Clock ticking

Black watched Kai and Seraphina's battle unfold from the Portal, his eyes filled with a mixture of pride and concern. Erza approached him, expressing her feelings of inadequacy compared to the other disciples.

Black listened attentively, his voice filled with reassurance and respect.

Black: Erza, my dear, it is true that Kai and Seraphina have shown remarkable progress. But remember, strength comes in many forms, and each person's journey is unique. They will continue to grow stronger, as will you, in due time.

As Black spoke, he began coughing up blood, a stark reminder of his limited time. Erza's panic set in, and she hurriedly took him to his room, gently laying him down on his bed.

Black removed his mask and called out to Erza, his voice filled with warmth and urgency.

Erza: Yes, Master!

Black beckoned her closer and embraced her tightly, his grip filled with love and finality. He spoke with a gentle intensity.

Black: Erza, my time is running short. Having a strong and compassionate child like you as my daughter has been an incredible blessing. I believe in you with all my heart.

Black locked eyes with Erza, his gaze unwavering.

Black: Do you know why you were born with greater strength than others? It is so that you can protect the weak. Our clan, the Edens, carries the responsibility of safeguarding humanity. It is a duty you must fulfill with unwavering purpose.

Erza's eyes widened with understanding and determination, tears glistening in her eyes.

Erza: Master, I understand. I will carry our clan's duty with pride and protect those who are in need.

Black's expression softened, a mix of pride and affection radiating from his eyes.

Black: I have noticed your efforts in training Seraphina, even when no one was looking. Though you may have been harsh and demanding, it was because you cared deeply. You are a good child, Erza, and I am immensely proud to call you my daughter, Erza Eden.

Erza's heart swelled with a bittersweet mix of emotions, her voice choked with gratitude.

Erza: Thank you, Father. Your words mean the world to me.

As Black's strength waned, he closed his eyes and settled into a peaceful slumber. Erza remained by his side, her heart heavy with the weight of her newfound responsibilities. In that moment, she fully embraced him as her father.

Erza walked out of the room, her mind focused on the task at hand. She sent out a summons to gather all members of the clan in the meeting room, a crucial discussion awaited them. Thirteen individuals responded promptly and entered the room, their expressions serious and determined.

Erza stood at the front, her presence commanding attention. She looked at each person, her eyes filled with determination, and addressed them.

Erza: Thank you all for coming. We have gathered here today to discuss a pressing matter: our plan to defeat the organization known as Shadow. But before we delve into the details, I would like each of you to introduce yourselves. Please state your name, age, and any additional information you believe is pertinent.

Eden Clan Member 1: I'm Kenta, 32 years old. I specialize in stealth operations and possess the elemental ability of illusion manipulation.

Eden Clan Member 2: My name is Aiko, 27 years old. I excel in elemental magic, particularly in the manipulation of water.

Eden Clan Member 3: I'm Hiroshi, 35 years old. I specialize in close-quarters combat and possess enhanced strength and agility.

Eden Clan Member 4: I go by the name Ayumi, 29 years old. My expertise lies in the art of archery, and I have a deep connection with nature, allowing me to manipulate plants and use them to my advantage.

Eden Clan Member 5: My name is Takeshi, 25 years old. I have honed my martial arts skills to perfection, specializing in hand-to-hand combat and mastering multiple fighting styles.

Eden Clan Member 6: I'm Sakura, 27 years old. I possess the power of healing and restoration, using my abilities to mend wounds and provide support to our comrades in battle.

Eden Clan Member 7: My name is Ryu, 32 years old. I specialize in elemental manipulation, particularly fire and lightning. I can harness their destructive power to unleash devastating attacks on our enemies.

Eden Clan Member 8: I'm Aiko, 24 years old. I have mastered the art of stealth and infiltration, excelling in covert operations and gathering crucial information to aid our cause.

Eden Clan Member 9: I go by the name Haruki, 31 years old. I am skilled in the use of weapons, particularly dual swords. I can swiftly strike down our foes with precision and finesse.

Eden Clan Member 10: Call me Michiko, 28 years old. I possess the power of telekinesis, allowing me to manipulate objects and project force fields for defensive purposes.

Eden Clan Member 11: I'm Kenta, 30 years old. I have trained extensively in the art of illusion and mind manipulation, using my abilities to deceive and confuse our enemies.

Eden Clan Member 12: My name is Emi, 26 years old. I am a master of poisons and toxins, utilizing my knowledge to create deadly concoctions that incapacitate our adversaries.

One by one, the members introduced themselves, sharing their names, ages, and unique abilities. The room was filled with a diverse group of individuals, each carrying their own skills and experiences.

Erza listened attentively, her mind analyzing the strengths and capabilities of each member. She knew that their combined efforts would be crucial in facing the threat of Shadow.

Erza: Thank you for the introductions. Now, let us focus on our objective: defeating Shadow. We know they are a formidable organization, but with our skills and determination, we can overcome any challenge. We must strategize, gather intelligence, and strike with precision.

The members nodded, their expressions reflecting their determination and resolve.

Erza: We will divide into teams, each with a specific task. Reconnaissance, infiltration, gathering information—these will be our initial steps. We must learn more about Shadow's operations, their key members, and their weaknesses. Together, we will dismantle their organization and protect the innocent.

The room buzzed with a renewed sense of purpose as the members discussed strategies, exchanged ideas, and planned their approach. They were united in their mission to eradicate the threat of Shadow and bring justice to those they had harmed.