Elites

The game was merely a temporary facet of a grander scheme—an intricate mechanism designed to accelerate the evolution of Meta-humans. Over time, players would gradually synchronize with their in-game avatars, molding their real-world physicality and abilities to mirror their digital counterparts.

Thus, in-game training held as much significance as real-life conditioning.

According to the prevailing theory, once a player reached Level 500, their body would undergo a profound transformation—an unprecedented synchronization event that would bridge the gap between virtual prowess and tangible reality. At that moment, certain in-game abilities would transfer over, not all, but a substantial number—enough to tilt the scales of power irreversibly.

Xavier Grey understood this better than most. That was why he meticulously crafted his in-game character to align as closely as possible with his real self, maximizing the probability of successful synchronization.

And today, he was about to discuss the next phase of this evolution with Chris Jordan.

A Meeting of Titans

The venue was neither ostentatious nor humble—an elegantly designed meeting room exuding understated authority. A grand round table, capable of seating ten, stood at its center, though only two seats had been prepared. A feast of gourmet delicacies adorned the polished wooden surface, a silent testament to the significance of the gathering.

Xavier Grey's private office, usually bustling with activity, had been rendered eerily quiet. All personnel had been instructed to vacate to the lower floors, leaving the area entirely deserted. This was not a discussion to be overheard.

Xavier had already taken his seat when a soft click resonated through the air. The heavy doors swung open, and in walked the man poised to become his strategic partner—Chris Jordan.

Unlike Xavier, who was clad in a tailored maroon double-breasted suit, Chris had opted for a more casual approach. Dressed in denim jeans, a fitted t-shirt, and a stylish jacket, paired with pristine white sneakers, he exuded an air of effortless confidence.

Xavier rose from his chair, meeting Chris halfway with a firm handshake.

"Hello, Chris. I'm Xavier Grey—pleasure to finally meet you."

"Likewise, Mr. Grey," Chris responded, his tone level, yet carrying a subtle undertone of curiosity.

The atmosphere between them was thick, charged with the weight of unspoken implications. These were no ordinary men; they were among the most influential individuals on the planet, and their meeting carried consequences that could ripple across worlds.

"Shall we discuss matters over lunch?" Xavier suggested, gesturing toward the lavish spread before them.

"Yes," Chris nodded. "Let's get straight to the point."

Just as they were about to take their seats, another click echoed through the room.

Xavier's brows furrowed slightly—he hadn't anticipated any additional guests.

Chris, however, appeared unfazed, though there was a trace of mild annoyance in his expression.

"Apologies, man. Had to fix my tie," came a voice Xavier immediately recognized.

The newcomer strode in confidently, his navy-blue suit well-fitted, his demeanor relaxed yet commanding.

Chris turned to Xavier with a slight smirk. "Pardon the intrusion. This is my friend and colleague, Teddy. Hope you don't mind."

Xavier's gaze flickered over to Ted, who had already scanned the room, located a chair in the corner, and pulled it up to the table without waiting for permission.

"Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Xavier. I'm Ted," he said, his voice carrying a lively enthusiasm.

Xavier leaned back slightly, an amused glint in his eye. "Likewise. Though you may know me by a different name… I go by King in the game."

Ted's eyes widened in genuine shock. The realization struck him like a lightning bolt—he was sitting across from the two most powerful men in the room, one of whom was King.

"Holy shit, dude, you're loaded!" Ted blurted out before he could stop himself. Then, after a beat, he furrowed his brows. "Wait… I thought your name was Ram?"

Xavier chuckled. "Exactly the reaction I was expecting. Yes, my real name is Ram. My family has a tradition of naming children after remarkable figures. My father wanted me to embody the greatness of Lord Ram." He shrugged lightly. "But not many people know that—I prefer using my English name."

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "I wasn't expecting you, Ted, but I must say… this development works in my favor. Now, shall we eat?"

Ted wasted no time. He hadn't eaten breakfast thanks to Chris' last-minute summons, and now, hunger gnawed at him.

Xavier smirked as he observed Ted devouring his meal. "You've got quite the appetite."

Chris waved dismissively. "Ignore him. Let's focus—what did you want to discuss?"

"Everything," Xavier said, his voice carrying a weight that instantly shifted the mood in the room. "The game. The serum. The planets. The universe… and the endgame."

Chris exhaled sharply, eyes narrowing. "I figured as much. But why me? Even my father refuses to disclose everything to me."

"Understandable," Xavier acknowledged. "Your father cares for you deeply. He believes that by keeping you in the dark, he's protecting you. But I disagree." He leaned in, voice unwavering. "Not only do I believe you're ready—I know you are. And any further delay would only be a disadvantage."

Chris studied Xavier for a long moment before nodding. "Start from the beginning."

Xavier did exactly that.

Ted, despite continuing to eat, slowed his pace. His senses sharpened, absorbing every word.

What Xavier revealed was nothing short of astonishing—secrets that could dismantle entire worldviews.

He spoke of the planets and their true conditions. Of alien civilizations and the existence of sentient species beyond human comprehension. Of the origins of the serum, the fabricated myth of the Illuminati, the concealed agendas of the United Nations, and, most importantly… the rise of the Galactic Empire.

By the time Xavier finished, Chris was silent, his mind racing to process the sheer magnitude of the revelations. Ted, now finished with his meal, absently prodded his tiramisu with his fork, deep in contemplation.

It was Ted who spoke first.

"The Galactic Empire… The world order is about to change."

Xavier nodded. "Yes. While many powerful factions exist in the universe, the Galactic Empire reigns supreme."

Chris exhaled. "You also mentioned clans—ones powerful enough to wipe us out like insects."

"Correct," Xavier confirmed. "Although the Galactic Empire operates as a democracy with a governing council composed of these clans, you can think of the Empire as the undisputed leader."

Chris finally met Xavier's gaze with determination. "You're forming a clan, aren't you? The government can't be trusted. You have my support—no question about that. But if we're going to reach the pinnacle of humanity, we need an elite team."

Xavier's lips curled into a knowing smirk. "I anticipated that. In fact, I've already begun the selection process."

At his cue, the doors opened once more, and three figures entered.

The first, clad in an all-black suit, moved like a shadow—his presence barely perceptible.

The second, wearing an all-white suit with a katana resting at his waist, exuded a tranquil but deadly aura—like a dormant tsunami awaiting ignition.

The last, a towering juggernaut of muscle, stood at 6'6", his buzz-cut head and scarred eye giving him the appearance of a battle-hardened warrior.

Xavier gestured toward them.

"Meet Alexander Ackerman—Razer, the world's number one assassin. Kenjin—the undisputed number one ranking player. And Baek Sung Jin—the unofficial top ranker."

And just like that, the tides of history shifted.