JacQuarius, Kiyomi, and Tela found themselves seated at a conference table alongside several other FBI elites, strategizing their next moves in response to the significant threat posed by the GEI organization.
"So what the fuck do we do now? Sitting here ain't gonna help do shit, let's go start taking down the gangs or sum. The longer we sit here, the more they win!" JacQuarius exclaimed impatiently.
"Let's be patient. Mrs. Garcia is on her way. She'll guide us on our next steps. Just hold tight," reassured one of the FBI elites in response to JacQuarius's urgency.
Unable to remain still, JacQuarius rose from his seat and began inspecting the surroundings. After about ten to fifteen minutes, Mrs. Garcia finally entered the room.
"Everyone, please take your seats. Before we begin our discussion, I have something important to show you all," Mrs. Garcia announced as she settled at the head of the table.
She operated a remote control, activating a news clip on the flat-screen TV in the room.
"Good afternoon, Japan. I bring you urgent news today. The Black Dragon has been spotted in the USA. Following the destruction of Kyoto City, it appears he has sought refuge in the United States. The Japanese Prime Minister has demanded the US apprehend him and deliver him back to Japan or risk escalating tensions into a potential World War 3. Additionally, we're launching a fundraiser for the reconstruction of Kyoto City. Donations can be made at <>," the news anchor reported on screen.
The room fell silent as the gravity of the situation sank in. Mrs. Garcia's arrival signaled the beginning of a critical discussion, marking a pivotal moment in their efforts to address the escalating crisis.
"So what the fuck are yall going to do? I ain't going back so you might as well get ready to go to War!" JacQuarius stated with a huge smirk on his face.
"Well, that's precisely why you're here right now. Even if we wanted to hand you over, we couldn't comply. The GEI has instructed the US government to safeguard you, designating you as their 'Top Secret Agent.' However, it's evident they are maneuvering to capitalize on the World War, but our hands are tied. What makes the GEI see you as so valuable?" Mrs. Garcia explained.
JacQuarius smirked confidently. "They know I'm the reincarnation of the Primordial Reaper. They likely see me as a valuable asset—a pawn in their grand scheme."
"Intriguing. Well, here's more news for you. The US Military is hosting a tournament to recruit new members, and top performers will secure military enlistment and VIP access to an upcoming auction. We want you to enter the tournament and excel, infiltrating the military to gather critical intelligence for the impending World War," Mrs. Garcia revealed.
JacQuarius nodded, his smile widening. "What's in it for me? I'm not merely a pawn. Let's discuss compensation for my efforts."
"We'll share valuable clues about the Primordial Reaper Inheritance in the USA," Mrs. Garcia replied confidently, observing JacQuarius's keen interest.
JacQuarius's eyes gleamed with anticipation, his eagerness palpable to everyone in the room.
"Provide me with the details and your contact information," JacQuarius requested.
"The tournament will commence in two weeks, featuring a 1v1 format. You'll be in the Gold Rank Bracket. Additional specifics will be disclosed upon arrival in California, where the tournament will take place. Flights are arranged for tonight, landing you in Los Angeles—a popular hub of cultivation stores and resources. Now go, prepare for the journey. We'll be in touch after the tournament, entrusting you to attend the auction on our behalf," Mrs. Garcia concluded as she exited the room, leaving JacQuarius and his companions to contemplate their upcoming mission.
JacQuarius, Kiyomi, and Tela promptly left the conference room to prepare for their upcoming flight that evening.
"JacQuarius, do you really trust the FBI? The Primordial Reaper warned us not to trust them, especially since they possess one of his inheritances. They're offering only a clue and seem intent on using us as pawns," Kiyomi voiced her concerns.
"Nah, I don't trust them, but we have to play their game for now. The PSIA mentioned they have a Legend Rank agent, someone who could easily kill us with a single thought, we can't do anything to them for now. Once we're in the US Military, we can prove our worth and gain leverage. Then, we can use them as a shield against the FBI," JacQuarius explained, his sharp mind at work.
"I see your point. But what about the GEI and the threat of World War 3? They're clearly planning something," Kiyomi pressed further.
"It's all part of the plan. The US Government will handle it. Besides, if a war does break out, it might work to our advantage. We could use the chaos to our benefit— by gaining battle experience and looting tons of resources. And if we get deployed in Japan, we could take advantage of that situation and find Daniel or Ian and kill them! Situations like this is about turning adversity into opportunity," JacQuarius reassured, his strategic mindset evident.
Despite the dire circumstances, JacQuarius's ability to find opportunity in adversity showcased his growth in maturity since beginning cultivation.
Back at the hotel, they hastily packed their belongings, with JacQuarius even pilfering some hotel toiletries, and looting their expensive hygiene products!
At the airport, they faced a delay, enduring an additional three-hour wait before their flight finally arrived.
During the wait, JacQuarius and the group discussed plans and researched local cultivation shops before boarding the plane.
The flight to Los Angeles was uneventful, with JacQuarius and Tela sleeping through most of it while Kiyomi remained watchful. She feared the possibility of the upcoming World War.
Upon landing in Los Angeles after the four-hour flight, their first stop was the city's premier cultivation shop, eager to explore and gather resources for their upcoming mission. The city's vibrant atmosphere and abundance of opportunities were enticing, despite the underlying tension of looming conflicts.
JacQuarius, Kiyomi, and Tela stepped into a bustling shop filled with artifacts, eggs, and scrolls galore. Despite the crowded space, the shop boasted excellent customer service, with an employee quickly assisting JacQuarius.
"Welcome to Figueroa's Shop Of Wonders! We have everything you need—from cultivation resources and artifacts to Heaven Animal eggs and techniques. The base floor showcases our regular items, while upstairs features higher-ranked artifacts and resources. Downstairs holds our most prized treasures, including Heaven Animal Eggs and Inheritances up to Legend Rank," the employee explained enthusiastically.
Eager to explore, JacQuarius headed downstairs, hoping to find Primordial Reaper inheritances. Unfortunately, they didn't have what he sought—only 3 legend rank inheritances that were: Sword, Nature, and Summoning Style.
Moving on to the Heaven Animal Eggs, JacQuarius asked the employee a question, his intentions veiled with a hint of menace.
"Ever been robbed?" he inquired sinisterly.
"Never! Thanks to the protection of the local gang '52 Hoover Gangster Crips,' this place is under constant surveillance. They've thwarted all attempts," the employee replied confidently.
Then, JacQuarius's gaze fell upon a remarkable find—an egg in an incubation chamber labeled "Sacred Rank Heaven Animal: Qi Wyrm."