Andrés looked at the GPS on his holographic watch, trying to find his position.
“Did she say in the central square?” muttered Andrés with a strange expression.
It was the first day, and he had to contact his superior for the job his boss mentioned.
That was the reason he was in this place.
Walking through the middle of the city, he made his way to the square, where he was told to wait.
Technically, the city was in the territory of Brazil, within the South American Empire, however, the variety of culture was visible.
As a South American, Andrés was knowledgeable about his homeland and while he was someone who came from Colombia and knew mostly his country, he learned about the other countries.
He was currently living in Atlantis City thanks to the Hero Academy scholarship, but at the end of the day, he was a South American.
The restaurants, the people and the buildings... Different cultures of South America showed glimpses of very different regions from each other.
From the Argentinean region in the empire’s south to the Venezuelan region in the north.
Each country had its own culture that was visible in behavior, speech, food, and dress.
And at this time, all these cultures, instead of being differentiated from each other, were shown in a general way... The South American Culture.
Just as he liked to consider himself a South American, others were the same and such a feeling showed the streets of this city.
It was not about being loyal to the empire or nationalistic it was a sense of belonging that went beyond loyalties to a country or a ruler.
It was belonging to this land and its people.
Seeing the restaurants that evidenced different dishes from various regions, Andrés did not hide that he was excited to see foods he wanted to try.
Atlantis City as a city composed of tourists and foreigners from all over the world had its regional zones, where restaurants and all kinds of entertainment venues from one region of the world were found.
However, here beyond just a neighborhood, but the entire city.
Heading towards the central square, noting in his mind some places he wanted to visit, he saw a car stop in front of him when he was about to cross the street.
It was sudden and Andrés, who already had his drones ready to get out and release an electric shock, stopped.
“Andrés Silva?” the driver asked and, seeing his wary look, warned. “Get in. Your superior is waiting for you back there.”
Along with the warning, the rear window rolled down and a young woman revealed herself on the other side.
“Get in,” the woman ordered.
She was young with blonde hair and large glasses, who gave the impression of being a typical very careful, and strict librarian.
More than an impression, it seemed she was literally a librarian and if someone mentioned to him that she was pulling her outfit out of some cliché movie, he would believe it.
Trying not to get carried away by his thoughts, he climbed into the car, behaving like a responsible worker waiting for his superior.
The car moved, and the woman used her holographic watch, projecting an image visible to her.
If Andrés had not seen pictures of this superior among the decorations of the building where he worked, he would have thought he was being kidnapped.
While hesitating whether to ask his superior Giselle anything, Andrés felt a slight strange sensation as his connection to his AI became sluggish.
Immediately, without looking at his holographic watch, he concentrated on connecting to the AI of his holographic watch and realized that all his information was being stolen.
It was so fast that when he tried to open his holographic watch; he realized that it was very difficult to stop the infiltration that had gone through his entire security system.
His best action was to disconnect and shut everything down immediately.
“That was unexpected. I thought everything would be quiet. I didn’t think you would be so attentive,” Giselle said as Andrés was about to start other security measures.
“You did?” Andrés asked with half certainty.
Actually, he had it coming, but as someone who worked in an information network, it was best to make sure of his security before finding out if it was a test.
“Yes,” Giselle replied and without changing her expression, introduced herself, “Giselle Gilbert. I am your superior for this mission.”
Andrés introduced himself calmly, even though he already knew her name, and then, turning on his holographic watch, he checked the security measures and strengthened them.
His AI was powerful, as Liam gave it, and could connect to the network to increase its processing power.
It may not have been unique, but for its current capability, it was acceptable.
His holographic watch had the latest technology and his security was upgraded with different measures, all to make his holographic watch a very difficult medium to breach.
“I was just curious to see if you were ready. I didn’t imagine you stayed connected to your AI. I’m usually more stealthy than this,” Giselle said, adjusting her glasses.
Perhaps because of her failure, she felt slightly challenged.
“It was a fluke. I’ve learned to keep a thread connected to my AI at all times for emergencies,” Andrés replied, giving a simple smile, making it seem like it was all by pure luck.
He wasn’t lying, as he actually maintained a connection to his AI, thanks to his skill, and was excellent at monitoring all matters that suddenly occurred.
Maybe not like Liam, who could literally be at a party and at the same time his AI working with his support, but Andrés was trying to get better.
His response lessened Giselle’s sense of defeat, which made Andrés secretly sigh in relief.
This was his first job, and truthfully, he had no desire to antagonize his superior.
“I understand you have the opening party tonight, so I’ll be brief,” Giselle said, and projecting her mission objective, she commented. “Our objective is to help the local information network find members of the mob. Or the cartel, as they call it, around here.”
Different areas called it different things.
The yakuzas in Japan or the triads in China, but it was all the same.
Organized crime, better known as the underworld mafia.
“Rumors of revenge are not lies and the cartels are not to be belittled. They used to be called ‘kings,’ but times change. Although their strength diminished, it wasn’t enough,” Giselle explained, and seeing Andrés looking at him curiously, he explained. “We work together with the South American Empire and the emperor’s intelligence network transmits their information. They know that some individuals have already entered this city.”
The city had very few ways to get inside.
The Cosmos Portals had high security, both magical and technological, so it was possible to be locked out.
The tunnels that connected to other cities would surely be guarded, however, it didn’t mean there weren’t other ways.
Hidden personal portals or space mages were one such option.
“The international tournament is the perfect time to infiltrate and cause chaos. It’s an event that has the attention of the entire world and with a massive number of tourists in which they can hide,” Giselle counted, and when she saw Andrés nod, she stated. “Besides, it’s the perfect time to carry out a revenge. No matter what kind it is.”
Revenge... The ways one could take revenge on the Emperor were fewer than one could imagine.
The Emperor was very strong, so trying to defeat him was something only a lunatic who wished to see destruction would carry out and it was clear that option was off-limits to a cartel.
However, performing a reputation-dropping act was possible because of the circumstances.
“Will they go after the students?” Andrés hesitated with a deep look.
The best students of the great academies ended up suffering injuries due to the ineptitude of the South American empire and under the eyes of the emperor... Yes, that was a very striking statement.
“Students, bombs or a sacrifice. I’d like to think the posters aren’t terrorists or cultists, but the Emperor has been pressuring them for years and I’m sure now they want to prove they haven’t disappeared,” Giselle replied and, shaking her head, finished. “Either way, I will send you records for verification and, when necessary, I will invite you into the network for direct support.”
“I understand. Whatever you need, I can help you,” Andrés replied with a serious expression.
As Giselle had mentioned, they didn’t know what they were going to do, but in this crazy world, it was best to avoid any situation.
When Giselle nodded, they left Andrés in the same place they took him.
Watching the car drive away, he couldn’t help but think he was on a spy mission.
Sighing, at last, he set out to return to attend the tournament’s opening party.
******
“There’s a lot of people...” Nicole murmured, entering the room for the opening event.
The hall was huge and very elegant, but the most impressive thing was the number of people present in this place.
The uniforms they wore distinguished different students from various academies.
They were gathered in their own groups, talking and conversing with each other while observing who would be their opponents and rivals in this tournament.
The students present were from all over the world and from virtually every continent.
This was a party in the literal sense, and most of those present were students.
Waiters passed by carrying snacks and drinks of all kinds as they strolled throughout the area.
The buffet hadn’t started yet, but those appetizers made Alice’s eyes sparkle.
“There are only very few teachers.” Clémentine pointed pointing to a group of adults talking amongst themselves.
Aurora looked in the direction her companion pointed and could notice the group.
It was easy to tell a student from a teacher because of the way they were dressed.
While the students were dressed in their academy uniforms, the teachers were dressed in dress clothes.
“Oh, isn’t that the Merlin Academy teacher?” Érica hesitated as she looked at an elegant woman in a ball gown.
Professor Cécile Leroux returned her gaze and her eyes sparkled as she looked at Alice for a few seconds, before looking away in a graceful manner.
Like all the other academies, the Hero Academy had its own group in which they were gathered.
Within that gigantic group were small groups gathered among themselves and Aurora, who came as a companion, was with the students on the side a bit apart.
Just as they were looking at those present with curiosity, others were looking at them with interest.
Aurora, who wore a calm expression, saw in the crowd Elder Kernen and that man approached, along with a student from her group.
“I didn’t expect to see you here,” Elder Kernen said and after greeting, he looked at her group who were the same students who were in Africa with her and commented. “Apparently, the academy sent their best students.”
It was a simple and sincere compliment that caused the student following him to pay attention to them.
Elder Kernen was not being kind, but he was being sincere and the student noticed it, leading him to look closely at his potential rivals.
The young student had a serious look on his face and although it was cold, it carried no arrogance or malice but was a natural countenance.
At least Aurora assumed it was that way.
“Just ignore his look. Daniel is like that with everyone,” Elder Kernen said with an amused chuckle and seeing the young man look at him silently, perhaps slightly embarrassed by the words of an elder, he laughed in amusement and added. “Rupert always says he has a cold look, but a warm heart.”
The student named Daniel realizing that he could not say too much to stop Elder Kernen, who was smiling like a grandfather.
“Your partner also came?” Aurora asked, changing the subject.
She knew all too well how honest Elder Kernen was and amicably stopped him by changing the subject.
“Sure, sure. It’s just too bad this party wasn’t prepared to receive him, but he’s been having fun at his residence,” replied Elder Kernen animatedly, surely thinking of his companion and curious as he received so many stares from the Hero Academy students, he asked. “Will you be participating in the tournament or just accompanying your students?”
Elder Kernen was giving a very friendly smile, but it was the eyes that showed curiosity and some amusement, along with a hint of wariness that led to Aurora’s smile.
The two had worked together and knew each other well, so it was impossible that she couldn’t tell what he was thinking.
“I personally won’t be participating,” Aurora replied, and seeing a slight hint of relief in the older man, she pointed to Alice, who was eating snacks, and revealed. “But she will...”
If he was showing relief before when he looked at Alice, Elder Kernen gave a sigh and, after giving a strange expression, he sighed and shook his head.
“I can’t say too much when we outnumber you,” Elder Kernen commented, giving a smile of amusement.
The students of the beast tamer academy had their peers at their sides and the thing was that sometimes the tamers themselves were skill users.
It was clear that they outnumbered any opponent, but in that sense, the mage academy in the summoner section could also outnumber them.
So, if they found a veteran mercenary among the hero academy students, there wasn’t much to say.
Aurora scratched her cheek, not knowing how to react.
“I’ll leave you. Competitiveness is too much pressure for my age.” Elder Kernen said before retreating with a smile.
The look they were giving their group was quite serious.
There were many students from different academies and each of them stayed in their own groups, with the teachers being the ones who went to chat with other teachers.
This was an opening party, but it was not being held for the students to interact with each other.
Rather, it seemed to be a party that made each student from the various academies look at their rivals.
This atmosphere that sought to make the students analyze and study their rivals, trying to get to know them, was not something created by the authorities, but by the students themselves.
The authorities allowed the students who would later compete to be in the same room, allowing them to get to know each other and initiate a staring battle.
“Isn’t that illegal?” Marc asked who was in another small group near them.
His voice was loud, which made them hear him.
When they looked in the direction Marc was pointing, they noticed a group of students in which most of them were Asian.
“Why are you upset?” Érica asked curiously.
They were slightly separated from each other because of the recent conversation with Elder Kernen, so they hadn’t noticed their remoteness from the group.
The others didn’t understand Marc’s annoyed look.
“Those are the students from the Psionics Academy in Asia, Aetherium,” Andrés said and with a frown, he explained. “Their captain is a Korean well known in her country, Ryu Sujin. But I guess he’ll be upset about the young man next to her.”
Aurora looked at the young lady, who was silent, and then at her companion, who gave amused smiles to those who looked on.
The captain was a slender, young woman with delicate features, who gave the feeling of being a unique oriental beauty.
While the young Asian man gave the impression of someone elegant and well-to-do, whose look stood out for having confidence and what appeared to be arrogance.
To Aurora, he looked like someone arrogant, but she wasn’t able to see anything wrong.
“They are both S-Ranks. Young Xu Long has not officially registered, so he is an A-Rank, but his strength is recognized to be that of an S-Rank,” explained Andrés to the group and, with a strange look, he muttered. “No one thinks in a unique way...”
They weren’t the first to bring in someone of a higher strength among the A-Ranks... Sure, at least they hid it a bit.
Other students also gave glances at the group, realizing the other party’s such ‘unfair’ actions.
“Marc, calm down,” ordered Edward, who was leading the group and giving a serious look commented. “They are present because the authorities allowed it and technically, they are not against the rules.”
In the rules of the authorities, students had to have an official rank to join the various teams, and it did not consider personal strength or background.
Aurora tried to hold back her smile, as Edward knew Alice’s strength.
The other Rank-A students who more or less understood their classmate’s general strength kept serious expressions, as if they knew nothing.
Their small group was the same.
None of them could judge the other side when literally their group was doing the same thing, only secretly.
As the situation was yet to begin, Andrés pointed out the different students and academies he recognized.
Being the person who gathered information on those students, he was knowledgeable.
The Military Academy of South America, the Aetherium Psionics Academy of Asia, the Cernunnos Beast Tamers Academy of Switzerland, the Merlin Mages Academy of the United Kingdom, the Adventurers Academy of the United States, the Druid Academy of India, the Zerzura Academy in Africa.
Those academies were more recognized and prestigious, although others could be found.
Some were focused on one type of profession, other academies were more general and diverse.
One example was the Zerzura Academy which, despite being fairly new, educated many students of different class and ability.
While Aurora did not know the students and individuals at Zerzura Academy, she would support them.
Compared to the other academies, Zerzura Academy was small and did not have as much strength behind it, but for it to be present was impressive in itself.
Andrés had looked up quite a bit of information and knew most of them, but since the number of students was high, he couldn’t meet everyone.
Some S-Rank students representing various academies were known and others were not so much.
And like Aurora, there were other students who came from the support team and another group of students who were part of the non-combatant professions, so it was impossible to meet everyone.
Still, it was noticeable that some students were hiding more than they seemed.
In this tense situation where the different students were preparing among themselves, the situation changed when the lights went out, leaving only the front platform illuminated.
Entering with Emperor Victor was Director Vincent and an old man many recognized.
“Isn’t that the leader of the Heroes Guild?” Leslie hesitated as she looked at the old man.
The others nodded as they looked at that old man.
Logan Harris, a renowned SS-Rank who led the heroes’ guild, that renowned organization that was responsible for supporting, registering, and managing heroes all over the world.
It was known that this man, along with Director Vincent and other former retired individuals, had a large part in creating the heroes’ guild.
They led the former mask-wearing individuals to start officially registering and managing them effectively.
They became a powerful organization that managed the heroes and supported them.
That same man was also involved with the Adventurer’s Guild and was a heavyweight, who most recognized very similar to Director Vincent.
And now those two recognized men were standing next to one of the most powerful humans in the world on the same stage.
“Welcome everyone!” Emperor Victor exclaimed, and giving a smile, he added. “I hope you are enjoying this little party.”
He was wearing a suit and the smile he gave full of amusement gave him a friendly rather than imposing appearance.
His eyes sparkled watching the students, realizing the atmosphere was full of competitiveness and such an atmosphere pleased him.
“I won’t say an exciting speech or I’ll let my peers do it. This is a tournament held for you. For you to show your skills, but not to some old men like us,” Emperor Victor said and, snapping his fingers, dozens of camera drones appeared around.
The drones were hidden and as they revealed themselves, recording every section of the room and the stage with him in front of everyone.
Had the recording already started? Aurora believed the drones had been recording since when the party started.
Some students and teachers frowned at being recorded without their consent or at least notice, and even if they were upset, no one complained.
Least of all in front of Emperor Victor, who was smiling in amusement at the reactions.
“You will show your skills to the world!” Emperor Victor announced, exciting the students and smiling as he looked at them, he detailed. “And you will do so in the individual bouts, the group bouts of different ranks, and in every challenge that comes your way. The entire International Tournament will be broadcast to the world.”
When one thought of the public attention towards the international tournament, then his words did not sound far-fetched at all.
“Tourists will fill the coliseums and arenas. Millions of people will watch you, and depending on your performance here, they will remember you for years to come,” Emperor Victor determined, smiling as he felt the pressure of those present.
He did this on purpose and was amused to see the excitement and pressure from the students.
He wanted everyone to feel pressure for what was to come, and he succeeded.
Aurora could see that even her classmates who were going to participate were tense at the words of Emperor Victor, whose smile grew even bigger.
The authorities had already informed them that the international tournament would be broadcast to the world.
The Empire took care of the publicity, and at this moment, the tournament was getting worldwide attention.
“Later the mode of the tournament will be sent to you, but today I will tell you what the prizes will be,” said the Emperor and sensing the anticipation, he announced. “The first place academy will receive an elixir of improvement that will cause a Rank-B to ascend with certainty to Rank-A. It will give chances to promote a Rank-A individual and will slightly help a Rank-S.”
“...”
Silence.
Everyone was completely stunned into silence.
It was already impressive that an elixir would help a B-Rank ascend, but giving chances to an A-Rank was even more unbelievable.
Such an elixir that would help them would be worth millions... No, maybe at auction it would become an item that many would desire.
After all, for some people, it was difficult to move up, and that method helped to make everything easier.
For people who were stuck in their rank for years, such as Jordan, these prizes became a valuable treasure.
And it was normal for that young man to look at the Emperor with shining eyes, just like dozens of other students in the room.
The Emperor continued.
“In second prize, the students who come out second will have the chance to stop by my personal armory to look for a weapon, armor, or object of their liking. I’m not going to lie to you. I have some curious treasures inside,” revealed Emperor Victor, chuckling with some mystery.
It seemed a rather low prize when compared to the first one, however, the excitement did not diminish.
Who was this man?
He was the Emperor of a great empire and an individual who was extremely strong while being recognized as a former powerful player.
It was certain that they would find objects of great interest to the winners of the second prize.
“The third prize will be one hundred million to be divided among all the students in the group.” He added, as if it were insignificant.
It was quite a lot of money, but when one thought that there were twenty students in the hero academy, then it meant that they would receive five million each.
And while the Hero Academy had one less student because of Vanessa coming to take part in two professions, the other academies were also still getting a pretty ‘juicy’ prize.
“There will also be consolation prizes, but it’s insignificant.” He added without giving it too much importance and with a smile, he commented. “We’ll leave you to enjoy the party. Today is your day, young people.”
******
Director Vincent walked down the hallway next to Elder Harris and the host of this tournament, Emperor Victor, who was smiling at his companions.
“Grand prizes.” Murmured Director Vincent impressed.
“Well, I guess a former player who knew Terra nova was real would surely have great wealth prepared,” Elder Harris commented.
He was a slightly grizzled old man who had a neat white beard, and while he looked serene, no one could question the power Logan Harris could wield.
Emperor Victor laughed in amusement at that comment.
“Preparation didn’t do much good, as I spent nearly fifteen years on a terrifying odyssey,” Victor replied and looking at his secretary who was accompanying him.
Emperor Victor was one of the few individuals who discovered that Terra nova was real... No, it would be more accurate to say that he was one of the few players who realized that Terra nova was real and not just a game.
He was also one of the few who knew what would follow when the ‘game’ ended.
And like any individual who knew, he prepared for eventualities.
Although his preparation and knowing what would happen helped little when the Great Cataclysm was so chaotic.
He in Terra nova was a powerful player and no matter how strong he was there, on earth he was just an average human who didn’t stand out that much.
And even though he saved all his wealth by storing it in Terra nova, he could not enjoy the fruit of his efforts when the connection to Terra nova was delayed longer than he had expected.
“Your Majesty, I have already prepared the room for your guests,” mentioned Ersin, who looked at him as serious as ever.
Emperor Victor came out of his thoughts and, giving a smile, invited his companions to follow him.
“Only the first two prizes are important, the third prize lacks enthusiasm,” Emperor muttered and shaking his head, complained. “I was thinking of giving five hundred million, but I was stopped.”
An individual of his power represented, in essence, that money had no meaning.
Just heading to the Amazons to hunt magical beasts could make him get several millions in a few days.
Both Director Vincent and Elder Harris sighed at that attitude and ignored as Ersin gave a pointed look at the person he was supposed to serve.
When they reached the room, that white-haired elf poured several cups of tea and stood with her back to Emperor Victor, who enjoyed a drink and projected an image.
“The prizes are worth it,” Victor muttered, watching the ‘party’ projection.
If before the students were analyzing the rivals, this time the entire atmosphere changed, and instead of a party, it looked like a giant cage with wild animals locked inside.
They could feel the tension, even watching the projection, and it was at a terrifying level.
The first prize was too attractive and too valuable.
A treasure that even high-ranking and older individuals would like to get, let alone for some students, like the ones at that party.
“I guess when they have an elixir that can help them rise through the ranks, everyone would be excited,” Director Vincent muttered with a frown.
An elixir cost millions and more so when it was as potent and effective as the one Emperor Victor was giving.
This was an elixir that would help any B-Rank to rise in rank.
Some individuals had been training for years and, in the end, could not cross that fine line of promotion, becoming stagnant.
However, now with that elixir, they could make it.
An elixir for all specialties, for all individuals, no matter if they had talent or innate ability... That was the prize of this tournament, and that was what was at stake.
As if that wasn’t enough, it wasn’t an elixir for one student or the best; it was an elixir for every student of the winning academy.
Whether it was combat or non-combatants, each student would receive the prize if their academy won.
It was a truly magical elixir, as sometimes the walls that held the students back for promotion were not something physical, but were more related to enlightenment and understanding.
This elixir would increase the chances of an A-rank.
It was normal for the tension to rise and the desire to win to rise, enough to look like beasts.
Overcoming the barrier and reaching S-rank was difficult.
Director Vincent sighed.
And how could it not be? A single award would lead to students being fully competitive.
“With this, the students will give their best to show their strength,” Elder Harris said and nodding contentedly, he murmured. “They will show the world that young people are prepared to protect them.”
This was not a game and a form of entertainment to keep the abyssal portals from being the principal focus.
By broadcasting it to the world, they were looking for the best students of the academy to prove to humanity that the youth could defend this world from any occurrence.
“There will be some complaints about those students hiding their true strength,” said Director Vincent.
“So what? No one will listen to them. If they play those tricks to win, that’s excellent. As long as they do nothing illegal, I don’t mind closing my eyes,” Emperor Victor replied.
Those little tricks would make his international tournament more fun.
“What about the rumors?” Elder Harris asked, changing the subject.
There were some nasty rumors traveling around the underworld, and those rumors were what Elder Harris was referring to.
“Revenge... Surely they have already entered the city. The empire’s intelligence department is taking care of tracking them down, but it’s not an easy thing to do. Many of them are cunning and intelligent, they know how to hide,” Emperor Victor replied.
Just because he was powerful didn’t mean he could accomplish everything he was looking for, in that sense, it was problematic to find those cartel members who were in the city for revenge.
Some individuals were very well hidden and knew how to conceal themselves perfectly from the eyes of the public and the authorities.
Magical and technological advances helped to find those individuals, but also gave them the possibility to hide themselves better.
“Anyway, the imperial authorities are on the lookout,” Emperor Victor assured and smiling fiercely, he declared. “In the end, they won’t matter once the cleansing plan is carried out.”
Just as in the international tournament, the supposed diplomatic tensions between the two giants of America also concealed a secret.
This was the way the powerful moved.
Andrés looked at the GPS on his holographic watch, trying to find his position.
“Did she say in the central square?” muttered Andrés with a strange expression.
It was the first day, and he had to contact his superior for the job his boss mentioned.
That was the reason he was in this place.
Walking through the middle of the city, he made his way to the square, where he was told to wait.
Technically, the city was in the territory of Brazil, within the South American Empire, however, the variety of culture was visible.
As a South American, Andrés was knowledgeable about his homeland and while he was someone who came from Colombia and knew mostly his country, he learned about the other countries.
He was currently living in Atlantis City thanks to the Hero Academy scholarship, but at the end of the day, he was a South American.
The restaurants, the people and the buildings... Different cultures of South America showed glimpses of very different regions from each other.
From the Argentinean region in the empire’s south to the Venezuelan region in the north.
Each country had its own culture that was visible in behavior, speech, food, and dress.
And at this time, all these cultures, instead of being differentiated from each other, were shown in a general way... The South American Culture.
Just as he liked to consider himself a South American, others were the same and such a feeling showed the streets of this city.
It was not about being loyal to the empire or nationalistic it was a sense of belonging that went beyond loyalties to a country or a ruler.
It was belonging to this land and its people.
Seeing the restaurants that evidenced different dishes from various regions, Andrés did not hide that he was excited to see foods he wanted to try.
Atlantis City as a city composed of tourists and foreigners from all over the world had its regional zones, where restaurants and all kinds of entertainment venues from one region of the world were found.
However, here beyond just a neighborhood, but the entire city.
Heading towards the central square, noting in his mind some places he wanted to visit, he saw a car stop in front of him when he was about to cross the street.
It was sudden and Andrés, who already had his drones ready to get out and release an electric shock, stopped.
“Andrés Silva?” the driver asked and, seeing his wary look, warned. “Get in. Your superior is waiting for you back there.”
Along with the warning, the rear window rolled down and a young woman revealed herself on the other side.
“Get in,” the woman ordered.
She was young with blonde hair and large glasses, who gave the impression of being a typical very careful, and strict librarian.
More than an impression, it seemed she was literally a librarian and if someone mentioned to him that she was pulling her outfit out of some cliché movie, he would believe it.
Trying not to get carried away by his thoughts, he climbed into the car, behaving like a responsible worker waiting for his superior.
The car moved, and the woman used her holographic watch, projecting an image visible to her.
If Andrés had not seen pictures of this superior among the decorations of the building where he worked, he would have thought he was being kidnapped.
While hesitating whether to ask his superior Giselle anything, Andrés felt a slight strange sensation as his connection to his AI became sluggish.
Immediately, without looking at his holographic watch, he concentrated on connecting to the AI of his holographic watch and realized that all his information was being stolen.
It was so fast that when he tried to open his holographic watch; he realized that it was very difficult to stop the infiltration that had gone through his entire security system.
His best action was to disconnect and shut everything down immediately.
“That was unexpected. I thought everything would be quiet. I didn’t think you would be so attentive,” Giselle said as Andrés was about to start other security measures.
“You did?” Andrés asked with half certainty.
Actually, he had it coming, but as someone who worked in an information network, it was best to make sure of his security before finding out if it was a test.
“Yes,” Giselle replied and without changing her expression, introduced herself, “Giselle Gilbert. I am your superior for this mission.”
Andrés introduced himself calmly, even though he already knew her name, and then, turning on his holographic watch, he checked the security measures and strengthened them.
His AI was powerful, as Liam gave it, and could connect to the network to increase its processing power.
It may not have been unique, but for its current capability, it was acceptable.
His holographic watch had the latest technology and his security was upgraded with different measures, all to make his holographic watch a very difficult medium to breach.
“I was just curious to see if you were ready. I didn’t imagine you stayed connected to your AI. I’m usually more stealthy than this,” Giselle said, adjusting her glasses.
Perhaps because of her failure, she felt slightly challenged.
“It was a fluke. I’ve learned to keep a thread connected to my AI at all times for emergencies,” Andrés replied, giving a simple smile, making it seem like it was all by pure luck.
He wasn’t lying, as he actually maintained a connection to his AI, thanks to his skill, and was excellent at monitoring all matters that suddenly occurred.
Maybe not like Liam, who could literally be at a party and at the same time his AI working with his support, but Andrés was trying to get better.
His response lessened Giselle’s sense of defeat, which made Andrés secretly sigh in relief.
This was his first job, and truthfully, he had no desire to antagonize his superior.
“I understand you have the opening party tonight, so I’ll be brief,” Giselle said, and projecting her mission objective, she commented. “Our objective is to help the local information network find members of the mob. Or the cartel, as they call it, around here.”
Different areas called it different things.
The yakuzas in Japan or the triads in China, but it was all the same.
Organized crime, better known as the underworld mafia.
“Rumors of revenge are not lies and the cartels are not to be belittled. They used to be called ‘kings,’ but times change. Although their strength diminished, it wasn’t enough,” Giselle explained, and seeing Andrés looking at him curiously, he explained. “We work together with the South American Empire and the emperor’s intelligence network transmits their information. They know that some individuals have already entered this city.”
The city had very few ways to get inside.
The Cosmos Portals had high security, both magical and technological, so it was possible to be locked out.
The tunnels that connected to other cities would surely be guarded, however, it didn’t mean there weren’t other ways.
Hidden personal portals or space mages were one such option.
“The international tournament is the perfect time to infiltrate and cause chaos. It’s an event that has the attention of the entire world and with a massive number of tourists in which they can hide,” Giselle counted, and when she saw Andrés nod, she stated. “Besides, it’s the perfect time to carry out a revenge. No matter what kind it is.”
Revenge... The ways one could take revenge on the Emperor were fewer than one could imagine.
The Emperor was very strong, so trying to defeat him was something only a lunatic who wished to see destruction would carry out and it was clear that option was off-limits to a cartel.
However, performing a reputation-dropping act was possible because of the circumstances.
“Will they go after the students?” Andrés hesitated with a deep look.
The best students of the great academies ended up suffering injuries due to the ineptitude of the South American empire and under the eyes of the emperor... Yes, that was a very striking statement.
“Students, bombs or a sacrifice. I’d like to think the posters aren’t terrorists or cultists, but the Emperor has been pressuring them for years and I’m sure now they want to prove they haven’t disappeared,” Giselle replied and, shaking her head, finished. “Either way, I will send you records for verification and, when necessary, I will invite you into the network for direct support.”
“I understand. Whatever you need, I can help you,” Andrés replied with a serious expression.
As Giselle had mentioned, they didn’t know what they were going to do, but in this crazy world, it was best to avoid any situation.
When Giselle nodded, they left Andrés in the same place they took him.
Watching the car drive away, he couldn’t help but think he was on a spy mission.
Sighing, at last, he set out to return to attend the tournament’s opening party.
******
“There’s a lot of people...” Nicole murmured, entering the room for the opening event.
The hall was huge and very elegant, but the most impressive thing was the number of people present in this place.
The uniforms they wore distinguished different students from various academies.
They were gathered in their own groups, talking and conversing with each other while observing who would be their opponents and rivals in this tournament.
The students present were from all over the world and from virtually every continent.
This was a party in the literal sense, and most of those present were students.
Waiters passed by carrying snacks and drinks of all kinds as they strolled throughout the area.
The buffet hadn’t started yet, but those appetizers made Alice’s eyes sparkle.
“There are only very few teachers.” Clémentine pointed pointing to a group of adults talking amongst themselves.
Aurora looked in the direction her companion pointed and could notice the group.
It was easy to tell a student from a teacher because of the way they were dressed.
While the students were dressed in their academy uniforms, the teachers were dressed in dress clothes.
“Oh, isn’t that the Merlin Academy teacher?” Érica hesitated as she looked at an elegant woman in a ball gown.
Professor Cécile Leroux returned her gaze and her eyes sparkled as she looked at Alice for a few seconds, before looking away in a graceful manner.
Like all the other academies, the Hero Academy had its own group in which they were gathered.
Within that gigantic group were small groups gathered among themselves and Aurora, who came as a companion, was with the students on the side a bit apart.
Just as they were looking at those present with curiosity, others were looking at them with interest.
Aurora, who wore a calm expression, saw in the crowd Elder Kernen and that man approached, along with a student from her group.
“I didn’t expect to see you here,” Elder Kernen said and after greeting, he looked at her group who were the same students who were in Africa with her and commented. “Apparently, the academy sent their best students.”
It was a simple and sincere compliment that caused the student following him to pay attention to them.
Elder Kernen was not being kind, but he was being sincere and the student noticed it, leading him to look closely at his potential rivals.
The young student had a serious look on his face and although it was cold, it carried no arrogance or malice but was a natural countenance.
At least Aurora assumed it was that way.
“Just ignore his look. Daniel is like that with everyone,” Elder Kernen said with an amused chuckle and seeing the young man look at him silently, perhaps slightly embarrassed by the words of an elder, he laughed in amusement and added. “Rupert always says he has a cold look, but a warm heart.”
The student named Daniel realizing that he could not say too much to stop Elder Kernen, who was smiling like a grandfather.
“Your partner also came?” Aurora asked, changing the subject.
She knew all too well how honest Elder Kernen was and amicably stopped him by changing the subject.
“Sure, sure. It’s just too bad this party wasn’t prepared to receive him, but he’s been having fun at his residence,” replied Elder Kernen animatedly, surely thinking of his companion and curious as he received so many stares from the Hero Academy students, he asked. “Will you be participating in the tournament or just accompanying your students?”
Elder Kernen was giving a very friendly smile, but it was the eyes that showed curiosity and some amusement, along with a hint of wariness that led to Aurora’s smile.
The two had worked together and knew each other well, so it was impossible that she couldn’t tell what he was thinking.
“I personally won’t be participating,” Aurora replied, and seeing a slight hint of relief in the older man, she pointed to Alice, who was eating snacks, and revealed. “But she will...”
If he was showing relief before when he looked at Alice, Elder Kernen gave a sigh and, after giving a strange expression, he sighed and shook his head.
“I can’t say too much when we outnumber you,” Elder Kernen commented, giving a smile of amusement.
The students of the beast tamer academy had their peers at their sides and the thing was that sometimes the tamers themselves were skill users.
It was clear that they outnumbered any opponent, but in that sense, the mage academy in the summoner section could also outnumber them.
So, if they found a veteran mercenary among the hero academy students, there wasn’t much to say.
Aurora scratched her cheek, not knowing how to react.
“I’ll leave you. Competitiveness is too much pressure for my age.” Elder Kernen said before retreating with a smile.
The look they were giving their group was quite serious.
There were many students from different academies and each of them stayed in their own groups, with the teachers being the ones who went to chat with other teachers.
This was an opening party, but it was not being held for the students to interact with each other.
Rather, it seemed to be a party that made each student from the various academies look at their rivals.
This atmosphere that sought to make the students analyze and study their rivals, trying to get to know them, was not something created by the authorities, but by the students themselves.
The authorities allowed the students who would later compete to be in the same room, allowing them to get to know each other and initiate a staring battle.
“Isn’t that illegal?” Marc asked who was in another small group near them.
His voice was loud, which made them hear him.
When they looked in the direction Marc was pointing, they noticed a group of students in which most of them were Asian.
“Why are you upset?” Érica asked curiously.
They were slightly separated from each other because of the recent conversation with Elder Kernen, so they hadn’t noticed their remoteness from the group.
The others didn’t understand Marc’s annoyed look.
“Those are the students from the Psionics Academy in Asia, Aetherium,” Andrés said and with a frown, he explained. “Their captain is a Korean well known in her country, Ryu Sujin. But I guess he’ll be upset about the young man next to her.”
Aurora looked at the young lady, who was silent, and then at her companion, who gave amused smiles to those who looked on.
The captain was a slender, young woman with delicate features, who gave the feeling of being a unique oriental beauty.
While the young Asian man gave the impression of someone elegant and well-to-do, whose look stood out for having confidence and what appeared to be arrogance.
To Aurora, he looked like someone arrogant, but she wasn’t able to see anything wrong.
“They are both S-Ranks. Young Xu Long has not officially registered, so he is an A-Rank, but his strength is recognized to be that of an S-Rank,” explained Andrés to the group and, with a strange look, he muttered. “No one thinks in a unique way...”
They weren’t the first to bring in someone of a higher strength among the A-Ranks... Sure, at least they hid it a bit.
Other students also gave glances at the group, realizing the other party’s such ‘unfair’ actions.
“Marc, calm down,” ordered Edward, who was leading the group and giving a serious look commented. “They are present because the authorities allowed it and technically, they are not against the rules.”
In the rules of the authorities, students had to have an official rank to join the various teams, and it did not consider personal strength or background.
Aurora tried to hold back her smile, as Edward knew Alice’s strength.
The other Rank-A students who more or less understood their classmate’s general strength kept serious expressions, as if they knew nothing.
Their small group was the same.
None of them could judge the other side when literally their group was doing the same thing, only secretly.
As the situation was yet to begin, Andrés pointed out the different students and academies he recognized.
Being the person who gathered information on those students, he was knowledgeable.
The Military Academy of South America, the Aetherium Psionics Academy of Asia, the Cernunnos Beast Tamers Academy of Switzerland, the Merlin Mages Academy of the United Kingdom, the Adventurers Academy of the United States, the Druid Academy of India, the Zerzura Academy in Africa.
Those academies were more recognized and prestigious, although others could be found.
Some were focused on one type of profession, other academies were more general and diverse.
One example was the Zerzura Academy which, despite being fairly new, educated many students of different class and ability.
While Aurora did not know the students and individuals at Zerzura Academy, she would support them.
Compared to the other academies, Zerzura Academy was small and did not have as much strength behind it, but for it to be present was impressive in itself.
Andrés had looked up quite a bit of information and knew most of them, but since the number of students was high, he couldn’t meet everyone.
Some S-Rank students representing various academies were known and others were not so much.
And like Aurora, there were other students who came from the support team and another group of students who were part of the non-combatant professions, so it was impossible to meet everyone.
Still, it was noticeable that some students were hiding more than they seemed.
In this tense situation where the different students were preparing among themselves, the situation changed when the lights went out, leaving only the front platform illuminated.
Entering with Emperor Victor was Director Vincent and an old man many recognized.
“Isn’t that the leader of the Heroes Guild?” Leslie hesitated as she looked at the old man.
The others nodded as they looked at that old man.
Logan Harris, a renowned SS-Rank who led the heroes’ guild, that renowned organization that was responsible for supporting, registering, and managing heroes all over the world.
It was known that this man, along with Director Vincent and other former retired individuals, had a large part in creating the heroes’ guild.
They led the former mask-wearing individuals to start officially registering and managing them effectively.
They became a powerful organization that managed the heroes and supported them.
That same man was also involved with the Adventurer’s Guild and was a heavyweight, who most recognized very similar to Director Vincent.
And now those two recognized men were standing next to one of the most powerful humans in the world on the same stage.
“Welcome everyone!” Emperor Victor exclaimed, and giving a smile, he added. “I hope you are enjoying this little party.”
He was wearing a suit and the smile he gave full of amusement gave him a friendly rather than imposing appearance.
His eyes sparkled watching the students, realizing the atmosphere was full of competitiveness and such an atmosphere pleased him.
“I won’t say an exciting speech or I’ll let my peers do it. This is a tournament held for you. For you to show your skills, but not to some old men like us,” Emperor Victor said and, snapping his fingers, dozens of camera drones appeared around.
The drones were hidden and as they revealed themselves, recording every section of the room and the stage with him in front of everyone.
Had the recording already started? Aurora believed the drones had been recording since when the party started.
Some students and teachers frowned at being recorded without their consent or at least notice, and even if they were upset, no one complained.
Least of all in front of Emperor Victor, who was smiling in amusement at the reactions.
“You will show your skills to the world!” Emperor Victor announced, exciting the students and smiling as he looked at them, he detailed. “And you will do so in the individual bouts, the group bouts of different ranks, and in every challenge that comes your way. The entire International Tournament will be broadcast to the world.”
When one thought of the public attention towards the international tournament, then his words did not sound far-fetched at all.
“Tourists will fill the coliseums and arenas. Millions of people will watch you, and depending on your performance here, they will remember you for years to come,” Emperor Victor determined, smiling as he felt the pressure of those present.
He did this on purpose and was amused to see the excitement and pressure from the students.
He wanted everyone to feel pressure for what was to come, and he succeeded.
Aurora could see that even her classmates who were going to participate were tense at the words of Emperor Victor, whose smile grew even bigger.
The authorities had already informed them that the international tournament would be broadcast to the world.
The Empire took care of the publicity, and at this moment, the tournament was getting worldwide attention.
“Later the mode of the tournament will be sent to you, but today I will tell you what the prizes will be,” said the Emperor and sensing the anticipation, he announced. “The first place academy will receive an elixir of improvement that will cause a Rank-B to ascend with certainty to Rank-A. It will give chances to promote a Rank-A individual and will slightly help a Rank-S.”
“...”
Silence.
Everyone was completely stunned into silence.
It was already impressive that an elixir would help a B-Rank ascend, but giving chances to an A-Rank was even more unbelievable.
Such an elixir that would help them would be worth millions... No, maybe at auction it would become an item that many would desire.
After all, for some people, it was difficult to move up, and that method helped to make everything easier.
For people who were stuck in their rank for years, such as Jordan, these prizes became a valuable treasure.
And it was normal for that young man to look at the Emperor with shining eyes, just like dozens of other students in the room.
The Emperor continued.
“In second prize, the students who come out second will have the chance to stop by my personal armory to look for a weapon, armor, or object of their liking. I’m not going to lie to you. I have some curious treasures inside,” revealed Emperor Victor, chuckling with some mystery.
It seemed a rather low prize when compared to the first one, however, the excitement did not diminish.
Who was this man?
He was the Emperor of a great empire and an individual who was extremely strong while being recognized as a former powerful player.
It was certain that they would find objects of great interest to the winners of the second prize.
“The third prize will be one hundred million to be divided among all the students in the group.” He added, as if it were insignificant.
It was quite a lot of money, but when one thought that there were twenty students in the hero academy, then it meant that they would receive five million each.
And while the Hero Academy had one less student because of Vanessa coming to take part in two professions, the other academies were also still getting a pretty ‘juicy’ prize.
“There will also be consolation prizes, but it’s insignificant.” He added without giving it too much importance and with a smile, he commented. “We’ll leave you to enjoy the party. Today is your day, young people.”
******
Director Vincent walked down the hallway next to Elder Harris and the host of this tournament, Emperor Victor, who was smiling at his companions.
“Grand prizes.” Murmured Director Vincent impressed.
“Well, I guess a former player who knew Terra nova was real would surely have great wealth prepared,” Elder Harris commented.
He was a slightly grizzled old man who had a neat white beard, and while he looked serene, no one could question the power Logan Harris could wield.
Emperor Victor laughed in amusement at that comment.
“Preparation didn’t do much good, as I spent nearly fifteen years on a terrifying odyssey,” Victor replied and looking at his secretary who was accompanying him.
Emperor Victor was one of the few individuals who discovered that Terra nova was real... No, it would be more accurate to say that he was one of the few players who realized that Terra nova was real and not just a game.
He was also one of the few who knew what would follow when the ‘game’ ended.
And like any individual who knew, he prepared for eventualities.
Although his preparation and knowing what would happen helped little when the Great Cataclysm was so chaotic.
He in Terra nova was a powerful player and no matter how strong he was there, on earth he was just an average human who didn’t stand out that much.
And even though he saved all his wealth by storing it in Terra nova, he could not enjoy the fruit of his efforts when the connection to Terra nova was delayed longer than he had expected.
“Your Majesty, I have already prepared the room for your guests,” mentioned Ersin, who looked at him as serious as ever.
Emperor Victor came out of his thoughts and, giving a smile, invited his companions to follow him.
“Only the first two prizes are important, the third prize lacks enthusiasm,” Emperor muttered and shaking his head, complained. “I was thinking of giving five hundred million, but I was stopped.”
An individual of his power represented, in essence, that money had no meaning.
Just heading to the Amazons to hunt magical beasts could make him get several millions in a few days.
Both Director Vincent and Elder Harris sighed at that attitude and ignored as Ersin gave a pointed look at the person he was supposed to serve.
When they reached the room, that white-haired elf poured several cups of tea and stood with her back to Emperor Victor, who enjoyed a drink and projected an image.
“The prizes are worth it,” Victor muttered, watching the ‘party’ projection.
If before the students were analyzing the rivals, this time the entire atmosphere changed, and instead of a party, it looked like a giant cage with wild animals locked inside.
They could feel the tension, even watching the projection, and it was at a terrifying level.
The first prize was too attractive and too valuable.
A treasure that even high-ranking and older individuals would like to get, let alone for some students, like the ones at that party.
“I guess when they have an elixir that can help them rise through the ranks, everyone would be excited,” Director Vincent muttered with a frown.
An elixir cost millions and more so when it was as potent and effective as the one Emperor Victor was giving.
This was an elixir that would help any B-Rank to rise in rank.
Some individuals had been training for years and, in the end, could not cross that fine line of promotion, becoming stagnant.
However, now with that elixir, they could make it.
An elixir for all specialties, for all individuals, no matter if they had talent or innate ability... That was the prize of this tournament, and that was what was at stake.
As if that wasn’t enough, it wasn’t an elixir for one student or the best; it was an elixir for every student of the winning academy.
Whether it was combat or non-combatants, each student would receive the prize if their academy won.
It was a truly magical elixir, as sometimes the walls that held the students back for promotion were not something physical, but were more related to enlightenment and understanding.
This elixir would increase the chances of an A-rank.
It was normal for the tension to rise and the desire to win to rise, enough to look like beasts.
Overcoming the barrier and reaching S-rank was difficult.
Director Vincent sighed.
And how could it not be? A single award would lead to students being fully competitive.
“With this, the students will give their best to show their strength,” Elder Harris said and nodding contentedly, he murmured. “They will show the world that young people are prepared to protect them.”
This was not a game and a form of entertainment to keep the abyssal portals from being the principal focus.
By broadcasting it to the world, they were looking for the best students of the academy to prove to humanity that the youth could defend this world from any occurrence.
“There will be some complaints about those students hiding their true strength,” said Director Vincent.
“So what? No one will listen to them. If they play those tricks to win, that’s excellent. As long as they do nothing illegal, I don’t mind closing my eyes,” Emperor Victor replied.
Those little tricks would make his international tournament more fun.
“What about the rumors?” Elder Harris asked, changing the subject.
There were some nasty rumors traveling around the underworld, and those rumors were what Elder Harris was referring to.
“Revenge... Surely they have already entered the city. The empire’s intelligence department is taking care of tracking them down, but it’s not an easy thing to do. Many of them are cunning and intelligent, they know how to hide,” Emperor Victor replied.
Just because he was powerful didn’t mean he could accomplish everything he was looking for, in that sense, it was problematic to find those cartel members who were in the city for revenge.
Some individuals were very well hidden and knew how to conceal themselves perfectly from the eyes of the public and the authorities.
Magical and technological advances helped to find those individuals, but also gave them the possibility to hide themselves better.
“Anyway, the imperial authorities are on the lookout,” Emperor Victor assured and smiling fiercely, he declared. “In the end, they won’t matter once the cleansing plan is carried out.”
Just as in the international tournament, the supposed diplomatic tensions between the two giants of America also concealed a secret.
This was the way the powerful moved.
