CHAPTER 1

...RELIC OF THE PAST...

~Introduction~

It was not by chance that this tragedy came to him.

Beverly Hills had become a projection of his past losses. The city that was once his cherished and nurturing childhood home now stood as a mere reflection of his profound personal grief.

Yet, he was unwilling to move on, unwilling to leave the tragic past behind.

Over time, he even began to serenely embrace the distressing recollections and harrowing experiences associated with the city.

It was a tragedy that had become his inner demon, a catalyst for his profound hatred against those responsible.

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MODRED: "[Studies Mako with an uneasy expression.] Using that foreboding skill was rather bold. It might stir concerns within the Chaos Force if he manages to endure the ominous seal in the future," Modred noted with caution.

MAKO: "[Offers a confident response to Modred.] Fear not, sorcerer. While the iteration of this ominous seal remains unpredictable, none shall elude its grasp on sanity and the enslavement of will." His words carried a subtle undertone of both assurance and dark anticipation.

<

Yet, the motives behind this wicked endeavor remained shrouded in mystery, a revelation with the potential to impact everyone who has ever known him.>>

Mako turned toward his crying infant niece, Alexa Blaze, retrieving her from the clutches of one of the Chaos Force minions. In a heartless grip, he ensnared his palm around her fragile, little neck, his expression devoid of sympathy.

YOUNGER DAVID: "[Sobs in grief.] ....Why, uncle? Why do this?"

MAKO: "[Turns his gaze toward David's battered figure.] I can smell the profound grief and hate that emanates from you, little nephew - the absolute stench of despair. It's a good thing - embrace it." Mako spoke out in a dark and sadistic tone while maintaining his grip on Alexa.

YOUNGER DAVID: "[Grits his teeth.] Tsk... In that case, it's pointless to ask a heartless beast like you. If I don't meet my end today, rest assured that someday, I will make you recount your existence in pain!" David's anguished voice resonated with a dark promise.

MAKO: "[Unveils a subtle sneer.] Humph. Someday, but not today."

Uttering these chilling words, Mako ruthlessly snapped the neck of infant Alexa before her brother, David, her lifeless body dropping limp and motionless, her haunting cries abruptly silenced.

This phenomenon struck David so hard to the very core of his being. He could already feel his sanity fading away and in the next moment, following his grieving cry for vengeance, a huge blast of reddish black energy engulfed everything......!!

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~Main story: Seven years later~

Suddenly, David jolted awake, gasping in panic. Sweat poured from him, his body weighed down by an overwhelming exhaustion.

It was the haunting nightmare again, a companion from his harrowing past experiences that seared within him. It had now become a norm for his every night's slumber.

With a weary effort, he rose to his feet and made his way to the central table, where a relic called the 'Map of Mysteries' lay awaiting him.

His gray eyes fixated on the intricate details, his attention focused on uncovering the elusive clues that led to some gateway.

It was through this gateway that he believed he could traverse into the world of superhumans - the TRIBE. As he studied the map, mysterious symbols subtly appeared, etched in a corner, hinting at challenges yet to be unveiled.

DAVID: "[Drags strands of his dark curly hair as he struggles to understand the map's content.] Ah, never thought that uncovering the secrets of this relic would be a tough nut to crack. If only father was here," his voice exuded a wistful tone, his gaze scanning through the ancient map.

He sighed, frustration and boredom clouding his thoughts as focus slipped from him. With little enthusiasm, he carefully folded the relic and tucked it away into his backpack.

The allure of the 'Map of Mysteries' could wait.

Right now, he had another day of routine ahead - a day of lectures at Beacon Seed Academy, where he'd just enrolled.

Intent on shaking off the weight of the morning, David made his way toward the bathroom. His mind had already begun to drift toward the mundane tasks of the day when suddenly - a loud bang from the entrance door shattered the quiet, the sharp sound pulling him back to the present, grabbing his attention.

DAVID: "By the heavenly one... Who the heck is at the door!?" David's voice resonated with an agitated tone, demanding the stranger's immediate clarification.

GARY: "Yo, dude, relax. It's me - your buddy, Gary Humbusberg. Seriously, man, are you ever gonna get it together? We're gonna be late for class again!" Gary stormed into the room, his eyebrows furrowed with concern.

DAVID: "Tsk, Gary. I haven't forgotten about today's lecture. You should worry more about yourself. I'd only drag you down.... As usual."

GARY: "[Shrugs his shoulder with a sarcastic grin.] If that's the case, then it's fine by me... As usual,"

DAVID: "Mm, don't go complaining later on. Well, since you've got time to spare, I'll be on my way to prepare." David expressed a tired sigh before entering the bathroom.

<

His jovial and carefree nature contrasted with David's more calm and reserved nature. It was likely due to their different experiences in life.

But they both shared something in common. It was watching out for each other as well as those around them.

David had come to know about Gary when he rescued the school teenager from a ruthless squad of street thugs one fateful night.

It happened that despite Gary's carefree nature, he was often targeted by bullies. This plight had initially cast a shadow over his life, fueling thoughts of despair. It was only when he encountered David that his spark for hope resurfaced.>>

Twelve minutes later, David stepped out of the bathroom, feeling revitalized from the long, invigorating bath. He had traded the weight of exhaustion for a sense of renewed energy. Dressed sharply, he wore a sleek gray suit jacket that fit him with effortless style, paired perfectly with matching trousers.

A pair of polished brown boots grounded his look, adding a refined yet bold touch to his ensemble. His backpack was packed with precision, ready for whatever the day might hold. With Gary faithfully by his side, he exuded a quiet confidence as they prepared to head off for another day at Beacon Seed Academy.

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