1st Day of 1st Fire Cycle[1], 2000 g.c.
On the west coast of Arcadia, the sprawling metropolis of Xanxia pulsed with life. Floating mana lanterns painted the skyline in ghostly hues. But within the royal mansion, beyond the reach of the city's restless energy, a meeting was taking place—one so secretive that even noble families were left in the dark. The city itself hummed with the quiet chaos of nightlife, its towering spires kissed by the glow of floating mana lanterns. Yet, within the royal mansion at the heart of the city, the true power of humanity was gathering under a veil of secrecy.
On the third floor of the estate, within the dimly lit corridors, Queen Snow of Hedaria moved with a silent, measured grace. She had just been briefed by her Master of Spies, a man who had served her faithfully for decades. His words had been swift and precise, delivering new intelligence regarding the country of Velonica—intelligence that made this meeting all the more necessary.
With a deep nod of gratitude, she dismissed him. He bowed low, then vanished into the shadows, slipping away like a ghost. Snow took a breath, steadying herself before the heavy doors of the meeting room. She adjusted the hood of her burgundy robe, which was vastly different from the regalia she typically adorned. Tonight, she did not wear her kingdom's jewels or her station's elaborate silks. No, this attire was for something far more... discreet.
She pushed open the doors.
The chamber beyond was grand yet intimate, designed with opulence fit for rulers. A vast circular table stood at its center, its polished dark wood gleaming beneath the flickering light of mana crystal lamps placed in each corner. Gold embellishments traced intricate patterns along the walls, and thick velvet drapes—deep crimson and rich violet—hung heavily, muffling the outside world. The air was thick, not just with the scent of expensive perfume and incense, but with something far weightier.
Power.
As Queen Snow stepped forward, an immense wave of magical pressure slammed into her, rolling off the six figures already seated within the chamber. The air thickened like a crushing tide. Snow felt the weight of it press against her ribs, forcing her to steady her breath before stepping forward. Each presence at the table hummed with power—some sharp and fiery, others vast and unfathomable. These were not mere leaders. These were legends—individuals who had carved their names into the history of mankind through strength, wit, and skills. Among them, two radiated an even deeper well of magic, their presence bordering on divine.
At her left sat Sister Mary Magdala, head of the Holy Church of Madness. Clad in the same burgundy robes as the others, her delicate, fair-skinned hands rested gently on the table, fingers adorned with sacred rings. She exuded an aura of calm serenity, but if you knew better, you wouldn't trust that facade.
To Snow's right sat Slade Sonnen, the mighty ruler of the Sonnen Kingdom. His golden-blond hair shimmered even in the dim light, and his massive frame, broad-shouldered and battle-hardened, seemed almost too large for the chair he occupied. Beside him lounged Nasti Ryco, the newly crowned Queen of Rhythmica. She oozed a bold, almost rebellious femininity even with most of her form hidden beneath the robes.
Further down the table, Peace Diddler, the flamboyant ruler of Bhadboi, sat in a relaxed yet poised manner, his dark skin contrasted sharply against the golden glow of the room's decor. Next to him was Auburn Graham, Leader of the Owl Vices Organization and the most famous Ascended Human artist of the past millennium. His presence alone was enough to command the attention of even the most powerful beings. And finally, at the far end, sat Jojo King—the Hero of Mankind.
Each of them turned their gaze toward her, some with smirks, others with unreadable expressions.
Auburn was the first to speak, his voice smooth yet teasing. "The host has finally graced us with her presence."
Snow allowed herself a small smile. "Was I missed? I gave Joana instructions to take care of your every need until I made it."
Auburn chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "That explains the happy ending."
A soft, melodic laugh followed, belonging to Sister Mary. "High Queen Snow, you're looking radiant as ever. If only we were all blessed with eternal beauty."
Snow turned her gaze toward the Saint Human, offering a graceful nod. "Magnificent Sister Mary, a woman of your sword skills and attraction will always be someone I admire. I am glad to see you in person again, my friend."
Mary's warm smile deepened. "The feeling is mutual. It has been far too long."
Snow then turned her attention to the figure at the far end. "Mr. Jojo, I'm glad to see you made it to the meeting."
Jojo exhaled sharply, resting an elbow on the table. "Well, when Sister Mary requested so strongly that I make it, I found it hard not to appear."
Mary folded her hands together. "The Goddess will reward you in time for heeding her call."
Before Jojo could respond, Peace Diddler reached over and lightly jabbed him in the arm. Jojo turned in shock, only to be met with Peace's mischievous grin and an exaggerated thumbs-up.
Snow chuckled. "King Diddler, word of your immaculate parties has taken over the rumor mill among the nobles of Colorberg. I wish to visit Bhadboi for one, sometime soon."
Peace flashed a dazzling smile, his voice like a melody. "Whenever Your Majesty wishes. I could see no finer reason to celebrate than the hosting of the High Queen of Arcadia."
From his seat, Slade let out a low chuckle. "I didn't know the High Queen still enjoyed such pleasures of the flesh."
Snow arched a brow. "I am still a woman, King Slade. Only Sister Mary has mastered the body to rid it of such desires."
Slade, ever the warrior king, smirked. He had the kind of face that seemed to belong to the gods themselves—chiseled, masculine, and undeniably attractive. His mere presence had women across every species longing for his attention. But his true allure came not from his looks, but from his dominance, his mastery of magic, and his undefeated record in battle.
Mary, always ready with scripture, clasped her hands together. "Anything is achievable with faith in the Goddess."
Nasti, who had been quiet until now, let out an amused scoff. "I'll give up my desires once I die. There's no need to do so while I'm enjoying the life the Goddess gave me. Pleasure's a gift from the Goddess too—if you know where to find it."
Mary, unbothered, sighed. "Seems you may need to re-read your Book of Endless Skies. The Goddess Laniakea strongly speaks against giving a male enjoyment without receiving payment or your pleasure first."
Nasti waved a dismissive hand. "Oh, don't worry. I would never allow a man to be happy without paying for it first."
There was a beat of silence, then a few chuckles. Snow simply shook her head with amusement.
Slade leaned back in his chair, his golden hair catching the flickering light. "The happiest of a woman is the ultimate gift any man could receive."
Mary inclined her head toward him in approval. "I could not have put it any better, Your Highness."
The atmosphere in the room was deceptively light, but beneath the teasing and flirtations, a tension loomed—an unspoken understanding that tonight was about far more than playful banter. The true reason for their gathering would reveal itself soon enough.
Once High Queen Snow took her seat, the atmosphere of the room shifted in an instant. The soft murmur of hushed conversations died out, and a heavy silence draped itself over the chamber like a thick veil. It was almost as if the room itself acknowledged her presence, the background darkening, with the massive chandelier above casting long, flickering shadows against the ornate walls. The light, though abundant, felt constrained, trapped within the gravity of what was to come. All eyes turned toward Snow, their focus unwavering, their postures stiff with anticipation.
Snow leaned forward, her presence commanding yet composed. "I've been informed of numerous rumors circulating in the taverns," she began, her voice measured and calm, yet carrying the weight of undeniable authority. "Since the Great Earthquake five month cycles ago, the demihumans have been whispering about a creature called the Devil of Velonica."
Slade, ever the pragmatic one, crossed his arms, his deep-set eyes narrowing. "The Devil of Velonica, huh? Do we know what kind of creature it is or how strong it may be?"
Peace, draped with his usual extravagant persona, adjusted his robe with an exaggerated motion before responding. "From what I know of that Monster Country, it's said to be an Oni born from the Demon Lord about fifteen years ago."
Slade's brow furrowed. "An Oni, you say? Those demons are known to grow as strong as S-Class."
Snow nodded, her expression unreadable. "That aligns with the intelligence from my Master of Spies. I was told that this devil may rival its region's Demon Lord in power."
Nasti groaned, tossing her head back in frustration. "So a new Legendary Monster was behind the Great Earthquake? How annoying. And just when we finally got those damn dragons to stop causing problems."
Mary, the ever-efficient strategist of the Holy Church, laced her fingers together. "My informants have been gathering intelligence from all the Monster Countries. Thanks to an inside source, we have the resting locations of both the Devil and the Demon Lord. Both possess an extensive library of abilities and spells—multiple mana affinities, high weapon skills, and such."
Auburn let out a low whistle. "Sounds like a scary pair. I'd hate to deal with them together."
Mary turned her sharp gaze toward him. "If it were anyone else saying that, I might agree. But Mr. Graham, I'm well aware of your true Battle Class." She let that linger for a moment before continuing. "Our spy also reports that the Devil of Velonica hasn't been seen since the Great Earthquake. Meanwhile, the Demon Lord has grown weaker for unknown reasons. I suggest we send Mr. Jojo King to suppress them both before the Devil can turn his attention beyond the borders of Velonica."
Jojo's chair scraped against the marble floor as he shot upright. "Wait, me?!"
Snow's voice cut through the tension like a blade. "Now wait just a moment, Sister Mary!"
Mary held her hauntingly radiant smile. "Your High Majesty, I understand your concern for Mr. King, but this is the perfect opportunity for him to recover any lost faith and followers due to the rumors surrounding his self-sacrifice last year. Some believe he was pushed to his limit by mere Ogres, taking the entire village down as a last-ditch effort."
Snow's eyes hardened. "That's because the public doesn't know about the rogue angel Jojo had to fight. No mere Ogres could ever challenge the Hero of Mankind like that."
Mary clasped her hands together, unfazed. "Which is precisely why we should act now. Letting him secure a victory over a rising Legendary Monster will rekindle lost faith. Especially with someone as infamous as the Devil of Velonica."
Snow hesitated. "But we don't know how strong the Devil truly is."
Mary exhaled as if she had already anticipated that concern. "He would not go alone. The Eastern Church is prepared to send all twelve Saint Disciples to ensure his victory."
Auburn chuckled, leaning back in his seat. "Wow. With a cavalry like that, he could take over that entire country."
Jojo slumped slightly. "I don't even want to go."
Nasti tapped her fingers against the table. "How many more strong creatures are lurking in those lands?"
Peace leaned forward, his golden rings clinking softly. "Only a few noble families remain. Most of the powerful Demihumans disappeared years ago."
Mary's expression was serene. "Then Goddess Laniakea blesses us with an opportunity we must seize."
Nasti arched a brow. "Shouldn't this be a job for the Angels we summoned? They're supposed to feed on strong monsters like that."
Mary's smile never wavered. "Angels from the Third Sphere of Heaven are not beings we can command like soldiers. If not for Archangel Orion, that rogue angel who attacked Mr. King could have done much worse. We must let them act on their own accord."
Auburn rubbed his chin. "They're unpredictable. Are we even sure they're on mankind's side?"
Jojo scoffed. "Someone should've let me and him both know we were allies. He damn sure didn't act like it."
Mary's voice remained steady. "It is not our place to question the Goddess' will. Her thoughts exist beyond mortal comprehension. She sees variables we could never consider. We must have faith that everything will fall into place."
Nasti rolled her eyes. "Sending all twelve medallion users and the Hero of Mankind to fight a couple of Legendary Monsters seems risky. If they lose, we're down a lot of firepower."
Mary was unshaken. "Goddess Laniakea has blessed those Artifacts. Allowing the user to achieve incredible feats. In the hands of a mere Mythwalker, they could rival a Godwalker in strength. No Legendary Monster could defeat such an assembly of warriors."
Nasti let out a slow exhale. "That's some faith you got, sister."
Snow's expression tightened. "In theory, it sounds ideal."
Auburn cracked his neck. "It'd be a hell of a sight, though. Sadly, I haven't seen a Legendary Monster stronger than that slime."
Nasti's lips curled in irritation. "You should've killed it when you had the chance. It hasn't been seen since we captured that Elf."
Peace folded his arms. "Speaking of the Super Elf, he's now under [Label Lock]. He'll make his debut as a Bhadboi artist during the tournament."
Slade raised a brow. "Even a powerful Demihuman like him can still be placed under control? I'm impressed."
Peace smirked. "Which brings me to my next point—the Arcadian Summer Tournament in Babylonia. Demihuman artists have been generating a surge of new talent, attracting widespread attention. If we're going to break the Peace Treaty with the Monster Nations this year, we should humiliate them first on the biggest stage in Arcadia."
Snow regarded him cautiously. "What are you suggesting, King Peace?"
Peace gestured dramatically. "I want Auburn and the Helios Brigade of Sonnen to enter the tournament. The Monster Nations plan to send their best representatives, so why not crush their confidence first?"
Auburn scoffed. "So what if powerful Demihumans are crawling into Babylon's little arena? Why should that interest me?"
Slade commented. "Babylon's Rap Battle League has been rising in popularity. To think the Holy Lands would welcome Demihumans to fight for sport now."
Mary added, "Five hundred years of the Peace Treaty had the Pope finding new ways to benefit from Demihumans, outside of slavery."
Snow's voice remained unwavering. "When the Rapture of Arcadia arrives, humanity will stand as the sole ruling species."
Mary's radiant smile persisted. "As Goddess Laniakea wills it."
Slade rubbed his chin, his fingers moving in slow, contemplative strokes as he gave the request serious thought. The flickering candlelight of the grand chamber cast shadows over his face, accentuating the deep lines of a man accustomed to war and strategy. His gaze was sharp, yet distant as if calculating the future five steps ahead.
"Hmm. Showing off the strength of the Helios Brigade doesn't sound like a bad idea. It would also allow me to gather my troops near Braye's border without drawing too much attention since their queen will be in attendance."
Across the polished obsidian table, Peace smirked, reclining slightly in his chair. "Still got your eyes on those vineyards?" he asked, his tone edged with amusement.
Slade exhaled through his nose, a half-smile creeping onto his face. "I'm just grabbing an opportunity that is being made available by Queen Ryco's undying hatred. To produce such a quality wine under the Sonnen Kingdom's name would flood our treasuries with gold coins."
A soft yet venomous voice sliced through the air, bringing with it a tension that thickened the room like a storm cloud.
"Expect no vineyards in Resha City to survive its destruction," Nasti declared, her words carrying the weight of a long-buried grudge.
The low-hanging candlelight flickered across her form, revealing the subtle yet provocative way her robe clung to her. The silk fabric, deceptively modest, betrayed her curves in the subtlest ways—her nipple rings pressing lightly against the material, drawing lingering gazes from those too weak to resist. She sat with a dangerous elegance, her presence both alluring and menacing, the embodiment of a lethal flower in full bloom.
Auburn, ever the instigator, chuckled as he leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "Still angry at Queen Dee about that lost love?" His voice carried a hint of mock sympathy, but the knowing gleam in his eye suggested he already knew the answer.
Nasti's face remained unreadable for a moment before her fingers curled slightly, gripping the edge of the table with a ghost of restrained fury. "She killed the only man I'll ever truly love. I've been counting the days until this Peace Treaty's end."
Auburn tilted his head, his golden eyes gleaming with curiosity. "The perks of immortality, huh? What's it been, 250 years?"
Nasti's sharp glare cut through him like a blade. "It's been 263 years, 4 month cycles, and 7 days if you must ask."
Auburn gave a slow nod. "Must seem like yesterday to you."
She closed her eyes briefly as if reliving the moment of loss all over again, before opening them with a renewed intensity.
"I will besiege Resha City come the 3rd Earth Cycle. Nothing will stop me from seeking my revenge on that Celestial woman." Her voice was steady, but the hatred burning behind her scarlet eyes was anything but controlled.
Auburn exhaled, rocking his chair back slightly. "I guess since it's a Monster Nation with no S-Class warriors, it shouldn't be a problem."
Snow, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke, her measured voice carrying a note of caution. "Don't underestimate the Demihumans who can use mana. They show the same tenacity as a human when pushed into a corner."
Slade nodded in agreement. "Tis why I shall be lending a few troops to ensure everything goes smoothly. And with the Helios Brigade being in Babylonia for the tournament, their travel to rejoin the main forces would be only a day or two."
Peace, always looking to wrap things up efficiently, turned to Auburn. "Mr. Graham, what is your answer to my request?"
Auburn rolled his shoulders lazily, his smirk unwavering. "I guess I could show my face, but I'll only fight if the mood strikes me."
Peace extended his hand with an air of finality. "Consider it a deal, my brother."
Snow tapped the table lightly, gathering the room's attention once more. "Is there any more news that needs to be brought to the table?"
Silence settled over the room as glances were exchanged. No one volunteered further information, the weight of the discussion already pressing down on them.
Snow gave a slow nod. "As tradition dictates, we will conduct our next meeting in Babylonia during the summer. With our agreement to Saint Sister Mary's plan to target Velonica's Legendary Monsters, we can conclude this meeting."
Before the room could fully settle, a hesitant hand raised. Jojo's voice carried a tinge of unease as he spoke. "How long do I have before I ship out to Velonica?"
Snow's response was as swift as it was final. "You leave tonight. Be safe on your journey and return to us. You are the Hero of Mankind."
Jojo's face twitched almost imperceptibly, frustration flashing in his eyes before he quickly schooled his expression into something more palatable. The title never sat right with him, but there was no refusing an order from the High Queen.
With a deep bow, he answered, "Understood, your Majesty."
Auburn, ever perceptive, caught the brief flicker of emotion but chose to keep it to himself. His attention returned to the High Queen as the meeting concluded, the air still heavy with unspoken tensions and lingering desires for war and revenge.
42 Mins Later...
The cerulean hues of the setting sun stretched across the sky, melting into deep shades of amethyst and crimson. The rings of Gaia shimmered against the twilight backdrop, tracing elegant arcs in the heavens, while the distant exoplanet Trappist loomed large, casting a soft glow over the world below. The air, rich with the scent of magnolia and sandalwood, carried a gentle breeze that ruffled Jojo's coat as he stepped through the towering front gates of the royal mansion.
Behind him, the heavy iron doors groaned before slamming shut with finality, sealing away the echoes of yet another tedious meeting. His face bore the look of a man who had swallowed something bitter, and he rubbed his temple in frustration. The city of Xanxia spread out before him, its silhouette a masterwork of elegant rooftops with curved eaves and towering pagodas, reminiscent of ancient China from the old Earth. The streets paved with polished stone, gleamed in the evening light as lanterns flickered to life, casting warm halos against the encroaching night.
From the corner of his eye, he spotted Krystal approaching, weaving through the thinning crowd with an easy, unhurried gait. Her expression was a stark contrast to his—cheeks flushed, lips curled in a satisfied smirk, and eyes relaxed in the way only a woman three drinks deep into her evening could be.
"Lord Jojo!" she called out, her voice carrying a playful whistle at the end, the telltale sign of intoxication.
Jojo sighed, exhaling sharply through his nose. "I can tell you're drunk. That's the only time you use honor titles with me."
As she came to a stop beside him, the pungent sting of wine hit him like a slap. Krystal grinned, utterly unbothered. "Oh, never mind that," she waved off. "How was the Bohemian Grove meeting?"
"For an emergency, boring and full of bad news, like always." Jojo turned to walk, and Krystal fell in step beside him, her posture far too casual for what was about to come.
"I guess running the continent from the shadows isn't all fun and games," she teased.
"I did learn a lot from this one," Jojo admitted, his voice edged with something more serious. "For instance, that Angel we ran into was called to this planet by us."
Krystal stopped mid-step. "Wait, what? Hold on a second." She turned to him, eyes narrowing as if trying to sober up by sheer will.
"He was brought here to keep the Demihumans from becoming so strong that Humans couldn't keep them in check."
Krystal blinked, taking a moment to process. "Still doesn't explain why it attacked us."
Jojo exhaled through his nose, rubbing the bridge between his eyes. "Seems we have no real control over it."
"Well, that's stupid. Who thought of that?" she scoffed.
"The same one who said that we leave for the country of Velonica tonight."
Krystal groaned dramatically, throwing her head back. "Jojo, you're really killing the good buzz I had going on. Why are we headed to a Monster Country tonight?"
Jojo kept walking, hands slipping into his coat pockets. "I've been tasked with the job of killing the Devil of Velonica and the Demon Lord of that region. It should take us four days to get there by assisted magick."
"The Devil of…?" Krystal squinted. "You mean we have to fight a Devil now? I just want to get drunk and relax."
"I'm not a fan myself," Jojo admitted, eyes set ahead. "But it's my job as the Hero of Mankind. I must keep the people safe from threats like this."
Krystal let out a deep sigh, rolling her eyes. "Goddess, you're blowing the hell out of my buzz."
"Come forth, good boy—[Familiar Summoning]."
Jojo raised a hand, weaving together strands of Gem Mana in fluid, practiced motions. The air around them pulsed with energy as the magic took form, twisting into a concentrated spiral of wind. With a final flick of his wrist, the energy settled, and in its place stood a large Great Dane, sleek and alert, a courier's pack strapped to its back.
"I'm about to send a message to Joey to meet us at a location near the exit gate. We'll be accompanied by the Twelve Saint Disciples."
Krystal's jaw went slack. "Wait, what? We got those tight asses coming along? I won't even be able to masturbate with them in the camp."
Jojo's expression remained flat. "You masturbate in the camp?"
Krystal waved a dismissive hand. "Focus, Jojo. And how strong is this Devil if they're sending all twelve?"
"According to the rumors, the Devil of Velonica is a Legendary Monster and is believed to be behind the Great Earthquake." As he spoke, the Great Dane turned on its heel and bolted down the cobblestone road, the courier pack bouncing slightly with each bound.
Krystal folded her arms, clearly unimpressed. "Just when I figured it would be a peaceful spring. You're going to have to tell me everything later."
"I'm sure one day you'll be invited to join," Jojo offered dryly.
Krystal snorted. "I'm not sure I want to join with so much bad news that comes from them. Does any of this get better?"
Jojo smirked slightly. "They gave us a tab from the Church's treasury to buy anything needed for this mission."
That got her attention.
"Oh?" Her violet eyes lit up with sudden interest. "So we get what we want and put it on their bill? Why didn't you say so?! We have about four hours of twilight left. Let's hit the shop before we have to meet the Saint Disciples."
Jojo gave her a side glance. "Shouldn't we tell Joey to meet us at the shop then?"
Krystal waved off the thought, already turning on her heel. "No, that would take too long. Plus, this really cute magic bag I saw might be gone by then. Come on."
Before Jojo could protest, Krystal grabbed his arm and yanked him forward, dragging him down the bustling street with the urgency of a woman on a mission. The city's sounds flooded back into the atmosphere—merchants calling out their wares, the chime of temple bells, the laughter of children running past. The scent of fresh-baked pastries and sizzling meats mingled with the evening air as twilight deepened, the last vestiges of daylight painting the city in hues of gold and violet.
Jojo's voice, half-protesting Krystal's dismissal of Joey's presence, faded into the background as the two disappeared into the heart of Xanxia, the beginning of a long, perilous journey ahead with a danger they were all too ignorant of.
[End of Chapter]
[1] April on Earth.