《Relic Hunting as the Apex Predator》


 Introduction: Golden age

    The world was a drastically different place after the nuclear war. In its wake, it left behind a vast wasteland of death and destruction. Humanity''s only hope was the bunker cities created prior to World War III. These bunker cities had the resources to support up to one million humans. The bunker city was entirely self-sufficient and radiation-proof. The bunkers allowed humans to cling to life for a bit longer. A hundred years passed, and the radiation from the nuclear fallout was still present on the surface.


    As the world slowly began rebuilding, something strange began to happen. In the rubble, new relics were discovered with unimaginable power and the potential to rival any modern-day weapon. It was soon found that these relics contained egos and that humans could form a contract with them, becoming contractors. As the world adjusted to the presence of these contractors, it became clear that the weapons of the past were no longer enough to keep up with the new breed of superhumans. These superhumans discovered their newfound evolution, which allowed them to withstand the radiation plaguing the earth''s surface.


    This newly developed immunity led to the creation of a faction purely made up of contractors called the Holy Crimson Church. The Crimson Church discovered a relic with an ability like no other, the World Chalice. A woman called the Red Priest formed a contract with the World Chalice and devoted her life to revitalizing the earth with its power. The legend states that the Red Priestess had to use her own life as a sacrifice to plant the grand tree Yggdrasil.


    The tree grew from nothing to a height higher than the eye can see, reaching the clouds and beyond. The Yggdrasil leaves have the unique power to disperse radiation and revitalize the earth. The trees became the focal point of what is later dubbed the safety zone New Roark. The Yggdrasil leaves created a space large enough for the contractors to build walls around the surface. Humanity was given a second chance to come above the surface and start their lives anew.


    In the years that followed, 98% of the surviving humans in the bunker city migrated above ground. The majority of the surviving humans have no contract. However, a small percentage of lucky individuals formed a contract with a relic. The surviving group of humanity was split into two groups, the first being contractors and masters, consisting of only 10% of the population. This small group would enslave the other 90% of the surviving population of ordinary humans.


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    The average human, now a slave, was forced to rebuild humanity using the technology and infrastructure left behind, including the data that survived the war. However, things like cars and planes are far from being created. The humans in charge of development created a train that did not need to touch the ground, called the monorail.


    In the following years, there were many small wars over territory inside the newly developed safety zone. After many brutal battles, the safety zone was split into four sectors: North, East, South, and West. Each section was ruled by a different contractor, implementing their laws. In the north was the queen of blades, in the east was the king of wind, in the south was the crimson goddess, and in the west, the lord of beasts. This fragile balance lasted for almost 25 years until a revolutionary army consisting primarily of contractors formed. This massive army dawned the name "The Golden Lions." The strongest contractor leads the new army to date and is one of the first babies born with a bloodline trait. This man''s name is known only to his closest advisors, but the world knows him as "the Chancellor."


    The Golden Lion Army Marched from sector to sector, forcing each ruler to submit or die. The king of wind and the crimson goddess surrendered to the Golden Lions in under a year. The king of beasts held out for considerably longer until he was finally killed by one of the Golden Lion''s top generals. The northern sector was arguably the smallest but was by far the strongest out of the four sectors. The queen of blades had the love of the people and strong supporters. It took the Golden Lion army five bloody years to finally conquer the northern front. The Chancellor himself entered the battlefield personally to battle the queen of blades. Their battle lasted for four hours and shook the safety zone to its core. The Chancellor just barely defeated the queen.


    The Golden Lion army succeeded in conquering the entire safety zone. The army gave the zone a new name to usher in a new generation of peace and prosperity. The safety zone was named New Roark and split into 12 districts governed by senators appointed by the Chancellor. The Chancellor outlawed slavery except for voluntary servitude and released hundreds of thousands of slaves from their chains and mistreatment. The Chancellor was hailed as a hero and champion of the people and is loved and respected by all. Thus began a new age¡ªa golden age of advancement, wealth, prosperity, love, and peace.

 Prologue: Liberty Day Part 1

    <div>


    Day 96, Year 3010, on the Yorikian Calendar.


    It was early summertime, nearing the end of spring. The trees were vibrant green. The sun was high in the sky, it was a perfect day for a celebration. The fairgrounds were one of the only places in District 11 with trees and plant life. The park made up around 25% of the district''s city. The other 75% was filled with freshly renovated futuristic buildings, each dedicated to furthering societies need for science and research.


    Almost every citizen of District City 11 is gathered today. The city was celebrating a group of heroes who had been single-handedly capturing relic users who terrorized the district cities. This group of heroes was handpicked and trained in an environment where only the strongest survive. These heroes were referred to as The Legends. The Legends consisted of 6 elite contractors, each possessing a unique relic. They were considered to be some of the strongest contractors currently in existence.


    Dante sauntered up to the center of the stage. Looking out at the smiling crowd, he makes eye contact with his wife Monica''s soft blue eyes. Instantly, all his anxiety and fear rolled right off. Today marks the 10th year of peace since coming out of the Dark Ages. Dante takes a deep breath and exhales, slowly releasing his anxiety and stress. The crowd''s eyes follow him up to the podium. Dante looks out at his colleagues and fellow teammates. He awkwardly taps the Mic twice. The second tap causes the speaker to make a horrendous screeching noise.


    "I want to start my speech by saying thank you first and foremost to everyone in attendance today. I know you are busy and important people". Dante smiles nervously.


    He continues, "Although I know you can probably appreciate my unwillingness to make speeches. I hate them almost as much as you hate listening to them".The crowd was dead silent, besides a few snickers scattered amongst the audience.


    "We are all gathered here today. So that we may recognize and celebrate the fact that this district has become a beacon of peace in a time thriving on discord," Dante pauses.


    A woman screams out, "We love you, Dante."


    Dante cracks a smile and gives the group of girls his best devilish wink. Three teenage girls in the front row make a freakishly loud screaming noise before pretending to faint. Monica rolls her eyes and shakes her head.


    She gives him a hand gesture which Dante assumed meant, "Move it along, dumb ass."


    Coughing into his hand, "Ahem, on behalf of Myself and, of course, the rest of the legends. We are so thankful for the monument built in our honor. We have worked hard to ensure that any rogue or unauthorized violent relic use is brought to justice. Our mission is to stabilize New Roark and neutralize all threats to the greater good."


    Dante pauses in the middle of his speech. A bad feeling started growing in his stomach, moving into his chest. When ordinary people feel a burning sensation in their stomach or chest, they assume it''s acid reflux. On the other hand, Dante prefers to think of it as a sixth sense. Whenever his chest or stomach burns, it means danger or trouble. His gut is rarely wrong, especially about danger.


    Breathing in, Dante recognizes an odd smell filling the air. Puzzled, Dante realizes the crowd has become restless due to the long pause. They began talking amongst themselves, probably wondering if the youngest rookie of the legends got cold feet. A loud thunderous boom shook the stage and the ground. Followed by two much larger explosions. Dante''s eyes grew wide with the sudden realization. He knew what the smell was now. It was sulfur. No wonder it smelled so bad. It was too late to evacuate the fairgrounds. He knew what was coming.


    The air around the fairground began to heat up while everyone looked around, still dazed from the ground shaking. Instinctively, Dante uses his relic, a black ring worn around his middle finger called Blink, to teleport to Monica. While simultaneously grabbing the three teenagers in one motion, shielding them from the next blast. Dante invokes the power of his second relic. A jet-black cloak called the Cloak of Nightingale. The cloak expands to envelop them in a protective barrier. Two more deafening explosions go off while the ground is still shaking. There was a brief silence before Dante released the cloak''s protective veil.


    In the distance, he hears Alexander telling people to evacuate. The smoke enveloped and burned his eyes.


    A voice booms in the smoke. " Dante, Monica, are you alright?" It was Alexander''s hoarse voice.


    Dante yells back into the smoke, "We are fine, status report."


    Alexander yells, " I managed to divert one explosion into the air. The only other explosion was the one closer to the stage. I am unsure of the enemy''s number or their abilities. However, we can be sure that a relic was responsible. These blasts were not on the level of just regular bombs".


    Dante had already figured that this was the work of a contractor''s relic because he would''ve detected any explosives during his initial sweep of the fairground. When they first arrived, Dante used his third relic, the glasses of truth, to scope out the place and prevent a situation like this. The glasses allowed their contractor to see the truth. Thus, he could see through walls and even inches into the ground. They blessed their contractor with perfect depth perception and field of view.


    The smoke shifts and spins upward, helping to clear their visibility." what''s going on? How is the smoke moving on its own?" one of the three girls asks Dante.


    "Mrs. Raven must be using her relic to gather and disperse the smoke into the sky," Monica says, coughing into her hand. "Ordinarily, smoke is the most dangerous aftermath of a large explosion."


    Dante gently releases the other two girls. "Raven''s relic Zephyrs Backpack, can suck in anything and redirect it in any direction with double the efficiency," Dante explains while trying to survey the area.


    One of the teenagers passed out from shock, and the other two held her and cried. The view of the fairgrounds becomes vividly clear. The sight was horrifying; blood splattered everywhere, filled with the sound of people crying, holding their loved ones. The woman next to the teenage girls at the time of the blast lay motionless next to them, and her stomach appeared pierced by a large piece of debris.


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    A loud shriek rang out, startling Dante." Mom, no, please," the girl who was just unconscious says. While shaking the poor woman vigorously, "Mom, you must wake up, please."


    Monica softly placed her hands on the girl''s shoulders."Stop, honey. She''s gone. Let her rest," Monica said in a soft and remorseful tone.


    Dante bends down to close the woman''s eyes. At this point, the girl is hysterical, sobbing and wailing for her mother. While Monica cradles her against her chest. Dante looks around to find where the rest of the Legends are positioned.


    He catches a glimpse of Valerie''s vibrant red hair. She was easy to spot, and the mixture of sunlight and ash made her hair look like it was on fire. Dante blinks over to her, teleporting directly in front of her. She is focused on healing a child''s leg blown off by the explosion. His leg, glowing a bright green, was almost entirely reattached.


    " Valerie, I need you. It''s serious," Dante tried not to interrupt her concentration. Without looking back, her white coat glowing a bright green, she replies, "It''s always serious. Give me 2 minutes, and this kid will walk like nothing ever happened." Her brows furrowed in concentration.


    A woman who appeared to be the boy''s mother was kneeling beside him, crying. Rocking back and forth, holding the boy''s head. Out of desperation, she begins silently praying to the crimson priestess. And just like Valerie said, the kid''s mangled leg was completely healed.


    The child''s mother said, "Thank the priestess," to which Valerie snorted, "Do I get any credit?" The kid''s mother replied, "She has gifted you with such wonderful powers."Valerie sighs, "Right, well, just make sure he gets lots of rest. He will be just fine. He could easily run a marathon now."


    "Valerie, I need you," Dante says again as he bends down to help the boy and his mother. Veronica''s lab coat''s green glow begins to fade and return to a standard white.


    " Who needs to be revived from the dead now?" she says sarcastically, wiping the dirt off her blue cargo pants.


    Dante grimaces at the comment, catching Valerie off guard. Her demeanor instantly changes."what''s going on, Dante?" Valerie says in a shaky, concerned tone.


    Instead of responding, he reaches out his hand. Valerie takes his hand, and Dante uses Blink to teleport them back to Monica and the girls, who are now all sobbing and holding onto each other. Monica uses her soft and reassuring voice to calm the three girls. Valerie immediately begins to work on the girl''s mother. After checking for a pulse, her beautiful face grows dark.


    "She is barely holding on," Valerie says, looking back at Dante.


    "I know that''s why I brought you over here," Dante replies while looking at the girls held by Monica. Valerie''s eyes followed his, piecing together the situation at hand.


    "Fine, I will try. But I cannot promise anything." Valerie says, turning her attention to the girl''s mother.


    Valerie''s lab coat begins to glow a bright green again. Her hands hovered over the woman''s body, and the blood started to float and seamlessly flow back toward her wounds. It looked like time was beginning to turn around before the woman was injured.


    "I need you to pull it out. Real slowly, or you''ll kill her." Valerie says, gesturing towards the wooden shaft in the woman''s stomach.


    Dante walks over and begins pulling at the wooden shaft. The woman starts coughing blood and moaning in pain, causing her daughter to snap out of her crying fit.


    "Stop your hurting her. What are you doing to my mother?" The girl screams, storming over. Monica grabs her, holding her back.


    "It''s okay, honey; they''re trying to help," she says.


    "She is a special type of doctor," Monica explains to the girl.


    She uses a remarkable relic called Panacea, which allows Valerie to heal people. As long as there is a pulse, she can heal most injuries. On the rarest of occasions, she can even turn back the time surrounding more severe injuries.


    "So she can heal my mother?" The girl says in a hopeful tone.


    "She certainly will try. Her injuries are extensive, and your mother is on the brink of death." Monica says, releasing the girl''s arms.


    Dante slowly pulls the shaft out of the girl''s mother. While Valerie''s lab coat, now bright green, starts floating and rustling. Sweat dripped from her brow as she concentrated on reversing all of the injuries the women''s bodies sustained. Only Valerie would be capable of such a feat. Ordinarily, "Panacea" only gifts its contractor the ability to heal minor to moderate wounds. Valerie was born with a unique bloodline trait called Seer. The trait allows Valerie to see glimpses of the future, which is often fragmented and hard to understand. That combined with her license as a surgeon and experience as a battle medic. She earned her nickname, the fate practitioner.


    However, most mistake her for the crimson priestess because of her bright red hair. Valerie is attempting what can only be called a miracle by combining her relic Panacea and her bloodline trait. She is trying to revert the woman''s body to the condition it was in, not even fifteen minutes ago. In a sense, Valerie is just rewinding the time around the woman''s body to reflect the state it was in before the initial explosion.


    Dante pulls the shaft out of her body with one final pull. The woman began convulsing and bleeding profusely. Valerie stood up, still focusing on the woman''s injuries.


    "Step away!" Valerie commanded, which caught Dante off guard.


    Stepping back, he noticed how drained Valerie looked. Her face was dripping with sweat, yet she could somehow maintain a look of intense concentration. The more she concentrated, the stronger her bright green aura became, lifting her red hair and causing it to flow in all directions. Dante thinks she honestly resembles the portraits of the Crimson Priestess when she is in this state.


    The woman''s bleeding has finally stopped, and the color in her face has returned to normal. The hole in the woman''s stomach has closed without the faintest sign of injury, and it looks as if she was never injured in the first place.


    "Good as new," Valerie said with a smile before collapsing.


    Luckily, Dante catches her before she hits the ground. The daughter runs past, crying, and the girl''s mother finally opens her eyes.


    "What happened? Where am I? Honey, why are you crying? The woman said with a confused but soft expression.


    The girl was crying so hard she couldn''t even form a sentence. The other two girls came behind her, crying to comfort their friend. Dante, still holding Valerie, surveyed their surroundings. The fairgrounds were in shambles, with large craters formed from the explosions. The air was filled with the stench of blood and burned debris. The other Legends were all still working to secure and evacuate the area.


    "Wow, I see why you hate speeches," Valerie says, laughing, her eyes still closed."Yeah, and you bastards said I was just dramatic," Dante says. He places her on the ground so she can get her bearings.


    Monica walks over and checks on Valerie. "Well, it seems like the commotion is over," Monica says, pulling her golden blonde hair back into a ponytail.


    A large explosion goes off in the distance. Followed by three more blasts back to back in quick succession. Dante flips around his black cloak, expanding, preparing to shield the civilians again. This time, he had a horrible feeling welling up in his stomach. However, he couldn''t find the reason for it. He fully expected to see a series of newly formed craters. However, to his surprise, the explosions weren''t coming from the fairgrounds but instead off in the distance. A large blue building higher than any around it had a flume of smoke building around it. Startled, Dante drops into a position to fight. Whatever entity created these explosions and caused so much carnage would not receive any mercy from him. Placing a hand firmly on his long black katana hilt.


    A loud, ear-piercing scream was let out. Dante draws his blade and swivels his head, ready to kill anything before him. But the scream didn''t come from in front of him but instead from behind him. It was Monica howling and clutching her heart. Dante, horrified, bends down and tries shaking his wife.


    "What''s wrong, sweets? I''m here. Everything is okay." Dante whispered, trying to console his shaking wife.


    Monica pointed back in the direction of the burning blue skyscraper, sobbing. Only one word managed to escape her quivering lips: "Xavier.


    <div>

 Prologue: Liberty Day Part 2

    Dante''s heart sinks as the realization hits him with the weight of a freight truck. His eyes adjust, invoking the power of the glasses of truth. His focus becomes razor-clear, allowing him to see meters into the distance. The once blurry skyscraper was now crystal clear. Dante, feeling every muscle in his body tensing and growing warm, started sprinting toward the direction of the building. A cold realization washed over him. The explosions here were a distraction. There their real target was the East Continental Star Building. The second most prominent structure in all of New Roark. It is also the largest renovated hotel in the engineering district, City Eleven. Most importantly, it is the hotel the legends stayed at and where his son was sleeping.


    Alexander tried to flag down Dante, who ran past him like a blur. Alexander had never seen Dante move so fast. Contractors are faster than normal humans, but the rate Dante was going was inhuman, even for a contractor. His friend''s panic dash past him made him curious. Alexander begins sprinting to catch up with his best friend. It was as if he instinctively knew he was in trouble and would need help. Determined to get to the hotel in time, Dante uses Blink to propel him hundreds of feet ahead. This would ordinarily be dangerous because Dante couldn''t be sure of the kind of surface he was going to land on.


    Although he couldn''t force himself to care about his own safety, his son was in that building. Dante began leaping from tree branch to tree branch. Until he finally broke out of the field grounds. Nothing but large glowing buildings could be seen for miles. Summersaulting onto a lamp and blinking to the roof of the first building. He begins hopping from building to building, using Blink to get across the significant gaps in space.


    The East Continental Star building was finally a few hundred feet away. Dante felt his heartbeat quicken, the building burning a bright blue flame. He is almost there. He thought just a little more. Launching himself straight towards the burning sky scrapper. The smoke began to invade his lungs, and it became harder to breathe the closer he got to the building.


    Suddenly, debris from the building begins to fall over the gawking citizens below. Dante became laser-focused and drew his katana. All his muscles tense as the large slab of burning concrete falls toward the civilians below. With one clean and decisive slash forward, Dante sent a gust of wind, cutting the slab in half and forcing the stone to implode from the impact. The large slab of debris is now broken down into small bite-size chunks of rock.


    "Get the hell out of here," Dante screams down to the onlookers. The civilians disperse, some of them running in terror.


    It is insane how stupid people can be to get a look at something. Dante thought as he turned his attention back to the building itself. He jumps across and bursts into the building through the window. Rolling to brace his fall and disperse any flames that may have gotten on him during entry.


    Dante''s midnight cloak is completely fireproof and blast-proof, but he can still feel the heat and intensity of the fire. His lungs fill with smoke as he begins to make his ascent up the building. Occasionally blinking past debris blocking his path. Finally, reaching the stairwell to get him to the top floor, where his son and nanny presumably were when the blast went off. Dante was praying they were still alive, considering the explosions were shallow, attacking only the surface infrastructure. If the explosions were to target the lower pillars and base of the building, it would have already collapsed. The only genuine concern is the smoke inhalation coupled with the intense heat.


    Although Xavier is not entirely defenseless, his nanny Angela is an ex-combat priest from the crimson church. She is retired but still has a powerful defensive relic called "Mbai." An ancient African necklace that gifts its contractor the ability to close off a 10 feet space around the user from the world. Anyone in the bubble is immune to damage or disease, and no one outside the bubble at the time of creation can enter.


    The Mbai''s ability has a duration of 15 minutes. It took him 10 minutes to get here, and Dante needed more time. He threw himself against the hot door to the staircase, hoping to break through the debris on the other side. He cannot blink in a place he cannot see, nor can he just cut the door down without threatening the integrity of the building.


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    Dante was running out of time. If Xavier was still alive, his little lungs would not be capable of surviving the smoke inhalation. Drawing his blade, Dante cleaves through the debris with one smooth motion, trying not to apply too much force. After pushing his way into the stairwell, Dante wasted no time climbing the stairs, making his way up to the penthouse suite. He rushes inside, kicking the door hard enough for the wall to shake.


    Dante begins calling out for his son at the top of his lungs, "Angela... where are you? Say something? say anything?"


    Frantically searching for them, he hears rustling but can''t figure out from where and, once again, calls out, "Angela, it''s me. I''m here".


    Dante starts coughing from the smoke, still calling out, trying to pinpoint the rustling. The only downside to the Mbai protective bubble is it cuts out sound from the outside world. So even if the building wasn''t burning and the smoke wasn''t as thick, they still couldn''t hear him. Pushing past the falling debris, the silver chain on the chandelier snaps. The impact of the chandelier dispersed some of the smoke. Dante''s eyes, red from the smoke, narrowed at the sight of Angela holding his 8-month-old son in her arms. Dante surmises that she was probably singing him a lullaby to keep him calm. The room is filled with smoke again, but Dante wouldn''t have known it because he can finally breathe again, with the thought of his son being perfectly okay. A massive rush of relief washed over him as he moved closer to them.


    Jumping over the railing and landing on the floor below where they are standing. He wanted to call out to them so bad. Although he knew they couldn''t hear him. So, he decided to save his energy and focus on finding a route to escape. The bubble began to shimmer, probably because its duration was almost up. Dante is standing just outside the range of the bubble. His eyes locked on his son''s innocent, smiling face.


    The bubble shimmered one more time before dissipating. Xavier began crying out because the smoke was burning his underdeveloped lungs. Dante walked up, almost scaring Angela, but she smiled when she saw him.


    "I told you! Daddy will be coming back soon, little one," Angela says with an angelic but relieved voice.


    Dante puts his blade away, smiling from ear to ear. At this moment, nothing else mattered. He was so happy to reunite with his son that he almost forgot they needed to escape.


    "Hand me, my baby boy," Dante says, reaching his arms out toward Angela.


    Just as Angela places Xavier in his arms, another explosion goes off. This time, the blast causes the building to shake. Dante loses his footing and is sent flying toward the hotel windows, with enough force to break one, sending him plummeting toward the ground.


    Still conscious, Dante shifts his weight and gains his bearings mid-air. He was falling from 150 feet in the air. Luckily, he can use a piece of falling debris to stabilize his footing using Blink to jump from one falling piece of debris to another. Propelling himself upward, clawing his way back up to his son. His head felt the warmth of his own blood dripping down his head. Although his vision was cloudy and his ears rang, Dante was still energetic.


    When another explosion goes off, this time at the base of the building, causing the building to collapse, the final blast knocks Dante off his feet again, slamming him into the glass of the building across the street. His body broke the glass, sending him tumbling through what seemed to be an office space. A worker sprung up to check on him while the others stared and gawked.


    Dante was bruised and battered, his head cut and bleeding. It felt like he had broken every bone in his body. He could only think about his son''s crying voice, the only thing keeping him conscious. The building, no longer able to withstand the damage, collapsed inward. The ash and asphalt fly everywhere, completely covering the surrounding area. Tears well up in Dante''s smoke-irritated eyes. Dante couldn''t believe his own eyes. New Roark''s safest and most secure hotel was now a pile of rubble. A place that was supposed to be a beacon of peace, civility, and hope is now stained with blood and ash.


    His only child, son, and the most important thing in his life are buried under that rubble. While he lay motionless and in pain. Dante thinks back on his life and how he got here. Dante has never averted his eyes to the possibility of a loss of life. He has never turned away from his destiny or his dream to change this cruel world. However, this time, it was just too much. Dante could not bear this loss or this reality.


    Dante begins to fade into the sweet abyss of darkness with every moment his eyes close more and more. The last thing he could make out was a silhouette of a man holding a black top hat, and he could have sworn the man had called out his name. Exhaustion took hold of Dante, forcing his eyes to close and for Dante to drift off to sleep.

 Chapter 1: New Beginnings

    She felt a warm hand on her shoulders, shaking her vigorously back and forth. "Five more minutes," she murmured, still half asleep. Shaking her a bit harder, a familiar voice boomed inside her ear. "Thalia... THALIA...wake up, please. We are going to be late.¡±


    Thalia opened one eye slowly to see her annoying little brother, Theo, standing over her bed. She quickly shut her eyes and turned over, pulling the blanket over her head.


    "I saw that," Theo said in an amused tone. "Wake up, Thalia, before I get a bucket," Theo snickered.


    His green eyes glimmered with amusement. Thalia sprung up from the bed and, in one swift movement, grabbed Theo''s neck with one hand. She wrapped her legs around his leg and pressed all her weight down, causing them both to fall onto the bed.


    Theo gasped for air and tapped his hand against the bed. "I give up; you win! Let me go." Thalia flashed her bright white teeth. "I don''t know; you seem like you still have a little fight in you!" she said.


    Theo''s muscles tensed, and Thalia''s grip loosened as her little brother lifted them both from the bed. "Okay, okay, I was just playing, little bro. There is no need to get so serious." Thalia snorted, her feet now kicking, hovering above the ground.


    "You have seemed to forget I am a man now," Theo said, "you can''t just bully me like we''re still kids!"


    "Whatever," Thalia replied as her brother slowly placed her back on her bed.


    What time was it anyway? She thought. Theo wouldn''t have woken her up, knowing she hated being disturbed. Today must be graduation day. If it weren''t for that, Thalia would still be in her favorite spot on this hellhole they call a planet. Thalia''s bed was the only place she could feel relaxed and at home.


    "Hurry up, get ready to go before we miss the rail," Theo said before leaving her room.


    The siblings lived in a mid-sized luxury condominium within District City 12, which was run solely around the prestigious Apex Institute. The school required everyone within District 12 to be either students, staff, or teachers. Theo and Thalia happen to fall into the student category. However, their housing was a bit different from that of the typical student.


    Students were meant to reside in the dormitories in the Institute''s east wing. Condominiums are reserved for teachers and staff. However, the two siblings stood out as they lived with their Tia.


    Thalia''s room was the smallest in the condo, but it was the only room in the whole house with a walk-in closet. She walked into the closet, clapped her hands, and the light flickered. This revealed a closet filled with dozens of dresses, skirts, blouses, and skinny jeans of all colors hanging on large racks. All of them were color-coded and organized by season according to the weather. Thalia was a little OCD.


    Nevertheless, she loved fashion. Her motto was, "Just because the planet is devoid of color and style does not mean she has to be."


    After standing in her oversized burlesque mirror for what seemed like forever, she finally decided on an outfit that would be perfect for today''s festivities. Thalia had the most difficulty picking out outfits due to her disproportionate figure. She had a tiny waist and large thighs. So, it was hard to find pants that fit her waist and pull over her thighs. The kids in school used to always make fun of her because she typically wore skirts or dresses.


    After all, they were more comfortable. Thalia was Afro-Latin but spoke minimal Spanish. She just turned 21 in April. Her Tia would always comfort her by reminding her how much she would appreciate her features in the future.


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    Even now that Thalia was an adult, she still loved a good skirt. Call it a force of habit, but she pulled out her favorite zip-up black skirt from the top drawer next to her mirror. And right next to the skirt was her institute regulation black button-up blouse. The blouse had a green ¡°A¡± embroidered over the right breast pocket, symbolizing the Apex Institute. Every female student had to wear a school-regulated blouse.


    Although it was a stuffy rule, at least they didn¡¯t care what kind of pants or accessories they wore with the uniform. Thalia quickly zipped up her skirt and stuffed her blouse into it, running her finger along the sides to smooth the blouse.


    Now came the tricky part. The shoes, she thought. She Clicked the button on the dresser. It flipped around, showing a shoe rack with at least 15 shoes on each level of the 4-layer rack. After staring at her collection for a few minutes, she grabbed her favorite pair of black reinforced steel-heeled boots.


    Thalia''s shoes seamlessly blend functionality with style, making heel boots the obvious pick. The zip-up design allows for effortless wear, and with a heel height of just an inch and a half, they strike an ideal balance between fashion and function. Thalia can run comfortably in them, and the reinforced heel and tip ensure her safety. Plus, they complement her outfit perfectly.


    "Thalia," Theo''s voice echoed behind her, "we''re going to be late; let''s go!"


    Thalia ran back into the closet and grabbed her silver identification bracelet. Barreling down the stairs, Theo was impatiently waiting, dressed in his institute-regulated black shirt, some Khaki pants, and white tennis shoes. My brother lacked style, Thalia thought; however, he still managed to be what girls would find cute. That is supposing you are into the nerdy type anyway.


    Theo was 5"10 with light caramel brown skin, short, greasy brown hair, and dull, faint green eyes. He was a bit small for guys his age; he just turned 17. Theo would be much more popular at school if it weren''t for his reserved and timid nature.


    "Okay, I''m ready," Thalia said.


    "What took you so long?" Theo replied irritatedly.


    "Don''t you know never to rush a lady?" Thalia replied, pushing her long brunette hair from her face.


    He smiled. "What, lady?" Theo replied, looking left and right with his left hand over his eyes. She smacked him on the head. "Let''s go, dummy," Thalia said.


    The siblings step outside and take in the fresh air. Their condominium was in the upper west section of District City 12, the only section that has been restored and redeveloped completely. After the war, most buildings still stood when their ancestors returned to the surface. The only thing that stood the test of time was the buildings. Almost everything else was decimated by bombs, wildlife, and time.


    A loud whistle came from a couple of blocks down the street, followed by a woman''s automated voice. "Monorail Blue pulling into station 1216. Be ready with your identification band; boarding will begin in 3 minutes."


    The monorail was held up by huge steel poles towering as high as the walls that divided New Roark. The monorail was the greatest invention of 3070, and its creation revolutionized and connected all 12 district cities. It was one of the inventions recovered from the remnants of data left by their distant ancestors.


    They started running towards the signs that said, ¡°Monorail blue this way.¡± After running up the stairs for what felt like minutes, they rounded the corner to see a blue 50-foot train zipping through the air. The siblings approached the white line that said, "Wait here."


    A dark-haired woman with a small, petite frame, dressed in an institute-regulated black and green uniform, glanced over the rail. It must have been her first time riding the monorail because she was shaking as she gripped the guard rail. The platform was about 50 feet in the air.


    Thalia walked over and placed her hand on the girl''s shoulder, attempting to calm her down. "Are you okay, Chiquita?" Thalia asked in a gentle, low tone.


    The girl jumped and stumbled backward awkwardly, startled by the sudden touch. "I''m sorry," she said, taking another step back without relaxing.


    The girl accidentally stepped back over the white safety line. Concerned, Thalia reached out her hand. "It''s okay; I didn''t mean to scare you."


    The girl takes Thalia''s hand. "I am so embarrassed. My name is Juniper Wildly," the girl said, flashing an awkward smile.


    The monorail whistled once again. The strong wind from the approaching train knocked Juniper off her feet, sending her tumbling backward and falling off the edge. Thalia attempted to grab her while turning around and reaching for her brother''s hand. Theo didn''t waste a second running over to them but was too slow. The girls fell through the tracks and began plummeting towards the ground.

 Chapter 2: Storm Goddess

    Juniper screamed as they approached what seemed like their odd and untimely death. Juniper closed her eyes at the last moment, her whole body tensing, expecting to meet the pavement. After a minute went by, she noticed that she was still not dead. Her curiosity finally got the better of her. She opened her eyes to see the ground roughly 10 feet below her.


    A wave of relief went through her at the sight of the ground. ¡°I¡¯m not dead. How am I not dead?¡± Juniper asked. She felt something squeezing her hand after the adrenaline wore off. She Looked up and saw Thalia''s cocky grin.


    "Are you all right," Thalia asked.


    It took Juniper a second to catch her breath, eventually nodding, "Yes, I''m okay. I''m just a little curious about why we''re not flat as a pancake on that pavement right now.¡±


    Thalia smiled, reaching her other hand down to Juniper, pulling her up, and holding her tightly around her waist. They began to rise slowly as Thalia willed the wind to lift them. The girls float back up to the station''s platform. Thalia gently releases Juniper onto the platform. She collapsed a moment later, exhausted and still confused.


    "you can fly?" Juniper asked Thalia intently.


    "Yep, sure can," Thalia replied, unfazed by the question.


    The confused look on Juniper''s face worsened. "Wow, I can''t believe you have a relic that allows you to fly."


    Theo rushed over to the girls, grabbed Juniper''s arm, and helped her to her feet. Juniper brushes herself off slowly, still waiting for some type of explanation.


    A woman''s automated voice rang out, "Welcome guests to Monorail Blue luxury train. Kindly watch your step, and upon boarding, wave your identification band upon the scanner".


    Thalia and Theo waved their identity bands across the scanner and stepped onto the monorail. Juniper followed closely, still a bit dazed.


    Thalia''s heart filled with excitement as the monorail entered the sky. New Roark was full of beauty, but many of its buildings were damaged by the nuclear fallout from hundreds of years ago. Thalia remembered the stories she''d heard from her Tia.


    "When her great grandfather was a child, the sky was blue, and the world was full of life and beauty of all kinds," her Tia always said. "No one fought each other for simple resources; instead, the people worked together to build beautiful things."


    The world was much different now; desolation was everywhere outside the walls. District 7 has some of New Roark''s most updated and revitalized buildings. The stable structures are marked with green spray paint with the letter A. The Apex Institute does a great job of keeping the streets clean. The people below are all school staff or students carrying out their assignments. One of the first assignments you receive as a new student is to revitalize and help rebuild a section of the city. Which is a fancy way of saying you were assigned an area to clean.


    It is supposed to humble the new students. The Institute prides itself on its appearance and status as one of New Roark''s wealthiest and safest cities. In other districts, People struggle to get basic things like water, food, and clothing, which is why people from all over New Roark desperately want to enroll their children in the institute.


    The train softly hums down the rail line. Their booth was utterly silent as they both peered out their windows. Theo finally breaks the silence. Glancing over at the huge window, his shoulders tensed up, and his hands firmly gripped the handrail.


    "Hey, Thalia, what will you do if you are not selected for a special assignment?" Theo asked. He looked into the city, but Thalia could tell he was nervous. He was gripping the rail to keep from shaking.


    "Well, to be honest, I haven''t even given it much thought because I just know I will," Thalia says nonchalantly, peering out of the window. I also know you will get assigned to the research department and transfer to that fancy engineering college."


    Theo relaxed, releasing his hands from the handrail but still looking tense. "How can you be so certain of yourself all the time."


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    Theo turned away and looked down, avoiding his sister''s eyes.


    Thalia replied in her most annoyingly condescending voice, "Because my know-it-all dork of a little brother is the smartest person I know. So, it would be downright dumb on their part if they don''t let you into nerd school". Thalia chuckled.


    "Whatever, Thalia," he said in a playfully irritated tone.


    "Uhm, excuse me!" Juniper said, still needing clarification. The siblings turned around laughing. They almost forgot the girl was with them. She was only 5 2", and she was so quiet. The girl''s small frame and timid demeanor made her white skin appear ghostly.


    Juniper was no doubt pretty. Her long black hair was tied back in a ponytail. The only thing off-putting about her pretty face was the huge glasses that were too big.


    "So, what was that back there? Do you have some relic that allows you to fly?" Juniper asks, puzzled.


    Thalia looked at her and shrugged her shoulders. "No, there is no known relic that gifts the ability of flight," Thalia replied. Also, students aren''t allowed to contract with relics until after graduation." Thalia was now grinning at the girl.


    "I thought so! Then that means that you''re the famous Storm Goddess." Juniper said, barely holding in her excitement. "You''re one of the eight students in the whole institute who was born with a bloodline trait," Junipers said. Her eyes glowed, and her body shook, this time out of excitement rather than fear.


    Thalia took a large breath before exhaling and smiling. "Yes, people call me that occasionally." Theo snickered behind her, covering his mouth with his hand.


    Thalia earned her nickname for two distinct reasons. The first is her unique bloodline trait called "Storm Caller." It allows her to manipulate more than just the weather. She can communicate with the wind and order it to do her bidding. She can also whisper to the sky to beckon lightning powerful enough to bring thunder that makes the air crackle. Her soft green eyes turn bright green whenever she summons a storm. The second reason is that all the boys idolize her and her vicious personality. ¡°They referred to her as the Storm Goddess. She was pretty to look at, but it was dangerous to get too close to her.¡± Theo said, laughing.


    Rolling her eyes, " I only electrocuted one cocky pendejo because he slapped my ass during training. And I get called vicious." Thalia said, sounding annoyed.


    Theo placed his hand on her shoulder and said, "Well, it would''ve been great if that''s all you did. Everyone is still reeling from when you sent all the boys on the soccer team flying.¡±


    "Well, that one I did do. Jackson Ohaer nor anyone on the soccer team will ever cheat again." Thalia said with a devious smile.


    "Also, there was that time you beat the hell out of Derek and sent him to the medical ward," Theo said.


    "Okay, but that time was justified. He was a prick who always bullied you!" Thalia replied.


    "Didn''t he always call you a loser?" Thalia said, now teasing Theo.


    Theo''s cheeks turned flushed red as he rubbed his hands together. "Shut up, and that was a long time ago."


    Juniper laughed at the siblings rattling off the Storm Goddess''s greatest hits. " I''m a freshman here at the Institute. So it''s very refreshing to hang out with some upperclassmen," she says, still laughing.


    She Grabs Theo''s fidgeting hands. "I don''t think you''re skinny or a loser," Juniper says, avoiding eye contact and looking down at his shoes.


    Theo''s hand was sweating now in the embrace of Juniper''s hand. His hand is huge in comparison to her tiny hands. Even though Theo is regarded as small, he is actually above average compared to ordinary men. Compared to his fellow male students in the Institute, he is small. Many students are descendants of upper Echelons'' main and branch families, meaning they are children of powerful contractors.


    When Contractors reproduce, they can pass on their abnormal physique and attributes. In rare cases, when two contractors have a baby, a phenomenon called a bloodline trait can be awakened. A bloodline trait is a manifestation of power similar to the power a relics ego bestows on its contractor. The only key difference is that there is no need for a contract, and the baby becomes a vessel.


    A vessel that could be thought of as a living relic who, at puberty, awakens an ego within themselves that gifts them extraordinary powers with no limitations or drawbacks. Unlike a natural-born human, an individual born with a bloodline trait can also form a second soul contract with two egos.


    The odds of a child possessing a bloodline trait is roughly 5%. Although the statistic drastically increases when two people with a bloodline trait reproduce, it rises from 5% to around 40-50%. So, a lot of upper-echelon families only married and coupled with contractors. So, their children would be superior in the gene pool and resources. There are only around 25 upper-echelon families.


    The Knights of the Round Table consist of seven major families: Elceed, Hulcan, Winfreed, Bluerose, Henderson, Arlington, and the Dynasty family. Each family possesses the right to manufacture and distribute nearly all valuable resources in New Roark, granting them significant influence and control over the safety zones affairs.


    The Monorail bells chime three times, indicating they are approaching the Institute''s docking station platform. They swiped their wristbands across the scanner again, the doors opened, and they stepped off. The front view of the Institute was magnificent, almost as if it were untouched by the ruins of the great war. The Institute used to be a large school where young adults would come to get a fancy education for a fancy desk job. However, it was now the home of the most prestigious battle, research, and philanthropy school in the safety zone.

 Chapter 3: Apex Institute

    <div>


    As soon as they stepped inside the school, the clock tower rang. It was the top of the hour, alerting the students that the assembly was starting, and everyone was to be in their assigned seats. They couldn''t help but take a moment to admire the colossal silver wolf statue sitting in the center of the school''s courtyard. The statue was easily as tall, if not taller than the main gateway into the Institute.


    A large capitalized "A" was underneath the wolf''s ginormous body. The wolf was the Institute''s mascot and, more importantly, its protector.


    Amazed, Juniper looked up at Theo with curious eyes. "What is the wolf thing about? She asked innocently.


    "The Institute is similar to that of a pack of wolves. We risk our lives in pursuit of the hunt for knowledge and power. The Director says all the time that the only thing more important than the hunt is that the pack protects its own ferociously," Theo explained to Juniper. She bowed and thanked him, still enthralled at the sight of the statue.


    "We have to go!" Theo yelled before he started running toward the auditorium. Only turning back to say, "It was nice meeting you, Juniper."


    Thalia hugged Juniper. "You will love it here, Chiquita. I''ve got to go before I get chewed out."


    Thalia gracefully floats into the air and commands the wind to propel her forward. She effortlessly catches up to her brother and lands in front of the auditorium just as he opens the door.


    "I hope you know how annoying it is that you don''t even have to run," Theo said, opening the door for his older sister.


    "Blame genetics," Thalia smiles. Her heels clicked against the polished hardwood floors as they entered the main assembly hall.


    The first thing Thalia noticed was how different the hall looked for the ceremony. The ceiling was decorated with large golden streamers. The walls were covered in mosaics depicting clubs and memorable moments of the past four years. Thalia assumed that the art club had specially made them for graduation.


    Each seat in the assembly hall has a different number on the front, starting from the top left corner of the room at 1 to 178. The numbers symbolize the number of graduates this year. Thalia heads to the front row and sits in the chair marked 6. She was only ranked 6th because she hates to study and would instead practice judo and work out during her free time. So, she took many of her tests using her memory, which resulted in almost failing specific courses.


    On the other hand, Theo spent his free time studying and reading. The exact opposite of Thalia landed him in the number 2 seat a couple of chairs down from Thalia. Theo looks over to Thalia with a large triumphant grin, mouthing the words, "You should have studied more, big sis." Thalia replied with the jack-in-the-box gesture using her right hand, cranking up her middle finger, and flicking him off.


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    The rest of the students came pouring in one after another, some giving each other high fives and some hugging and crying. The number 3 chair was eventually taken by Keelan Dyntasy, whom Thalia and Theo would call the most hated kid in the entire school. Keelan enrolled at the same time the siblings did.


    He was 17, only one year off the cut-off for age to be accepted into the Institute. He didn''t join late for any reason other than being privileged and not wanting to attend school yet. He was allowed to enter because his father, Ian Dynasty, was an upper echelon. Keelan''s father also held the 3rd seat on the Round Table Council and is the Senator of District 3. So to translate all of that in simple terms, Keelan was a super rich and influential dick bag. Who frequently tries to bully Theo due to his timid nature.


    As Keelan sits down, he purposely drops his elbow into Theo''s stomach. Theo grabs his stomach and gasps for air. "I''m sorry I didn''t see you there."


    Thalia''s blood begins to boil, and the air around her rises. Thalia hops up from her seat, stands, and glares at Keelan. She could feel her power surging, increasing intensity, keeping pace with her anger. She would offer him a direct challenge if the graduation ceremony weren''t today. There is a strict no-combat rule today, official challenge or not.


    However, at this moment, the rules did not matter to Thalia. She lives by a few rules: no one gets to pick on her little brother except for her. The whole school knows how harshly she punishes anyone who touches Theo. Keelan''s ass would be convulsing on the ground if it weren''t for the ceremony today.


    Today''s rules be damned, she thought. He was testing her to see if the storm goddess would bend her rules in fear of punishment. Her eyes flicker a bright green, and the air starts to crackle.


    Keelan grins, showing his mishappen teeth. "Yes, little girl, show me what you''re capable of."The people in the row behind theirs begin to get up and back away to avoid becoming collateral damage.


    A calm and elegant voice rings behind them quietly but assertively, "May I remind you where you are? Both of you sit down, and Keelan, knock it off."


    Chills went down Thalia''s spine. She recognized the voice immediately and winced. Only one student in the entire school could make Thalia nervous: Tyler Winfreed, the class president and head of the discipline committee. Tyler is 6,1 with an above-average medium build. Every section of his body is finely toned. He is consistently ranked at the top of our class.


    This was unsurprising, considering Thalia has never beaten him in a hand-to-hand altercation. She even used her powers once, and he broke her arm as punishment. Tyler also has a photographic memory, making studying a moot point. He would be an honest-to-God genius if he had been born with a bloodline trait. He could easily be a candidate for the most powerful student since Apex''s Generational Ace, Dante Elceed. Tyler is also handsome in an uptight and proper way, definitely not Thalia''s type.


    "Mrs. Diez, please do not make me write you up on our last day together!"


    While taking his seat at the chair, he marked 1. He properly crosses his legs and glances over at Thalia, gesturing with his eyes for her to take her seat. Thalia exhales loudly and plops back down into her heart. If there is one thing, she won''t miss is Tyler''s stuck-up ass.


    "Don''t worry, Thalia, the probability of us receiving a similar assignment is little to none." Tyler retorted before turning his attention to the empty stage.


    Thalia thought about it, and her mind was put at ease. He was right. Even if they both get assigned a special assignment, they are unlikely to be placed on the same team.


    <div>

 Chapter 4: Wolfs Den

    Upon graduation, a couple of different assignments are available to all students. Most students will enter into a contract with a relic and engage in self-study, focusing on mastering their relic. A lucky few get selected for a special assignment based on their temperament, grades, and overall performance. There are three different special assignments.


    The first and most challenging to get accepted into was the Retrieval Corp. This assault squad was typically deployed to retrieve relics from terrorists who had made unsanctioned contracts with illegal relics. During their retrieval missions, they often save many people and prevent disasters. They are frequently hailed as an elite group of heroes by the public. A majority of the people in the retrieval team have bloodline traits and are contracted to powerful assault-based relics. They primarily handle all internal issues involving relics.


    The second is The Expedition Corp. They handle expeditions outside the wall to gather intel and work closely with the engineering college in District 11 to try to collect as much new information about the world as possible. The expedition team consists primarily of contractors with strong assault and support-based relics designed to help them survive outside the wall. They primarily handle all foreign issues outside the wall.


    The final special assignment is the Shadow Corp. The Shadow Corp is designed to gather information all across New Roark and keep the Institute in the loop about the inner workings of the safety zone. The Shadow Corp is the lifeblood of the Retrieval Corp and Expedition Corp. They all work hand in hand to apprehend rogue contractors and prevent violent acts of terror. The Shadow Corp only recruits people with travel-based bloodline traits or ones that bond with strong utility-type relics.


    Thalia''s foot had been shaking nonstop since Tyler asked her to sit down and reminded her of the assignment selection process. A student can only put in a formal request to be placed in a specific assignment, but it does not in any way mean that it is the one you will receive. The only student that gets to pick unilaterally is the number 1 seat of each graduating class on where they would like to be assigned. Even though Thalia reassured Theo, she still wasn''t sure if her Tia would allow her to be placed in such a dangerous assignment. She was rather protective of both Theo and Thalia. At the very least, Thalia imagined her Tia signing off on Theo entering the expedition team, where he can request entry into the engineering district city 11.


    In her heart, Thalia knew that there was no other path for her than the Retrieval Team. Like her Tia, Thalia wanted to use her unique bloodline trait to help people and make a difference. In the past four years, Thalia had always shown up to every day of practical combat training. In her final year, she was so feared for her combat prowess that only a select few would even dare to spar with her, let alone fight her. The Institute has a strict rule that bloodline traits will not be used unless both parties agree and an official judge watches the match to prevent serious injury. Thalia was skilled enough to have graduated as the 2nd strongest in her whole class. Her combat prowess would easily land her in the top 10 of the entire school. That is if you don''t count the instructors.


    The previous, arguably the most famous team was known as the "Apex Legends. They earned a majority of their fame during a terrorist attack referred to as Liberation Day. They showed up just in the nick of time and apprehended the terrorist, saving the entire Labor District City Three. Their actions directly contributed to the peace and unity of the safety zone. The Legends made the whole idea of being in the retrieval team so romantic for Thalia. They were heralded as heroes and revered as some of the strongest contractors in the safety zone. So, naturally, the retrieval team was a perfect stage for Thalia to achieve her dreams and protect the safety zone.


    Everyone was finally seated, and the bell rang a second time, causing the audience to fall silent. A white flash blinded the audience, and a sweet, angelic voice rang through the assembly hall.


    "Hello, my lovelies," Director Diez appeared from the light floating above all of the students. Her smile and presence instantly brightened up the room.


    "How are my favorite wolf cubs doing today?" The directors asked. The crowd of students was mesmerized by her voice and beautiful appearance.


    Her long brunette hair flowed behind her as she landed gracefully on the stage. Her black pumps clicked across the stage as she walked to the podium. Thalia and Theo seemed to be the only ones immune to their Tia''s angelic appearance. They look up to see her gentle eyes and demeanor.


    Thalia noticed Tia smiling down at her, almost as if she had pinpointed her immediately out of the crowd. Thalia smiles back nervously; she quickly retreats into herself. Today is definitely a big day for her, but the crowd is the more pressing issue. She is deadly scared of audiences, and for some reason, she feels like everyone''s eyes are on her. It reminds her of when she first came to live with her Tia four years ago.


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    Thalia''s Tia was the Institute''s Director and principal, Dr. Michele Diez. The Director was also among the strongest people in all of New Roark''s safety zones, and she was ranked second in the Crimson records. Director Diez was considered second only to the chancellor in terms of ability and power. The audience became restless and talked amongst themselves. They fell silent after hearing the Director''s soft voice project throughout the assembly hall.


    Director Diez was dressed in her completely white pantsuit. She was the only person in the school who wore white. The students hypothesized that she wears white because of the nickname she earned during the War of Rising and her achievements that earned her the nickname the "White Ghost."


    The Director''s bloodline trait, "Esper," allowed her to manipulate things in reality with almost psychic-like abilities. It is often manifested with levitation, gravity manipulation, attraction, and repulsion. The Director''s bloodline trait was extremely rare and so powerful that it''s considered the strongest trait in New Roark. The Director''s power often manifested itself in a soft white aura.


    She rarely leaves District Seven and is the Institute''s Director, headmaster, dean, and protector. Michele was respected in all circles and is loved as the mother and creator of the Apex Institute. Director Diez leans against the podium. Her large breast pushes against the wood, revealing the smallest bit of cleavage. The boys in the auditorium''s face light up, and their mouths drop. The Director was known for her domineering power. However, she was arguably more famous for being a contender for New Roark''s most beautiful ranker.


    Her eyes scanned the assembly hall, making each student feel individually acknowledged. "I want to congratulate you for proving yourself strong enough to join our little pack." She said, smiling.


    "Today may be the final day you are regarded as students, but you will always be my cubs. Anywhere you go from today onward, you are full-grown wolves capable of handling anything this cruel world hands you! No matter how far your assignment takes you, this will always be your home and Den." The Director''s eyes filled with tears, looking out into the crowd.


    "I''m sorry," she said, wiping her eyes. "It''s hard for a mother to think about her cubs leaving the den."


    Thalia and Theo looked over at each other and tried not to giggle. Apparently, Tia cries every year at graduation. She was a very emotional person. Her compassionate and soft demeanor almost made people forget how truly powerful and scary her abilities could be. Thalia locked eyes with Tia, and she discretely blew her a kiss. Thalia, embarrassed, scratched her head and looked away.


    Director Diez cried for a few more moments before wiping her eyes again.


    "Okay, no more of that. Now, I want to turn the stage over to a man who needs no introduction¡ªa man who still holds the majority of the records in this institution. The world knows him as the infamous Hell hound of the Apex Institute. However, we call him the super rookie, key player, and savior in the Liberation Day disaster. He is the current captain of the Retrieval Corp and the elite Predator squad. Please welcome to the stage, Captain Dante Elceed!" The crowd bursts out in applause, welcoming the captain to the stage.


    Directly behind the stage stood Dante, clutching and twisting his relic¡ªa black onyx ring called "blink"¡ªback and forth in deep contemplation. His thoughts rushed, trying to decide whether escape was possible. He hates these kinds of events more than anything else.


    Dante would rather be knee-deep in enemy territory surrounded by "S" class criminals. Then, give another infernal speech.


    Dante hates these kinds of events in general because he believes they waste precious time. A majority of these so-called brighter futures were already the son or daughter of some influential jackass, to begin with. Dante thinks that all this Institute has done is validate their egotistical thoughts of how much better they are than everyone else. He is frankly appalled at the fact any of these kids are gaining the opportunity to make a contract.


    At best, they could only fully bond with an ego that is rare and below. "It''s almost funny if you think about it because if they are our brightest future, we are in a golden age of weaklings," Dante says in a low, grumbled tone.


    If he were to slip out the back while the Director gave her opening speech, who would notice, he thought. Alexander steps in front of him almost as if reading his mind.


    "Don''t even think about it," Alexander says with a devilish grin. Showing off his freakishly straight pearly white teeth.


    "The director told me to paralyze you with a horse tranquilizer if you look like you were planning to escape," Alexander purses his lips.


    "Honestly, that might be preferable to me having to sit through another moment of this boring speech," Dante stretched out his arms and yawned.


    Alexander''s grin fades and is replaced with a more sinister smirk. " If you wanted to be my lab rat, all you had to do was ask my friend." Alexander takes a step forward and pulls at his white gloves.


    "No, I am alright," Dante said adamantly. None of Alexander''s experiments end with any of the test subjects retaining their sanity. "Fine, I will stay and do the speech," Almost on cue, the Director introduces Dante and calls him to the stage.


    Now, I would like to introduce the man you have all been waiting for: "The legendary hunter and the famed super rookie within the Institute. The man who clawed his way up the Crimson Ranking at the age of 21. He is the leader of the retrieval unit''s elite strike force, the Predators. I would like you to give a warm round of applause to your alumni and upperclassmen, Dante Elceed!".

 Chapter 5: Speech For The History Books

    The applause was deafening as Dante walked across the stage to the podium. He remembered why he disliked ceremonies: the crowd always expected him to deliver a speech that moved minds and hearts. So, he decided he would give them a speech they would never forget.


    ¡°Today marks the beginning of the rest of your lives. Some of you will go on to achieve great things and make groundbreaking accomplishments,¡± Dante said, smiling briefly before continuing. ¡°However, many of you will leave here today and live a life of comfort and security, likely in your parents¡¯ business or district. After graduating today, you will have the opportunity to form a contract with a relic, breaking the boundaries between humans and gods.


    Many of you may take that bond for granted, viewing it merely as a stepping stone in your political journey. However, I challenge you to look beyond what you know and strive for something greater than what is easily attainable. Do not waste this opportunity by thoughtlessly choosing a relic and moving on to another metaphorical chapter in your life. Instead, dedicate yourself to perfecting the chapter you are still currently writing. Other than that, anyone who joins anything except for the Apex blue guard or the elite strike force is a bunch of puss.."


    Director Diez quickly bumps Dante out of the way, snatching the microphone. "Okay, thank you, Dante, for that enlightening and inspirational speech."


    Dante could feel the dirty look she shot at him, like she was imagining daggers flying out from her eyes and ripping at his skin. Only in this case, his arms actually are bleeding as if an actual dagger had cut him. Under normal circumstances, looks can''t kill, but Director Diez''s looks are a terrifying exception.


    The Director has a unique bloodline trait called "esper." This trait gives her abilities akin to those of a psychic. She can move things with her mind and manifest things from just her thoughts, pulling them into reality. The Director is also among the only contractors with unique flying abilities.


    So, in this case, her eyes are like real daggers piercing into his skin, not metaphorically but literally. This was ironic because most conventional weapons, like an ordinary steel dagger, can hardly penetrate a contractor''s skin.


    Dante can feel his arms bleeding from the Director''s attack as he walks off the stage. She is by far the only person that Dante knows not to make angry. Standing there waiting for his best friend, Alexander slapped Dante coincidentally on the arm that was bleeding.


    Alexander laughed as Dante winced in pain. "I could have told you that the last part wouldn''t go over well with Michele," he said playfully.


    Irritated, Dante started walking toward the emergency exit. "Shut up! Everyone knows I hate giving speeches."


    Following closely behind, Alexander whistled a tune. "Yeah, yeah, let¡¯s go get a drink, Captain?"


    "Okay, but you''re buying," Dante replied, still annoyed.


    The two walked over to an all-black building with an "X" marked on the side in what looked like red spray paint.


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    "They really should find a better location for the Black Owl," Dante said casually as he walked into the entrance.


    A woman''s voice booms out behind the door. "Why don''t you both fuck off and find a better bar." Alexander walked over to the stool closest to the young, red-headed woman behind the bar.


    "Awe, don''t be like that, Cherr. You know he doesn''t mean it. He''s just in a bad mood." Alexander pulled off his white gloves and placed them on the table.


    Dante sighed and plopped down on the stool next to him. Dante willed his second relic, the "cloak of Nightingale," to change shape into the form of a biker jacket. Dante pulls a hair tie from his pants pocket and pulls his dreadlocks back into a ponytail. His brown skin glowed in the dark room littered with neon lights.


    The woman standing behind the bar pulls out two whiskey glasses. "Speech or no speech, you talk shit about my bar again, Dante. I''m going to kill you," She said, pushing her bright red hair from her face and laying the glasses on the bar.


    "Yeah, sorry, Valerie. I was just pissed off," Dante replies. "Well, I''m not the type to hold grudges," Valerie says, pulling a bottle of Jack Daniel''s from the wall. She poured the glasses and pulled out two lemon slices. " So, boys, do you think there will be any promising kiddos to adopt?" Valerie asked.


    Alexander took a sip of his drink, thanking Valerie for her generous pouring. Dante sighed and then downed his entire glass in one go. "I don''t intend to bring in any new members, especially not some inexperienced pups," he said, slamming his empty glass onto the table.


    A woman across the bar noticed the commotion and looked over. Dante smiled at her, causing her to blush and wave back.


    Valerie stepped in front of Dante, blocking his view. "I''m tired of running missions with just the two of you. It''s exhausting! Every other task force has at least five members, and that makes it safer and more productive," she said, clearly exasperated.


    "Well, those rules were meant for standard task forces," Alexander said, taking another sip of his whiskey. "In our situation, we don''t necessarily need five members. With our combat skills and your healing abilities, I can handle tanking and support while Dante focuses on eliminating everything in our path."


    Valerie interrupted, "I¡¯m tired of wasting energy healing injuries that could¡¯ve been prevented with just a few extra members."


    Dante reached for the Jack Daniel''s bottle and poured himself another glass. "We have a 100% mission completion rate, which is higher than any other team in the Retrieval Corp."


    Dante stood up, grabbing his full glass from the bar. "I don''t want any new members, and we don''t need any. End of discussion. Now, if you''ll excuse me, a gorgeous blonde needs a drink."


    Valerie sighed as Dante walked over and sat beside the girl who had waved at him earlier. She playfully slapped the side of Alexander''s head. "You were no help," she said jokingly.


    Alexander rubbed his head. "I''m sorry, love. He''s hard to persuade once he has made up his mind." Valerie slammed her elbows down on the bar, holding her chin up with her hands.


    "It''s alright, love. He will come to his senses eventually. He knows we can''t keep going like this forever. He''s still struggling." Alexander reached out to run his fingers through her bright red hair.


    She smiled as his hand came down, caressing her face softly. "I know he¡¯s grieving. But it has been almost three years, and now that he no longer has Monica, I fear he is going off the rails," Valerie said, pressing her face into his hand.


    "It will take time. As his friends, we owe him that, at least for now." Alexander glanced at Dante, who was laughing and holding a woman around her waist.


    "In the meantime, my love, you should stop by my lab for some experimentation and exercise," Alexander said with a devilish smile.


    She ran her fingers vigorously through the top of his blonde hair. "Come on, lover boy," she said, grabbing his hand and leading him to her room above the bar. "Your lab is clear across campus, and this is closer."


    Alexander smiled as he followed her upstairs.

 Chapter 6: Assignment Selection

    <div>


    The assembly hall was completely silent. The students sat in shock, reflecting on Dante''s speech.


    Director Diez''s voice resonated throughout the room. "Let''s give the captain another round of applause."


    Still stunned, the room slowly filled with the sound of clapping. Thalia looked over at Theo and mouthed, "What was that?" He shrugged, shaking his head to indicate he was just as confused as she was.


    "Now, the moment everyone has been waiting for has arrived. It is time for everyone to read their assignment letters," Director Diez announced enthusiastically.


    Instantly, everyone snapped out of their confusion and perked up at the thought of receiving their assignments. Nervous and excited expressions were exchanged throughout the assembly hall. Theo grabbed his arm, attempting to prevent it from shaking with anxiety. Thalia couldn''t deny it¡ªshe was feeling anxious too, just like Theo. However, she was too stubborn to show or admit it, even to herself.


    Tyler yawned, seemingly unaffected. His arrogant demeanor was starting to irritate Thalia. *We get it. You already know exactly where you''re going after graduation,* she thought. She glanced over at Keelan, who was lounging with his hands behind his head, relaxed. He must have figured that, no matter what his assignment was, he would just skip out on his obligations and head home. On the other hand, Thalia would be crushed if she were not selected for the Retrieval Corps.


    "Okay, loves, open your hands and close your eyes," the director instructed, demonstrating her request.


    Everyone quickly closed their eyes and held out their hands. Director Diez''s eyes began to glow, and an aura formed a thin white layer around her body. She snapped her fingers, creating a small, bright flash. Suddenly, all of the students'' hands were filled with identical white envelopes.


    ¡°Okay, now open them, my lovelies,¡± the Director said as her soft white aura faded.


    Thalia opened her eyes and saw a white envelope with her name handwritten in cursive using green pen ink. She recognized the handwriting¡ªit was identical to the notes and instructions her T¨ªa left on the fridge at home. She looked over at Theo, who was mystified and staring down at his letter. He was no longer shaking.


    Instead, he was utterly still, almost afraid to move. Theo often suffered from severe anxiety and panic attacks that caused his body to tense up and freeze. Thalia turned and pointed her finger toward Theo, concentrating her power at the tip. She felt a small surge rise in her chest and quickly released a jolt of electricity through her fingertip, sending a small electric current toward Theo''s arm.


    ¡°Ow! Shit, that hurt,¡± Theo yelped. His arm was still tingling from the pain, and he quickly looked over at his sister, who was now looking away and whistling. As he rubbed his sore arm, he noticed a small burn mark on his black dress shirt.


    Thalia gave Theo an awkward smile and a thumbs-up gesture, mouthing the words "You''re welcome," before returning her attention to her letter. Her hands were sweaty with excitement; she must have been nervous because if it were any other time, she would have ripped the letter open already. She turned the envelope around, broke the seal, and pulled the green slip of paper from inside.


    At this point, her heart was racing. She flipped the paper and read her assignment, written in her T¨ªa''s excellent cursive. The letter read, ¡°I am pleased to inform you that you have been selected to join the Retrieval Corps Elite Assault Squad.¡± Excitement and relief welled up in her chest as she continued reading. ¡°Due to your excellent aptitude and performance in combat simulations, we believe you are uniquely qualified to join the Retrieval Unit. Please report to your new commanding officer tomorrow morning at 0800 hours.¡±


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    Thalia was so happy she could cry. She had spent the last four years training with this single goal in mind, and now she was finally on the verge of realizing her dream of becoming a hero. Everyone around her seemed to either be celebrating or crying. At the peak of her happiness, she almost forgot about Theo.


    Looking back, she saw her brother with his hands on the top of his head, rubbing back and forth. Thalia''s heart dropped; her brother usually rubbed his head to self-soothe after receiving bad news. She jumped out of her seat and bent down beside him, picking up the letter that Theo must have dropped after reading it.


    "It''s going to be okay, little bro. Cheer up! It can''t be that bad. You placed second in our class. Tia would be a fool not to assign you to the Expedition Corps," Thalia said reassuringly.


    "Read it," Theo whispered in a shaky tone.


    Thalia read the assignment: "I am pleased to inform you that you have been selected to join the Retrieval Corps Elite Assault Squad." She almost dropped the letter, convinced she must have misread it.


    However, there was no doubt that Theo had been assigned to an assault squad.


    "This can''t be right. This has to be some mistake," Thalia mumbled under her breath. "What was Tia thinking? She had to know how much you wanted to be placed in the Expedition Corps so you could go to that fancy engineering school in District Eleven." Thalia stood up and turned to look at their Tia.


    The Director was still smiling out at the crowd of students. Finally, Thalia''s eyes met hers, and the Director gave her a reassuring smile and a nod. That small gesture confirmed any doubts¡ªthere was no mistake, and the decision had been made. Yet, Thalia couldn''t grasp the reasoning behind Tia''s choice.


    She never did anything without a solid reason, and Thalia was certain she would be able to ask her to explain later, but now was not the time. Tyler opened his letter and smiled, which took Thalia by surprise. He very rarely showed any emotion; disappointment or contempt were typically his expressions, but he never smiled. He must have been placed exactly where he wanted to be, as he put the letter in his front suit vest pocket and turned to leave.


    Everyone else seemed to be packing up to exit when Keelan hopped onto the stage and marched over to the Director. "You have got to be kidding me! This has to be some kind of mistake!" Keelan yelled.


    The Director remained smiling and utterly unfazed by his outburst. "Whatever do you mean? I don¡¯t believe I have ever made a mistake placing one of my cubs in the perfect home."


    Keelan''s face turned bright red, and he looked as if he might start foaming at the mouth with anger. Thalia wondered what his assignment could possibly be. She spotted a green slip of paper crumpled into a ball under the seat next to where Keelan was sitting.


    The assignment read: "I am pleased to inform you that you have been selected for the sanitation and campus restoration project. We believe your overall performance reflects a personality that takes great pride in your work. We would love to see that same amount of energy directed toward the restoration of buildings within the institute. I know we can count on you to help make our home as clean as possible."


    Thalia burst out laughing and quickly covered her mouth. The thought of Keelan spending the next few years participating in the revitalization effort in the city brought her to tears. She could picture it clearly: Keelan dressed in a bright green jumpsuit, getting dirty as he sorted through trash and debris.


    Keelan overheard Thalia''s outburst of laughter and turned around, hopping off the stage. He yelled, "My father will be having words with you, and we¡¯ll see whether or not this is still funny!"


    Keelan stormed out of the assembly hall angrier than Thalia had ever seen him. She couldn''t deny that it made her quite happy to see the guy who tormented her younger brother so thoroughly humiliated. She suspected that this was probably her Tia''s intention when she selected his assignment.


    A tall gentleman in a fitted suit walked up behind the director. "Our students are becoming more and more disrespectful with every passing year," the vice director said, handing her the clipboard.


    "Yes, Vincent, it is almost to be expected for the direct son of a Knight of the Round to be so arrogant," the director replied, sounding amused by the notion.


    Almost everyone in the assembly hall had left to celebrate or sulk after receiving their new assignments. Only Thalia stood patiently, waiting for her Tia to finish speaking with the vice director. Disappointed by his assignment, Theo sat quietly, staring at the floor. At least he had stopped rubbing his hands through his hair, which Thalia considered a good sign.


    <div>

 Chapter 7: Outburst

    "Okay, Vincent, I will personally inform the Predators of our decision. You do not need to worry." The director handed the clipboard back to the Vice Director.


    "If you say so, mam. I will take my leave," Vincent waved at the siblings and walked away. Thalia tapped Theo and yanked him up by his arm. "Tia, can we talk for a second?"


    The Director nodded her head and gestured for them to follow her. They exited the assembly hall backstage and started walking toward the union building in the center of campus. There was a long moment of silence as Thalia and Theo followed closely behind her. The director broke the silence.


    "Go ahead, Theo, tell me what is on your mind." Theo gulped.


    He was not scared of their Tia. He was more afraid to know the reason he was selected for an assault assignment. He weighed the pros and cons of asking the question. He already knew he could not plead with her to change her mind, so he started second-guessing whether or not there was even a reason to ask or know her reasoning behind her decision. Thalia started to get impatient and just impulsively blurted out.


    "How could you place Theo in the Retrieval Corp, knowing he wanted desperately to be in the Expedition Corp? It''s cruel to take the one thing you knew he has wanted since we came to this dumb Institute." Thalia covered her mouth, instantly regretting her words.


    Her Tia stopped, causing the two siblings to freeze behind her. She turned slowly to face her niece and nephew, who were now frozen like statues. The air started feeling heavy and tense around them. It felt reminiscent of earlier when Thalia was about to unleash a severe beating on Keelan. Only the heat and tense atmosphere could not begin to compare to the amount of pressure their Tia was emitting. Thalia felt sweat drip down the small of her back. It was like nothing they had ever felt before, especially from her Tia. Thalia instinctively knew that what they were experiencing was their aunt''s killing intent. It was honestly enough to make her want to claw at her head until she ripped out her hair.


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    "I am cruel now, am I? I expect disrespect from that Dynasty, Bratt. However, I will not tolerate my own kin behaving in such a manner."


    Thalia, paralyzed with fear, fell to her knees, weakened by every syllable from her Tia''s mouth. Her aunties eyes glowed, and a faint white aura lined her body.


    "I appreciate your fire and tenacity in standing up for your brother. Although I know, I raised you better than to sling insults when you do not get your way."


    Thalia looked down, embarrassed and barely able to stand. "I understand and apologize for my rude behavior. I know better than to disrespect you, Tia."


    "Good, I am relieved to hear you say that." The Director''s aura dissipated, and the air around them returned to normal.


    Thalia collapsed; her body felt fatigued, and her mind was still racing from the strain of Tia''s killing force.


    "Help your sister off the ground, Theo. She is getting her skirt dirty." Their Tia''s voice woke him from the trance of fear she placed him in.


    Theo helped Thalia off the ground and asked her if she was okay. Thalia nodded her head silently as if she was afraid to speak.


    "Now, Theo, you must think my decision was cruel and made without considering your feelings. However, I can assure you that it was not. I need you to trust that I always have your best interest at heart," she said, attempting to reassure him.


    "Now, if that will be all. I will see you both at home later tonight. I have another unpleasant bit of news to deliver to someone a lot more disrespectful and defiant than the two of you." She started to glow an ominous white before she floated into the air. Then, a sudden bright flash of light filled the auditorium. The siblings shielded their faces and closed their eyes to protect themselves from the light. A moment later, she vanished without a trace from the auditorium.

 Chapter 8: Intruder

    The lamp next to the nightstand crashed to the ground, waking Dante from his sleep. He scanned the dark room for any sign of life, his gut churning with the instinct of impending danger. The blonde from the bar was lying next to him, still asleep. But his instincts screamed that something was wrong.


    Still half-naked, Dante used his ring, Blink, to teleport to his closet. He didn¡¯t want to make any noise that might startle the woman peacefully sleeping in his bed. Although he didn''t care much about her comfort, it would be highly annoying if a panicking civilian disturbed his battle.


    He slipped on the Cloak of Nightingale, which began to conform to his body. He realized he looked ridiculous wearing only a black long coat and white heart-patterned boxers. However, appearance was secondary to anyone foolish enough to enter a wolf''s den. He grabbed "Shade," his ebony long-pole katana, from the closet and pressed his thumb against the hilt of the sheath. Closing his eyes, he tensed all his muscles, forcing himself into a state of extreme readiness.


    Peering around the corner, he muttered a curse under his breath. ¡°Shit.¡± If only he had grabbed the glasses of truth from the nightstand, he wouldn¡¯t have to stumble through the dark like an idiot. He returned to the bedroom, occasionally closing his eyes to scan for any hint of killing intent or aura. The woman was still snoring loudly, blissfully unaware of the imminent danger that was about to befall them.


    Suddenly, a bright white flash of light filled the room, shaking everything around them.


    Dante pushed off his left foot and drew his katana with god-like speed, dropping the sheath to the ground. He Spun his body like a twister moving through flat land. He stopped right as his blade met the intruder''s flesh. The sharp blade drew a small drop of blood from the intruder''s throat.


    "Hello, Michelle. What do I owe the pleasure?" Dante said, irritated, still holding his blade against the Director''s throat.


    "Your fangs are starting to get a bit dull. I could have killed you, and this woman twice. Well before either of you would of known what had happened." The Director said in a very playful tone. There was a brief silence before a faint white aura became visible around the director''s body. She was emitting a chilling amount of pressure, causing Dante¡¯s hands to sweat as he adjusted his grip on his blade.


    "Did you know that you have always been one of my favorite cubs? Even now, what do they call you? The Bloodhound?" She laughed. "I remember when the ferocious Bloodhound was still my cute little cub, Danteveous."


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    Dante felt his blood begin to boil. He could count on one hand how many people could truly get under his skin, and the Director was one of them. He was often described as calm, composed, and calculative, but rarely emotional. However, whenever this woman was involved, all his pride and bravado slipped away.


    "You know I hate that name, and yet you insist on calling me that!" Dante grumbled in a low tone, clearly flustered and embarrassed. If his complexion were any lighter, his cheeks would be cherry red from embarrassment.


    "Oh, don''t get all worked up, Danteveous. However, I would like to know one thing: how much longer will you be holding this unsightly thing up to my neck?" The shift in her tone brought an ominous sense of unease to the air.


    Her voice carried an aura so strong that Dante''s stomach began to churn again. It was as if his body instinctively understood what his mind had yet to grasp. The message his senses were desperately trying to convey was clear: "Run."


    A loud shriek rang out from behind him as he lowered his blade. "What the hell!" the woman from last night said, confused, hugging the sheets to cover her naked body. "What kind of sick stuff are you into? I don''t care how attractive you are. I''m not into threesomes."


    The Director snapped her fingers, and the women''s clothes floated over to her lap. "I see you''re still sleeping with random women to avoid confronting your past." Her look was as disapproving as it was amused.


    Dante replied casually, "It''s not random. She''s a beautiful young lady, and I''m allowed to have fun. So bite me!"


    The Director raised an eyebrow. "Oh really? Then what''s her name?"


    Dante paused for a moment, scratching his head. "Do you think I''m some thoughtless jerk? I met Rylee last night at the bar. We clicked and formed an emotional connection, so I brought her home and we connected physically to complete our bond." He smiled as he pulled his dreads back into a ponytail. He was Obviously feeling satisfied with his answer. Almost fully clothed, the woman pulled the lamp out of the socket from his dresser and chucked it at Dante''s head. Dante ducked in the nick of time.


    "My name is Sarah, you Bastard! Ugh, this will be the last time I go home with someone just because of a cute smile and washboard abs." She stormed out toward the exit, pulling her shirt over her head.


    "Hey, don''t be like that. Wait up. Rylee, you''re forgetting your purse." Dante said, pointing at the purse sitting next to his closet door. The woman huffed and spun around, and shot Dante a glare as she grabbed her purse.


    "Hey, don¡¯t look at me like that. How about I make it up to you with some breakfast? I¡¯m an excellent cook," Dante said, chuckling. The woman didn¡¯t even glance back; she simply slammed the door behind her.


    "Anyway, put on some pants. I need to talk to you about something, which is hard to do when you look like an idiot." The Director twirled her finger, and a pair of black cargo pants flew out from his drawer, hitting him in the side of the head.


    ¡°Well, maybe if you hadn¡¯t barged into my home in the middle of the night, flying around like a damn tooth fairy, I would have been wearing pants,¡± Dante said, hopping to pull them up.

 Chapter 9: Offer He Couldn鈥檛 Refuse

    The Director walked into her living room and clicked on the light switch, illuminating a large chandelier that hung above a pure sheepskin rug. The two couches were beautiful, white faux leather, and a colossal bookcase covered the entire wall. The room was spotless; it looked like it could be featured in a house decorating magazine.


    Dante cleaned daily to ensure everything was in order. The giant bookcase housed books that ranged from old war tactics to dusty how-to cooking manuals, all seemingly salvaged and partially damaged from the time and aftermath of World War IV. It was astonishing how many books he had collected, especially considering that most libraries were destroyed by bombs almost 250 years ago. Her eyes were drawn to the centerpiece of the room.


    "I told you not to buy that damn thing five years ago, but now that I see it, it¡¯s growing on me," the Director said, walking toward the huge mosaic painting. The painting depicted a giant black wolf with glowing red eyes.


    "That painting is called ''The Apex of Predators,''" Dante replied, pulling his shirt over his head.


    The Director tilted her head to the side. "Please tell me you didn''t name your unit after this cheesy painting," she said, obvious irritation in her voice.


    Dante shrugged casually. "I thought it was a cool name when I was younger." The Director shook her head disapprovingly before walking back over to the kitchen. She sat down on a stool next to the counter. "So you mentioned something about making food?"


    Dante moved into the kitchen, opened the fridge, and sifted through the pantry for ingredients. "How about omelets?" he suggested, cracking open a few eggs on the counter.


    "Yeah, sure. I used to love when you would cook for me when you were staying with me, Danteveous," the Director said, watching him work with a grin on her face.


    The Director took Dante in when his father sent him to the institute at the age of ten, without any resources. It was clear that the boy had been fending for himself long before arriving at the institute. He knew how to cook, clean, and take care of himself, which, although impressive for a child, was not ordinary for someone in his circumstances.


    Dante was not an average child; his father was Jameson Elceed, the current head of the Round Table.


    ¡°So, why are you really here?¡± Dante asked as he diced onions and tomatoes into small squares.


    ¡°I know my omelets are good, and you say you miss my cooking. However, you only visit when something is wrong. So, what is it? Do you have a special mission for my Predator squad?¡±


    The Director''s melancholic expression shifted to a tense, serious one. ¡°It¡¯s time, Dante,¡± she said, her gaze intense.


    ¡°I¡¯m not ready. My team isn¡¯t ready either. Besides, we¡¯ve been doing just fine without any help,¡± Dante replied nonchalantly, continuing to cut the excess vegetables.


    "You must be a little confused, Danteveous. I am not making a request." The Director''s eyes glowed a bright white once again as the intensity of her gaze deepened. She began lightly tapping the counter in front of her.


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    "I understand that, but I still must refuse. I can''t do it, even if it¡¯s your command." Dante paused his vegetable chopping to meet her intense gaze. He knew firsthand what happened to anyone who disobeyed one of the Director''s orders. He bore scars on his body that still ached when it rained, remnants of his disobedience as a child.


    The Director''s tapping quickened, causing the room to shake. Her fury was beginning to boil over. The books on the shelves, once neatly organized, started to tumble to the ground. The chandelier swung rapidly back and forth above them. If Dante¡¯s apartment weren¡¯t ten stories up, someone might mistake this for a minor earthquake or a major tremor.


    "I expect your ass to report to the training grounds to meet your newest recruits. I won''t entertain any more defiance. You keep pushing, and I will strip you of your rank as captain and give it to Alexander." She said slowly. The Director''s words gave off a pressure that even Dante could not entirely resist.


    "Alexander would never take my position. He loves me too much for that. And as much as Valerie nags, she would never follow another captain. So, respectfully..." Dante was cut off mid-sentence. To be more accurate, he couldn¡¯t find the words; it was as if they were suddenly trapped in his throat.


    The Director was no longer seated in front of him. Dante swiveled his head, searching for her.


    "My sweet Danteveous. I see you have already forgotten everything I taught you," the Director said, placing her arm around Dante''s shoulder.


    Her sudden touch made Dante feel like he wanted to jump out of his skin. For the first time in years, he felt fear¡ªa fear that immobilized his body and sent signals of panic to his mind. His gut told him that he could seriously die if he wasn''t careful; that the Director might actually kill him. Her presence had always been imposing, but the intensity of her killing intent felt terrifyingly real.


    A killing intent so overwhelming that even seasoned and hardened contractors would be left shaking and crying for their mothers. Dante couldn¡¯t imagine the hardships she must have endured to emit such a powerful aura of menace. Growing up during the Dark Ages and playing a crucial role in the War of Ages undoubtedly shaped her. Director Michele raised him, and to the world, she is known as the most beautiful and benevolent contractor in all of New Roark. She is seen as the standard of kindness and strength, although she rarely revealed her true nature.


    "Never forget the credo I''ve drilled into your mind and body," she said, sending chills down Dante''s spine as he hung on her every word. "The strong dominate the weak, and the weak submit to the strong." She pronounced each syllable slowly, emphasizing their weight.


    Dante''s rational mind recognized that the person behind him was his mentor and one of the few parental figures he had ever known. However, his fear overpowered his rational thoughts, creating the illusion that a monster or demon lurked behind him¡ªan unimaginable nightmare and hellish creature that he could not refuse. That was who the White Witch of the Apex Institute truly was beneath all the formalities and pleasantries.


    He gritted his teeth in response. "Fine."


    "Oh, great! I knew I could count on you, my lovely child. I am so proud of you. The fact that you remained standing while being so close to my aura shows you are definitely a candidate to be my successor," the Director said with a smile, kissing him on the forehead. "I know you are still grieving, but it¡¯s been three years. It''s time to move forward. That¡¯s why I made you captain of your own unit. I believe working with a new team will be good for you." Her voice was soft and comforting.


    Dante shook his head as he picked up his knife and began cutting the last bit of vegetables before placing them in the skillet.


    "Did you want garlic and cheese in your omelet?" Dante asked, clearly avoiding her previous comment. The Director exhaled, realizing his response, and decided just this once not to push him any further.


    "Yes, please. You treat me so well." A thought occurred to her as she was setting the table. "Hey, make two more omelets and put them in to-go boxes for me," she said, checking the time on her watch.


    "What am I, a restaurant now?" Dante replied, cracking four more eggs against the counter.

 Chapter 10: Gatekeeper

    <div>


    Thalia and Theo returned to their room almost immediately after their aunt (Tia) disappeared. It took them a few minutes to regain their bearings after coming into direct contact with her killing intent. Thalia cursed under her breath after her Tia left, while Theo tried to stop feeling sorry for himself and helped his sister to her feet.


    The following day, the two siblings woke up to the smell of bacon. After they dressed, they rushed down the stairs, where two omelets and bacon awaited them. Their aunt was in the kitchen, whistling and humming. She wore comfortable leggings and a white crop top, topped off with her white "Got Bacon?" apron.


    "Hey, Theo, who cooked this omelet?" Thalia whispered to her little brother as they took their seats at the dining room table. Theo picked up his knife and fork, eager to dig in.


    "I don''t know, but it definitely wasn''t Tia," he replied.


    "I''ve tasted her cooking; she only has two flavors: burned and undercooked." He laughed before choking on his food from eating too fast.


    "It doesn''t really matter all that much, I guess," Thalia said as she sat down and began to eat her omelet. It was by far the best she had ever had. Each bite was an explosion of flavor across her taste buds, making her want to eat more. She could definitely see why Theo almost choked.


    After eating, Thalia and Theo thanked their aunt, who smiled and giggled. "I''m glad you both liked them! You''ll need the energy for today''s activities," she said mysteriously. The siblings exchanged confused glances but ultimately shrugged off her comment, realizing she had no intention of explaining further.


    They made their way to the monorail platform, but this time, they were not headed to the assembly hall. Instead, they were on their way to the Box. The Box, short for Pandora''s Box, was where the institute stored all the relics captured during missions. Most of these relics were retrieved from illegal contractors involved in acts of terrorism. A significant collection also came from deceased registered contractors. Only graduates of the institute and members of the police force, known as the Golden Tips, were allowed to legally contract and carry a relic.


    When the monorail stopped at the station, Thalia got off first, stepping onto what appeared to be a deserted platform surrounded by grass and wildlife. Theo followed her.


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    "Are we sure this is the right place?" Thalia asked. "Isn''t the security here a bit too relaxed for what is supposed to be the infamous Pandora''s Box?" Honestly, she was questioning the same thing. "Everyone talks about how Pandora''s Box holds all of New Roark''s most powerful relics. They say some relics inside could single-handedly destroy a city block."


    "That''s less of a rumor and more of a cautionary tale," a smooth voice echoed in their ears. Thalia immediately raised her guard and looked around. It was strange because there was no one in sight. Given that this area was restricted, it was unlikely anyone could wander in. A special monorail exclusively shuttled passengers from the station to Pandora''s Box, and a team of elite contractors, equipped with detection and defense-type relics, guarded the area. There was no way an intruder could penetrate this deep into their defenses without triggering any alarms.


    ¡°Hey, look over there under that massive tree,¡± Theo said, pointing at a man in an all-black suit.


    The man''s top hat obscured his face as he slept against the tree. As Thalia moved closer, she noticed he was wearing white gloves and wing-tipped shoes. He looked like he had just come from a funeral or was on his way to a wedding.


    As they got closer to the man, he suddenly stood up without using his hands for support, shaking off his suit with a handkerchief that seemed to appear out of nowhere. He flipped his top hat over his shoulder-length blonde hair, and Thalia immediately noticed the black eye patch covering his right eye. His left eye sparkled as they approached, its blue color reminiscent of the ocean''s tide. He smiled at the siblings, revealing a perfect, blindingly white grin, but it unnerved Thalia; the smile felt oddly fake.


    "Hello, madam and gentleman. How are you doing this fine morning?" the man said, maintaining his unsettling smile.


    "Um, we''re fine. I don''t mean to be rude, but who are you, and how did you get here?" Theo asked, clearly puzzled.


    "Great question!" the man replied, still smiling. An awkward silence followed, and no one spoke for a moment. Then, the man spun around on his heels and started walking toward a small brown shed in the middle of the field.


    "Hey! You didn''t answer his question, and you are testing my patience!" Thalia yelled after him.


    Only the man was no longer within earshot, and he was already halfway to the building. It was strange, as there was no way he could have gotten that far in the brief moment Thalia looked away. She wondered what exactly was happening. Summoning the wind beneath her, Thalia flew over to the man, landing directly in front of him.


    "Stop!" she commanded, extending her arm. "If you go any further, I will not hesitate to attack!" The clouds began to roll in, and the bright, sunny sky darkened as they obscured the sun overhead. Thalia''s eyes gleamed a brilliant blue. Raising her arms, she felt the air crackle with energy as electricity danced along her arms and fingertips.


    A loud boom of thunder erupted from the dark clouds above. "I won''t repeat myself. Who are you?" Thalia demanded. Her aura overflowed, glowing fiercely blue, while electricity danced around her body. In that moment, she resembled the human embodiment of a lightning bolt.

 Chapter 11: Lightning Shower

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    "Tsk, tsk, so the rumors are true. You are quite the firecracker, aren''t you?" the man replied, stepping forward and adjusting his white gloves.


    Thalia had had enough. She might not kill the man, but she could certainly fry him until he soiled that lovely suit of his. She sent a surge of electricity straight toward him. He sidestepped, evading the bolt¡ªor so he thought. The current shifted direction in midair, tracking him as he began jumping, weaving, and rolling to avoid it.


    "This power you possess is impressive and unorthodox. Are you controlling the flow of this lightning with nothing but your will?" the man asked, effortlessly dodging the lightning bolts directed at him.


    Thalia was flustered by his indifference in the face of her "homing bolt." Irritated, she decided to escalate the situation.


    "I tried to go easy and spare your life, but you''ve left me with no choice." She raised both hands in the air. Her brother Theo looked horrified and started running back toward the monorail platform.


    "You crazy pendejo! Did you forget I¡¯m even down here?!" he yelled, still retreating further away from her attack range.


    Thalia brought her hands together as if in prayer. The thunder roared once again, and the largest cloud above them shifted, producing a thunderbolt that flashed overhead. She pulled her hands apart just before the thunderbolt struck the ground. Her eyes glowed a bright blue as she shouted, "Lightning Shower!"


    The once uniform thunderbolt shattered, releasing electricity in all directions. The only area untouched was where the bolt was initially aimed. Blue streams of electricity crackled and popped as they spread outward.


    "I want to see you dodge this!" Thalia said, grinning. The man stopped and watched the electricity spread across the land, jumping and getting closer to him with every breath. His smile widened even more as he cocked his head to the side. He placed one hand out right before the electricity reached him. Thalia''s eyes grew large halfway, expecting the man to combust into flames. She at least thought he would try to run like Theo did earlier.


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    If she had known he was suicidal, she would have chosen a less destructive approach. "I guess it''s time to report this incident. Damn, I was really looking forward to entering Pandora''s box."


    Thalia willed the wind to push her toward the monorail platform.


    "Marvelous! Absolutely smashing!" the man exclaimed, surrounded by the hum of electricity.


    Thalia froze midair, staring at the man she thought she had turned into a fried human kabob. He was standing unfazed, electricity surging around him. As she looked closer, she realized the electricity wasn''t actually surging around him; it was being magnetized and drawn into his hand, creating a barrier around his body¡ªor more precisely, it looked like a shield.


    "Alright, you pass!" the man said, flicking his hand down and dispersing all the electricity in the area.


    Truly intrigued and a bit stunned, Thalia dropped to the ground next to him. "Who are you exactly? At first, I thought you were an enemy, but that can''t be true."


    "Oh? And why is that?" the man asked, frowning for the first time.


    "It''s obvious I haven¡¯t sensed any killing intent or aura from you, nor have you counterattacked. That tells me two things: first, that you''re very powerful, and second, that you have no ill will or intentions. So, if I had to guess, you must be the gatekeeper," Thalia replied.


    Theo sensed that the worst of the conflict was over and came running up behind them. "Hey, sis, why did you suddenly stop your attack?"


    "Impressive, both of you," the man said, clapping his hands.


    Theo huffed, trying to catch his breath after running back over. "What are you talking about? I didn''t do anything," he wheezed.


    "I see you, even if no one else does. You quickly analyzed my battle strength in comparison to your sister¡¯s. Then, you referenced my mannerisms and actions, judging that I was not a threat. So, you took into account your sister¡¯s personality and allowed her to do what she does best. You stayed out of the combat zone, close enough to enter the battle to help or call for assistance." The man explained.


    Theo rubbed his hand through his thick brown hair and looked away. "Honestly, I would rank your analysis skills as the highest I have seen from a cub," the man said with a devious grin.


    "So you are the gatekeeper for Pandora''s box?" Thalia asked begrudgingly.


    "No, however, I am the vice-captain of your newly assigned squad. My name is Alexander Numek," he said, bowing while flipping his hat off.

 Chapter 12: Pandora鈥檚 Box

    Theo opened the bronze doors to the small brown shed, with Thalia trailing closely behind him. She was relentless in her barrage of questions for Vice-Captain Alexander. Her first question was about which squad he belonged to, but he evasively replied, "A good squad, of course." Thalia''s curiosity remained piqued, even though she knew he had no intention of answering her questions, but that only encouraged her to ask more.


    As soon as they stepped into the building, Theo froze, surveying the room and taking in his surroundings. Thalia couldn''t believe her eyes; there was no way they were still inside the small shed they had entered. The room was at least the size of the assembly hall, if not bigger, especially since there was no stage in sight. Looking from left to right, Thalia noticed nothing but glass cases.


    Some cases were filled with armor, others with various types of weapons, and some contained what appeared to be miscellaneous items. The case nearest to them held an old Chinese map and an empty glass bottle. Below those items, there was a pack of chewing gum.


    "Each of the relics in these cases possesses a special property or ability," Alexander explained. "However, the relics on the first floor range from common to rare grade. This means they offer little to no abilities overall. For example, the chewing gum on the bottom shelf is called ''rainbow gum.'' It''s a common relic and comes in three different flavors: red, blue, and yellow. The red flavor grants the contractor immense physical strength for three minutes, while the blue flavor bestows inhuman speed. The yellow flavor allows the consumer to fly. Each flavor has a duration of three minutes, and there are only ten pieces of each flavor in the pack."


    "Come on, follow me!" he said, already walking toward the back of the vault.


    "That sounds awesome! I want the rainbow gum so I can finally fly like Thalia," Theo exclaimed excitedly.


    "No, the rainbow gum is at best a common rank due to its low functionality. For instance, if you chose the gum, you would have to bond with its ego, which I imagine would be rather easy. However, that means you''ve bonded with a relic that can only be used a maximum of 30 times. What happens when you need one of those abilities for the 31st time?" Alexander replied, glancing back at Theo.


    "Fair point. So basically, if you bond with a relic, make sure it''s powerful and has a lot of utility," Theo whispered to himself, making a mental note.


    "So what happens if you bond with a useless relic and want to change it?" Thalia asked, eyeing a red and purple chest plate hanging in a glass case.


    "Well, once you bond with a relic, you are bound by that contract for life. The only way to break the contract is through the contractor''s death, and since no one has been discovered with a revival bloodline trait, you''re out of luck," Alexander explained. He suddenly stopped, causing Thalia to walk right into him.


    "I only know one person who can bond with multiple relics and form several contracts. I''ve even seen that guy use someone else''s relic while its contractor was still alive and bonded. Although that man is an exception¡ªand a rather annoying one at that," Alexander said, shaking his head.


    Thalia wondered about whom he was talking, but she was almost certain that out of all the questions he had avoided answering, this one was guaranteed to be one of them. As they walked deeper into the vault, she noticed that her body felt heavier. It was as if a weight was pressing down on her legs, arms, and chest, becoming more intense with every step.


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    Alexander noticed the subtle change in her body language. "The further we go back, the more pressure you''ll feel. The stronger a relic is, the more pressure it emits, and your body translates that sensation to your brain as weight. The relic''s aura is trying to scare you off by overwhelming your senses. I''m honestly surprised you both lasted this long without feeling anything. Most people say they can sense it even outside the vault."


    Thalia looked behind her to check if Theo was handling the intensifying pressure. She was shocked to see that he seemed completely fine, looking relaxed as if they were just strolling through one of those fancy shops in the shopping district. "Hey Theo, are you doing okay?"


    "Yeah, I''m perfectly fine. I''m still surprised by how large this place is given its small outer appearance," he replied.


    Alexander led them to another bronze door with a green ''A'' painted on it. When the door opened, it revealed a dark stairwell leading down to the lower level of the vault. Thalia felt like she was going to be sick, as an immense crushing pressure enveloped her head and lungs. The room spun around her before she fell backward into Theo¡¯s arms.


    "Down this staircase is what we call the real Pandora''s box. It holds the largest number of legendary and mythic relics in New Roark¡ªthose relics that everyone whispers about," Alexander explained as he casually lit a cigarette.


    "Thalia, are you okay? What''s wrong? Are you feeling sick?" Theo asked her, his face filled with concern as he leaned her up against the door.


    "Yes, my dear, you can always choose from any of the relics here if your mind and will are too weak. You do already possess a pretty powerful bloodline trait," Alexander said, blowing the smoke out in a series of O''s.


    "Why is this happening to her? I feel completely fine. Why is she like this?" Theo asked, looking at Alexander with worry.


    "I already explained this to you once. The relics¡¯ immense aura emits pressure that challenges the mind and invades the psyche of weak-minded individuals," Alexander replied as he began to walk down the stairs. "It¡¯s almost like a defense mechanism that prevents any potentially weak candidates from attempting to form a bond with them. Honestly, I agree with the relics'' judgment. If her mindset is this weak, then she doesn¡¯t deserve to wield their power."


    Clutching her thigh, she dug her nails into her skin to the point she started to feel the warm sensation of blood running down her thigh. All of her insecurities came rushing in, attacking her all at once. She began to ask herself if she was qualified to be here. She always dreamed about being here, but she couldn''t help but wonder whether heroes really existed in this era. What if she cannot become strong enough to meet Tia''s expectations? Thalia¡¯s head spun and her vision started to become blurry. She started feeling like she was going to pass out.


    Thalia grit her teeth. "No, what have I been working this hard for if I was just going to quit? I plant to change this world with my own two hands. And to do that, I need more power. I need enough power to shape and mold a new world." This feeling reminded Thalia of one of the only positive encounters with her father. She was maybe six or seven years old. He had come home happy that day which was rare. He told her that it was his job to conquer this god forsaken world. While it was her job to change this cruel world into something better.


    Thalia had always idolized the heroes in her father''s stories. He had often emphasized that heroes are not only righteous but also powerful. It didn''t matter whose philosophy was right or wrong; only the strong get to be the heroes in a story.


    ¡°...Thalia...Thalia... THALIA.¡± She could hear someone calling her name. Her hands felt sweaty, and her eyes began to focus. She recognized the voice; it was Theo, and he was gently shaking her. Thalia pushed herself up and stood on her feet. Theo tried to help, but she waved him away.


    "I''m sorry for worrying you, Theo, but I''m fine now. I promise the pain in my head is gone," Thalia reassured her brother.


    Theo gave her a skeptical look but eventually let it go. "Well, come on. I think the vice-captain has already gone ahead," he said, walking toward the cobblestone staircase.


    Thalia followed closely behind him, trying to hide her fear of passing out again. The staircase resembled one that might belong in an old castle, a relic from before the war. Torches lined the walls, illuminating their path as they descended the spiraled staircase. It felt as though they had been walking down for hours.


    "How far down do these godforsaken stairs go?" she asked, gripping the wall for balance. They could see a bright light ahead and an archway leading into a passageway, with the door already open.