In District 3, one of the Big 3 families resides. The Ayase Family, to the public they're known as benevolent and charitable. But this is all a front, their entire lineage is corrupt, and for the past several generations it has been so. A meeting is currently being held, one that addresses the family's current position.
"Why are there only two of us in the Special Rank Hunters?" The current head of the Ayase Family, a retired Hunter reaching the age of 80 speaks.
"Grandfather, with all due respect. The Boreas Family also currently only has two Special Rank Hunters as well," a 1st Rank Hunter speaks.
"Gah!"
He is swiftly kicked across his face, blood spewing from his mouth.
"Who gave you permission to speak, small fry? The lot of you are pathetic, we were once hailed as the strongest family, and now look at us."
"Benny is right, has everyone else gone soft in these times of false peace?"
Benjamin Ayase, Special Rank Hunter. He contributed greatly to the second great battle 20 years ago in District 25. At the age of 24, he quickly soared up the ranks and made a name for himself all throughout Shioto. At that time, there were 5 Ayases in the Special Rank. But 4 of them are retired now.
"If I may speak."
"Sonia, what is it?"
"Benny and I's daughter, Sophia is showing exemplary results at the Academy. I believe in a few years she'll reach Special Rank."
"Do you agree, Benny?"
"I think so. That girl has a burning fury in her. I raised her right."
"I'll take your word."
"If I may, father."
"Go ahead, Aki."
Aki Ayase, 1st Rank Hunter.
"I believe I'm Special Rank material."
"Ho?"
"My District has been seeing little action, but every second I'm not on duty, I'm training. I heard Arthur hasn't shown any results since he became Special Rank. I could take his spot if he's just not up to par."
"Haha, is that what my younger brother thinks of me?"
Arthur Ayase, Special Rank, Age: 28.
"I'm only saying facts."
"Haha, I suppose you're right. Well then, let's settle it right now."
"Huh?"
"If you can beat me here, you'll have my spot in the Special Ranks, along with my Alter Weapon. Let's get some training swords shall we?"
"Heh, you're serious?" Aki nervously laughs.
"You want my spot don't you? Let's have a battle then!"
"Looking down on me? You're on!"
***
Blood is spattered on the wall where a lifeless body lies. The others look on silently, some unfazed and few showing some kind of emotion.
Arthur looks down, scowling at the corpse with his bloodied face.
'The only person stronger than me is Shoyo Kusakabe.'
He then turns around, "Let's continue the meeting."
***
Meanwhile, two members of the Slayers have met up.
"Yo, Hanako. Why am I the only one here?"
"Patrick betrayed us. But we won't change our plans. In 2 days, gather your fangs and lead 100 of the strongest vampires you can pick out to attack the Academy."
"…" Akutenshi is genuinely surprised.
"You can go as crazy as you like."
The shocked frown twists into a menacing grin.
Waves will go around the world of the incident that's to come in a week's time.