The grand hall of the Council of Nations was an awe-inspiring sight. Towering pillars of polished marble reached into the heavens, lined with intricate carvings that depicted centuries of battles, alliances, and triumphs of the elites. The air was thick with tension and power as JC and his group stepped through the massive golden doors.
Rows of powerful elites sat in a semi-circle at the far end of the hall, their presence commanding and intimidating. Among them were the most influential figures of the elite world, including JC's own family.
---
The Family Reunion
At the center of the council table sat Liora Logia, JC's older sister and the Queen of Void, her black and purple aura swirling faintly around her as she observed him with a piercing gaze. Beside her was their father, Darius Logia, the former head of the family, his stormy gray eyes studying JC with a mix of pride and scrutiny.
"You've returned," Liora said, her voice calm yet commanding.
"I was summoned," JC replied, his tone equally measured.
Darius leaned forward. "And you came with... a guild?" His eyes flickered to the group behind JC, who stood awkwardly at the entrance.
"They're my companions," JC said. "And they've earned the right to be here."
A murmur swept through the council. Elites were rarely known to associate with those outside their ranks.
---
The Council's Inquiry
One of the council members, an older elite with a flowing white beard and glowing blue eyes, spoke up. "JC Logia, you have been absent for three years. Your actions have been... unconventional. Explain yourself."
JC stepped forward, his voice steady. "I left to grow stronger, to prepare for what's coming. The abyssal energy is spreading faster than any of us anticipated. If we don't act soon, there won't be a council or a Country of Nations left to defend."
The room fell silent as his words sank in.
Another council member, a woman with fiery red hair and a commanding presence, narrowed her eyes. "And what proof do you have of this claim?"
JC raised his hand, summoning his system window. The glowing screen displayed an ominous message:
"WARNING: Abyssal Energy Levels Critical. Estimated time before full incursion: 1 year."
The council erupted into whispers, their composed demeanor momentarily broken.
---
Confronting the Past
Liora stood, her aura intensifying. "Enough," she said, her voice cutting through the noise. She turned her gaze to JC. "You've always been different, always sought your own path. But now, you return with dire warnings and a team of... misfits?"
JC's calm expression didn't waver. "They're stronger than you think. And so am I."
Darius's eyes narrowed. "Prove it."
The room grew quiet again as all eyes turned to JC.
---
A Demonstration of Power
JC stepped into the center of the hall, his marks beginning to glow faintly. "You want proof? Fine."
He raised his hand, and the air around him began to crackle with energy. The glow of his marks spread, illuminating the room as his Mark of Wrath activated. The sheer pressure of his power forced some of the lower-ranked elites to step back, their faces pale with shock.
Lightning and light magic swirled around him, forming into a massive blade of energy. JC swung it downward, and a controlled shockwave rippled through the room, shaking the pillars but leaving the council untouched.
The room was silent as the display ended.
Liora crossed her arms, a small smirk playing on her lips. "Impressive. But raw power isn't enough. Do you have the discipline to lead? To fight alongside others?"
JC's gaze met hers. "I've spent the last three years proving that. Ask them." He gestured to his group, who nodded in support.
---
A Divided Council
The council erupted into debate. Some argued that JC's return was a blessing, while others questioned his methods and his companions.
Finally, Darius raised a hand, silencing the room. "Enough," he said. "JC, you will have your chance to prove yourself. But know this: the council's trust must be earned. Your actions from here on will determine your place among us."
JC nodded. "Understood."
---
A Quiet Moment
After the meeting, JC's group was led to a set of guest chambers. They were quiet, the weight of the encounter heavy on their minds.
As they settled in, Lissy approached JC. "How are you feeling?"
JC leaned against the wall, his expression unreadable. "It's not over yet. The real test is still ahead."
She placed a hand on his arm, offering a small smile. "We'll face it together."
JC glanced at her, his calm demeanor softening for a moment. "Thank you."
---
The council may have been divided, but JC knew one thing for certain: the fight for their world was far from over. And this time, he wasn't alone.