The sun shone down on the capital city of Anatist, its rays breaking through the clouds to blanket the bustling metropolis below. A gentle breeze blew through the streets, carrying with it the excited chatter of the hundreds of people who filled every nook and cranny of the city. The air was cool and refreshing, but the enthusiasm of the people warmed it up tenfold.
In the crowded markets, merchants shouted over each other, advertising their wares with banners that hung from the ceilings. "Half price!" "Buy one, get one free!" The deals were irresistible, and the queues of people stretched down the alleyways.
Fishmongers and butchers offered fresh catches and cuts, their wares piled high on their stalls. The customers, with red noses and flushed cheeks, eagerly awaited their turn. Every so often, the clanging of pots and pans could be heard as street vendors cooked up delicious treats, filling the air with the aroma of sizzling spices and freshly baked bread.
Despite the chaos, there was an undeniable sense of joy and anticipation that filled the air. The people of Anatist were alive with excitement, eager to soak in the vibrancy of their city and enjoy everything it had to offer.
Everywhere you looked, people were rushing about their daily business, eager to take advantage of the many shops, markets, and restaurants that lined the streets. Among the throngs of people, there was one structure that stood out from all the rest - a magnificent castle that towered over the city like a sentinel.
The castle was a true masterpiece of architecture, crafted by some of the most skilled craftsmen and artisans in the land. Despite having weathered numerous wars and battles over the years, its towering spires and imposing walls remained as resolute and awe-inspiring as ever, a true testament to the craftsmanship of its creators. To the people of Ford Anatist Kingdom, the castle was a source of immense pride and a symbol of their country's strength and power.
Behind the grand walls of the castle lay a modest office, but its elaborate construction and luxurious atmosphere were not to be underestimated. Despite its small size, the space was designed to emanate an air of wealth and prestige, a reflection of the status and power of its occupant.
At the centre of the room stood a magnificent desk, crafted entirely of precious gemstones. The surface of the desk was polished to perfection, making it an ideal workspace while maintaining the beauty of the gems.
But what really caught the attention were the adult magazines that sat atop the desk. Each one bore a red mark of approval, suggesting that they were of high quality. The magazines offered a collection of sultry and revealing photographs of attractive women. It was a stark contrast to the elegance of the rest of the room, yet it seemed to belong there.
Looking beyond the desk, the walls of the room were almost entirely made of gold, imbued with a touch of special magic. With this enchantment, the walls could light up automatically as day, rendering the lights here virtually unnecessary. The entire office was a testament to the wealth and extravagance of its owner.
Three portrait photos adorned the wall behind the desk, depicting the three generations of the Overlords who had ruled the kingdom, including the current king, Frank Overlord, of the third generation of this noble family. Above, a painting on the ceiling showed a Soul Warrior holding a sword plunged into the chest of a brutal and cruel lord.
Even the door, though made of simple oak, had been engraved with the likeness of the two heroes from the Divine Duo, staring at each other in a symbolic gesture of unity and strength.
The heavy oak doors of the office swung open with a loud creak, revealing a man decked out in a resplendent outfit. His clothes were adorned with dazzling jewels that sparkled under the golden light cast by the walls of the room.
However, his appearance was marred by a look of intense discomfort as he entered the office. The man began to gnash his teeth and furrow his brows, his hands frantically scratching at his body as he let out a string of curses.
“Gosh! Who hell designed this shit? It is so itchy as f- Get out of me!”
He began to rip and tear at his clothes, shredding the expensive fabric that had cost a fortune. The jewels that had adorned his outfit were flung aside, clattering onto the floor. Soon, the man stood before them in only a pair of black shorts, his ruffled hair and slightly plump body now exposed.
He puffed out his chest in satisfaction, his body heaving with pleasure. It seemed that the restrictive and showy outfit had been a burden, and now he relished in the freedom of his bare skin.
“Ah! That’s more like it! I wonder how are Angel and Asaga doing. They have Dark Blood taken care of, so I think I don’t need to worry about that issue anymore. Enough talking, time to have some relaxation!”
He slouched in his chair, legs propped up on the desk, flipping through a stack of salacious magazines. His eyes lingered on each page, soaking in the images of sexy women in provocative poses. Lost in his thoughts, he didn't hear the sound of footsteps approaching until a voice broke through his reverie.
"Your majesty. May I come in?"
Frank's heart skipped a beat, and he nearly dropped the magazine in his hand. He hastily shoved the stack of magazines into the cupboard under the desk, wincing as he banged his hip on the edge in the rush. With a glance at his short pant, he quickly changed into a more suitable outfit.
He cleared his throat, hoping his sudden movements went unnoticed. "Yes, you can come in," he called out, trying to sound composed.
The door creaked open, and a tall figure stepped into the room. That person was a gentleman clad in shimmering gilded armour, adorned with intricate and vivid patterns that complemented the regal aura of the chamber. A magnificent lion's head was embroidered on the cloak that he had draped over his shoulder, adding to the magnificence of his appearance.
As he strode purposefully toward the man standing in front of him, his well-groomed moustache caught the light, enhancing his handsome features. His body was muscular and toned, a testament to his rigorous daily training.
Upon reaching the man, he bowed with the utmost solemnity, showing the respect that he had for the ruler of the land. His eyes gleamed with intelligence and loyalty, and it was clear that he was a formidable warrior and an esteemed member of the court.
The king studied him for a moment, his gaze lingering on the scar that marred the commander's face. He knew that the injury wasn't severe, but it was a constant reminder of the battles they had fought and the sacrifices they had made to protect the kingdom.
"Rise, Thomas," the king said, gesturing for the commander to stand upright. "You don't have to force yourself like that. We are all comrades here, and there is no need for such formalities."
Thomas straightened up, a grateful smile on his lips. He appreciated the king's words, as they were a reminder of the camaraderie that existed among them. As a commander, he had always strived to be a good leader and friend to his soldiers, and he was glad that the king saw him in the same light.
"Thank you, milord," he said, his voice laced with sincerity. "It's an honour to serve you and the kingdom."
The king nodded, acknowledging Thomas's dedication and loyalty. He knew that the commander had always been a dependable ally, and he was grateful to have him by his side.
"Now, what brings you here, Thomas?" the king asked, his tone serious. "Is there news from the front?"
Thomas's expression grew solemn as he nodded. "Yes, milord. Our scouts have discovered a large-scale Lizardwar army advancing towards the kingdom. This action is no different from a violation of the Peace Agreement that they actively signed last year. What should we do?”
Frank closed his eyes for a moment, processing the information. He nodded slightly, then rose from his chair, pacing around the room as he thought. Thomas watched him closely, waiting for his words.
“So that fake treaty is just a springboard for them to begin the second war? I have to acknowledge since the fourth leader claimed the throne, these guys have become more cunning than I thought!” Frank thought.
The king asked his commander a question:
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“Is this army the same as last time?”
“No, milord. Based on the reports that I received. The Lizardwars come here with ten times more quantity than the previous attack. And, they also had long-range combat vehicles. Those weapons are something that normal rebels don’t have enough ability to afford. Unless this is the official army of the Replord Empire.” said Thomas.
“Unfortunately, my thinking is not the same as yours, general.” The king laughed.
“You think so?” Thomas wondered.
"Peace Agreement. The content of that treaty listed clearly that the party who declared the war, the Replord Empire, would be fully responsible for all losses during the war. The Replord Empire will not invade and respect the territorial sovereignty of humans, and demihumans in the future. And vice versa, we have to acknowledge the existence of Lizardwars. Given the chance of preserving the species, they are not mad enough to throw it away just to avenge Komodo. Besides, their economy can't handle another war after the Great Civil War," Frank explained to the puzzled commander.
Thomas was still trying to wrap his head around the king's words. It seemed as though Frank was suggesting that the Replord Empire was not responsible for the attack. But if that was the case, then who was responsible for the approaching army? He looked at the king, waiting for more explanations.
"The Replord Empire is a proud and honourable nation, commander," the king continued. "If they were to break the terms of the Peace Agreement, it would be an insult to their honour. No, I believe there is a more sinister force at work here. Someone who wants to see the Replord Empire blamed for the attack and cause another war."
Thomas' eyes narrowed, if what he was suggesting was true, then this was more than just a simple invasion. It was a deliberate act of sabotage to spark a war. And if they didn't act fast, the consequences could be catastrophic.
"What should we do, my king?" Thomas asked, eager to hear the king's plan.
"We need to investigate this further," Frank replied. "We cannot afford to jump to conclusions and start a war without all the facts. I want you to send scouts to gather information on the approaching army. We need to know who they are, what they want, and who is behind this. We cannot let them succeed in their plans."
Thomas nodded in agreement. The king was right. They needed more information before they could act. He would send out his best scouts to gather intel on the approaching army. And with any luck, they would uncover the truth behind this mysterious invasion.
But, Thomas had a question:
“The Great Civil War- I remember that event. I did not expect that with just six individuals, they can put the world into a state of tension for nearly a year. Komodo did know how to find good men in helping him to rule those reptiles. But, didn’t they destroy almost the entire economic system? Who is this fourth leader?”
Frank pondered the question for a moment, trying to piece together what he knew about the Replord Empire's recent history.
"Well, Thomas, the Great Civil War was a messy affair. It tore the Replord Empire apart, and its economy was left in shambles. But somehow, they managed to recover in just one year. It's a mystery, one that I've been trying to unravel myself."
The king rubbed his chin thoughtfully:
"As for the fourth leader, I've heard rumours that he had a brilliant strategist who's been able to unite the various factions of the Replord Empire under others' banner. But who knows? These are just rumors after all."
Thomas listened intently, trying to absorb everything the king was saying.
“Besides, Ford Anatist Kingdom is the cradle of many generations of elite Soul Warriors. Yoshino Uchire and Mosagi Uchire, are two talented people who sacrificed themselves to put an end to the brutal Komodo era before he attempted to eradicate all existing species around the world. Certainly, the Replord Empire had carefully planned to choose Ford Anatist as their first target. Or, it was simply an unbearable resentment for them after the fall of the Komodo Empire. And, they wanted to avenge their former lord. Only if my prediction is true.”
Frank stopped thinking wildly and gave his man the order.
“Very well, you and the others gather your forces and spread evenly across the kingdom, strengthening the defences on the borderline. Get ready for the worst-case scenario. If they want to experience the feeling of failure, we will gladly let them taste it as Komodo did. Be vigilant in every moment, we must not let that event happen ever again!”
“Right away, milord!” The general bowed to the king before leaving the room.
Frank waited for him to close the doors, then puffed his chest forward. He let out a long and exhausted yawn.
Frank slumped back in his chair, feeling the exhaustion seeping into his bones. It had been a gruelling time filled with crises and challenges that seemed to come one after another. He longed for a break, a moment to catch his breath and rest his mind.
“Can I even take a break now? My gosh! There are too many things that happen in one single week. Oh right, I wonder how are those two? Hope they are fine.”
He was silent for a moment, realizing he had missed so many things. Frank sent a fury punch to the table, gritted his teeth, and cursed.
“Shit! If those girls weren’t so hot, I would be there sooner. At least, my job here is done, so let’s go then!”
[Teleport]
Black ghosts with crimson eyes emerged from the four sides of the wall, and they began to circle him slowly.
Frank stared blankly at them until it was so quick that strong winds appeared inside the room, knocking whatever was in the way. From there, a tornado slowly formed and engulfed the room in nothingness.
He waited for the last light to creep through those golden walls sunk in darkness. Then, Frank bent over, reached into the night, and pulled out the Kingdom’s most famous couple of sickles, The Hands of Hades.
A purple magic circle appeared at his feet, flickering with the words of the evil spirits.
“Death will free us all!” the spirits cried out, their voices echoing through the room.
“Use me, monster! Release us from this eternal hell!” they pleaded, their desperation palpable.
But the king only laughed a cruel and sinister sound that sent shivers down the spine. Frank knew that these spirits deserved nothing but punishment for the havoc they had wrought upon the kingdom.
With a flick of his wrist, he spun the chain linking the two sickles around like a pinwheel. From the centre of the magic circle, dark and greasy tentacles emerged, snaking their way toward the spirits.
The spirits howled in panic as the tentacles wrapped around them, pulling them to the king. He grinned wickedly as he rubbed them against the sickles, relishing in their screams of pain and terror.
A purple aura emanated from the body, Frank felt a surge of power coursing through him. The dark creatures that had surrounded him crumbled to ashes at his feet, unable to withstand the intense energy that radiated from him.
His belly began to shrink, and his youthful features slowly returned. The long hair that had once adorned his head fell away, leaving him with a shorter, more stylish haircut.
In the blink of an eye, his expensive, ornate clothing was replaced by a simple, elegant black vest. The transformation was complete, and Frank was no longer the king of the Ford Anatist Kingdom. He was now John Freak, the mischievous principal of Uchire Academy who loved to play practical jokes on his students.
As he stood there, taking in his new appearance, the tornado that had engulfed him began to shrink into a small ball. It floated in the centre of the room, pulsating with strange energy before gradually dissolving into nothingness.
The grandiose room was filled with an ethereal golden light, a sight that would usually instil a sense of comfort and warmth in anyone who enters it. However, the feeling of security and peace was interrupted by the arrival of an unwelcome visitor. A shadowy figure, shrouded in darkness, entered the room, and the golden light seemed powerless to vanquish the shadow's obscurity.
The shadow approached John's desk with measured steps and lowered his head. A letter was placed on the table, and the shadow reached for it with an unnerving slowness. The silence was deafening as the shadow read the contents of the letter.
The shadow spoke, his voice a raspy whisper that was barely audible. "So, you're that sickle guy. I remember you," the shadow said with a hint of amusement in his voice. "I suppose it's time to report this to my lord."
With a deadly smile, it tore the letter into pieces. Then, its body turned into smoke, dissolving in the air and leaving no trace.
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“My head!”
Asaga slowly began to regain consciousness, his head throbbing with pain. He opened his eyes, and the first thing he saw was the ceiling fan, which spun lazily above him, creating a gentle breeze that brushed against his face. As he looked around, he noticed that he was lying in a bed in a sick room, surrounded by medical equipment and tools scattered across a nearby table.
He leaned his head against the soft pillow and tried to take in his surroundings. Everything looked so sterile and clean, and the room had a faint smell of disinfectant.
"Are you alright, kid? I am so worried about you!" Dark Blood's voice was filled with relief.
Asaga's head throbbed with pain, and he tried to speak, but his voice came out as a weak whimper. He winced as he tried to move his body.
"Take it easy, kid. You need to rest."
Hearing that, Asaga sighed:
“I’m fine. Thanks for freeing me out of that curse form. But, those two suddenly jumped in and made my life more chaotic. I don’t know what to do now.”
“Come on! They care a lot about you, right?” Dark Blood consoled.
“I hope not- I don’t deserve to be loved. I don’t want to face that nightmare, even once.”
Asaga’s tone became slow and deep. He said in a very bad mood. In the past, all the people he cared about had left this world. The poor boy did not want that to happen again. He had suffered enough.
“Well, there’s something very interesting lying on you, bye!”
After that, Asaga's thought was abruptly interrupted by a sudden weight on his body. Startled, he tried to push himself up, but he found that he couldn't move. His heart raced with anxiety and confusion as he realized that someone was lying on top of him.
"Who-who is this!?" he stammered, his cheeks flushing bright red. He looked down and saw a stunningly beautiful girl with smooth pink hair. Her body was incredibly attractive, with dangerous curves that could easily charm any man, and Asaga was no exception. He couldn't help but stare at her toned, plump breasts, but he didn't have the courage to touch her.
His mind raced with questions. Who was she? How did she end up on top of him? Why was she so-
"Somebody, please help me!" he cried out, hoping that someone would come to his rescue. But it seemed that he was all alone with the mysterious girl, and he had no idea what to do next.