"A Leader- one who rules/guides/ inspires others"
Japan's Supreme Museum of Leaders and Kings
A group, escorted by an attendant, wandered through one of the museum's newest exhibitions. This particular display featured the recently discovered artifacts of Genghis Khan, unearthed in Russia.
"As you can observe, my dear visitors," began the attendant, addressing the group with a theatrical air, "the greatest rulers of history were the grandest figures of their time. The eloquence by which they lived remains unmatched, even to this day. They were divine, and we are but dust. All we can do is pay homage and respect to these monumental figures who shaped our pasts and guided us toward the future."
The attendant paused dramatically before gesturing to a shattered glass display case. "But sometimes, wretched, discourteous thieves rob us of these treasures." His voice darkened as he referred to a robbery that had occurred just a month prior. "Fear not, my guests. Our security has since been drastically improved."
The visitors, reassured yet pensive, examined the ancient relics. A strange uneasiness seemed to settle over them, as though the past itself were watching.
"Remember this well!" the attendant suddenly shouted, startling the group. "Your life is precious! The rulers of today have need of it. And who knows? Perhaps one day, your child will be chosen by the heavens to become the potentate this world requires."
As the group moved on, marveling at the artifacts of a bygone age, their reflections turned inward. They were nobodies—ordinary people whose lives, they believed, would never alter the course of history. The world celebrated heroes and villains, the brilliant and the bold, but cared little for the lives of the extraordinary unknown.
However, what they could not foresee was that, in less than an hour, an event would unfold—a phenomenon destined to change everything.
This is the story of a true ruler and the world's greatest anomaly.
Shinjuku, Territory of the God of Swords
A man strolled purposefully in front of an enormous building—the headquarters of the God of Swords. Around him, an elaborate celebration unfolded, marking the expansion of the god's domain.
He made his way to the center of the festivities, his piercing gaze fixed on a towering, golden-armored figure. The God of Swords stood at the heart of the crowd, delivering a rousing speech. His golden armor gleamed under the lights, and the twin great-swords strapped to his back seemed to radiate power.
"REMEMBER THIS!" the God of Swords bellowed. "IT IS ONLY THROUGH YOUR SUPPORT THAT WE STAND HERE TODAY! TOGETHER, WE WILL LEAD THIS FORCE TO THE HEAVENS AND BEYOND!"
The crowd erupted in cheers.
"OUR SAVIOR!"
"TRULY GOD-CHOSEN!"
Suddenly, amidst the jubilant roar, a quiet yet commanding voice echoed:
"BOW."
The revelers froze, their knees buckling as an unseen force compelled them to kneel. Amid the chaos, the God of Swords remained standing, his sharp gaze locking onto a hooded figure.
"What do we have here?" the god sneered. "A European spy? An agent of the United States? Or perhaps China has finally decided to make its move? No matter—I can tell you are far from ordinary. Tell me, what land do you claim?"
The hooded man replied coolly, "Is that really important?"
"Of course it is," the God of Swords growled. "I need to know where I'll expand my monarchy after I crush you."
The hooded man smirked. "My land? You're standing on it. This is mine. And after I deal with you, so will you."
The God of Swords's impatience flared. "You dare challenge me to a territorial battle, boy?"
The man removed his hood, revealing brown hair and piercing blue eyes. "Finally, something even a dumb brute like you can comprehend. After all, isn't this all you've ever wanted? More of Japan under your thumb?"
A radiant blue light began to fill the area, and onlookers fled in terror.
NHK World News Broadcast
"We're coming to you live from Shinjuku, where a territorial battle has just erupted between the God of Swords and an unknown challenger! With the God of Swords now controlling 60% of Tokyo, this should be an easy win. Stay tuned for updates on this thrilling event!"
Back at the scene, helicopters circled overhead as news reporters scrambled for coverage. Territorial battles were rare and had become global spectacles. To claim land, leaders typically relied on negotiations or combat, but the latter had almost vanished in modern times—until now.
The God of Swords narrowed his eyes at his opponent. "Who are you? Some follower of King Nothing?"
The man chuckled. "Not famous yet, but starting today, I will be. My name is Jonathan. You want to know who I am?" His grin widened. "I am the Lord of this world."
Both combatants laughed, their malicious glee filling the air.
Drawing his great-swords, the God of Swords summoned countless ethereal blades, which hovered menacingly above. Meanwhile, Jonathan conjured a shimmering blue sword and shield, the aura of his power intensifying.
"You know what?" Jonathan said, smirking. "It's my first battle, so I'll indulge you. If I win, your territory is mine. If I lose, I'll serve you as your loyal pawn. Deal?"
"AGREED!" roared the God of Swords, his excitement mounting at the prospect of another conquest.
As the terms were set, the two charged at each other, malicious grins on their faces, their clash marking the first territorial battle in Japan in what felt like an eternity.
TO BE CONTINUED...
helping editor: nomisd