Episode 12

Chapter 12: The Rise of Draven

Bartoni leaned over his desk, scanning the holographic blueprint of the stadium's enhanced security measures. The air was tense as he issued direct orders for maximum protection over the tournament grounds. Outside, police officers in specialized uniforms patrolled every corner, their armor shimmering faintly under the lights. The uniforms, embedded with Shen-resistant technology, were designed to allow non-Shen users a fighting chance against those with supernatural abilities.

"Tito," a young tournament participant, stood at the edge of the crowd, watching the officers. He spoke to a fellow competitor in a hushed tone. "Do you think this is enough?"

His companion glanced around nervously. "I don't know, but after what happened last time… they'd better hope it is. No one's forgetting The Ten anytime soon."

Far from the stadium, Sakamoto walked along a deserted road at the edge of the city. His bag hung low on his back, his expression unreadable. His destination: Eagle Island, a place known for its wild terrain and whispers of danger.

His steps were deliberate, his mind racing as he moved through abandoned streets and quiet forests. Every so often, he paused, scanning his surroundings with a sharp, calculating gaze.

This wasn't just a journey—it was a reckoning.

His hands tightened into fists as he walked. The image of his grandmother's lifeless body, surrounded by blood, was burned into his mind. The weight of what had been taken from him drove him forward, every step filled with purpose.

"This won't go unanswered," he muttered under his breath, his tone cold and steady. "I don't care what it takes."

Back in the city, Feng, Gong, and Cregan stood at the gates, their equipment ready. They were hunters chosen for a critical mission: locate and retrieve Draven before The Ten could twist him to their purposes.

Feng addressed his team, his voice steady but firm. "This is an S-rank mission. That means life or death. The Ten are involved, and they don't play by anyone's rules. Stay focused, stay sharp, and don't underestimate anything we encounter."

The other two hunters nodded silently, their expressions grim. Without another word, the team left the city, the gates closing behind them as they disappeared into the distance.

Draven sat in a steaming hot pool, his body submerged up to his shoulders. The calm, warm water did little to ease the storm of emotions raging within him. Days had passed since he had been taken by Castle and Roshi, and now it was time to meet their leader.

Roshi appeared at the edge of the pool, his usual calm expression unchanged. "It's time," he said simply.

Draven didn't hesitate. He climbed out of the pool, dried off, and dressed in the clothes provided for him. Together, they walked through a long hallway that eventually opened into a massive chamber.

At the far end of the room was a throne, and sitting on it was a man who radiated authority. He was lean but muscular, his face marked by a jagged scar that ran down his cheek. His forehead bore the number 1, etched like a symbol of dominance.

As Draven approached, the man stood, a broad grin spreading across his face. "The golden boy himself," he said, his tone dripping with amusement. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I'm Huey the Second."

Draven's voice was cold and direct. "Where is he? Where's my brother?"

Huey chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Ah, straight to the point. I admire that. But slow down, boy. I'm a businessman. Deals are my specialty, and I believe every party should benefit from the arrangements I make."

Huey began to pace, his scar catching the faint light as he spoke. "What your brother, Shiki, did… was an abomination. The Hunter Association should have brought him to justice long ago."

He stopped, turning back to Draven. "But let me ask you something: haven't you ever wondered why they haven't? Why no one has made a move against him all these years?"

Draven's fists clenched. "I don't care. They're useless. That's why I'll handle it myself."

Huey clapped his hands, a gleam of excitement in his eyes. "Revenge. So much fire in you. I love it! But let me be blunt—if you go after Shiki now, you'll die. Instantly. You're not ready."

Draven's jaw tightened. "Then tell me how to get ready."

Huey's smile widened. "Your brother… Shiki… is God-tier. Do you even know what that means?"

Draven didn't respond, but his silence spoke volumes.

Huey sighed theatrically. "Of course you don't. The Hunter Association keeps those things off the record. God-tier hunters are untouchable, beyond anyone or anything you've ever faced. You don't stand a chance as you are now."

Draven's eyes burned with determination. "Then what do you want from me?"

Huey's tone turned serious. "I want to help you. Join us, swear loyalty to The Ten, and I'll give you everything you need: the power, the training, the location of your brother, and even the truth about what drove him to destroy your family."

Draven looked at Roshi, then back at Huey. His mind raced with possibilities. "What is the purpose of The Ten?"

Huey wagged a finger at him. "Ah, ah. Don't move faster than your shadow, boy. Let's just say we're on a path to peace. You'll understand in time."

Draven frowned. "If you want me to trust you, why not tell me now?"

Huey's grin grew wider. "Because some truths are too big to swallow all at once."

Draven closed his eyes, memories of his family flashing before him. Blood. Screams. The look in Shiki's eyes as he slaughtered them.

When he opened his eyes, they were filled with anger and resolve. "Don't ever call him my brother again," Draven said coldly. "I'll join you."

Huey's face lit up, his smile stretching into something almost unsettling. He stood, laughing as he began to move around the room in an odd, playful manner. "Ten years," he said, spinning in circles. "It's been ten years since we lost our tenth member. We've been waiting for someone worthy to take their place. And now, here you are!"

Huey stopped suddenly, his gaze sharp and unwavering. "Welcome to The Ten."