Chapter 33: MAD Guild
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The Transformation
Gok and Wu-Ji stood in disbelief as they approached the towering structure that was once the headquarters of the MAD Guild. What had once been a bustling hub for elite players, filled with camaraderie and strategy, was now an imposing federal facility adorned with the insignia of the FBI.
The transformation was surreal. Armed guards patrolled the premises, and state-of-the-art technology buzzed throughout the compound. "This isn't a guild anymore," Wu-Ji muttered. "It's a fortress."
As they entered, they were greeted by Saichel, the current leader of the operation. Despite the changes, his demeanor was calm and calculating, his sharp eyes betraying years of experience.
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The Meeting
Saichel ushered them into a secure conference room. Holographic displays lit up, projecting maps of the globe and data streams regarding Ranker's history.
"Welcome back, MAD," Saichel said, addressing Gok. His tone carried both respect and curiosity. "You've been gone for 21 years, and things have... evolved in your absence."
Gok leaned back in his chair, his gaze steady. "Get to the point. Why is the MAD Guild an FBI headquarters now?"
Saichel sighed. "After your disappearance into the tower, the world saw the rise of new powers. Ranker stopped being just a game. The Infinite Blade fragments—pieces of your legendary weapon—started appearing across the globe. Each fragment contained a power unlike anything we've ever seen."
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The Fragments
Saichel gestured to the holograms, which shifted to display glowing weapons of various designs. "These weapons were forged from the fragments of the Infinite Blade after you were defeated by Rat, 24 years ago. The aura of the fragments turned yellow after the blade shattered... but something changed."
Wu-Ji furrowed his brow. "Changed how?"
"About 21 years ago, when you entered the tower, the aura of the fragments turned black," Saichel explained. "No one knows why, but the energy they emit has grown more unstable and dangerous. We suspect it's connected to the towers—and to whatever's controlling Ranker from the shadows."
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Global Champions
Saichel continued, "Each fragment found its way to the strongest players in every country. These individuals—'National Rankers,' as they're called—became the de facto protectors of their nations. But these weapons are not just tools; they're curses. The black aura has begun to corrupt their wielders, driving some of them to madness."
Wu-Ji clenched his fists. "So, these fragments have become weapons of mass destruction. And you let this happen?"
Saichel shook his head. "We didn't 'let' anything happen. The fragments scattered across the globe on their own. Our only option has been to monitor and contain the chaos."
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The Warning
Saichel leaned forward, his expression grave. "But here's the real issue: something—or someone—is manipulating these fragments. Their energy signatures match the towers' designs. And now, with you two back in the game, the stakes have never been higher."
Gok frowned. "So, what do you want from us?"
"We need your help," Saichel admitted. "You've both wielded power beyond anything we've ever seen. If anyone can reclaim the fragments and stop the corruption, it's you."
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A New Mission
Gok exchanged a glance with Wu-Ji. For the first time since their return, the weight of the situation truly sank in. The world had changed, and their roles in it were far from over.
"Fine," Gok said at last. "But if we're doing this, we're doing it our way."
Saichel nodded. "Fair enough. Your first mission is to track down the fragment wielded by Korea's number one player. But be warned—these aren't just fragments of your old blade. They've evolved into something... darker."
As the meeting ended, gok thought to himself: "Never do mistakes"