[This translation was not done by a professional, but rather through a translation platform, errors may be present in the work.] Rednek
Apex Government Prefecture
The Apex Prefecture was an imposing six-story building, surrounded by a gigantic glass dome that allowed one to see the entire city. From there, the contrast between the medieval district and the futuristic towers revealed two eras coexisting side by side — and also the tension that it carried. On the top floor, in a spacious and quiet room, the Governor stared at the holographic screens as Don, president of the Hunters' Guild, stood firmly in front of him.
Governor: — Mr. President, we need to reinforce the military installations in Atreus. I want speed in this process. Send as many hunters as possible on this mission.
Don: — I understand the urgency... but, Governor, the reports indicate that you're planning to move one point two billion Earthborn to Atreus. This is more than bold — it's suicidal.
Governor: — The Earthborn of Apex will be in charge of the constructions and territorial expansion. The more hunters we advance in the front line, the greater the chance of solidifying the conquest.
Don: — Sending beginner, amateur, and intermediate hunters would be a waste of people and resources. Those worlds don't forgive amateurs.
Governor: — How many Advanced Class hunters do we currently have?
Don: — Three hundred and twelve million. It is the largest class.
Governor: — And Masters?
Don: — Thirty-six First Dan Masters. They will lead the expedition.
Governor: — And the top commander?
Don: — I, myself. Don. Second Dan.
Governor: — I also want the Intermediate Class in the rear.
Don: — Two hundred and seventeen million hunters. This will total over three hundred and twenty million.
Governor: — Great. Inform the masters, select the intermediates. We start in twelve days.
Don: — As you wish, sir.
Don and his secretary left the room. In the hallway, the veteran president lit a cigarette. The smell invaded the metallic and clean environment.
Secretary: — Twenty years without smoking... Why now?
Don: (blowing out smoke, tired) — Because millions of lives will be in my hands. And in the end... I'm the weakest Second Dan we have. I'll only guide them... and pray.
Secretary: — That damn Governor... What is he scheming behind this?
Antares — 4th Floor
While the city was bustling with preparations, on the fourth floor of Antares, the veteran Haikai began Melina's brutal training. He held a small metallic bracelet and attached it to her left wrist.
Melina: — What the hell is this?
Haikai: — It prevents you from dying.
Melina: (mocking smile) — This works...
The sentence died mid-sentence. Half of Melina's head and her left hand were ripped off in an invisible strike. She fell lifeless. A few seconds later, she revived with a deep breath and wide eyes.
Melina: — Damn! What hellish pain! You could've warned me, you damn old man!
Haikai: — It worked.
(Thought of Melina: This old man is completely insane.)
Haikai then raised his hand, revealing small gray stones.
Haikai: — These stones can pierce diamond. Defending isn't enough… you need to dodge.
With a snap of his fingers, one flew like a projectile. Melina barely blinked — the stone pierced her forehead. Dead again.
For days, she revived, only to die once more. Each throw was a fatal blow.
In the rare moments of rest, Melina reformed the cabin. She cleaned everything inside and out, fixed the roof, reinforced the walls, and redid the floor, as if trying to rebuild herself alongside the place.
The training stretched over months.
The 12 Days of Apex
The big day arrived. The portals to Atreus opened, tearing the sky in spirals of bluish light. Millions of hunters crossed, armed and ready for war.
On top of a building, Don and Aether watched in silence.
Don: — It's begun.
Aether: — And Melina? Won't she come?
Don: (without taking his eyes off the portals) — I don't know her well... but my instincts tell me she's already there... clearing the area.
Aether: (smiling) — Nonsense, Don. Age is making you senile.
The wind blew strongly at the top of the building, carrying away the smoke from Don's last cigarette.
END OF CHAPTER