A meeting convened at the Eternal Tower, a magnificent structure rising 500 meters into the sky. This impressive edifice served as both the home and workplace of Alpha, the anchor, and housed his throne. Its immense width matched its towering height. Alpha had summoned all four anchors of Earth to discuss the grave situation at hand.
The chamber where they gathered was a symphony of power and artistry. A massive round table crafted from polished obsidian dominated the center of the room, reflecting light like a still pool. Four exquisitely designed chairs, each a masterpiece of craftsmanship, awaited the rulers. Their plush upholstery provided a stark contrast to the cold strength of the stone floor.
One by one, the Anchors entered and took their seats, the silence deepening with each arrival. Alpha, his face a tapestry of wrinkles that spoke of centuries lived and wisdom gained, settled into his chair with a sigh. His hands, adorned with rings of ancient power, rested upon the table, his ten fingers interlaced as if containing a potent force.
Beta, whose true name was Marshal Flights, exuded an aura of cool calculation, her gaze sharp and analytical. Robert Night, also known as Gamma, was a towering figure whose very presence radiated elemental energy. He shifted restlessly, his impatience palpable. Delta, known to her people as Amanda Everheart, moved with a regal grace, her beauty both ethereal and formidable. Her eyes reflected a complex mix of authority and maternal warmth.
The weight of the situation settled upon them as they began to discuss the dire news brought forth from the Undercity—the resurgence of Steel.
Alpha broke the silence, his voice deep and resonant, yet carrying a tremor of unease. "It appears," he announced, his gaze sweeping across his fellow Anchors, "that the threat we believed vanquished in the annals of history... has not been extinguished. Steel endures, his heart consumed by a desire for vengeance against all of humanity. He has erected seven-floor towers, twisted monuments to his power, in each of our continents."
He continued gravely, "It is my assessment that we must dispatch our Heptad members to confront this menace. I harbor grave doubts that the Supreme Commanders and their lieutenants possess the necessary capabilities to handle this unprecedented crisis." He paused, his gaze sharp and challenging. "That is my report. What are your inquiries?"
Amanda's voice, usually melodic and composed, now vibrated with barely suppressed anger. "Inquiries? Alpha, I have a litany of them! Why was this not detected sooner? How could such a catastrophic failure of vigilance occur? How could you, the Anchor responsible for Land Etherna, neglect to conduct a thorough investigation of the Undercity, a festering wound beneath your very feet?"
Alpha closed his eyes, his face etched with weariness. "I did initiate an investigation, Amanda," he explained, his tone defensive. "My efforts yielded negligible results. The Undercity is a labyrinth of shadows and deceit. After a period of fruitless searching, I concluded that it was best to allow it to remain autonomous."
Amanda's eyes flashed with fury, her voice rising in indignation. "Autonomous? While innocent children were subjected to unspeakable atrocities? While men and women endured relentless suffering? Your inaction is not merely negligence, Alpha; it is a profound betrayal of your duty! The primary culpability for this tragedy rests not with Steel alone, but with you!"
Alpha recoiled as if struck, his face flushing crimson. "Enough!" he roared, his voice echoing through the chamber, the force of his anger momentarily shaking the very foundations of the Spire. "I could not have simply... eradicated the entire population of the Undercity! Furthermore, during my limited excursions there, the situation appeared... contained."
His voice softened slightly. "Steel must have employed powerful illusions and suppressive techniques to mask the true extent of the suffering, to silence the cries of the afflicted. Nevertheless," he continued, his voice carrying a hint of shame, "I offer my sincerest apologies. I acknowledge my grave misjudgment. But we cannot remain mired in recriminations. We must prioritize the present. We must deploy our Heptad members without further delay. With every passing moment, Steel's insidious plan spreads further."
Beta, her voice cool and pragmatic, interjected, her gaze steady. "While your emotional response is understandable, Amanda, dwelling on past failures will not serve us now. Our collective focus must remain fixed upon the immediate threat. We must strategize, not castigate."
Alpha slowly rose, his shoulders slumped with the weight of his admission. "You are correct, Beta. My apologies. If there are no further objections, this meeting is adjourned. We have a world to save."
***
Amanda departed swiftly, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions—anger at Alpha's negligence, fear for the world, and a fierce determination to protect her daughter. She arrived at her headquarters, a serene sanctuary high above the bustling cities of Land Astralis, and immediately summoned the Heptad member under her command: her beloved daughter, Lisa Everheart, the prodigious Rank 3 of the Heptad.
Lisa was a vision of both youthful beauty and formidable power. At seventeen years of age, she possessed an almost ethereal grace, her movements fluid and precise, her posture elegant and refined. Yet, swirling within her delicate hands was the raw, untamed force of destructive energy, a testament to her immense abilities. Her power was classified as a divine level ability.
Her face, framed by flowing blonde hair, held an intelligent curiosity, and her gaze, though serene, hinted at the fierce determination that burned within.
She was the heir to a legacy of power. Her father, Judas Everheart, had been the legendary Rank 1 of the Heptad, a warrior of unparalleled strength. His tragic and mysterious death in battle had left a void that Lisa had striven to fill with unwavering dedication.
Lisa's ascent through the ranks of the Heptad had been nothing short of extraordinary. Manifesting her powers at the tender age of four, she had embarked on rigorous training at five. By twelve, she had earned the coveted Rank 7 position, a feat unheard of for one so young. Her rise continued unabated, reaching Rank 4 by fifteen, and culminating in her recent attainment of Rank 3, a position that placed her among the most powerful beings in the world. Her destructive capabilities were legendary, rivaling even those of her esteemed mother.
Lisa entered her mother's chambers with a composed elegance that belied her youth. She moved with a quiet confidence, her gaze meeting Amanda's with respect and affection. "You summoned me, Delta?" she inquired, her voice melodic yet formal, each word carefully enunciated. "I am at your service."