Two weeks had passed since the clash between Ikku and Tenma. That battle marked a turning point. Now, our heroes were ready to return to the field. At the agreed time, they met Zeno at the designated rendezvous point. As always, their instructor stood waiting, silent and composed.
"We're heading out on a new mission today," he announced once everyone had gathered. "Which one did you choose?"
"We picked a mission in the kingdom of Mekira," Ikku replied confidently. "The goal is to neutralize a group of troublemakers who've been targeting construction sites. It's also a great opportunity for Yumé and me apparently, some Sonka live there. And the King of Mekira might have information about the jewels."
Zeno gave a slow nod.
"That's a smart choice. You might uncover something about the Sonka. But as for the jewels... that will be more complicated."
"How come?" Kenny asked, curious.
"Mekira is known for being secretive. The fact that they requested our help is a miracle in itself. Officially, it's to strengthen diplomatic ties. But realistically, they're likely trying to assess Nexus our power, our technology."
"When you put it like that, it makes sense," Kenny admitted. "Do you think we should cancel?"
"No. On the contrary it's a valuable opportunity for us to learn more about their kingdom. Let's go."
The team boarded a plane bound for Mekira. During the flight, they took time to study the nation's history, geography, and political landscape. The kingdom was still a mystery in many ways.
"Why is this country so closed off, Master Zeno?" Carla asked.
"Well," Zeno replied, "Mekira is one of the three major powers, alongside Isru and Danafort. But its rise to power is recent just six years ago. And it all stems from two figures: the current king, Riku, and his right-hand man, Sorento."
"What's so special about them?" Ikku asked.
"If Ryu is Isru's secret weapon," Zeno explained, "then Sorento is the same for Mekira."
"How strong are they?" Ikku pressed.
Zeno paused before answering.
"Ryu's power is known worldwide. Some say he rivals the legendary Conquerors. The same goes for Sorento."
The revelation left the group speechless. Were these two truly on par with legends?
"And you, Master Zeno?" Yumé asked. "Could you beat them?"
"I wouldn't stand a chance," Zeno answered bluntly.
"But last time, you didn't seem impressed by Kolio," Carla pointed out.
"Kolio is a powerful and unpredictable opponent. It's hard to gauge his level. I honestly don't know if I could defeat him."
"You've fought Tenma before, haven't you? Who usually wins?"
"Tenma has incredible potential," Zeno said. "But he still has a long road ahead. For now, I can beat him without much effort. But a few years from now... that might change."
Ikku remained quiet, lost in thought. The gap between him and these titans felt immense. Tenma was the weakest opponent he had faced and yet the defeat had been crushing. But that only motivated him further. If it were easy, everyone would do it. He knew that experience was the best teacher. Whatever awaited him in Mekira, he would be ready.
Two hours later, the plane touched down on Mekira soil. At first glance, the country looked unremarkable. Not primitive, not ultramodern just developed, in its own quiet way. Certainly less advanced than Kul-Elna, but far from lacking.
A man awaited them on the tarmac. Average height, dressed in loose-fitting clothes and gloves. His skin was pale, almost ghostly. The whites of his eyes were pitch black, with deep red pupils. Short chestnut hair framed his unusual face. He stepped forward and bowed respectfully.
"It is an honor to welcome the Angel of Death himself. We're flattered that Nexus is treating this mission so seriously. I am Myu, in charge of all mission-related formalities."
"Well met," Zeno replied with his usual stoic tone. "Please, brief us on the mission so we know how to proceed."
"Of course," Myu nodded. "But we'll be more comfortable in our offices. Admiral Sorento also wishes to meet you he'll be pleased to see you in person."
"If you insist," Zeno said, coldly. "Let's go."
"Master Zeno really seems to be someone important," Ikku whispered to the others.
"No kidding," Carla muttered back. "I wonder what he did to become so famous..."
Inside the mission headquarters, they were led to a spacious office where a man waited. Sorento. He looked... ordinary. About Ikku's height, spiky blond hair, draped in a long white cloak. There was nothing intimidating about his appearance. In fact, he seemed rather weak. But Ikku knew better than to judge a book by its cover.
"Well, well," Sorento said with a smile. "Never thought Nexus would send the famous Angel of Death. Welcome to Mekira."
"Thank you for the warm welcome," Zeno replied. "Still, I find it strange that such a powerful country would request our assistance."
"True, we could have handled this ourselves," Sorento admitted. "But Mekira has long had a reputation for secrecy for hiding unpleasant truths. Since King Riku came to power, we've aimed to change that. Unity is the greatest strength. Our nations, once at war, are now at peace. We intend to preserve that peace. What better way than to strengthen our bonds? That's why we asked Nexus for support."
"I understand," Zeno nodded. "We'll see this mission through with honor."
"That's exactly what I expected from you."
"Then tell us everything we need to know."
Sorento explained: following a period of internal strife, Mekira had expanded rapidly, annexing several nearby provinces. One of the newest additions, Saymar, had become a hotspot for rebellion. A separatist group there opposed integration and had turned to violence attacking factories, sabotaging infrastructure. Now, their eyes were set on the capital: Pedra.
"We've identified the date of their next strike. Civilians will be evacuated in time. Your task is to let them carry out their attack then follow them back to their base and eliminate the threat at its source."
"When will the attack take place?" Zeno asked.
"In exactly three days."
"Perfect. That gives us time to prepare a strategy."
"If needed, we can provide weapons and soldiers."
"That won't be necessary. Our team is more than enough."
"Very well. Then I place our future in your hands. Your rooms are just across the courtyard. Inside, you'll find special access cards. Use them to enjoy everything Mekira has to offer free of charge."
"Thank you for your hospitality," Zeno said, bowing respectfully.
"The honor is mine," Sorento replied, returning the gesture.
An uneasy silence followed. Behind the polite words and formal exchanges, everyone knew the truth: this mission wasn't just political. It would reveal much more about Mekira, about its secrets... and about the path Ikku still had to walk.