A few days ago, X was recalled by the army for an ergency situation leaving Cryo and Iris in charge of the training of the twins. The days passed quietly in an unhurried manner, Nioh was stuck in his laboratory, preparing for the hunt, while sotis discussing strategies with his team.
The past months have fundantally changed the team's attitude. Being put forefront of the plan, coupled with the perpetual ntorship from Nioh and X , the twins have beco more confident. The influence from the repeated use of their biocore added a hint of edge to their personality. Kol, beca more silent but lethal and cutthroat with his remarks while Sol turned extroverted and attention seeking.
Cryo assud a more mature role since the departure of X, his already cold deanor turned colder. But a tinge of warmth could be felt as he seed to have learned a few values.
Iris on the other hand felt liberated from the overbearing rules of the palace, and allowed for her ambition as a warrior to flourish once more.
Nioh was again busy inscribing so runes on a chanical part when he felt the communication device at his wrist vibrate successively.
His face was lit with excitation, as he read out the ssages while the other four mbers rushed out of the training room because it was the sign that the hunt had begun.
"It's been four years, the archipelago is ready to transform." Iris declared. "Tomorrow, the queen will launch the hunt." She added.
"The uniforms have been sent to your rooms, so rest up we will et tomorrow in the palace" Nioh demanded.
"What about you?" Sol asked noggin her head close to him as if asking for a pat. He responded accordingly " I still have a few things to finish, don't worry I will see you tomorrow"
After the team left Nioh walked into the training room "Are you sure you want to release it?"Ekoh asked one last ti.
"You helped fuse 20% of the S-tiers biocores, and you sealed the rest of the energy away because my body could not handle it."
"Over the past months we have been replenishing and nourishing my body, plus If we want to succeed this is a necessary step," Nioh replied as he took off his shirt, the golden runes on his body began to glow, and spread strategically on his body. He gritted his teeth as the pain settled in. "It was going to be a long night."
-
Morning broke, and the archipelago was busier than ever. Majestic screens lined the streets, broadcasting every mont as comntators and journalists debated strategies and predicted outcos for the much-anticipated Sumr Hunt. The central arena of the royal palace was filled with spectators from across the fiefdom, buzzing with excitent.
"This is my first ti seeing the opening ceremony in person!" a young man exclaid, barely containing his glee.
"Sa here! Tickets are impossible to get. I can't believe we're this close," his companion replied, gripping his souvenir program tightly.
Military personnel were deployed in full force, their disciplined movents adding an air of gravitas to the festive atmosphere. Soon, the ceremony would begin.
anwhile, deep within the participant's quarters tension simred.
"It's almost ti to head to the arena. Where is the young master?" Iris asked, her voice tinged with unease.
"I haven't seen him since yesterday. You think sothing happened?" Sol questioned, fidgeting nervously.
"He wasn't in his quarters or the lab when I checked this morning" Kol said, shaking his head.
The four stood together in matching purple uniforms, the sleek, skintight designs bearing the insignia of House Glev. Their attire reflected a blend of practicality and elegance: Kol's flowing cape lent him a regal air, while Sol, with her ornate crown and vibrant bracelets, exuded an extravagant flair.
Cryo, ever the stoic, wore a full bio-chanical bracer on his right arm, its sleek black tal etched with intricate designs. His slicked-back hair and ticulous appearance made him a striking figure.
In contrast, Iris's outfit was modest, though the ancient wooden shield strapped to her back stood out—a symbol of Noblesse and resilience.
Despite their distinctive styles, the absence of their leader left them feeling out of place among the more composed, synchronized teams around them.
A mocking voice broke through the murmurs. "Well, if it isn't the royal clowns," sneered Kalix, flanked by her brother Leon.
Cryo's jaw tightened, but Kol stepped forward first. "What do you want, Kalix?"
"Just curious why you're wasting your talents with these losers, Cryo. My brother's offer still stands. Dump them and join us. You deserve better," Leon chid in, flashing a condescending grin.
"You pests didn't even greet properly," Kalix snapped, drawing attention to herself. She pulled out her whip, its tip crackling with faint energy as she cracked it in the air. "Bow, or I'll teach you so respect."
"Back off!" Kol growled, stepping in front of Sol and grabbing Kalix by the collar.
"You dare lay a hand on ?" Kalix shrieked, her whip coiling in her hand.
"Enough!" Iris intervened, her calm voice cut through the rising tension as she positioned herself between Kol and Kalix. "Princess Kalix, this isn't the place for petty squabbles."
Kalix's eyes blazed with fury, but Leon grabbed her arm. "Sister, stop. If Grandfather hears about this, there will be consequences."
Kalix pulled her arm away but didn't relent. "You're all lucky I'm feeling generous. But mark my words—when my brother becos heir, I'll deal with each of you, especially that bastard Nioh. Where is he hiding, anyway?"
"Tell him... what?" a chilling voice interrupted.
The crowd parted as Nioh approached, his presence drawing every gaze. Dressed in the sa purple uniform, his ashen hair swayed gently with each step, his expression unreadable save for the faint, unsettling smile on his lips.
Kalix's bravado evaporated, and even Leon paled. "Little... Little Uncle," Leon stamred, quickly bowing and pulling Kalix down with him. "My sister was rely joking. Please don't take offense."
Nioh ignored him, his piercing gaze fixed on Kalix. "I asked you a question," he repeated, his tone cold.
Leon scrambled to reply, desperation in his voice. "Yes, just a joke! No harm ant, Uncle!"
"Is that so?" Nioh's eyes flicked to his team, silently seeking confirmation. They said nothing, their silence speaks volus.
Nioh turned back to Kalix and leaned in slightly, his smile sharpening. "Then I suggest you leave before I decide If want to tear your head off."
"You dare threaten my sister?" A new voice rang out, followed by the arrival of Pax and his entourage. The group of four cut an imposing figure as they approached, their confident strides exuding power.
Nioh's smile widened as he turned to face Pax. "Oh, I dare. Haven't you heard? There's nothing I don't dare to do, little nephew."
"You forget," Pax said with a sneer, "there's no X or Marsai to shield you now."
"Bold of you to assu I need their protection to handle you," Nioh replied, his tone laced with mockery.
Both their biocore energy surged like two maelstroms opposing each other equally.
"He has beco stronger" Cryo and Iris exclaid again not knowing which one of the opponents they were referring to.
The tension crackled like static in the air, drawing the attention of every participant in the room.
All teams, prepare to enter the arena!
The announcent shattered the stand-off, though Pax didn't let the opportunity pass without a parting threat. "Not bad uncle. Watch your back out there, Uncle."
Nioh rely chuckled as Pax walked away.
"Why do you always provoke him?" Iris hissed, exasperated.
Nioh shrugged nonchalantly. "I don't like his face."
"Just how old are you? You act like a child," Cryo said, shaking his head.
Nioh smirked. "I can't help it. I am only fifteen, after all." Without waiting for a reply, he strode toward the exit, his team following close behind.
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