As Joseph materialized, he was immediately greeted by an overwhelming blend of advanced technology and disciplined precision. Androids and robots stood side by side with hunters and knight hunters, all clad in sleek, high-tech military uniforms. Their weapons gleamed under the sharp light, each barrel pointed squarely at him. He was surrounded.
Above, scouting choppers hovered, their blades slicing through the air with a deafening rhythm. Heavy armored trucks flanked the perimeter, their sirens wailing faintly over the roar of the helicopters. Joseph raised his hands in surrender, his movements deliberate and cautious.
“Whoa! I surrender. I’m not a threat!” he called out, his voice steady despite the intensity of the situation.
From the ranks of soldiers, a commanding figure emerged. Her presence was magnetic, her stature radiating authority. She was the warrior leader, her eyes sharp as they assessed him.
“Identify yourself, stranger. Where do you come from?” she demanded, her voice carrying the weight of command.
Joseph held her gaze, deciding honesty was his best option. “I am Joseph Benjamin Carmen. Where I come from is... complicated. But to simplify it, I arrived here through the Planet Island of Awaji, one of your neighboring regions.”
A murmur rippled through the gathered soldiers. Some lowered their weapons slightly, though their postures remained vigilant. The rest kept their aim steady, awaiting further orders.
The leader’s piercing gaze didn’t waver. “And the state of Planet Island Awaji? Is it intact?”
Joseph nodded confidently. “Yes, Awaji is in good shape. And King Awaji sends his regards.”
Her expression didn’t betray her thoughts as she stared into Joseph’s eyes, searching for any hint of deceit. Finding none, she gave him a partial nod, a gesture of tentative trust. She turned to her comrades, ready to issue orders—when chaos erupted.
The air shimmered unnaturally, and portals tore through reality, materializing midair. From their swirling depths, hordes of monstrous creatures poured into the world. The ground trembled under their sheer numbers, and a collective battle cry rose from the soldiers as they pivoted to face the oncoming threat.
Joseph reacted without hesitation. His XPT activated in a flash of light, encasing him in a gleaming armored suit. With a surge of power, he launched himself into the sky, heading straight for the flying creatures.
The battle was brutal, the air thick with the sounds of gunfire, roars, and the clash of steel. The warriors fought valiantly, holding their ground against the relentless onslaught. Joseph moved like a force of nature, slicing through the monstrous ranks with precision and fury. Slowly but surely, the tide turned. Though many creatures were slain, others retreated back through the portals, vanishing into the void.
As the dust settled, the battlefield was littered with the remains of the monstrous invaders. Joseph landed gracefully, his armor retracting as he returned to his human form. The leader approached him, her eyes filled with a mixture of gratitude and curiosity.
She reached up and removed her helmet, revealing a face framed by sharp features and a look of quiet determination. Turning to Joseph, she called out his name, her voice carrying both authority and a newfound trust.
“Joseph!”
He turned to face her, his expression expectant, as the leader prepared to speak.
“I didn’t get to introduce myself to you earlier because I had my doubts about your motives,” Riko Sachiko began, her voice steady yet tinged with sincerity. “But seeing you risk your life without hesitation to aid us in fighting those monsters has earned my trust.”
She extended her hand toward him. “I am Riko Sachiko, Knight-Huntress and Island Queen of the planet island of Tsushima.”
Joseph grasped her hand firmly, shaking it in acknowledgment. “It’s an honor to meet you, Queen Sachiko.”
Riko Sachiko, though modestly ranked as an F-Tier (Tier 12) Knight-Huntress, carried immense responsibility. Tasked with handling mountain-level threats, her hybrid nature as a vampire-mermaid made her uniquely suited to defending the isolated and treacherous regions of her world. Her hybrid heritage granted her unparalleled strength, agility, and aquatic capabilities, while her mountain-level aura served as a protective shield for smaller communities vulnerable to monster incursions.
For over 310 years, Riko’s life had been dedicated to safeguarding her homeland. Her extensive experience battling the dangers of mountainous and coastal regions had made her a formidable figure, even if her rank didn’t reflect the full scope of her abilities. Despite her long years, her resolve remained unshaken, her deep understanding of the threats she faced honed through countless battles.
Riko’s ascension to the throne of Tsushima was marked by tragedy and triumph. The late Island King, desperate to preserve his power, betrayed his people by attempting to bargain with the enemy—offering their lives in exchange for his own protection. His treachery plunged the island into chaos, but Riko stood against him, defeating the corrupt monarch and saving the island. The people, moved by her courage and loyalty, chose her to rule as their queen.
“Come,” Riko said, her tone softening as she gestured toward a distant building adorned with intricate carvings and banners flapping in the wind. “We have much to discuss, Joseph.”
He nodded, following her as the remaining warriors maintained their positions, scanning the surroundings for any lingering threats. Medics arrived on the scene, swiftly tending to the wounded soldiers and any civilians caught in the crossfire during the earlier battle.
The council hall loomed ahead, its grand architecture a testament to the island’s rich history and resilience. As they entered, Joseph couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation—there was more to this meeting than mere introductions.
As Joseph stepped into the grand council hall, the atmosphere was thick with a mix of tension and urgency. The room was adorned with intricate carvings of battles past and triumphs that spoke of the island’s history. Around a large circular table sat the council members, their faces a blend of worry and determination.
Queen Riko led him forward, introducing him to the assembled members. Each greeted him with a nod, though their expressions remained guarded, clearly preoccupied with the pressing matters at hand. Joseph took a seat as Riko resumed the meeting, her commanding presence restoring focus to the room.
"We were discussing the sudden and alarming appearance of portals in our world,” Riko began, her voice steady yet firm. “These portals are unlike anything we’ve encountered before—unstable, unpredictable, and dangerous. Many of them unleash creatures from other planes, bringing chaos to our lands."
Joseph leaned forward, his attention sharpening.
"This incident is unprecedented," Riko continued. "The balance between dimensions appears to have been disrupted. It’s as though reality itself has begun to tear, affecting our world gravely. As a precaution, we’ve sealed our gateway portal to prevent any further incursions. No one has been able to travel in or out—except for you, Joseph. Your arrival can only be explained by the gateway on Planet Island Awaji, which remains active.”
Joseph nodded, acknowledging her assessment. “Yes, Your Majesty. That seems to be the most logical explanation.”
Riko regarded him thoughtfully before speaking again. “Awaji has been under attack as well. Their last communication with us ended abruptly, and both our worlds have been too preoccupied to offer aid to one another. Tell me, Joseph, how were they able to recover?”
Joseph recounted the events in detail, explaining how Awaji managed to secure its gateway and protect its key despite overwhelming odds. Riko listened intently, her expression shifting from concern to admiration.
"Interesting,” she said, leaning back slightly. “So they have not only repaired their gateway but also safeguarded their Awajion Key. It seems their resilience, with your assistance, has paid off.”
“It was nothing, Your Majesty,” Joseph replied humbly. “Everyone played their part.”
Riko’s expression softened, but her tone remained resolute. “Your journey, Joseph, may face a delay. As you can see, my people are dealing with a crisis, and we need every ally we can find. If you are willing, I humbly ask for your assistance, just as you aided Awaji.”
Joseph nodded without hesitation. “Your Majesty, your problem is my problem. I will do whatever I can to help your people and your planet get back on its feet.”
A faint smile touched Riko’s lips. “Thank you, Joseph. Your generosity and bravery are appreciated.”
She gestured to a map spread across the table, marked with symbols indicating the locations of the portals. “Our scouts have identified three major portals scattered across the island region, as well as four keys integral to their creation. These keys seem to fuel the portals, allowing them to remain active and spawn additional rifts elsewhere. However, the challenge is formidable. Each portal is heavily guarded by monsters of various kinds. Despite our best efforts, we’ve barely made a dent in their numbers, as they seem to emerge endlessly from the rifts.”
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
Joseph studied the map, his sharp eyes taking in every detail as Riko continued.
“We’ve analyzed the situation,” she added. “The portals themselves are the source of the anomalies, but those keys are the linchpins. If we can retrieve and neutralize them, we may have a chance to close the portals for good.”
Joseph leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. “I understand the situation. It’s going to be a challenge, but I’m ready to do whatever it takes to help.”
“Good,” Riko said, a steely determination in her voice. “Then let us begin planning. This mission is vital to the survival of my people and the restoration of balance in our world.”
As the mission commenced, the stakes became clear to everyone involved. The Portrix, Nexarion, and Astrum Key portals were more than just gateways—they were powerful anomalies that threatened the balance of their world. Each portal was tied to a unique key, with the Astrum Key being the most dangerous, as it absorbed one of the four keys and required simultaneous closure of the others to deactivate.
The warriors prepared for the grueling task ahead. After an intense strategy session in the council hall, Queen Riko planned to join the mission, a testament to her bravery. However, Joseph, seeing the value of her leadership and the need to safeguard her people, approached her with respect.
“Your Majesty,” he began, “your courage is unquestionable, but your people need you here. A leader’s presence brings hope and stability in trying times. Let us handle the dangers outside so you can ensure the safety of your kingdom.”
At first, she resisted, her pride as both a queen and a knight compelling her to fight alongside her warriors. But Joseph’s words resonated, and she finally relented, nodding solemnly. “Very well, Joseph. But promise me this—return safely, all of you.”
Joseph placed a hand over his chest and bowed slightly. “I give you my word, Your Majesty.”
The warriors split into three teams—A, B, and C—each tasked with one of the three portals. Joseph chose to join Team C, knowing their task would be the most challenging. The teams departed, their vehicles loaded with weapons, ammunition, and supplies. Along the way, they encountered hordes of monsters, testing their resolve and coordination.
After hours of travel and combat, each team reached their respective destinations. The portals were all located in structures that seemed like ancient, abandoned factories. Runes and carvings etched into the walls and ceilings glowed faintly with ominous energy. The buildings were overgrown with vegetation, water pooled on the floors, and buzzing insects filled the air. Flickering light bulbs cast eerie shadows, while live wires dangled perilously close to the water.
***
Team A and B faced fierce resistance but managed to overcome the challenges, retrieving the Aurorakey and Nexarion Key after defeating swarms of monsters. Their battles were grueling but not insurmountable, and they prepared to shut down their portals, waiting for Team C’s signal.
Team C, however, faced the most harrowing battle. The Astrum Key portal was heavily guarded by powerful monsters, including a colossal guardian that tested the team’s limits. Joseph led the charge, his skill and determination inspiring the others. Despite the team’s best efforts, they suffered casualties, losing several warriors as they fought to secure the key.
The moment of truth came when the teams coordinated via their comms to shut down the portals simultaneously. As Team A and B successfully closed their portals, the Astrum Key portal became unstable, swirling with chaotic energy. The monstrous guardian made a desperate attempt to stop Team C, but Joseph held it off, buying his team the crucial time needed to shut down the portal.
As the portal began to collapse, a massive, grotesque creature attempted to force its way through. Its upper body breached the portal, but before it could fully emerge, the portal snapped shut, severing the creature cleanly at the waist. The remaining half of its body fell to the ground with a sickening thud, lifeless and twitching.
The few surviving members of Team C stood in silent awe, their gazes fixed on the enormous, lifeless form of the monster that had nearly claimed their lives. Its massive body lay sprawled across the debris-strewn ground, a grotesque reminder of the battle they had barely survived. Joseph, however, was not one to take chances. Having faced similar horrors before, he knew better than to trust appearances.
“Stay back,” he ordered firmly, his voice steady despite the exhaustion weighing on him. With grim determination, he approached the fallen beast, delivering a final, decisive blow to ensure it was truly dead. Only when he was satisfied that the creature posed no further threat did he allow himself to relax.
“Let’s move,” Joseph said, his tone leaving no room for argument.
The group quickly gathered their bearings and made their way out of the crumbling building. The structure groaned ominously, threatening to collapse at any moment. They narrowly escaped, emerging just as the walls gave way, burying the monster’s remains beneath tons of rubble.
Exhausted but victorious, Team C retrieved the Luminari Key, the precious artifact they had risked so much to secure. The portal it had once tethered was now sealed, ensuring no further anomalies could wreak havoc on their world. As they mounted their vehicles, their weariness was momentarily replaced by a sense of accomplishment.
Not far from their location, the remaining survivors of Teams A and B awaited their arrival. The reunion was bittersweet—faces were missing, and the losses were heavy—but together, they began the long journey back to the island.
The teams’ return was marked by a mixture of relief and solemnity. The island’s remaining warriors stood at attention, their weapons ready in case of any unforeseen threat. At the forefront stood Queen Riko, her expression a blend of pride and sorrow as she watched the battered warriors approach. Joseph and the others dismounted, their movements sluggish with exhaustion, but they straightened as they prepared to deliver their report.
In the grand council hall, the teams recounted their ordeal to Queen Riko. They spoke of the challenges they faced, the sacrifices made, and the ultimate success of their mission. The queen listened intently, her composure unwavering, though the grief in her eyes mirrored their own. When they finished, she let out a long breath, her voice steady but filled with emotion.
“You have done more than I could ever ask,” Queen Riko said, her gaze sweeping across the room. “The sacrifices of your comrades will not be forgotten. You have secured the safety of our people, and for that, you have my eternal gratitude.”
Her attention shifted to Joseph, who stood silently at the head of the group. Though his expression remained stoic, there was a heaviness in his eyes that spoke of the toll the mission had taken on him.
“Joseph,” Queen Riko continued, her tone softening, “your bravery and leadership have brought us through this darkness. You are a hero, not only to this council but to every soul on this island.”
Joseph inclined his head humbly, unwilling to bask in the praise. “It was a team effort, Your Majesty,” he replied.
The queen’s lips curved into a faint smile. “And yet, it is your journey that must now continue.” She gestured for her attendants, who opened a grand door at the far end of the hall. Beyond it, a shimmering portal crackled with ethereal energy, casting a soft glow over the room.
“This gateway will take you to Hyogo-Ken Prefecture,” Queen Riko explained. “From there, your path will lead you to the next regional planet. Travel safely, Joseph, and may your strength and wisdom guide you to victory.”
As she extended her hand, Joseph grasped it firmly. “Thank you, Your Majesty. I won’t let you down.”
Queen Riko nodded, releasing his hand. The warriors and council members looked on with reverence as Joseph stepped toward the portal. Pausing briefly, he turned to cast one final glance at his comrades, their faces etched with a mixture of pride and hope.
Without another word, he stepped through the gateway, the portal’s light enveloping him before fading into nothingness.