aidra, the demon king? And what was the truth about the mysterious "Eschaton".

 Chapter 1: Beginning

    Thursday, 12th May, 1004AA


    The World Association of Sorcerers (WAS) has witnessed a revolutionary milestone: human sorcery has reached new heights. By integrating technology into sorcery, researchers are making groundbreaking discoveries daily, elevating the art of tenzen manipulation.


    As a result, sorcerers are now categorized into a hierarchical grading system:


    - 1st Grade sorcerers: The pinnacle of sorcerers, reserved for the strongest and most elite.


    - 2nd grade to 8th grade sorcerers: A tiered system recognizing sorcerers of varying skill levels.


    - 9th grade sorcerers: The least grade.


    Typically, most sorcerers embark on their journey as 8th-grade or 7th-grade. The ultimate aspiration for many is to attain the esteemed 2nd grade. However, the pinnacle of 1st grade is often considered an unattainable goal, with many believing it''s a realm reserved for the gods alone."


    Unfortunately, only the weakest of sorcerers end up in 9th grade. And, as fate would have it, one of them is Code Weber.


    Warsaw, Poland


    7:30 am


    In a dimly lit alley, Code Weber stood vigilant, scanning the shadows for potential threats. Having been robbed twice already that week, he couldn''t afford to lose what little he had left. As he waited for the coast to be clear, his gaze drifted toward the Warsaw skyline. The city''s lights twinkled like stars, casting a pale glow over the snow-covered rooftops. The distant hum of traffic and the occasional chime of a tram bell filled the air, a familiar symphony that accompanied his every move.


    Code took a deep breath, the cold air stinging his lungs. His legs ached, and his body felt weak from the endless struggles of living on the margins. His tattered clothes hung loosely on his frame, a testament to the harsh realities of his life.


    "Hey, if it isn''t Code Weber!" a voice called out from afar.


    Code''s eyes scanned the crowded streets, his name echoing in his mind. Codezener Weber, but everyone called him Code. He was just seventeen, and he was already well-known among the people, as he was the first person from Warsaw to achieve the infamous 9th grade. People respected him for that, since breaking records was no easy feat these days.


    A man approached him, clad in black armor with a 5th grade sorcerer badge emblazoned on it. He appeared to be in his 20s, with a well-groomed goatee and black hair that fell to his shoulders.


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    "Code Weber!" the man repeated, a hint of amusement in his voice.


    Code sighed, expecting another confrontation. "Look, I already told him I''d pay my debt. He should stop sending people," he said abruptly.


    But the man''s expression remained friendly. "Hahaha, I''m not here for that," he said, his eyes glinting with curiosity.


    Code eyed Ran skeptically, his expression a mix of doubt and curiosity. "I''m sorry," he said, his tone cautious.


    Ran''s smile never wavered. "It''s okay, Code. No need to apologize." He extended his hand, and Code shook it, his grip firm. "I''m Ran Cowell."


    Code''s eyes narrowed. "Ran Cowell? I''ve heard a lot about you. You''re that incredibly strong sorcerer everyone''s been talking about... So what brings you to my neck of the woods?" His tone was laced with a hint of sarcasm.


    Ran''s smile grew wider, but Code detected a flicker of nervousness behind his eyes. "Just making connections, Code," Ran said, his voice smooth.


    Code raised an eyebrow. "Connections, huh? What kind of connections?"


    Ran leaned in, his voice taking on a conspiratorial tone. "The kind that say you''re the go-to guy for dealing with... unusual problems." His eyes locked onto Code''s, intense.


    Code''s expression turned serious. "What do you mean, Ran?"


    Ran''s brow furrowed. "Lodz, the textile town southwest of Warsaw. We''ve detected some...unusual signals coming from there. Demonic signals, to be precise. The WAS chapter in Samumbasa has been monitoring the signals. They indicate a mid-class demon is present in Lodz. And we need a team of sixteen sorcerers to take care of it, but we''re one short. That''s where you come in, Code."


    Code''s eyes widened, his mind racing. "Demonic signals in Lodz?"


    Ran''s smile was thin. "Let''s just say it''s a problem that requires a specialized solution. And I think you''re the right person for the job."


    Code''s face was a mask of confusion, but Ran could see the gears turning in his mind. Finally, Code spoke up. "What''s in it for me?"


    Ran''s tone turned serious. "We''re willing to pay 1% of the mission''s profit."


    Code''s frown deepened. He didn''t like the idea of being paid so little for a mid-class mission.


    Ran noticed Code''s disappointment and smirked. "Look, I can always find someone else if you''re not satisfied. Did you really expect a 9th grade sorcerer like you to command a high price?" Ran laughed, his tone dripping with condescension.


    Code felt a sting from Ran''s words, but he knew he wasn''t in a position to negotiate. He needed the money, no matter how little. "You''re wasting my time. Make a decision quickly," Ran pressed, his tone harsh.


    Code sighed, resigned. "Alright Alright, I''ll take it."


    Ran burst into laughter."Tomorrow, 2pm at Lodz", he said quickly.


    His laughter echoed through the alley as he walked away, leaving Code to his thoughts. "A 9th grade sorcerer like me can''t command a high price," Code reflected, his eyes cast downward.


    But then, a glimmer of determination sparked in his eyes. "Well, at least I''ll make some money to survive for the next week," he thought, a hint of encouragement in his expression.


    The next day, Code Weber stood at the bustling Warsaw Central Station, his eyes scanning the departures board for the train to Lodz. He rummaged through his worn wallet, counting the few z?oty notes left inside. He had barely enough money to cover the train fare, let alone eat or afford any unexpected expenses. The mission with Ran Cowell was about to begin, and Code still wasn''t sure what to expect.


    As he waited for his train, Code''s mind wandered back to the events that led him here. The countless nights spent sleeping on the streets, the endless struggles to find work, and the humiliating encounters with those who looked down on him as a 9th grade sorcerer. It was a label that had become synonymous with failure, and nobody wanted to involve him in their missions. He was the sorcerer everyone avoided, the one nobody trusted with their lives.


    Code remembered the countless times he''d been rejected, the numerous guilds that had turned him down, and the few who had given him a chance only to regret it later. But Ran''s offer had given him a glimmer of hope - a chance to prove himself, to earn some real money, and to maybe, just maybe, turn his life around.


    As he boarded the train, Code found a seat by the window and gazed out at the cityscape giving way to rolling hills and countryside. The rhythmic clatter of the train''s wheels echoed through his mind, a reminder that he was leaving the familiarity of Warsaw behind. Lodz, a city shrouded in mystery and demonic signals, awaited him. Code''s stomach growled, a harsh reminder of his empty pockets and the uncertain journey ahead.


    With a deep breath, Code settled into his seat, trying to push aside his doubts and focus on the mission ahead. He had to succeed - for himself, for his future, and for the chance to prove that even a 9th grade sorcerer like him could make a difference.

 Chapter 2: Mission begins

    As Code stepped off the train, the crisp Lodz air enveloped him, carrying the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant hint of industrial smoke. He gazed around, taking in the unfamiliar sights and sounds of the city. The station''s architecture, a mix of old and new, seemed to whisper stories of a rich history.


    People bustled around him, hurrying to their destinations, while others waited patiently on the platform.


    Code''s attention turned back to the city. Despite its peaceful appearance, he sensed an undercurrent of tension. The demonic presence Ran had mentioned lingered, a subtle but unmistakable threat. Code''s hand instinctively went to the dagger sheathed at his waist, a habitual gesture born from years of living on the streets.


    With a deep breath, Code set off towards the station''s exit, his eyes scanning the surroundings, taking in every detail. He had a mission to complete, and he wasn''t going to let his guard down, not even in a seemingly peaceful town like Lodz.


    According to Ran''s instructions, Code was to meet him and the other fourteen sorcerers in front of the forest. Code had memorized the directions and made his way to the exit. As he walked out of the station, he hailed a taxi and gave the driver the directions.


    The taxi wound its way through the city streets, passing by rows of old buildings and quaint shops. As they left the city behind, the scenery shifted to rolling hills and dense forests. Code watched the trees go by, his mind focused on the mission ahead.


    After a 30-minute ride, the taxi dropped Code off in front of the forest. Code looked around, taking in the sight of the dense trees and the group of sorcerers already gathered. There were fifteen of them in total, each with their unique abilities and strengths.


    Code''s eyes scanned the group, searching for Ran. He spotted him standing off to the side, his eyes fixed intently on Code. Ran nodded curtly as Code approached.


    "Right on time," Ran said, his voice low and serious. "Let''s get started. We''ve got a lot of ground to cover."


    As Code approached the group, Ran nodded at him to join the circle. The other sorcerers turned to face him, their eyes sizing him up.


    "Alright, let''s get started," Ran said, his voice commanding attention. "We''ve got a diverse group here, each with their unique skills and strengths. Let''s introduce ourselves and discuss our plan of action."


    The sorcerers nodded in agreement, and Ran began the introductions.


    "I''m Ran Cowell, mission leader," he said, his eyes scanning the group. "I''ve got expertise in demonology and combat sorcery."


    Next to him stood a tall, imposing figure with piercing blue eyes.


    "I''m Kael Jensen," he rumbled, his deep voice commanding respect. "I specialize in elemental tenzen and tactical strategy."


    As the introductions continued around the circle, Code''s anxiety grew. He had no experience, no specialized skills, and no tenzen abilities to speak of. All he had was his trusty dagger, which he''d used to survive on the streets.


    When it was his turn, Code hesitated, feeling a surge of embarrassment.


    "I''m Code Weber," he muttered, trying to sound confident. "I... uh... I''m good with a dagger."


    The group''s reaction was polite but skeptical. Kael raised an eyebrow, while Ran''s expression remained neutral.


    "Alright, Code," Ran said, his voice firm but not unkind. "You''ll stick with me and follow my instructions. We''ll work together to get this done."


    Code nodded, feeling a mix of relief and gratitude. He knew he was in over his head, but he was determined to prove himself, even if it meant just being a useful sidekick.


    With the plan settled, the group began to prepare for their mission. The four sword users, including Kael, took their positions at the front, their blades at the ready.


    The sorcery users, meanwhile, gathered at the rear, their eyes gleaming with tenzen energy.


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    The healers took their positions at the center, their hands glowing with gentle, soothing light. Code stood awkwardly among the healers, feeling like an outcast. The other sorcerers and sword users cast him sideways glances, their expressions ranging from disdain to pity.


    "You''re just a liability," one of the sword users muttered, loud enough for Code to hear. "What are you even doing here?"


    Code''s face burned with shame and anger. He''d expected as much from the others, but it still stung.


    Elara, the healer, placed a gentle hand on Code''s arm, her eyes flashing with kindness.


    " Ignore them, Code," she whispered. "We''re a team, and we need everyone''s unique skills. You have a role to play here, even if it''s not on the front lines."


    Code nodded, feeling a small sense of gratitude towards Elara. But the sting of the others'' words lingered, and he couldn''t shake the feeling that he didn''t belong.


    As they stood at the edge of the forest, the group took a deep breath, mentally preparing themselves for what lay ahead. With a nod from Ran, they stepped into the forest, their formation unwavering.


    The trees seemed to close in around them, casting long, ominous shadows on the ground. The group''s footsteps were the only sound that broke the silence, the rustling of leaves and snapping of twigs underfoot filling the air.


    As they ventured deeper into the forest, the canopy overhead grew thicker, casting the group in a emerald green gloom. The air was heavy with the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves. The rustling of leaves and snapping of twigs underfoot were the only sounds that broke the silence.


    The group''s formation remained tight, with the sword users leading the way, their blades at the ready. The sorcerers followed closely, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of danger. The healers, including Elara, stayed at the center, their hands glowing with soft, white light.


    Code walked alongside Elara, his eyes darting nervously between the trees. He felt a growing sense of unease, as if they were being watched by unseen eyes. He glanced up at the canopy above, but the leaves seemed to absorb the sunlight, casting the forest floor in an eerie, emerald gloom.


    As they walked, the trees seemed to grow taller and closer, blocking out the sky. The group''s sense of unease grew, their senses on high alert.


    The group walked deeper and deeper into the forest, the trees growing taller and the underbrush thicker with every step. But despite their expectations, they saw no signs of demonic activity - no twisted vegetation, no eerie glowing eyes, no faint scent of brimstone. The only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the snapping of twigs underfoot.


    The sorcerers exchanged uneasy glances, their faces reflecting their growing concern. Ran''s eyes scanned the surroundings, his mind racing with possibilities. He checked the map and the coordinates the WAS had provided, wondering if they had misinterpreted the data. But no, they were definitely in the right location.


    Elara frowned, her eyes darting between the trees.


    "This doesn''t feel right," she whispered. "We should have seen some sign of demonic activity by now."


    Kael, one of the sword users, nodded in agreement.


    "Maybe the WAS made a mistake?" he suggested.


    Ran shook his head.


    "The WAS doesn''t make mistakes," he said firmly. "If they detected demonic signals here, then there''s something demonic here."


    Code, who had been quiet until now, spoke up.


    "Maybe it''s hiding?" he suggested.


    Ran turned to him, his expression thoughtful.


    "That''s possible," he said. "But we need to be careful. If it''s hiding, it could be waiting for us to let our guard down."


    The group nodded, their faces set with determination. They knew they had to be vigilant, no matter what.


    The group trudged on, their footsteps quiet on the forest floor. The sun''s rays filtered through the trees, casting long shadows that stretched and twisted in the fading light. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the earthy smell of decaying leaves.


    As the group walked, their faces grew increasingly tired. The 6th grade sorcerer, Lyra, spoke up again, her voice laced with concern.


    "Are you sure this is the place?" she asked, her eyes scanning the surroundings.


    Ran''s expression was grim.


    "I am sure it is," he replied. "WAS doesn''t make mistakes."


    Lyra sighed, her brow furrowed with worry.


    "But how come we haven''t encountered anything yet?" she pressed.


    Ran''s jaw clenched.


    "It might be hiding," he said, his voice firm. "Let''s keep going."


    Code''s gut twisted with unease. He had a bad feeling, one that he couldn''t shake. It was like the feeling he got when he was about to be robbed, but this was worse. His intuition was screaming at him to turn back, but he didn''t want to appear cowardly in front of the others.


    So he kept quiet, his eyes scanning the surroundings with growing unease. The forest seemed to be growing darker, the shadows deepening into ominous pools. Code''s heart pounded in his chest, his senses on high alert.


    Something was off. He just knew it.


    The group''s murmurs and complaints grew louder, their frustration and fatigue boiling over. Dane, a 7th grade sorcerer, shouted from the back, his anger and desperation evident.


    "I don''t think I can go further!" he exclaimed.


    Elara quickly turned to face him, her expression worried.


    "Why don''t we go a little further?" she suggested. "We might just find it there."


    But the sorcerer next to Dane retorted, his voice laced with fear and frustration.


    "What?! I''m not going further! It''s already sunset!" he screamed.


    Code felt torn, his mind racing with conflicting emotions. A part of him wanted to turn back, to abandon the mission and return to the safety of their base. But another part of him urged him to press on, to see the mission through to its end.


    As the group''s argument escalated, Ran raised his hand, his voice cutting through the chaos.


    "I sense it," he said, his eyes gleaming with intensity. "It''s close."


    The group''s bickering ceased, their attention snapping back to Ran. His words were like a spark of electricity, sending a jolt of excitement and anticipation through the group.


    "It''s close," Ran repeated, his voice low and urgent.


    The group''s faces set with determination, their fatigue and frustration forgotten in the face of their mission. All except Code, whose sense of unease only deepened. He knew something was wrong, but he couldn''t quite put his finger on what it was.


    As they crept closer, the air grew thick with an eerie, unsettling energy. The group''s hearts pounded in unison, their senses on high alert. Ran''s hand shot up, signaling for them to halt. He turned to face them, his eyes blazing with intensity.


    "Beyond this point, it''s there," he whispered, his voice barely audible.


    The group exchanged tense glances, their faces set with determination. Code''s eyes darted wildly, his mind racing with fear. He took a series of deep gulps, trying to calm his racing heart.


    Ran''s voice cut through the silence, his tone low and commanding.


    "Let''s move."


    The group sprang into action, falling into their pre-assigned positions. They moved forward with caution, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of danger.


    But as they emerged from the trees, they were met with a sight that left them all breathless. The forest gave way to a vast, open plain. And in the center of that plain stood a colossal castle, its towers reaching toward the sky like giant''s fists.


    A collective gasp echoed through the group, their minds reeling with shock and fear. What was a castle doing here, deep in the heart of the forest? The question hung in the air, unanswered.


    Code''s eyes were fixed on the castle, his heart racing with a mix of fear and curiosity. Something didn''t feel right. This wasn''t what they had expected. Where was the demon? And what was the significance of this mysterious castle?

 Chapter 3: The Demon

    The group stood frozen, their eyes fixed on the strange castle. The silence was oppressive, punctuated only by Ran''s nervous clearing of his throat. He was shivering, fear etched on his face.


    "What was a castle doing here?" Ran wondered aloud, his voice barely above a whisper. He steeled himself, trying to shake off the fear. "We have to complete the mission. I still sense the demon, it''s close by."


    The sorcerer next to Dane spoke up, his voice trembling. "Are you crazy? That thing is beyond us!"


    Ran hesitated, his eyes darting nervously. "I know, but the mission''s important."


    The sorcerer''s face twisted in fear. "Not as important as our lives! You''re crazy to think we can take on something like this. I''m out of here!" He turned to leave, but before he could take a step, a dark, eerie energy enveloped him.


    The air seemed to vibrate with an otherworldly energy, and the sorcerer''s body began to contort and twist. His screams were cut short as his head suddenly erupted in a blast of blood and gore, showering the surrounding area with fragments of flesh and bone.


    The group stared in horror, their minds reeling from the sheer brutality of the sorcerer''s demise. The castle loomed before them, its walls seeming to mock them with their silence.


    The group''s screams echoed through the air as they stumbled backward, horrified by the sudden and gruesome demise of their companion. Ran''s eyes widened in shock, his mind struggling to process what had just happened.


    "Wh-what was that?" Elara stuttered, her voice trembling with fear.


    Ran''s gaze darted wildly, searching for any sign of the demon. "I don''t know, but we need to get out of here, NOW!" he yelled, grabbing Code''s arm and pulling him toward the trees.


    But it was too late. A dark, ominous presence began to materialize before them, its aura radiating an unspeakable malevolence. The air grew colder, the shadows deepening as the demon''s power washed over them.


    "We''re trapped," Dane whispered, his eyes fixed on the emerging horror.


    Ran''s grip on Code''s arm tightened. "We have to fight," he growled, steeling himself for the battle ahead.


    The demon finally materialized before them, its presence both mesmerizing and terrifying. Ran and the group knew at once that they were facing something far more sinister than a mid-class demon.


    In the modern era, demons were classified into distinct levels: low-class, mid-class, upper-class, special class, and special disorders. The creature standing before them was unmistakably a special class demon. Its presence was intoxicating yet toxic, making the air feel heavy and oppressive.


    The demon''s physical appearance was just as daunting. Two curved horns protruded from its forehead, while its teeth seemed sharp enough to grind steel. Ran''s mind racing with the implications, he couldn''t help but wonder if the WAS had made a catastrophic mistake. The cost of underestimating this demon could be disastrous.


    The air was electric with tension as the sorcerers faced off against the demon. The demon''s eyes seemed to gleam with malevolent intent, and then, its face twisted into a grotesque grin. The grin was a horror to behold, its lips curling upward in a cruel, inhuman smile that seemed to stretch across its face like a gash.


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    The group''s hearts sank as they beheld the demon''s grin. It was a grin that seemed to say, "I will enjoy killing you." Ran''s voice was steady, but his eyes betrayed a flicker of fear. "Let''s do this," he said, his voice low and even.


    Teno and Soudra, the sword users, charged forward in perfect sync. Their blades flashed in the dim light, striking the demon with precision and deadly force. Soudra''s sword sliced through the air, aiming for the demon''s neck, while Teno''s blade thrust upward, targeting its chest. The demon parried their blows with ease, its massive arms swinging in wide arcs, but the sword users dodged and weaved, avoiding its counterattacks with agility.


    Elara''s sorcery wove a complex web of illusions around the demon''s head, confusing and disorienting it. She conjured images of writhing snakes and burning flames, making it stumble and lose its footing. Code, however, stood frozen, his eyes wide with fear. He had been tasked with providing elemental support through his fighting skills, but his mind was a blank, his concentration shattered by fear.


    Ran''s voice grew more confident, his commands more decisive. "Elara, maintain the illusions! Teno, Soudra, press the attack!" The demon stumbled backward, its defenses weakening, and for a moment, it seemed as though the sorcerers would emerge victorious.


    But in an instant, everything changed.


    The demon''s eyes flashed with fury, and it lunged forward with a speed that belied its size. Its massive fist hurtled toward Kael, who barely had time to raise his hands in a futile attempt to defend himself.


    Time seemed to slow as the demon''s blow connected with a sickening crunch. Kael''s body jerked backward, his eyes wide with shock and terror. His scream was cut short, his voice trapped in his throat as his lungs collapsed.


    The group watched in horror as Kael''s body began to crumple, his legs buckling beneath him. The demon''s fist had torn through his abdomen, leaving a gaping wound that seemed to pulse with a life of its own. Blood and gore burst forth from the wound, splattering the surrounding area with a gruesome, crimson rain.


    Ran''s voice was the first to break the stunned silence, his cry of rage and grief echoing through the air. "NOOO!" He rushed forward, his sword flashing in the dim light, but it was too late. Kael''s body hit the ground with a lifeless thud, his eyes frozen in a permanent stare of terror.


    The group''s world seemed to shatter in that moment, their confidence and determination crumbling alongside Kael''s lifeless body. They were faced with the harsh reality of their own mortality, and the crushing weight of their foe''s power.


    Ran''s rage boiled over like a cauldron, his eyes blazing with fury as he gazed upon Kael''s lifeless body. His best friend, his brother in arms, lay slaughtered before him. The demon''s grin seemed to sear itself into Ran''s mind, fueling his anger.


    With a battle cry that shook the air, Ran charged forward, his sword flashing in the dim light. "I''LL KILL YOU!" he screamed, his voice hoarse with emotion. Elara''s voice pierced the air, "Everyone, support him!" The group sprang back into action, their sorcery and steel weaving a complex web of attacks.


    Code, shaken from his stupor, darted towards the demon with his dagger unsheathed. Teno and Soudra also darted forward, their swords slicing through the air with deadly precision.


    Ran, fueled by his rage, launched himself at the demon with reckless abandon. He wasn''t thinking straight, his mind consumed by a singular desire: to kill the demon. The demon, sensing its chance, hurled its massive fist toward Ran, intent on crushing him beneath its immense power.


    Ran, with a skill born of desperation, dodged the blow by a hair''s breadth. He leapt into the air, soaring over the demon''s head to strike from behind. As he spun through the air, his sword flashing in the dim light, the group held its collective breath.


    This was it, the final blow. Ran''s spinning slash would sever the demon''s head from its shoulders, ending the battle in an instant. But in that fleeting moment, the demon seemed to sense Ran''s intentions. With an unnatural speed, it twisted its body, its fist connecting with Ran''s in a gruesome, bone-shattering impact.


    Ran''s body exploded in a shower of blood and gore, his limbs torn asunder by the demon''s devastating blow. The group''s triumphant cry died on their lips as they stared in horror at Ran''s lifeless body, his sword slipping from his grasp to fall to the ground with a mournful clang.


    "It''s over," someone whispered, trembling in fear. The Arabian sorcerer next to Code suddenly screamed, "Allahu Akbar!" as he turned to flee. He knew that standing his ground meant instant death, but his attempt to escape was futile.


    The demon''s gaze fell upon the fleeing sorcerer, and with a swift swipe of its massive arm, it struck him down. The sorcerer''s body crumpled to the ground, his cry of faith silenced forever. The group watched in horror as the demon''s rampage continued unabated.


    The carnage was absolute. Code shivered in terror, his eyes fixed on the lifeless bodies of his teammates. The brutality of the scene was something he had never witnessed before. Fear gripped his heart, and he yearned to flee, but he knew it would be a futile attempt.


    The demon, seemingly unsated, began to close in on the remaining twelve. Panic set in, and the group scattered in all directions, desperate to escape the slaughter. But there was nowhere to hide. The castle loomed before them, but the fear of meeting the same gruesome fate as their fallen comrades kept them at bay.


    As the demon drew nearer, the group''s desperation grew. "Arrrgh! I have a wife and children. I can''t die here!" Dane cried out, his voice laced with despair. With a surge of adrenaline, he charged toward the demon, hoping against hope that he could somehow make a difference.


    But it was too late. The demon raised its massive foot and brought it down on Dane, crushing him beneath its weight. The sound of his body being pummeled was a sickening crunch that echoed through the air.


    One by one, the demon hunted down the remaining members of the group, its relentless onslaught unstoppable. Code and Elara were among the last four standing, their hearts heavy with grief and their spirits crushed by the hopelessness of their situation.

 Chapter 4: The Masked Man

    Code''s ragged breathing was the only sound that broke the oppressive silence of the forest. He lay there, his body battered and bruised, his mind reeling from the events that had just transpired. Ran''s fallen form was etched into his mind like a scar, refusing to be erased.


    Nearby, Elara, Peter, and Lyra stood frozen, their faces etched with shock and grief. Elara''s eyes, usually bright with determination, seemed dull and lifeless, her gaze fixed on Ran''s still form. Peter''s jaw was clenched, his fists clenched at his sides, while Lyra''s eyes welled up with tears.


    The demon''s presence still lingered, its malevolent energy seeping into the air like a chill. Code''s instincts screamed at him to get up, to keep moving, but his body felt heavy, unresponsive. The weight of their situation settled upon him, and Code knew they couldn''t stay there for long.


    The demon''s gaze fell upon the remaining four, its eyes blazing with an otherworldly hunger. Peter''s whispered words hung in the air like a death sentence: ''It''s over.'' In a desperate bid to escape the agony, Peter made a futile charge at the demon.


    The demon''s massive foot came crashing down, crushing Peter''s fragile form beneath its weight. Lyra''s anguished scream tore through the forest, shattering the silence like a broken promise: ''No...no! I don''t want to die!'' Code''s heart shattered alongside Lyra''s, his mind reeling in horror as he watched his friend meet a gruesome end.


    Paralyzed by fear, Code couldn''t move, couldn''t breathe. He was trapped between Elara''s trembling form and Lyra''s despairing sobs, unable to summon the courage to act. The demon began its slow, deliberate approach, its twisted grin seeming to grow wider with each step.


    Code''s eyes locked onto the demon''s, his heart racing with terror. The demon''s massive fist hurtled towards him, and Code dodged by mere inches, his heart skipping a beat. But his left hand wasn''t so lucky. The demon''s punch ripped it from his body, leaving Code screaming in agony.


    Elara''s horrified cry echoed through the forest, ''Code!'' Her voice was a distant memory, a fleeting glimpse of a life left behind. But Code knew he was beyond saving. The demon''s foot came crashing down, pinning his legs beneath its weight.


    As Code struggled to free himself, his thoughts dissolved into chaos. His mind was a maelstrom of pain, fear, and despair. ''I tried so hard...I wanted to live...to smile...to love...but it''s all being ripped away from me.'' Tears streamed down his face as he thought of all the things he''d never experience, all the memories he''d never make.


    In a fleeting moment of clarity, Code''s gaze met Elara''s, and he saw his own despair reflected back at him. He wanted to reach out, to comfort her, to tell her it would be okay. But it was too late. The demon''s shadow loomed over him, a dark specter of death.


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    As the darkness closed in, Code felt a strange sense of calm wash over him. It was as if he''d finally found a sense of peace, a sense of release. His eyes drifted shut, and his voice barely whispered: ''I''m sorry...I''m so sorry...''


    In that instant, the demon raised its foot, ready to crush Code. But just as all hope seemed lost, a voice pierced the air, "Tell them that when you get out of here."


    Code''s eyes snapped towards the source of the sound, and his jaw dropped in shock. A masked man, dressed in a black hoodie and trousers, with white hair tied in a knot, stood beside him. What was even more astonishing was that the man had caught the demon''s foot in mid-air, holding it back with his raised left leg.


    The man turned to Code, his tone indifferent, "Arrrgh, good griefs. I didn''t expect a special rank to show up here." Code''s mind reeled as he struggled to comprehend the situation. Where had this man come from? How had he sneaked up on them without anyone noticing?


    The masked man turned back to face the demon, his expression unreadable. "This shouldn''t take long." The demon recoiled, its eyes blazing with fury. It launched a massive fist at the masked man, unleashing a devastating blast of energy that tore through the trees.


    Code''s heart skipped a beat as he watched, frozen in terror. He wanted to scream at the man to get away, but his voice was trapped in his throat. The demon''s fist hurtled towards the masked man, and Code felt a sense of dread wash over him.


    But instead of impact, there was a strange, anticlimactic silence. The masked man stood firm, his eyes fixed intently on the demon. Then, in an instant, the surroundings erupted into chaos. The demon''s fist blew apart, sending debris flying everywhere. Elara and Lyra were knocked off their feet, sent tumbling through the air.


    Code''s ears rang from the explosion, and his vision blurred. When his senses cleared, he stared in awe at the sight before him. The demon had a gaping hole through its belly, and the masked man stood calmly beside it, unaffected.


    Code''s eyes widened as he struggled to comprehend the impossible. "How did...?" he stuttered, but the words died on his lips. The demon began to regenerate, its wounds healing at an alarming rate.


    The masked man watched the demon with an air of detachment, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "You really don''t know when to back down, do ya?" He cracked his knuckles, a cold glint in his eye. "Let me teach you true power."


    With a swift motion, the masked man stretched his right leg and right palm forward, assuming a strange stance. He inhaled deeply, then exhaled slowly, his voice low and mysterious. "Particle style..."


    The air around the masked man''s palm began to distort, as if reality itself was bending to his will. A brilliant light erupted from his palm, illuminating the dark forest.


    "Hand of God!" the masked man declared, his voice ringing through the air like thunder. With a burst of speed that defied human limits, the masked man dashed towards the demon at an otherworldly velocity, leaving behind a trail of distorted air.


    In the blink of an eye, the masked man closed the distance between himself and the demon. With a swift, precise motion, he struck the demon''s torso with his glowing palm.


    The impact was immense, releasing a shockwave that sent Code stumbling backward. The ground shook beneath his feet, and the air was filled with the sound of splintering trees and crumbling rocks. The demon''s body exploded in a blast of energy, its very existence erased from reality.


    A massive crater formed where the demon once stood, its edges smoldering with intense heat. The surrounding trees were reduced to splintered stumps, their branches shattered and broken. The air was filled with the acrid smell of smoke and ozone, and the sound of crackling energy still lingered in the air.


    Code''s mind reeled as he struggled to comprehend the sheer scale of the masked man''s power. Who was this mysterious figure, and how had he managed to defeat a demon that a team of sixteen sorcerers couldn''t handle?


    Code started feeling dizzy, his head throbbing with intense pain. "How?...", he whispered, and collapsed.


    "Yare...yare. Looks like I used too much", the masked man said, turning to face Code, a hint of concern flickering across his expression.

 Chapter 5: ZERO

    WAS chapter, Central Europe, Samumbasa province


    The office was well-furnished, with a leather chair and a table positioned in the center of the room. Flower pots adorned the space, adding a touch of elegance. A man sat in the chair, his head bowed on the table.


    "Knock, knock," a voice said, followed by two knocks on the door.


    "Come in," the man replied, but before he could finish, a heavily built man barged in, his face red with anger. He stood at least 6''5" with a muscular build that seemed chiseled from granite. His broad shoulders strained against the seams of his expensive black round-neck shirt, while his bulging biceps and triceps threatened to rip through the fabric. His chest was a deep, chiseled slab of muscle, and his washboard abs were visible even under his clothes. His blue trousers clung tightly to his tree-trunk thighs, accentuating his imposing physique.


    The man sitting in the chair raised his head quickly, amazed. "Zoldrak! How many times do I have to tell you to wait for permission before entering?"


    Zoldrak stared at the man, his eyes burning with anger. "What happened at Lodz yesterday?" he demanded.


    The man sighed. "Immediately I heard the news, I knew you''d be the first person to barge in here."


    Zoldrak''s expression didn''t change. "Answer me...what happened yesterday?"


    The man''s face remained indifferent. "It was a false signal. The readings we got told us a mid-class demon was present, but it was wrong. Maybe the tenzometer is faulty."


    Zoldrak''s anger seemed to intensify. "You know I didn''t come all the way from London just to hear stories from you."


    The man''s tone turned serious. "You''re here because of him."


    Zoldrak''s eyes narrowed. "He mustn''t get there first."


    The man nodded. "We''ve got it covered. A team of sorcerers has been sent to retrieve all witnesses."


    Zoldrak crunched his fist, an ominous aura of envy surrounding him. "I hate that masked fool so much." The air was electric with tension, as Zoldrak stormed out of the room.


    Lodz outskirts, Poland, Early dawn, 1004AA


    Dawn broke over the forest, casting a warm glow over the trees. The sun rose slowly, illuminating the landscape and casting long shadows across the forest floor. A cool breeze rustled through the leaves, carrying the sweet scent of blooming flowers.


    Code lay on the forest floor, his body patched with bandages and scars. He was asleep, but his restless movements betrayed the pain he was in. The cool breeze seemed to bring him some comfort, and he stirred slowly, opening his eyes to the bright sunlight.


    Code shielded his eyes from the light, wincing in pain. As he sat up, he noticed a figure in the distance, digging a hole with a shovel. His curiosity got the better of him, and he slowly stood up, testing his legs.


    The figure, sensing Code''s presence, turned around quickly. Code''s eyes widened in surprise as he took in the masked man''s familiar figure.


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    The masked man stopped digging and turned to face Code. "Oh, you''re alive," he said, scratching the back of his head. "I honestly thought you were dead."


    Code stared at the masked man, still trying to process what was happening. "Uh...yes," he replied, his voice shaking slightly.


    The masked man chuckled. "I was preparing a proper burial for you. You know, a fitting sendoff."


    Code''s eyes narrowed as he walked towards the hole. "A burial?" he repeated, his voice rising in alarm. "What the hell is this?"


    The hole was massive, covering an area of at least 10 meters in diameter. Code''s mind recoiled in horror as he realized the masked man had been preparing to bury him alive.


    The masked man laughed, a cold, mirthless sound. "I just wanted to create a befitting burial. You know, something to honor your memory."


    Code''s eyes locked onto the masked man, his mind racing with questions. "Dude, didn''t you see that I was breathing?" he demanded, trying to keep his tone even.


    The masked man shrugged. "Oh, that''s right. I guess I should have checked that. Hahaha."


    Code''s skin crawled as he realized the masked man had been willing to bury him alive. He took a step back, his eyes never leaving the masked man''s face.


    "This guy''s crazy," Code thought, a shiver running down his spine.


    "I''m Vander...Ackerman, but you can call me Van," the man said, stretching his hand to Code.


    Code''s eyes widened in surprise. "Van Ackerman!" he exclaimed, his voice shaking slightly. He shook his head in disbelief, slowly stretching his hand forward.


    "Vander the masked slayer," Code continued, his face aglow with amazement. "I''ve heard of you. You''re the sorcerer who attained 1st grade in three years, defying human limits. And you brought down a demon monarch."


    Van chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I''m surprised I''m so famous," he said, his tone laced with humor.


    Code''s gaze never left Van''s face. "However, I think there''s been a mistake," Van said, his tone turning serious. "I''m not a sorcerer...I''m a god."


    Code''s eyes widened further, his mind struggling to comprehend the revelation. "Uh, yes," he replied, still trying to process the information.


    Van''s gaze turned piercing. "Most importantly, aren''t you surprised that your legs and hands are intact? I mean, you were literally butchered yesterday."


    Code''s eyes dropped to his body, and he felt a jolt of surprise. His injuries were gone, replaced by smooth, unblemished skin. "What did you do?" he asked, his voice laced with confusion.


    Van''s expression turned thoughtful. "I didn''t do anything, Code. At least, not directly. However, I did sense something off about you. Code, you''re possessed."


    Code''s laughter was instantaneous, but he quickly suppressed it, wincing in pain. "Don''t make me laugh, my ribs are killing me."


    "Yeah, I''d say that too, but Code, I''m dead serious right now. You know the story of the Greek vermin, don''t you?" Van asked, his eyes intense and his voice low.


    Code nodded slowly, recollecting the story. 209 years after the Aidra incident, a mysterious entity known as the "Greek Devourer" ravaged the nation of Greece, leaving a trail of death and destruction in its wake. The entity killed and brutalized the population, seemingly at random, and with no discernible pattern. What was most strange, however, was that even the most skilled sorcerers couldn''t detect the entity''s presence. It appeared in random places, killing people as if it walked among them, invisible and undetectable.


    Many years later, a team of brave sorcerers finally discovered the entity''s hideout, and what they found was shocking. The Greek Devourer was not a demon or a monster, but a human being. A woman, to be precise, with no discernible markings or characteristics that would have suggested she was anything other than ordinary.


    After she was killed, experiments and research revealed that she was possessed by a powerful demon, one that had granted her immense strength and agility. But it was not just the demon''s power that made her a formidable foe - it was also its ability to mask her presence, making her all but invisible to even the most skilled sorcerers.


    Humans began calling these mysterious creatures "Zeros," and they were feared and reviled throughout the land. They were the ultimate predators, hiding in plain sight, and striking without warning.


    Code gulped, fear creeping up his spine as he remembered the story. He had always thought of Zeros as nothing more than myths and legends, but now, he wasn''t so sure. Van''s serious expression and his words sent a chill down his spine.


    "What''s your proof?" Code asked, trying to keep his voice steady.


    Van''s expression remained serious. "I''ve seen the signs, Code. The way you healed from those injuries...it''s not humanly possible. And there''s something else, something I''ve sensed but can''t quite explain."


    Code''s eyes narrowed, his mind racing with possibilities.


    Van''s voice dropped to a whisper. "You''re not just any Zero, Code. You''re possessed by Aidra."


    Code''s eyes widened in horror as he stumbled backward, his mind reeling with the implications. "Aidra?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Van nodded, his expression grim. "The same Aidra who brought destruction and chaos to the world 1004 years ago. I don''t know how or why, but you''re connected to him, Code."


    Code''s eyes flashed with fear and confusion. "What do you mean?" he demanded, his voice shaking with emotions.


    "You''ll see. Let him out," Van replied quickly, his eyes gleaming with intensity.


    Code''s expression turned skeptical. "You mean I should let Aidra out? I don''t even know how to do that. And what if...what if you''re not prepared for what happens next?"


    Van chuckled, his confidence unwavering. "Hahaha, me? Die? Nah. I''m a god. I''ve faced worse foes than Aidra."


    Code''s eyes narrowed, his concern evident. "But what about the destruction he caused 1004 years ago? What if he''s still capable of that kind of power?"


    Van raised his brows. "Are you gonna do it or not?"


    "Ok...", Code gulped, his eyes fixed on Van. For another five minutes, he stared, unsure of what to do next.


    "So...what do I do next?" Code asked, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Van sighed, his expression a mix of disappointment and frustration. "Arrrgh. Yare yare," he muttered, shaking his head.


    Without warning, Van''s leg flashed out in a lightning-fast kick, striking Code with incredible force. Code''s head exploded off his shoulders in a shower of blood and gore, his body crumpling to the ground with a sickening thud. The sound of the kick was like a crack of thunder, echoing through the air as Code''s lifeless body collapsed.

 Chapter 6: The Awakening of Aidra

    The sound of Van''s kick echoed through the forest, followed by the sickening crunch of Code''s head spinning off his shoulders. Code''s lifeless body fell to the ground, but in a shocking twist, his head suddenly regenerated itself, as if by dark sorcery.


    Van''s eyes narrowed, his mind racing to comprehend the impossible. The head that he had kicked off lay motionless on the ground, a grim reminder of the brutality of the attack.


    Code''s body began to stir, his head bowed in submission. But as he slowly raised his gaze to the sky, a sinister transformation took hold. His body began to twist and contort, his muscles bulging with an otherworldly power.


    A dark, inky substance spread across his skin, like a stain of malevolent intent. His eyes turned a glowing red, with a drop of black at the center, and a demonic scar under his left eye. The air around him seemed to distort, as if reality itself was bending to accommodate his newfound power. An immense pressure emanated from him, toxic and overwhelming.


    Van took a step back, his eyes fixed on the creature before him. This creature was anything but human - this was Aidra.


    Aidra stood tall, his eyes blazing with an otherworldly intensity. A sinister grin spread across his face as he stretched his arms towards the sky. "Ah, the agony of rebirth," he hissed, his voice dripping with malevolence. "The ecstasy of unleashed power! Wonderful...beautiful...the world will burn in my glory!"


    As he spoke, the air around him seemed to grow colder, the shadows deepening and twisting into dark, living things. His presence was like a cancer, spreading darkness and corruption wherever he stood.


    Van''s eyes narrowed, his gaze locked on Aidra with a mixture of fascination and fear. He could feel the darkness emanating from Aidra, a palpable force that seemed to be drawing the very light out of the air.


    Aidra''s gaze snapped towards Van, his eyes blazing with fury. "You dare to stand before me?" he thundered, his voice like a crack of thunder.


    Van''s grin returned, his confidence unwavering. "I''m Van Ackerman. Hahaha," he replied, his tone light and mocking.


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    Aidra''s face twisted in rage. "You insolent fool! What gives you the right to stand before me?" he bellowed, his fists clenched.


    Van chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eye. "You know, I''m a god," he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Yeah, that''s right. I''m a god. The all-powerful, all-knowing, all-awesome Van Ackerman. Bow down, demon!"


    He struck a pose, his arms spread wide and his head tilted back, looking like a parody of a divine being. Aidra''s eyes narrowed, his face twisting in rage at Van''s mockery.


    And before Van could react, Aidra vanished, reappearing in front of him. In the blink of an eye, his fist hurled towards Van''s face with incredible speed, unleashing a devastating punch that tore through the forest, splitting it in two. The impact of the punch was cataclysmic, creating a massive canal through the forest and destroying everything in its path.


    The ground shook beneath their feet as the two combatants clashed, their blows exchanging with incredible ferocity. Van dodged Aidra''s attack at the last second, his body weaving through the air with impossible agility.


    Aidra''s eyes widened in surprise, his face twisted in rage. "Uh?" he exclaimed, stunned.


    Van turned his head to Aidra, continuing his speech. "As I was saying, I''m a god, so your attacks won''t..." But before Van could finish, Aidra unleashed a devastating blast of energy.


    The forest was engulfed in a maelstrom of destruction, trees splintering and crashing to the ground as the two combatants clashed. Van''s eyes gleamed with excitement as he dodged and weaved through Aidra''s attack.


    The air was electric with tension as Aidra charged towards Van, his eyes blazing with fury. The forest around them seemed to darken, as if the very trees themselves were afraid to witness the battle to come.


    Van, still grinning from his earlier mockery, cracked his knuckles in anticipation. The sound echoed through the forest like a challenge, daring Aidra to bring his best.


    The two combatants clashed in a flurry of punches and kicks, their movements a blur as they exchanged blow for blow. The forest floor shook beneath their feet, the impact of each blow sending shockwaves through the earth.


    Van landed a solid hit to Aidra''s jaw, sending him stumbling back. But Aidra quickly regained his footing and launched a counterattack, his fist flying towards Van''s face with deadly precision.


    Van dodged the attack by a hair''s breadth, his eyes locked on Aidra''s as he countered with a vicious kick. Aidra tried to block, but Van''s kick was too powerful, too precise. It connected with a sickening crunch, sending Aidra flying across the clearing.


    "Arrrgh...good griefs. You won''t listen, will ya?" Van said, a hint of disappointment in his tone, as he dusted the dust off his clothes.


    "How''s he so fast?", Aidra thought to himself.


    "You are probably thinking ''how is he so fast'' right now. Well, I can''t say, but one thing I know, is I''m a god!", he exclaimed, his eyes glinting with amusement.


    Aidra''s face twisted in rage. But, in the instant when he was about to dash forward, Van appeared immediately beside him, his hand flashing towards his opponent''s head. Instantly, Aidra''s head flew off his shoulders in a spectacular display of brutality, his body crashing to the ground with a resounding thud. The severed head spun through the air, its eyes wide with shock and terror, as a fountain of blood erupted from the stump of Aidra''s neck.


    But Van wasn''t done. He stretched his right hand forward, and in that instant, a colossal energy blast emanated from his hand, pulverizing Aidra''s head and bursting it into a maelstrom of blood and gore. The impact of the force was far greater than Aidra''s, massacring the entire forest and vaporizing half of the trees.


    The shockwave from the blast sent Van flying back by a few meters.


    "Phew, that wasn''t even close to what I was expecting," Van sighed, disappointed.


    He walked up to Code''s body and placed it on his shoulder, his head regenerating almost instantly. But Code was unconscious, his body broken and battered.

 Chapter 7: Hina and Nara

    2:45 PM Lodz outskirts, Poland


    Three black cars screeched to a halt at the forest entrance, sending up clouds of dust. The doors swung open, and three men clad in black suits stepped out, their sunglasses glinting in the fading light.


    One of them, his face pale and pinched, paused mid-step, his eyes fixed on the forest. "Uh! Look at that!" he exclaimed, his voice trembling as he pointed towards the forest.


    The other two men turned to follow his gaze, their faces slack with shock. Before them lay a scene of utter devastation. The forest, once a lush and vibrant tapestry of green, had been transformed into a barren wasteland. Trees lay splintered and broken, their trunks shattered like matchsticks, their branches torn and tangled.


    The earth was scorched and blackened, as if a fire had raged through the forest, leaving behind a trail of charred and smoldering remains. The air was heavy with the acrid scent of smoke and ash, and the silence was oppressive, punctuated only by the distant call of a bird.


    In the distance, a massive crater yawned open, its edges ragged and torn. The men''s eyes widened as they took in the sheer scale of the destruction. It was as if a bomb had gone off, leveling everything in its path.


    ?


    "A-Are you sure this is the place?" one of the men stammered, his eyes darting nervously between his companions.


    The third man, his jaw clenched, took a step forward, his eyes scanning the devastation. "Wha-what happened here?" he muttered, his voice barely audible.


    "This is far greater than what we imagined," one of them replied, his voice laced with awe.


    "Do you think there are any survivors?" he added, his eyes scanning the desolate landscape.


    The man on the far left shook his head. "Uhn! Who would survive this type of destruction?" His tone was grim, resigned.


    "Let''s head back to headquarters," he continued. "There''s no point in searching. There are no survivors." His words hung in the air like a death sentence.


    The three men stood there for a moment, still trying to process the scale of the devastation. Then, as if in unison, they turned and staggered back to their cars, their footsteps echoing through the stillness.


    As they drove away, their cars disappeared into a cloud of dust, leaving behind a haunting silence and the eerie landscape of destruction.


    5 PM, WAS Chapter, Poland, Central Europe


    Zoldrak''s face turned beet red with rage, his eyes blazing like embers. "What!" he screamed, his voice echoing off the walls.


    One of the men in black, still shaken by what they had witnessed, replied, "Nothing was left of the forest, sir. Everything was burnt to ashes."


    A man seated in a black chair to the left spoke up, his voice laced with concern. "I knew something like this was bound to happen. If word gets out that we sent a false signal, we are all done for."


    Zoldrak''s anger boiled over, and he slammed his fist against the wall. "Shit!" he retorted.


    He turned to the men in black, his eyes narrowing. "Did you see him?" he asked, his chest heaving with anticipation.


    The three men exchanged nervous glances before one of them replied, "There were no survivors, sir."


    Zoldrak''s face twisted in frustration. "No, I mean Ackerman! Was he there?" he shouted.


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    The man hesitated before answering, "N-No, sir. He wasn''t."


    The man in the black chair, Glock, let out a low, menacing laugh. "Hahaha. We should be safe for now."


    Zoldrak raised his hand, and the three men in black took the cue to leave. As they filed out of the room, Zoldrak turned to Glock, his tone serious and low.


    "Glock, you sensed it, didn''t you?" he asked.


    Glock''s expression turned grave, and he nodded. "The strange aura this morning...it wasn''t any ordinary demon."


    Zoldrak''s eyes narrowed. "That aura was totally different. It felt like that of a Zero. Meaning there is a survivor, and a Zero at that. It might have been the one who killed the others and wreaked havoc on the forest."


    Glock''s face twisted into a grotesque grin. "Arrrgh. I love it and I hate it at the same time. This is going to be exhilarating.", he said as he walked out of the room.


    Bucharest, Romania


    The moon cast its silvery glow over the quiet streets of Bucharest''s suburban neighborhood, Floreasca. The houses were modest, with tidy gardens and streets lined with tall trees that swayed gently in the night breeze. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers.


    On a small, unassuming street, a lone house stood out, its pale yellow walls glowing softly in the night. The house was a cozy, two-story building with a sloping roof and a small porch that creaked in the wind. Inside the house, a figure lay motionless on the couch, a faint bruise on his forehead. Code, a young man with a mysterious past, slowly began to stir, his eyes fluttering open as he struggled to regain consciousness...


    "Uh!" Code exclaimed, as he sat up, rubbing his temples. He was disoriented and surprised by his surroundings.


    The room was unfamiliar, with cream-colored walls and a large window that let in a flood of moonlight. "Where is this place?" he thought to himself, trying to piece together how he got there.


    While still staring around in confusion, someone walked in from a room behind Code. The person, a boy with bright red hair that stuck out in every direction, looked about the same age as Code. He had a smattering of freckles across his nose and a look of perpetual curiosity on his face. He let out a startled yelp and fell to the floor, his eyes wide with shock.


    Code was taken aback, unsure of what was happening. "Uh, I''m sorry, I don''t know where I am," he said, trying to reassure the boy, holding out a hand in a calming gesture.


    The boy struggled to speak, his face still pale. "Uh...uh," he stuttered, his eyes fixed on Code with a mixture of fear and fascination.


    Just then, another person walked into the room. It was Van. "Uh, good griefs, Nara, why are you shouting?" Van asked, his tone laced with tiredness, as he yawned and stretched his arms over his head.


    Nara struggled to speak, his face still pale. "Uh...uh," he stuttered, his eyes darting between Code and Van.


    Van looked at Nara inquisitively. "Uhn?" he replied, still oblivious to Code''s presence, his eyes scanning the room as if searching for something.


    Slowly, Nara raised his hand and pointed at Code, who was watching Van with a mixture of confusion and curiosity. Code''s eyes were a deep blue, and his hair was a messy tangle of black locks that fell across his forehead.


    Van turned his head, and his eyes widened in shock as he took in Code''s presence. "Nani!!" he exclaimed, backing away in surprise, his eyes fixed on Code with a mixture of fear and amazement.


    Code chuckled, scratching his head. "Uh...hahaha. I don''t understand what''s happening," he said, looking around the room as if searching for clues.


    Van''s reaction was a display of shock. "Honestly, I thought you were dead!" he exclaimed, his voice trembling with emotion.


    Code''s eyes widened in surprise. "Eh?" he reacted, blinking rapidly, his mind racing with questions.


    Van placed a hand on his chest, trying to calm himself, as Nara stared in awe. "Ahem!" Van cleared his throat. "Hmph...I knew you were alive," he said, trying to sound brave, but his voice betrayed his true emotions.


    "Um...so, where am I?" Code asked, his brow furrowed in confusion.


    "Bucharest!" Van replied quickly, his voice firm and commanding.


    "Bu-Bucharest?" Code screamed, his voice cracking with emotion. He looked like he had been punched in the gut.


    "Yep...What''s wrong?" Van asked quickly, his masked face expressionless.


    Code sniffed, as if trying to hold back tears. "Nothing, nothing. Hahaha," he replied, his sorrow evident in his shaking voice. He tried to laugh it off, but it came out forced and unconvincing.


    "What did I do wrong? This people are crazy!" Code thought to himself, as his eyes dropped to the floor, and he took a deep breath, trying to compose himself.


    Nara, who had finally recovered from his surprise, walked up to Code with a wide, cheerful smile on his face. His bright red hair stuck out in every direction, giving him a perpetually energetic look. "Woah, hahaha, I''m sorry about earlier," he said, chuckling and holding out his hand in greeting.


    Code grinned back at him, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. "Yep...it''s ok," he replied, shaking Nara''s hand firmly.


    Nara''s eyes sparkled with curiosity. "By the way, I''m Nara, Uchiage Nara," he said, his voice bubbling with enthusiasm.


    Code smiled, feeling a sense of camaraderie with Nara. "Code Weber," he replied, his eyes crinkling at the corners.


    Nara laughed, his face lighting up with amusement. "Nah, you don''t have to be so formal, hahaha," he said, clapping Code on the back.


    Just then, a girl walked into the room from the opposite side. She looked about the same age as Code and Nara, with a slender yet athletic build. Her brown hair fell in loose waves down her back, and her light blue eyes sparkled with excitement. She had a small, button nose and a smattering of freckles across her cheeks.


    She rushed over to Code, a huge smile on her face. "Ah! He''s alive!" she exclaimed, her eyes shining with delight.


    Nara turned to her, grinning. "Van said he was dead!" he said, chuckling.


    The girl turned to Van, her eyes narrowing. "You did?" she asked, her voice tinged with skepticism.


    Van held up his hands, trying to defend himself. "I did?" he replied, his voice laced with feigned innocence.


    The girl gave him a skeptical look. "Uhn?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.


    Van chuckled nervously. "Hahaha! I must have forgotten to check if he was breathing," he said, scratching the back of his head.


    The girl rolled her eyes. "Arrrgh, sorry about that. Van''s crazy," she said, laughing.


    Code giggled slightly, feeling a sense of ease with the group. "Yeah, haha," he replied, smiling.


    The girl''s face lit up with excitement. "We''re going to celebrate this!" she screamed, pumping her fist in the air.


    Van opened his mouth to protest, but the girl gave him a look that made him swallow his words. "Uh? Do we really need..." he started, but trailed off.


    The girl''s gaze turned icy, and Van gulped. "Alright, alright," he said, trembling slightly.


    The girl turned back to Code, a bright smile on her face. "Yeah! By the way, I''m Hinata Hoshino, but you can call me Hina," she said, her eyes sparkling with warmth.


    Code smiled back at her, feeling a sense of gratitude towards the group. "Nice to meet you," he replied, his eyes crinkling at the corners.


    Hina let out a loud whoop. "Alright, let''s party!" she screamed, racing out of the room.


    Nara cheered, pumping his fist in the air. "Yes!" he exclaimed, racing after Hina.


    Van just shook his head, muttering under his breath. "Arrrgh, good griefs," he said, chuckling and following after Nara and Hina.

 Chapter 8: Party pandemonium

    The dimly lit room was suddenly transformed into a vibrant party zone. Van, Nara, and Hina scurried around, decorating the space with colorful streamers and balloons.


    "Come on, Code! Get ready to party!" Hina exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.


    Code, still feeling a bit dazed from his earlier ordeal, watched in amusement as the trio worked their party magic.


    Nara, meanwhile, was busy setting up a makeshift DJ booth, his fingers flying across the controller as he mixed a lively tune.


    Van, donning his signature mask, was... well, being his usual enigmatic self, lurking in the shadows and observing the chaos with an air of quiet amusement.


    As the music pulsed and the lights flashed, Code couldn''t help but feel a sense of gratitude towards his new friends. Who would have thought that a party would be the perfect antidote to his troubles?


    Little did Code know, however, that this party would be more than just a celebration...


    Finally, after all the ruckus of the party preparation, everyone sat down to eat in the parlour. The warm glow of the lanterns cast a cozy ambiance, and the delicious aroma of the food wafted through the air.


    Nara, seated beside Code, let out a loud "Itadakimasu!" and dug into the steaming hot noodles. Code glanced at Van, who sat across from him, his mask glinting in the dim light. Code wondered, as he always did, what lay beneath that enigmatic mask.


    Hina, seated opposite Code, smiled mischievously. "Don''t bother trying to catch Van without his mask, Code. You won''t succeed."


    Code chuckled and shook his head. He turned his attention to the food, which looked like a complex web of noodles and spices. He picked up his chopsticks, and as he took his first bite, his eyes widened in surprise. The flavors exploded on his tongue, a perfect balance of spicy and salty.


    "Wow," Code breathed, his eyes locked on the food. "This is incredible."


    Hina grinned, pleased with herself. "Told you it''s good." She leaned in, a mischievous glint in her eye. "You know, Code, this dish is called ''Dragon''s Breath''. It''s a specialty of our town."


    Code, still savoring the flavors, looked up at Hina with tears-stained cheeks. "It''s... it''s incredible!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine enthusiasm.


    The group erupted into laughter, and even Van''s mask seemed to gleam with a hint of amusement. For a moment, they all just enjoyed the warmth and camaraderie of the meal together.


    As they ate, the conversation flowed easily, with Nara regaling them with stories of his culinary adventures. Van listened intently, his mask glinting in the light, while Code and Hina chatted and laughed together.


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    The meal was a warm and lively affair, filled with good food, good company, and plenty of laughter.


    The festivities died down, and Van''s voice cut through the silence. "Code, welcome to the group."


    Code''s grin faltered for a moment before he replied, "Thanks."


    Nara clapped him on the back, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "So, Van, what''s the real reason we''re here?"


    Van''s expression turned somber. "Code is a Zero."


    The room fell silent, the only sound the soft hum of the music. Nara''s eyes widened in surprise, and he took a step back. "Whoa, that''s heavy."


    Hina''s eyes narrowed, her expression skeptical. "And he''s got the Aidra?"


    Van nodded. "Yeah, I confirmed it yesterday."


    Nara''s face lit up with excitement. "That''s amazing! I''ve never met a Zero before."


    Code felt a surge of relief at Nara''s reaction. He had expected fear or hostility, but instead, Nara seemed genuinely enthusiastic.


    Hina''s expression turned thoughtful. "This changes things. We need to be more careful."


    Van nodded. "I know. WAS will stop at nothing to capture Code."


    Code''s heart sank in fear, his mind racing with worst-case scenarios.


    Nara clapped him on the back again. "Don''t worry, Code. We''ve got your back."


    Hina nodded in agreement. "We''ll protect you, no matter what."


    Van''s expression turned serious. "We need to be prepared. We don''t know what WAS will do next."


    The group fell silent, each lost in their own thoughts. Code felt a sense of gratitude towards his new friends, but the fear still lingered, a constant reminder of the danger that lay ahead.


    Nara broke the silence, his voice curious. "So, Van, why did we come to Bucharest?"


    Van shrugged. "I''m not entirely sure. I just knew we had to get out of there."


    Code raised an eyebrow. "You didn''t know?"


    Van chuckled. "Let''s just say I had a hunch."


    Code felt a pang of guilt for doubting Van''s sanity. Hina''s eyes narrowed, her gaze piercing as she cracked her knuckles. "You really want to die, don''t you? You mean you asked us to come all the way here, because of an hunch?" she asked, her voice low and menacing, her words dripping with a hint of frustration.


    Van trembled, his hands raised in surrender as he took a step back, his eyes darting between Hina and Code. "Alright, alright... I sensed a strange signal from this place. It was unlike any demonic energy I''ve encountered," he explained, his voice laced with a mix of excitement and caution.


    Nara''s eyes lit up with excitement, his face alight with curiosity. "This is getting interesting!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with anticipation. "I mean, who doesn''t love a good mystery?" he added, grinning mischievously.


    Code''s heart skipped a beat as he processed the revelation. "So, that''s why we''re in Bucharest," he stated, his voice barely above a whisper, his mind racing with questions.


    Hina''s expression turned serious, her eyes clouding with concern. "Does WAS know about this?" she asked, her voice firm, her gaze locked on Van.


    Van''s voice was grim, his words weighted with a sense of urgency. "Not yet, but they will soon. We need to act fast," he warned, his eyes scanning the room as if searching for potential threats.


    Nara turned to Code, his curiosity evident in his gaze. "So, what''s your sorcery style?" he asked, his voice filled with excitement, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.


    Code hesitated, unsure of how to respond. "I-I don''t know," he stammered, his face flushing with embarrassment.


    Nara''s eyes widened in surprise, his face alight with wonder. "Nani?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with surprise. "Like your tenzen affinity?" he added.


    But Code shook his head, and replied, "I don''t know."


    Van intervened, his tone calm and soothing. "Code doesn''t have tenzen. He''s a special case," he explained, his eyes locked on Code, his expression reassuring.


    Nara''s face lit up with surprise, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Whoa, that''s cool!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with wonder. "I mean, you''re really special!" he added, grinning.


    Code smiled, feeling a sense of wonder wash over him. He was still trying to wrap his head around the revelation.


    Van stood up, his eyes locked on Code. "He''s going to train with me. Code, come with me," he instructed, his voice firm, his gaze commanding.


    Nara clapped Code on the back, his grin mischievous. "Don''t die, okay?" he joked, his eyes sparkling with amusement.


    Code''s heart skipped a beat as he processed the warning. "Die?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper, his mind racing with worst-case scenarios.


    Hina shot Nara a warning glance, her eyes flashing with annoyance. "Nara, don''t scare him," she chided, her voice firm.


    Nara grinned mischievously. "Just telling the truth," he retorted, his eyes sparkling with amusement.


    As Code followed Van into the next room, he couldn''t shake off the feeling of uncertainty that lingered in the air. What lay ahead? Only time would tell.


    "I hope I don''t die," Code whispered to himself, his heart racing with anticipation and fear.


    Nara''s voice echoed from behind, "Don''t worry, Code! We''ll protect you... unless you''re allergic to training. Then you''re on your own!".

 Chapter 9: The Thread Test

    Code stepped into the room, his eyes scanning the space with a mix of curiosity and caution. The air was thick with the scent of old books and dust, and the flickering candles cast eerie shadows on the walls. Van, seated on a worn, velvet sofa, raised his hand, beckoning Code closer. His face was hidden behind his black, silk mask, its edges intricately embroidered with silver thread. "Here, take this," he said, his voice low and gravelly, as he passed Code a very thin, long thread.


    The thread sparkled in the candlelight, its surface reflecting the flames like a tiny, golden snake. Code took the thread, his eyes fixed on it in confusion, his fingers wrapping around it with a mix of fascination and trepidation.


    "Um...so what do I do with this?" Code asked, his tone inquisitive, his brow furrowed in concentration. He turned the thread over in his hand, studying it from every angle, searching for some hidden clue.


    Van let out a loud yawn, his jaw stretching wide behind the mask. "Oh...yeah, cut the thread..." His voice trailed off, and he nodded, his chin dipping toward his chest.


    Code''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Cut the thread?" he repeated, a hint of humor in his voice, his lips curling into a wry smile. He glanced at Van, expecting some further explanation, but Van''s masked face revealed nothing.


    Code watched Van, his mind whirling with questions, before letting out a deep breath. He thought to himself, "I was worried about some thread-cutting training...Nara must have been joking." A wry chuckle escaped his lips, but it was short-lived.


    A nagging feeling persisted, making Code wonder if Nara had been right. He shrugged it off, thinking, "Who can''t cut a thread? This shouldn''t take long." With newfound determination, Code grasped the thread with both hands, ready to snap it.


    But as he stretched the thread, he noticed something odd. It felt stiff, like pulling a string of steel. Code''s eyes narrowed, his brow furrowed in concentration. He tried stretching it again, but the result was the same. The thread felt soft to the touch, but when he pulled it, it became rigid.


    "Uhn?" Code muttered, staring at the thread in surprise, his voice barely above a whisper. He turned the thread over in his hand, studying it from every angle, searching for some hidden clue, his mind racing with questions.


    Code tried stretching the thread again, his determination to find a way to cut it growing with each failed attempt. He attempted various methods, each one more creative than the last. First, he tied one end of the thread to the wall, the wooden post creaking slightly as he pulled on the other end. The thread remained stubbornly intact, refusing to yield to Code''s efforts.


    Undeterred, Code tried another approach. He placed one end of the thread in his mouth, the fibers tickling his lips as he pulled on the other end. The thread stretched, but still it didn''t break. Code''s frustration grew, his face screwing up in concentration.


    He tried a few more methods, each one ending in failure. Code let out a deep sigh, the sound echoing through the room. "Arrrgh!" he exclaimed, his frustration boiling over.


    Just as he was about to give up, an idea struck him. A sly grin spread across his face as he thought, "I''ll place a part of the thread on the candle fire. That should do it." The candle flame danced on the table, casting flickering shadows on the walls.


    With newfound confidence, Code carefully moved towards the candle. He gently placed the thread on the flame, holding it firmly from both ends. The thread sparkled in the firelight, its fibers seeming to glow with an inner light.


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    In an instant, the thread began to burn. The fire spread rapidly, the flames dancing across its length. Code''s eyes widened in surprise as he dropped the thread. He hadn''t expected the entire thread to ignite so quickly.


    As he watched, Code''s surprise turned to confusion. At first glance, it seemed like the thread was burning, the flames consuming it with a fierce intensity. But upon closer inspection, Code realized that the thread itself was emitting the fire. The flames danced across its length, yet the thread remained intact, unscathed by the blaze.


    The fire crackled and spat, casting a warm glow over the room. Code stared at the thread, his mind racing with questions. What was this strange thread? And how was it emitting fire without being consumed by it?


    Before he knew it, the fire had spread across the floor, engulfing the scraps of paper and casting a warm, golden glow over the room. Code stared, his face a mixture of fear and surprise, as the flames danced and crackled. The air was thick with the acrid smell of burning paper, and the heat was starting to intensify.


    Quickly, Code sprang into action, grabbing a cup of water from the table and rushing to pour it over the strange fire.


    Just as he was about to pour, Van suddenly woke up from his slumber on the sofa, his masked face turning towards the fire. The candlelight danced across the black silk mask, casting eerie shadows on the walls.


    Slowly, Van turned his head to Code, his eyes gleaming behind the mask. But in an instant, his demeanor changed, and he screamed, "No, no, don''t pour it!" His voice was muffled slightly by the mask, but its urgency was unmistakable. Code''s heart skipped a beat as he hesitated, the cup hovering above the flames.


    Luckily, Code heard Van''s warning just in time, and he quickly turned the cup, preventing the water from pouring. But however, a single drop of water slipped from the cup, and Code stared at it in horror, knowing he couldn''t catch it. Time seemed to slow down as the drop fell, its trajectory heading straight for the burning thread.


    In that instant, as the water drop was about to land on the burning thread, Van suddenly appeared right in front of Code, his movements almost imperceptible. A slight flash of air rippled through the room as Van stretched out his hand, catching the drop of water mid-air. The mask glinted in the firelight as Van''s face turned onto Code''s, their intensity making Code''s heart pound in his chest.


    Code''s eyes widened in awe at the sight of this incredible feat. He knew Van was right behind him a second ago, but how he appeared right in front of him, Code couldn''t explain. The room seemed to hold its breath as Code stared at Van, his mind reeling with questions.


    Van stared at the fire, his masked face expressionless, before turning to Code. "Good griefs, you could have killed us all," Van said, his voice stern, but a hint of amusement dancing in his tone. Code, still surprised, muttered "Oh...I...I didn''t know," his voice barely above a whisper.


    Van sighed and replied, "You don''t have to feel so bad, most people would do the same thing. Well, maybe not most people, but definitely you." He clapped Code''s back reassuringly.


    While Van was talking to Code, Code noticed that the thread was still burning, its flames flickering across the floor, casting a pale yellow glow on the ground. "It''s still burning," Code exclaimed, as he stretched his hand towards the thread.


    Van turned back, and stared at the flame for a few seconds, then he replied, "Leave it, it''ll die by itself. Or maybe it''ll just get bored and leave." His tone was indifferent, but Code''s eyes widened in concern.


    "Eh?" Code muttered, his face a picture of disbelief. The room was silent for a few seconds, punctuated by the sound of the burning thread. Code kept staring at it, expecting the fire to subside, but it kept raging on.


    Van walked towards the table and picked another strand of thread. "Take," he said, as he stretched the thread to Code. Code hesitated, his confidence shaken by his earlier failure. "I don''t think I can cut it," he answered, as he shook his head.


    Van''s masked face turned towards Code, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Arrrgh...good griefs. Anyone should be able to do that. Well, anyone except you, apparently." He collected the thread from Code and raised it, holding one end upwards.


    Code stared at Van, his eyes fixed intently on the thread. He looked closely, thinking that maybe there was a trick to cutting the thread that he didn''t know. With his eyes focused on the thread, he wasn''t going to let any clues go by, no matter what.


    But before he could notice anything, the thread snapped into two at its middle.


    "Uh?" Code exclaimed, as his eyes widened in surprise. He was stunned at how the thread he battled with for hours was snapped instantly in less than a second.


    Code opened his mouth, and the words "how did you do that?" rushed out, his eyes coated with awe. Van chuckled, his masked face glinting with amusement. "That''s basic sorcery, I''m surprised you couldn''t do that. I mean, I''ve seen snails do this in less than a minute."


    Van''s tone was mocking, but Code felt a sting of embarrassment. He knew he should have been able to cut the thread, but he had failed miserably. "How did you become a sorcerer when you didn''t even know the simplest basics of sorcery?" Van teased, his laughter echoing through the room.


    Code''s face burned with embarrassment, and he retorted, "Tch...I''ll have you know, I''m a great sorcerer. I''ve just...uh...been having a bad day. Yeah, that''s it." But his mind was a mix of guilt and shame. A part of him knew Van was right, while the other felt really embarrassed.


    Van''s laughter subsided, and he sighed. "Arrrgh...alright, let''s get back to training. Maybe we can teach you some basic techniques. Like...uh...how to make a decent cup of tea.", he said, as he burst into laughter again.


    Code raised his brows, this time he was angry. "Really, it isn''t that funny," he said as he pouted.


    Finally, Van''s laughter subsided with a long sigh. "Alright, let''s get started", he said, as he walked back to the sofa.

 Chapter 11: The Art of Tenzen

    The dimly lit room was bathed in the warm, golden glow of the candles, casting flickering shadows on the walls. The air was thick with the scent of old books and the faint tang of smoke from the earlier fire. Code and Van sat amidst the scattered papers and scattered remnants of their earlier experiment, the tension between them palpable.


    "Alright, let''s get started," Van said, as he took another strand of thread from the table, and stretched it to Code, who collected it, and raised it, just as Van did, thinking the trick lay in raising the thread.


    Code stared at the thread for a while, but nothing happened. He turned his head to Van, his face worrisome, "it''s not working", he exclaimed.


    "What are you doing?", Van asked, his tone humorous. "Uhn? What do you mean? Aren''t you supposed to raise the thread up like this?", Code asked, as he raised the thread towards Van.


    Van immediately burst into laughter. "Hahaha, my ribs are hurting," he added, still chuckling.


    Code gave Van a look, as if saying, ''serves you right'', as he grabbed the thread with both hands. "But seriously, how do I do it?", Code asked, his tone laced with tiredness and frustration.


    "All you have to do is infuse the thread with tenzen until it''s super saturated, then it snaps," Van said, raising the thread, and in that instant, it snapped. "Easy-peasy, right?" he added, chuckling. It seemed really easy for Van, but Code didn''t understand anything Van had just said or done. He didn''t even know what ''tenzen'' was.


    "What''s tenzen?" he asked, his tone inquisitive.


    Van''s tone turned mocking. "What? You don''t even know what tenzen is? Really, whoever registered you as a sorcerer just sent you on a suicide trip," he added, bursting into laughter.


    Code retorted, raising his brows, "Very funny... are you going to tell me or not?"


    Van composed himself, his tone serious. "I guess we would have to start from square one... But that would be square zero for you," he added, bursting into laughter again.


    Code shook his head, thinking to himself, "Arrrgh... this guy''s crazy."


    Van''s laughter echoed through the room for about five minutes before he finally cleared his throat. "Ahem! My ribs hurt so much."


    He stood up, his tone serious. "Alright, Code, this time I''m serious. Let''s get started."


    Code replied, his tone indifferent, "You''re just going to start laughing again."


    Van assured him, "Nah... I''m serious. Let''s get started."


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    Code''s eyes darted with disbelief. "Alright."


    Van began."So, since we are starting from square zero, you need to know what tenzen is.". He took a bottle of water, and placed it on the table. "Matter, time, space, gravity, life, and death are all interconnected by a fundamental force known as tenzen. Tenzen is an omnipresent energy that permeates every aspect of the universe, from the smallest subatomic particles to the vast expanse of cosmic space. It''s the underlying fabric that weaves everything together, governing the intricate web of relationships between all things. Think of tenzen as the resonance that harmonizes the universe, allowing particles to interact, forces to exert influence, and life to emerge. Every action, every event, and every decision sends ripples through the tenzen, shaping the world around us in subtle yet profound ways. For example...", Van paused, and stretched his hand to the bottle of water on the table. In that instant, the bottle began to quiver, the water inside churning and foaming as if heated from within.


    Code''s eyes widened in surprise, as the bottle''s quivering grew more intense, its glass walls straining to contain the building pressure. Then in that instant, the bottle exploded, its glass shattering, as the water burst forth in a violent release.


    "Woah...crazy!", Code exclaimed, his eyes glinting with awe. He had never seen something like this before.


    "Impressive right? I know", Van replied, as he raised his shoulder.


    "How did you do it?", Code asked, his tone laced with surprise.


    Van continued, "Every form of matter, from the smallest particle to the largest structure, has a unique tenzen signature. This signature determines how much tenzen the matter can absorb, manipulate, and emit. Think of it like a container that can hold a certain amount of water - the container''s capacity is its tenzen signature. When you infuse matter with tenzen, you''re essentially filling its container. If you overfill it, the container bursts, releasing the excess tenzen in a burst of energy. That''s what happened to the bottle - its tenzen signature was exceeded, causing it to shatter."


    Code asked enthusiastically, "so, how do I get tenzen?"


    Van''s tone turned grim. "That''s where your problem lies, Code. You have tenzen, but you can''t manipulate it."


    Van''s words hung in the air like a death sentence. "What do you mean?", Code asked, still gripped by Van''s revelation.


    Van''s tone turned grave as he continued, "Tenzen has a counterpart, a mirrored force known as anti-tenzen. Anti-tenzen is the absence of tenzen, and yet, it''s not just a void - it''s a presence that can exert its own influence. Anti-tenzen mostly exists in the absence of tenzen, and vice versa. This delicate balance is what governs the interactions between tenzen and anti-tenzen. However, tenzen and anti-tenzen can coexist, but that''s only when they are at equal concentrations, neutralizing the effects of each other. The slightest imbalance in either of the two could lead to a catastrophic explosion."


    Code''s eyes widened in surprise. "Oh... that''s why you said I shouldn''t pour the water."


    "The thread you used earlier is specially crafted to be infused with tenzen," Van explained. "But when you exposed it to the fire, the flames disrupted the tenzen within the thread, creating a void that was quickly filled by anti-tenzen. This meant that the thread''s internal balance was precarious, with the anti-tenzen inside the thread mirroring the tenzen outside it. If you had poured water onto the thread at that point, the introduction of tenzen from the water would have upset the balance, causing a catastrophic reaction, and... well, let''s just say we wouldn''t be having this conversation."


    Code''s skin crawled as he grasped the magnitude of the risk. "So, uh... how does that relate to me?" he asked, his face etched with worry.


    "Normally, being a Zero would imply that you''re unable to manipulate tenzen," Van said, his eyes narrowing in thought. "But I believe there''s more to it. Your possession by Aidra is probably the key. Aidra''s anti-tenzen concentration is unparalleled, and the fact that you''re still alive suggests that your own tenzen concentration has adapted to balance it out. It''s a precarious equilibrium, one that could have far-reaching implications for your abilities as a sorcerer. However, what''s most surprising is how your tenzen adapted to Aidra''s in so little time. I mean, most Zeros cannot maintain the balance, and usually end up taken over by the demons possessing them."


    Code gulped, his eyes wide with trepidation. "So, does that mean I cannot be a sorcerer?" he asked, his voice trembling slightly.


    Van''s tone was grim, but a hint of amusement seeped into his voice. "Yes..." he replied, his words dripping with gravity.


    Code''s eyes widened further, alarm written across his face. But before he could react, Van''s tone shifted, taking on a sly, teasing quality.


    "Ahem! You didn''t let me finish. I meant to say, ''Yes...is what any other person would say.''"


    Code''s expression transformed from alarm to annoyance, his brows narrowing in mock irritation. "Oh, for real? You did that deliberately, didn''t you?" He couldn''t help but chuckle, a sense of relief washing over him.


    "Alright, but are you sure you''re ready for this?" Van''s tone was cautionary, a hint of skepticism creeping in. "It''s not going to be a walk in the park."


    Code''s response was immediate and resolute. "Yes!" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm unwavering. He was determined to seize this opportunity to grow stronger, no matter the challenges that lay ahead.