Nova Force Book 1

I departed from the village, driven by the determination to seek out a suitable training ground. Beyond the village's front gate, two guards stood watch, their vigilant eyes fixed upon the surroundings. "Good morning, Mr. Iglesia," they greeted in harmonious unison.

"Please, call me Rome. No need for formalities," I responded, accompanied by a subtle smile.

On one side of the towering, wooded fence that stretched to a height of over 8 feet, Joel stood resolute. On the other side, Yukon held his ground. Both were engaged in rigorous training under the guidance of John and Kero, emerging as exemplary students who willingly undertook the mantle of guarding our haven.

While occasional apparitions of monsters cast shadows upon our tranquility, Joel and Yukon were swift to quell any threats, harnessing their remarkable abilities. Joel possessed the gift of propelling compressed air with precision, while Yukon exhibited both swiftness and formidable strength, launching projectiles of earth with pinpoint accuracy. Their prowess resembled that of snipers, and in conjunction with their combat training, they ascended to the echelons of our community's elite defendersI left the village to go find somewhere I could start training. 

After giving my respects to them, I 

took off into the forest. I felt ethereal and full of energy. It was like something had changed in me after I fought that big spider. I wondered if beating it had made me stronger and faster. This mystery excited me, and I decided that I would try to find out more about it later. 

As I dashed through the forest, my senses heightened, anticipating the sudden appearance of a lurking creature from the shadows. With every step, my guard remained steadfast, ready to react at a moment's notice. Opting for the right path this time, I intentionally steered clear of the treacherous mangue bleue tree. My heart raced with a mixture of curiosity and caution, as I ventured deeper into the unknown, an intrepid explorer in search of elusive monsters. My silent plea resonated: may these new discoveries not prove insurmountably powerful, given my solitary expedition.

An invigorating breeze brushed against my face, playfully tugging at strands of my hair. It was as if the very air conspired to propel me forward, its refreshing touch akin to the comforting memory of the fan that had adorned my room a year prior.

Time marched on, measured in fleeting heartbeats, until an unexpected vista unfolded before me—an entrance to a realm beyond the towering forest. The opening beckoned, aglow with an ethereal hue resembling lavender, yet with an intensity that evoked a vivid shade of purple. Fueled by a sense of urgency, I quickened my pace, an eager traveler racing towards the promise of revelation. Arriving at the edge of the forest, the landscape shifted dramatically, revealing a vast expanse—nature's grand amphitheater.

So there, in the heart of this enchanting spectacle, lay a scene that seized my very breath—a tableau of breathtaking wonderment. Delicate luminous butterflies, akin to celestial gems, flitted through the air with a grace that mirrored the gentlest breeze, their glow radiating a celestial sky blue. These ethereal creatures were the personification of whimsy, fluttering around majestic bull-like creatures. These creatures, their hulking forms a stark contrast to the butterflies, were poised in tranquil harmony as they grazed upon the luminous flora that gave off the purple glow. 

Their midnight blue hides seemed almost regal under the soft luminescence of the plants.

The union of these disparate creatures in this otherworldly dance was a sight to behold. The butterflies weaved through the air, a living tapestry of azure light, while the colossal bulls, with their robust hooves and thick, formidable T-shaped heads, commanded respect. Each of their powerful movements evoked both strength and serenity, a dichotomy that captivated my gaze. Standing tall, nearly seven feet in stature, they exuded an aura of majesty, an embodiment of nature's majestic artistry.

In silent reverence, I continued to watch, cautious not to disrupt the delicate balance that enveloped this mesmerizing realm. The assembly of over twenty of these formidable creatures, more majestic in their collective presence than any singular adversary, pulsed with an energy that seemed to rival the very spider I had encountered days prior. Yet, against all expectations, this assembly bore no malice. It was a symphony of existence, a testament to nature's intricate harmonies—a tranquil tapestry woven from the threads of both vulnerability and might

Perched within the embrace of a tree, I pondered the intriguing yet unsettling state of the world. The juxtaposition of fascination and fear washed over me, a torrent of emotions mirroring the complex reality around. Nostalgia tugged at my heart, a yearning for the comforts of the old world that I, despite my humble standing, had cherished. In those bygone days, the mundane luxuries we took for granted - electricity, internet, cars - had lent an effortless rhythm to our lives, a rhythm that now seemed lost in the wake of cataclysmic change.

The memories of that era stood in sharp contrast to the present, where the hunt for sustenance and the looming threat of colossal beasts had replaced the routine of modernity. From my vantage point, I ruminated on the notion that perhaps the true value of our former lives had eluded us, a realization that had manifested in the cruel twist of fate that stripped everything away. Yet, as I settled into this new reality, an unfamiliar yet gradually familiar landscape, a glimmer of adaptation flickered within.

The bough I rested upon cradled me in comfort, its broad branches cushioning my thoughts as well as my body. So inviting was its embrace that, almost unwittingly, I drifted into slumber, the verdant leaves beneath my head transforming into an impromptu pillow. What had commenced as a mere intention to engage in training sessions yielded to the seduction of rest, a temporary respite amid transformation.At last, I stirred from my sleep, the surroundings cloaked in twilight's gentle embrace. The creatures that had earlier traversed my vision had retreated, leaving behind a tapestry of vibrant blossoms, the sole witnesses to the passage of time. 

Casting my gaze upon the horizon, I witnessed the impending sunrise, a silent testimony to my extended slumber. Echoes of disbelief resonated within, questioning the depth of my exhaustion. Rising slowly, the pangs of hunger beckoned, yet I remained transfixed by the ethereal beauty of the flowers before me. At this specific time of the day, it was even more beautiful to look at and a sweet aroma filled my nose.

I moved closer to investigate the incredible aroma, something so unique it left me speechless. It was like a mix of scents I'd never encountered before, defying any description. Unable to resist, I plopped down onto the bed of flowers, momentarily overwhelmed by their enchanting fragrance. This smell was a rare treasure, a bright spot in this new world, rivaled only by the memory of a perfectly cooked meal from the past.

My stomach chose that moment to protest its emptiness loudly, almost sounding like a wild creature lurking nearby. With a sigh, I begrudgingly acknowledged the need to find something to eat. As I considered my options, I remembered the monsters I'd spotted on my way here last night. Home was an option, but there was something intriguing about this place, almost like it could be a peaceful oasis for meditation or training.

My search for food continued, and luckily, luck was on my side. A wild hog appeared, a sight that was a rare delight after months of scarcity. It wasn't mutated, making it an easier target. Armed with my machete, I swiftly dispatched the animal, securing a piece of its leg for a makeshift fire. The rest of the meat would be a welcome contribution back at the village.

Savoring the taste of the roasted pork leg, a distant sound disrupted my solitary meal. A series of screams echoed through the forest from across the plain of flowers. These were unmistakably human cries. Finishing my last bite, a surge of curiosity compelled me into action. I quickly climbed back up into the comforting branches of a tree, straining to catch a glimpse of the source of those panicked screams.

What I witnessed resembled a horde of ants, albeit standing on four legs while boasting two hands and two sets of mandibles, capable of opening not just up and down, but also sideways. Their height reached about that of a person's waist, yet a larger, more menacing figure stood tall, akin to a human, orchestrating their movements – presumably the soldier ant. With this emergence of mutated ant monsters in our proximity, the potential danger loomed large, considering ants' prolific reproductive rates, which could easily result in hundreds of thousands.

Clutched within their hands were four individuals. Although I couldn't discern their features from my current vantage point, it was evident that they held no intentions of being friends with these monstrous ants. It was now glaringly apparent that my pursuit of breakfast was not a solitary endeavor. These creatures had found their morning meal.

Just as I was on the brink of closing the distance to intervene and attempt a rescue, a thunderous noise erupted from behind me, originating near the spot where I had taken down the wild boar. My focus had evidently been consumed by the plight of those individuals over there, obscuring whatever events had been unfolding mere meters away. With my machete firmly in hand, I readied myself, only to realize it was unnecessary. A familiar energy wafted through the air.

It appeared that honing my awareness would require concentrated effort to detect distant presences, but once they drew closer, my senses alerted me. After a span of about a minute, the identities became unmistakable – none other than Analu, John, and Sarah. The sight of them collectively, particularly her, left me in a state of profound astonishment.

"What are you guys doing here,and what caused that commotion?" I inquired, my curiosity piqued.

"We noticed your absence after breakfast yesterday and you were nowhere to be seen this morning either, so we came searching" Sarah responded.

"I'm alright, just went for a run and took a nap out here."

"Your little friend here showed up quite late last night, aiming to give you a surprise, but you were nowhere to be found," Sarah added winking at Analu.

"Also, that sound was a signal to let others know I had located you," Analu chimed in with a slight blush on her face.

"We headed over to visit you and to solidify our agreement with your community. Your leaders value your input in all matters so they wanted you there" Analu explained.

"I'm already on board with the agreement, although I realize I haven't expressed much about it. Your swift arrival caught me off guard though," I replied.

"It's an excellent plan for uniting our communities. Of course, he's on board. Yet, you're akin to one of the pillars in our community, making your presence crucial at the official meeting," Sarah emphasized.

"Nonetheless, let's discuss that later. Look over there, some individuals are being captured by those ant-like creatures," I said, gesturing in their direction.

"Oh, those are the creatures Robert briefed us about yesterday. They ventured here during our absence, but rumor has it these monsters easily vanquish spiked dogs, so they didn't cross the field," John explained.

"On another note, the view is astonishing," Analu interjected, seemingly captivated by the scenery."While it's undeniably beautiful, let's stay focused, everyone," I urged.

"This mission should be straightforward – a grab-and-go operation. Yes, a few ants might meet their end, but that's the reality we're navigating. I won't stand by and let those people become monster fodder," I asserted.

Unanimously, they all concurred, though there was an undercurrent of skepticism about the plan. John and Sarah would create a diversion."Wait, why are we chosen for the distraction?" John questioned.

"Analu and Rome would dash in, dispatch a few enemies, seize the captives, and escape. They're the fastest among us," Sarah explained.

The plan was simple, and I believed we were up for the task.

"Wait were you going to charge in and rescue them on your own if we weren't here?" Asked Sarah.

"Nooooo..." I replied sarcastically as I scratched my head 

The atmosphere was charged with tension as we drew nearer to our targets. Our movements were choreographed in silence, a collective effort to avoid startling the captors. John and Sarah skillfully positioned themselves on the outskirts of the plain, close to the rear of the ant horde. Amidst the center were the prisoners, flanked by two human-sized ants on either side, while smaller ants cradled the captives. These diminutive creatures measured around three feet in height, sporting their characteristic four legs, two hands, and a pair of mandibles that operated with surprising dexterity – capable of movement in various directions. Towering above them, a more imposing specimen, nearly five feet tall, orchestrated the morning's hunt, exuding an aura of intimidation. All ants, both large and small, shared a deep, earthy brown hue.

Counting five of the larger ants and approximately fifty of the smaller ones, it was evident that these creatures possessed an innate strength, augmented by their capacity to carry loads ten times their own weight – a trait held over from conventional ant behavior. Despite the deviation from scientific norms in this altered world, the numerical presence of these ants was substantial – an army of fifty-five.

The soldier ants' antennae suddenly emanated an ethereal glow, accompanied by a swift chirping sound that reverberated through the air. Every ant in the vicinity appeared agitated and on edge, as though they had detected our encroachment. Then, a resounding crash erupted from behind, which signalled that John and Sarah had started the battle. These creatures, it seemed, possessed an uncanny awareness of our presence, or perhaps an acute perception of impending danger. Regardless, battle was now upon us.

With swiftness matching the intensity of the moment, I propelled myself forward, Analu in perfect synchrony at my side. Our weapons cut through the air, cleaving through the ranks of the smaller ants. Their prowess lay in their strength rather than their agility, making them a formidable, albeit manageable, opposition. Avoiding direct clashes was the key – our speed was our armor. Amongst the captives, resistance stirred due to the commotion; however, one of the larger ants swung its limb downward, extinguishing a life with a single crushing blow.

The onlookers were frozen in a tableau of terror, quivering and shrinking back from the grim spectacle of their comrade's life being snuffed out, the gruesome scene searing into their minds. Swift to action, Analu unleashed a volley of air pellets at the soldier ants, their percussive impacts a calculated diversion to grant the others a precious window of escape. "Head to the other side!" Analu's command rang out, the urgency galvanizing their movements.

In an instant, I lunged forward, propelled by instinct and the gravity of the situation. My blade clashed against the soldier ant's limb with a resounding clang, a showdown between steel and monstrous strength. The creature's intent was clear – to claim another victim attempting to flee. A swift, calculated strike, and my fist connected solidly with its face, the impact propelling it several meters backward. Its visage bore an air of implacable resilience, a darker shade than the rest of its body, marked with a ferocious determination.

Undeterred, the soldier ant charged toward me, a macabre fate for the next in its path. Yet, in a whirlwind of action, the other soldier ants hurtled into their companion, propelled by a gale-force wind conjured by Analu's mastery. The forceful collision sent them crashing into the trunk of a nearby tree, an audible thud punctuating the impact. My window of opportunity wide open, I seized the moment, hurtling toward the incapacitated monsters with a flash of determination. My machete descended with the swiftness of lightning, piercing both adversaries in a single, deft stroke.

A faint, gurgling resonance filled the air, the hue of dark orange blood spilling from the creature's mouth – a poignant reminder of the life extinguished. Confronted up close, these creatures emanated a sinister aura, their menacing mandibles an undeniable testament to their lethal potential. It was a sight both harrowing and awe-inspiring. With a final, decisive motion, their heads were severed, their reign of terror brought to an end. The blade of my machete bore visible signs of wear and tear, a silent testament to the ardor of battle it had borne witness to.

There was no denying the pressing need for a replacement; its utility had waned, barely holding up through the ordeal. A new weapon would soon be a necessity. As I gazed upon the fallen adversaries and the rescued captives, a sense of victory mingled with the sobering reality of the battle's toll. I would return, a bearer of both weapon and trophy, to my village – a testament to our unyielding determination in the face of monstrous adversity.

Sarah and John were finished on their end and met up with us covered in orang blood. "You guys took out three a those soldiers Ants and most of the little ones. You are strong." Said Analu. "Psshh yea, you know nothing challenging." Said John. 

"You guys did a great job as well." Said Sarah.

"Yea, sorry one person had to die though." I said.

"Yea, may his soul rest in peace." We all said.

"Oh and ah, Analu... umm... Thank you... once again," I expressed with a hint of gratitude. Analu's response was a casual, "Yeah, you'll owe me yet another favor."

With the people having already reached the opposite side of the forest, where our journey began, we advanced towards them.

As I approached, a familiar face came into view. The chaos of battle had previously kept me from noticing them. Rushing toward me, the person embraced me tightly, tears streaming from their eyes and dampening my clothes. Amidst their tearful babble, the words were indistinct.

"Hey Alexia, take a deep breath, you're safe now," I reassured, attempting to soothe their distress. Gradually, they managed to regain their composure, sharing their story of captivity, the presence of Tiffany, and the oppressive rule of their captors.

Curious, John inquired, "So all of you are from there?" Alexia clarified the situation, introducing herself, Beth, and the fallen comrade, Rollo, while recounting their encounter and loss in the journey here. "We met him on our way from that place," she added.

Turning her attention to a new acquaintance, Sarah asked, "And your name? Where are you from?" "I'm Eugene," he began, expressing gratitude. "To be honest, I was part of a group that fell victim to lizard creatures during an attack. I'm the sole survivor."

Observing him as he spoke, I couldn't help but analyze his demeanor, a habit I'd developed. Eugene's eyes twitched slightly as he gazed downward, his feet betraying nervous energy through their trembles. There was an air of unease about him, but in this new world where hardships abound, I decided not to pry further. The weight of their collective struggles seemed to have left its mark on each of them, impacting their stability.

Sarah's voice broke the momentary silence, snapping everyone back to the present. "Let's not linger. We don't want to attract more attention from the Ants," she urged with a sense of urgency.

With a collective nod, we gathered our belongings, taking only what was necessary, and set our course back toward the village. T

While we journeyed back, Alexa began recounting the events following the explosion. She had been on her way back from work when the cataclysm struck. The memories were still vivid - a blinding flash of light that abruptly transformed her surroundings into a desolate expanse underground. The terror of the moment was palpable as she described waking up in an unfamiliar and barren land, separated from her children and everything she once knew. It struck me how fortunate I was to have my family intact, and my heart ached at the mere thought of the pain she must have endured.

"Hey Rome, how's it going?" Analu's voice cut through the conversation. "I'm doing well, my dearest," I responded playfully, adopting my best attempt at a French accent. Her face lit up with a smile at my response, a sight that always warmed my heart.As I looked into her eyes, the radiance of her smile seemed to melt away any worries. She was clad in a light brown outfit that draped her form elegantly, almost as if it was an extension of her own skin. Observing her graceful steps as she walked, a rush of emotion surged through me, igniting a primal reaction.

Switching topics, I inquired, "So Analu, will you be staying with us for a while, or departing after the negotiations conclude?"

Her response held a hint of seduction, paired with a wink, "Well, would you like me to stay?" Keeping my composure, I managed to reply, "Certainly, this place could benefit from someone like you." I aimed for a casual tone, not wanting to convey any desperation or neediness. 

After all, I prided myself on being composed, envisioning myself as cool and collected, akin to a specific someone from a vampire/romance series I liked. Though reality painted a different picture – a lack of romance or even a simple kiss since the world's transformation. It left me pondering if this was to be the ongoing trajectory of my life.