EPISODE 8 – SCENE 4: THE BIRTH OF AN UNIT

Location: Black River Gorge

A shiver passed through the camp as the scene took on an unreal, almost magical quality. William conjured a three-dimensional gallery. His commanders, gathered around him, each had to reflect their role within the hierarchy. William observed them, both proud and attentive.

— William (with kindness):"Oni Blades, you are the soul of my empire. You deserve outfits worthy of your place in this world."

The models rotated slowly, optimized by Iris to suit each individual's needs. The textures shimmered, seeming alive, as if every fiber carried a story, a promise of power. William then turned to Haku.

— William (with subtle amusement):"Haku, what image do you want your uniform to project?"

Haku crossed her arms, a mischievous smile on her lips, her fiery gaze unwavering.

— Haku (after a moment of reflection):"I'm fast, stealthy, and sharp. I need an outfit that reflects all that… without making me disappear."

Iris immediately analyzed the request. The light around them intensified, each particle of energy synchronizing in perfect harmony.

— Iris (calm and precise):"I suggest a uniform inspired by the Killer Fox. Dark, with accents of bright orange."

— William (with an approving smile):"With a nod to foxes, it's perfect for the Commander of the Shadow Foxes."

The armor materialized around Haku. It was dark, fluid, highlighted by bright orange accents, designed for speed and stealth. Each line molded to her form with harmonious precision, like a tailored suit for movement. As it took shape, Haku sprang into a series of swift, agile movements, testing the range of her new gear.

— Haku (testing some agile movements):"I feel your protective aura. What freedom of movement. It's perfect. Thank you, Master."

William then turned his gaze to Néro, his attention sharpening, as if he could feel every muscle of his former ally flexing under the armor.

— Néro (calm and imposing):"I wish to honor Bushido, like Master Maho. Strength, loyalty, elegance. An outfit that defies time."

William smiled amusedly.

— William (to himself):"It'll have to defy your strength displays as well. Iris, a regeneration after each Flex?"

Iris intervened immediately, a touch of green-blue emanating from the air around them, adding a near-spectral dimension to the scene.

— Iris (with a subtle shift to green-blue tone):"Master, I've integrated regenerative plates, reinforced to withstand brute force."

In an instant, a modern black suit with silver accents, worthy of a samurai, materialized around Néro. Solid, imposing, and elegant, it adapted perfectly to his stature. Light reflected off the silver plates, almost seeming alive.

— Néro (slightly tilting his head, a satisfied smile lighting his face):"Thank you, Master. I will honor you."

William then cast a glance towards Kassim, Varisa, and Akar. Their faces reflected a curiosity mixed with respect. He could almost hear their thoughts racing in the air, trying to understand the nature of what they were about to receive.

— William (internally):"And for you?"

— Kassim (bowing):"This is the first time it's being offered to us, Master."

— Varisa (continuing):"We will take whatever you deem worthy of us, Master."

Akar nodded eagerly.

— Iris (with serene transition from green to blue):"Master, the organic structure of their armor already allows evolution into Spectral Scorpions. Would you like me to optimize their parameters?"

— William (determined):"Do it."

His unique ability, "Nomination," activated. The air vibrated with intense energy. A crimson light enveloped the three warriors. Their armors transformed into a spectral shell, black and red, infused with a dark aura. Their silhouettes became larger, more menacing. William staggered for a moment under the force, then regained his bearings, his heart pounding in his chest.

— Iris:"Master, the re-nomination of the Antiter, aka Scorpion-Men, consumed 10% of your influence reserves."

— William (raising an eyebrow, slightly mocking):"And I'm still standing. Thankfully, I've improved my recovery. At least it didn't take seven days like the first time!"

— Iris:"Exactly, Master. According to my analysis, seven seconds passed during your blackout."

A discreet shiver ran down William's spine. He could now feel the power emanating from him, a force capable of shaping the world. His gaze fell on Ash, who stood apart. Not a fighter, but a master of negotiations, an artisan of alliances.

— Ash (with feigned humility and a slight nod):"Master, I don't need armor. What I need is refined clothing. Something that reflects my role as an ambassador, an outfit that speaks for our guild."

Félicia then stepped forward, a mischievous smile on her lips, ready to express her own request.

— Félicia (with a respectful yet teasing tone):"As for me, Master, I would prefer light and functional armor, ideal for assisting Master Leyland and always ready for any eventuality."

In a flash, a gleam of light cut through the air. A flawless outfit materialized around Ash. Crafted from black silk, interspersed with metallic reflections and adorned with touches of gold and purple, it blended refinement and practicality: a short, elegant coat, and fine but sturdy gloves, worthy of an ambassador.

— William (with an amused smile):"Not bad, huh? It's spectral spider silk. I knew you'd love it."

Ash looked up at the sky, a sarcastic smile crossing his face.

— Ash (slightly shrugging):"You're really generous, Master. These pieces are of extreme rarity, considering their durability. Are you sure you want to entrust them to me?"

— Félicia (with a hint of surprise, but still respectful):"Master, without intending to offend you, know that in commerce, these pieces are worth a fortune."

— William (in a serious tone, a glint of mischief in his eyes):"Well, consider it my welcome gift. And don't worry, you'll have the chance to repay me."

A burst of laughter ran through the camp. The villagers and servants held back their amusement, knowing well Ash and his legendary thrift. The cool morning air brought a welcome lightness, carrying the laughter into a joyful swirl. William, still smiling, scanned the villagers around the camp. They watched the spectacle, eagerly waiting to discover their share.

— William (in a lighter tone, with a wink):"And you? You have your place here too."

Immediately, simple but functional outfits, in the guild's colors, appeared around the villagers. Light, neat, and practical fabrics proudly bearing the Guild's emblem – a full moon embroidered in golden threads – materialized. Each member, whether warrior or simple villager, was thus symbolically a part of the group.

William observed them for a moment, a sincere pride swelling within him.Identity. Unity.That was what he wanted.

— William (with palpable satisfaction):"There. Now, you are all ready to show the world who we are."

The camp hummed with energy. Dressed in their new attire, the members radiated a shared unity and pride. William's work was far from over, but he could already savor the satisfaction of a first crucial step in the construction of his empire.