World conditions 2

(In the Empire's Main Wing)

Inside the grand, ornately decorated hall, where the echoes of footsteps reverberate on the marble floor, the fifteen ranked individuals gathered once again. Despite their diverse personalities and powers, a palpable aura of tension filled the air, as if the room itself was holding its breath.

Raija Arox, ranked twelfth, sat in a distant corner, his back resting against the wall. His dark eyes gazed up at the decorated ceiling with no clear interest in the ongoing discussion. His white hair, falling loosely over his shoulders, seemed like part of the gray dust around his torn cloak. He paid no attention to anyone, but those who knew him well understood that his mind was constantly working—analyzing, observing every movement in the room.

In stark contrast, Liora Falston, ranked fifteenth, leaned casually against one of the columns, her red hair twisting around her finger, a sarcastic smile never leaving her face. A mix of arrogance and recklessness covered her golden eyes. She lifted her foot to rest on the chair in front of her indifferently, then whispered provocatively, "So... when do we begin this farce? Or are you waiting for an inspiring speech from the old man Zeron?"

Zeron, who had been quietly observing from the shadows, let out a low laugh—a blend of usual sarcasm and madness. "A speech? Heh... I'm not one for speeches. I'd rather make minds explode instead."

Hunter slammed his fist on the table, creating a loud echo to draw attention. "Enough nonsense. We have a report on the movements of the kingdoms, focus is required."

But Banz interrupted him sarcastically, "You're asking for focus from Liora? That might be harder than defeating the King of Hell."

Liora laughed loudly, then her eyes gleamed with excitement as she pointed her finger at Banz, saying, "Why don't we settle this with a duel? Your loss will be quicker than your boring speeches!"

Raija, who hadn't spoken since the meeting began, finally raised his eyes coldly and said in a calm voice, yet deep with menace: "Enough noise. Your voices are ruining my focus... If you want to fight, do it, but outside this hall."

The atmosphere calmed slightly, though the tension still lingered. In truth, the relationships among the ranked were highly complex.

Liora and Raija: Despite Liora's constant provocation due to his excessive calmness, she secretly respects him. On a previous mission, Raija intervened to save her from a dangerous trap when her excessive Qaz energy was about to explode, leaving a lasting impression on her, even though she refuses to admit it.

Zeron and Liora: Zeron finds her a "fun tool" rather than a teammate, enjoying psychologically provoking her with his annoying questions about death and explosions, which irritates her. However, she, in turn, fears his intelligence and madness, always trying to hide her concern behind sarcasm.

Raija and Zeron: A very tense relationship. Raija views him as a threat to rationality, while Zeron sees him as boring and soulless, although both silently respect each other's intellect.

Hunter and Banz: A clear competitive relationship, with Hunter focused on discipline and seriousness, while Banz values efficiency with a sarcastic approach. Still, there is a subtle respect between them.

And Huld: Mostly quiet, but views everyone as potential tools in the power struggle and trusts none of them.

At the end of the meeting, as they were about to leave, Liora whispered as she slowly approached Zeron: "You know, Zeron? I've always thought you're completely insane... but I'm starting to wonder, is there a mind behind that madness?"

Zeron smiled an enigmatic smile, stepping closer to her, then whispered in her ear: "Who said that mind and madness can't walk together?"

They exited the hall, but the tension among the ranked individuals was like a fire smoldering beneath the ashes... waiting for the moment of explosion.