Kyoto—The spiritual heart of Katsuragi, where history and mysticism converged beneath the towering presence of ancient temples and sacred sites. The city thrived on its deep-rooted traditions, each shrine and relic a conduit of immense magical power. It was here, among these hallowed grounds, that the people sought guidance from the divine, their faith unwavering even as the world around them changed.

  At the helm of this revered city stood Takuya Fumiko, a holy warrior chosen by the Holy Church to serve as Kyoto’s ruler and protector. He was a man of unwavering conviction, his loyalty to the empire and the church absolute. Though he endured the same silent neglect that many other cities faced—receiving only minor aid from those he swore allegiance to—Takuya never wavered. He did not seek their help, nor did he resent their absence. He believed in self-reliance, in the purity of strength born from discipline and faith.

  When the Federation arrived, bringing promises of advancement and security, Kyoto’s fate stood at a crossroads. Yuki no Mura, alongside the Lords and Ladies of three prefectural regions, had come bearing aid, just as they had for Kanazawa and Nagoya. Queen Yuka of Okinawa herself had stood with them, offering magic tech—a gift that had the power to reshape Kyoto’s future.

  But to Takuya, it was no gift. It was heresy.

  The very idea of introducing magic tech into Kyoto’s sacred lands was an insult to the Holy Church and the empire. Without hesitation, he rejected the offer, refusing not only the Federation’s aid but also any assistance from neighboring regions. His defiance was absolute, his loyalty unshaken. To him, Kyoto was pure, untainted by the reckless advancements that others foolishly embraced.

  And if the Federation or the capital city dared to break the laws he upheld?

  Then he would bring war upon them.

  Joseph, ever observant, saw through Takuya’s pride. He understood the source of his arrogance—the belief that strength alone could sustain Kyoto, that faith and steel would always be enough. In truth, Takuya was formidable. His rank placed him among the strongest warriors of the land, a man capable of standing against monsters, supernaturals, and even demon lords.

  But even the greatest warriors had limits.

  Against the most powerful forces, against the archdemons and greater evils that lurked beyond mortal comprehension, Takuya’s odds were uncertain at best—a precarious fifty-fifty gamble. Even with holy and dark weapons in his arsenal, there would always be foes beyond his reach.

  Yet, he remained blind to the truth.

  He did not recognize Joseph’s true power. He did not understand the scale of the force that had come to his city, nor did he realize that his threats meant nothing. The Federation did not fear him, nor did they seek to force their will upon Kyoto. They simply moved on, seeking a different outcome elsewhere.

  Kyoto would not join the Federation.

  But the Federation would not abandon Kyoto.

  Despite Takuya’s defiance, despite his refusal to accept aid, the Federation would remain in the shadows, watching. Not for his sake, but for the people under his rule—the innocent citizens who had no say in their leader’s pride.

  When the day came that Kyoto’s strength was no longer enough…

  The Federation would be there.

  Takuya Fumiko, as an Archknight, stands as one of the foremost champions of his kingdom. His prowess in combat and heroic feats are legendary, with abilities that allow him to confront and defeat threats on a universal scale. Armed with legendary weapons and armor, Takuya is a key defender of his realm and plays a pivotal role in times of great peril.

  Takuya Fumiko has earned his title through decades of remarkable service and valor. Known for his exceptional combat skills and strategic mind, he has led his kingdom’s forces through many critical battles. His leadership and heroism have made him a revered figure, instrumental in defending his realm against existential threats. Despite his age, Takuya remains a formidable presence, embodying the strength and honor of his rank.

  ***

  Nara—The Sacred City of Spirits

  An ancient capital, steeped in serenity and mystery, Nara stood as a beacon of harmony between the mortal world and the spirits of nature. The city's sprawling forests whispered with the voices of unseen guardians, and its sacred deer, revered as divine messengers, roamed freely through the tranquil streets. To the people of Nara, their land was more than just a city—it was a sanctuary, a bridge to the mystical realm that lay just beyond human perception.

  At the heart of this sacred city ruled Mei Daisuke, a holy warrior chosen by the Holy Church. Strong-willed and unwavering in her faith, she governed with a deep sense of duty, holding steadfast to the traditions that had long defined Nara’s existence. Like many other rulers assigned by the empire and the church, she had received little aid, often left to fend for her people with only the strength of her own hands and the unwavering devotion of her followers.

  Yet, Mei never wavered.

  She took great pride in the resilience of her city and in her own ability to defend it. Nara had endured for centuries without foreign intervention, and she saw no reason to change that now.

  When the Federation arrived, bringing with them the promise of aid and advancement, Mei Daisuke stood firm in rejection. Yuki no Mura, alongside the Lords and Ladies of three distinct prefectural regions, had come with Joseph and Queen Yuka of Okinawa, answering the call for aid from Kanazawa. They offered magic tech, an innovation that had already begun transforming other regions, bringing newfound strength and prosperity.

  But to Mei, this was nothing short of heresy.

  Magic tech was an affront to the Holy Church and the empire, an unnatural disturbance to the sacred balance Nara had maintained for centuries. She refused the Federation’s offer outright, declaring that any attempt to force such technology upon her people would be met with war. She did not fear conflict, nor did she hesitate to challenge even the most powerful forces if it meant preserving the purity of her land.

  Joseph, ever perceptive, understood her defiance.

  Like the rulers before her—Shinichi of Yokohama, Natsumi of Naha, and Takuya of Kyoto—Mei’s pride and faith in her own strength were admirable, yet shortsighted. She was indeed powerful, ranked among the strongest warriors in the land. Her abilities allowed her to battle monstrous threats, from supernatural creatures to demon lords and even, perhaps, archdemons.

  But even the greatest warriors had their limits.

  Against the true forces that lurked beyond the veil of mortal understanding, her odds were uncertain—a precarious gamble, at best. Even with holy weapons or dark armaments, she could only fight so much before facing an adversary beyond her reach.

  What Mei did not realize was the sheer scale of Joseph’s power.

  Her threats meant nothing to him. The Federation did not fear her defiance, nor did they seek to impose their will upon Nara. If the city chose to remain apart, then so be it.

  For now.

  Nara would not join the Federation. But the Federation would not abandon Nara.

  They would watch, from the shadows, ready to act when the city needed them most. Not for Mei’s sake, nor for her stubborn pride—but for the innocent citizens under her care.

  For when the day came that Nara’s strength alone was no longer enough…

  The Federation would be there.

  This novel's true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

  Z Rank hunters like Mei Daisuke are capable of facing and defeating universal-level threats. These hunters have an aura that can influence entire universes, making them both revered and feared across multiple realms. Their power extends beyond mere physical prowess, encompassing mastery over magical and mystical forces. Mei, as a high-level archknight-huntress, stands among the elite protectors of the Katsuragi (Victory Empire), wielding her immense strength and abilities to guard against existential threats.

  Born into a lineage of powerful demons, Mei Daisuke was destined for greatness from a young age. Her family, known for producing some of the most formidable warriors in demonkind, raised her in the harshest of environments, where strength was paramount. Mei's early life was one of constant battle and survival, honing her skills in combat and dark magic. As a demon, she possesses innate abilities that set her apart from other hunters, including heightened regeneration, incredible strength, and an affinity for manipulating the shadows and dark energy.

  Throughout her 3,000 years, Mei has faced countless battles against both mortal and supernatural foes, steadily climbing the ranks to achieve the prestigious title of Z Rank Archknight-Huntress. Her aura, now reaching universal levels, grants her influence over vast regions of space and the ability to take on universal threats that few others could challenge. She is known for her tactical mind, using a combination of raw power and strategic acumen to outmaneuver her enemies.

  Despite her demon heritage, Mei is fiercely loyal to the Katsuragi (Victory Empire). She has spent centuries proving herself, not just as a demon but as a protector of the realms. Her loyalty to the empire is driven by a deep sense of honor and a desire to atone for the chaos her kind once spread. Mei walks a delicate line between her demonic instincts and her commitment to safeguarding the empire and its people.

  Mei’s reputation as a warrior is unmatched. Her presence on the battlefield is often seen as a sign of hope to her allies and doom to her enemies. Though she commands fear and respect, she is also known for her calm and collected demeanor, rarely showing emotion in battle. However, underneath her composed exterior lies a fierce determination to protect her empire at all costs, even if it means sacrificing herself.

  In her personal life, Mei keeps to herself, preferring solitude and meditation over social interactions. She has few close relationships, as most see her as an enigmatic and untouchable figure. However, those who have fought by her side know that her loyalty runs deep, and she would go to any lengths to protect those she considers comrades.

  ***

  Not all cities welcomed the Federation’s magic tech with open arms. While some outright rejected it, they remained open to other forms of aid and development, eventually becoming part of the Federation under more traditional means. Others, however, refused all assistance, issuing stark warnings that the Holy Church of Katsuragi or the Empire would one day confiscate our advancements and put an end to our success.

  What they didn’t realize was that we were ready.

  There were even cities that aligned themselves with the Holy Church, acting as spies within our borders, watching, listening, and reporting our every move. Their loyalty to the church made them enemies in the shadows, yet we were of little concern. We had greater challenges to face.

  Change, after all, is only a matter of time.

  Whether through diplomacy or conflict, the truth would become undeniable—the benefits of the Federation’s magic tech would speak for themselves. And when that day came, those who once rejected us would have a choice:

  Join us, or stand against us.

  If they chose war, then they would leave us no choice but to strike back.

  ***

  The following day on Sado Island, I stood before the people to deliver an important message—one not just of announcement, but of inspiration.

  As I gazed upon the great and resilient people of Sado, I recalled our past struggles and the journey that had brought us here—to this moment of unity and evolution. My speech, though brief, carried the weight of determination.

  > "Always remember—dream bigger than they can imagine. Work harder and smarter than anyone else. Stay focused, ignore distractions, and achieve more than they'll ever expect!"

  I paused, locking eyes with the crowd before adding:

  > "Show them what you stand for. Don't run away like cowards! Tell me—will you rise?!"

  The people roared in response, their voices echoing across the island. A flicker of doubt crossed my mind—had I been too harsh? But as I saw the fire in their eyes, I knew my words had struck true.

  With the speech concluded, I retreated to my chambers. Beleviamoth and Beliamoth—the twin arch-demonesses—soon arrived, reminding me of the upcoming Federation meeting, something that had nearly slipped my mind. Queen Yuka and the three prefectural leaders were already preparing, and I needed to do the same.

  Just as I was finishing, a commotion erupted outside, drawing the attention of the islanders. My name was being shouted—not by an ally, but by a hostile force hovering above the island.

  Stepping outside with Beleviamoth and Beliamoth at my side, I laid eyes on the intruder. A demon lord.

  Though he radiated malice and power, I could sense his hesitation. He had underestimated us—not just me, but the entire island. Even the children of Sado were prepared to fight him. When one of them stepped forward, eager to engage, I held out a hand.

  > "Not yet. I want to hear why he's here."

  The demon lord's voice boomed across the sky.

  > "Joseph Benjamin Carmen—the Unkillable. The mistakenly so-called long-awaited savior of this world. I am Dexter of the Margin, Conqueror and Devourer of Worlds, a higher-ranking demi-human demon of the Five Outlands who has ascended to the ranks of a true Demon Lord.

  > You'll agree to face me one-on-one, won't you?"

  I met his gaze, feeling the weight of his challenge.

  A battle was inevitable.

  After his boastful declaration, I simply stared at him in confusion, offering no immediate response.

  Dexter of the Margin? The name didn’t ring a bell.

  I turned to Beleviamoth and Beliamoth, the twin arch-demonesses, and inquired if they knew him. As expected, they did.

  > "He was one of the named demons you granted freedom when you became a Demon Lord," Beliamoth explained.

  "But he chose to leave, just like many others," Beleviamoth added.

  "His father, a lesser Demon Lord, raped a demi-human, and that union bore Dexter. His father has long since perished."

  I processed their words.

  > "I see… so he must have felt my ascension—from a true Demon Lord to an Arch-Demon—and now he seeks to challenge me."

  Turning to Dexter, I let out a disinterested sigh.

  > "Look, I don't have time for this bullshit," I told him. "You’re not worth my effort. If you really want a fight, take it up with one of my subordinates or any of the islanders—they’ve all evolved beyond you."

  I smirked.

  > "Honestly, I should’ve let that child who stepped forward handle you. It would’ve saved me the precious time you’re wasting."

  Dexter's arrogance flared, and he refused to back down.

  > "Coward!" he spat.

  At that, the twin arch-demonesses bristled with fury, their auras flaring. Had I not stopped them, they would have torn Dexter apart where he stood.

  > "Stand down," I ordered, calming them. Then, I sighed and faced Dexter again. "Fine. If a fight is what you want, I’ll end this quickly."

  The moment I accepted, Beliamoth snapped her fingers, conjuring a protective barrier around us. If Dexter tried to go berserk, it wouldn’t matter—he was already trapped with me.

  The twin sisters remained inside, observing, while the rest of the islanders simply went about their business. That alone seemed to rattle Dexter.

  > They don’t care. Even after all his posturing, the islanders weren’t worried. They knew I was beyond him. Even he knew.

  To me, this wasn’t a battle—it was a warm-up. A stretch.

  Inside the barrier, I faced him and smirked.

  > "First of all," I said, "I’m not the ‘mistakenly so-called long-awaited prophesied savior.’" I stepped forward, letting my presence weigh down on him. "I am the savior. And I acknowledge it."

  Then, with a chuckle, I added:

  > "Also, sorry for not mentioning your so-called title and your overhyped status. It’s just irrelevant since we both—and let’s be honest, even the readers—already know who you are."

  I cracked my knuckles.

  > "Besides, you’re talking too much, Dexter. And honestly? So am I."

  I grinned.

  > "Let’s stop wasting space in this narrative and get to the action."

  Dexter raised an eyebrow in confusion, and I realized just how much fun I was having—teasing my opponent, breaking the fourth wall.

  He cracked his neck and stretched his arms, preparing for what he believed would be our greatest, most brutal fight in history.

  Then, as if trying to intimidate me, he made his grand declaration:

  > "I have been given a name above all names—a name so powerful, so potent, that it transcends my previous status and that of every other being."

  I couldn’t help myself—I laughed.

  > "Oh? Is that so?" I smirked.

  Dexter continued, attempting to add more weight to his words.

  > "Ever since I learned of your victory over Archdemon Achamoth, I—"

  I cut him off mid-sentence, unable to resist the ridiculousness of what I just heard.

  > "OMG! Say no more!" I interrupted, feigning mock curiosity and sarcasm. "Let me guess... is your new name Jesus?"

  Dexter stiffened, caught between confusion and anger.

  > "What?! No! What does that even mean?" he demanded.

  I leaned in and whispered dramatically.

  > "Earth pig."

  His expression twisted further in confusion.

  I let out a mock sigh of relief.

  > "Phew! For a second, I thought you'd become the new Jesus or Yahusha. That would've been awkward." I grinned wickedly. "You know, everyone wants that name—even though they ignore the fact that Yahusha is the true name, not to be confused with Yeshua."

  Dexter was fuming.

  > "Enough of your games!" he snapped.

  I chuckled.

  > "Well then, at least I won’t have to bind and cast you out in the name of Jesus."

  That was the last straw.

  With a furious roar, Dexter charged at me, his power surging as he lunged forward at full speed.

  I?

  I simply stood still.

  As he closed the distance, I stretched out my hand—calm, effortless.

  Then, in one punch, Dexter was out cold.

  The force of my nonchalant strike shattered Beliamoth’s barrier around us, sending shockwaves through the air.

  Dexter lay incapacitated, completely defeated before he could even process what had happened.

  Beleviamoth stepped forward, absorbing his powers, stripping him of everything. Powerless. Finished.

  With that, the matter was settled.

  I turned away, uninterested.

  > "Alright, time to go."

  Without another glance at the fallen demon, I departed, making my way to Okinawa Island—to meet Queen Yuka before our journey to the Federation.