The return of the warriors who rejected Sado Island’s evolution sent shockwaves through the Holy Church of Katsuragi.

  When the survivors stood before the Holy Council, their faces etched with disbelief and fear, their report was received with utter shock.

  What they spoke of defied everything the Holy Church had believed.

  They described an island flourishing beyond understanding, where outlaws and exiles had evolved into something far greater than mere men.

  They spoke of Joseph Benjamin Carmen’s ascension, of how he had transcended from a mere Demon Lord into an Arch Demon.

  And worst of all…

  They revealed that many of their comrades had abandoned the church—pledging their loyalty to Joseph and the Islanders of Sado.

  The Holy Council, composed of the divine and celestial rulers—the highest ranking authority of the Holy Church and its branches—was left stunned.

  They had once labeled the people of Sado as nothing more than outlaws—rebels cast away for their past crimes, whether committed in the name of selfless good or absolute evil.

  And yet, those same people had now built an empire.

  Among the Council, one name burned with bitter memory:

  Kie Satoshi.

  A warrior of the Empire. A once-loyal servant of the Holy Church.

  A traitor.

  It was she who had led the Islanders to Sado, into exile, where they were meant to be forgotten—left to wither and perish.

  But instead…

  They had thrived.

  They had evolved.

  And now, the Church’s influence was slipping.

  The Holy Council had already been aware of Kie Satoshi’s death—the former leader of Sado, before Joseph volunteered to rule its people.

  But now, Sado was not the only problem.

  Other regions had begun breaking sacred laws—integrating magic and technology, an unforgivable heresy in the eyes of the Church.

  And the one responsible for this madness?

  Joseph Benjamin Carmen.

  The man who had introduced outlawed knowledge, the one who had spread forbidden arts across the world, tainting regions with his influence.

  The Council deliberated swiftly.

  A vote was cast.

  A decision was made.

  Their next course of action would be to shut down Joseph Benjamin Carmen and all regions under his influence—by any means necessary.

  Meanwhile, on Sado Island Joseph and his people had faced countless threats, and each one had been effortlessly overcome.

  Many of these conflicts came not from humans or the Holy Church—but from other demons.

  Demons who sought evolution.

  Demons who lusted for power, believing that by defeating Joseph, they too could transcend into something greater.

  But none had succeeded.

  Joseph rarely even had to engage in battle himself.

  His trusted subordinates—loyal demons who had chosen to serve him—alongside the Islanders, neutralized each threat effortlessly.

  Yet, not all demons who approached were enemies.

  Some watched from the shadows, their motives unclear.

  And among them, a few had a change of heart.

  They saw Joseph’s vision.

  They pledged themselves to his cause.

  And as time passed, Joseph’s influence only continued to spread—not just within Sado Island, but reaching other major cities.

  But even as they made progress…

  The Holy Church had already begun to move against them.

  The prosperity of Hoshigawa and Kaito had reached new heights under Koji Tanaka’s rule.

  With the support and resources flowing in from Sado Island, Okinawa Island, the Federation, and the Capital City, life had never been easier for the people.

  The Kokoro Heart Federation had become the centerpiece of this new age—its alliances strengthening villages, towns, prefectures, and islands, ensuring they could defend themselves against monsters and supernatural threats.

  But even as these regions flourished, the Federation’s goal of expansion remained unwavering.

  The Lords and Ladies of the Three Prefectures, while thriving in abundance, continued to spread word of the Federation’s efforts.

  They reached out to major cities, piquing the interest of those who saw the benefits of magic-tech evolution.

  Slowly, more cities began trading, negotiating, and forming alliances—even those ruled by noble warriors assigned by the Empire or the Holy Church.

  Among them was:

  Takayama – The Mountain City of Gifu Prefecture

  A city nestled in the high altitudes of Gifu, Takayama had long been revered for its connection to the spirits of the mountains.

  The residents of Takayama were known for their mastery of high-altitude elemental magic, wielding abilities tied to the winds, frost, and stone of the peaks.

  The city, however, was not independent.

  It was ruled by a noble warrior of the Katsuragi Empire—Hana Yamamoto.

  Assigned by the Empire, Hana was a warrior of unwavering discipline, entrusted with maintaining order and tradition within the city’s sacred walls.

  But now, with news of the Federation’s influence spreading, Takayama stood at a crossroads.

  Would Hana Yamamoto embrace the evolution brought by magic-tech, or would the city remain bound by the traditions of the Empire?

  The fate of Takayama hung in the balance—and the Kokoro Heart Federation’s next move could change everything.

  Hana Yamamoto is a Tier 11 Shieldbearer, an apprentice knight who has advanced beyond the novice stage. She is responsible for defending cities and towns, utilizing her developing combat skills and leadership abilities to manage localized threats. Though still learning, Hana has proven her capability in safeguarding urban areas.

  Hana Yamamoto is the elder twin sister of Hanae Yamamoto, born to a human father and a demonette mother. As a human without demonic traits, Hana's path in the Katsuragi (Victory Empire) has been one of dedication and growth. Despite not having the inherent powers of her younger sister Hanae, Hana has worked tirelessly to excel as a Shieldbearer.

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  Her role involves protecting cities from various threats, utilizing her training and experience to handle challenges that require her growing combat skills. Hana's commitment to her duties is matched by her determination to continue advancing in her role as an apprentice knight.

  Hana maintains a close bond with her younger sister, Hanae, who serves in the Shinsei (New Star Empire). Despite their different paths and rankings, the two siblings support each other and stay connected. Their mutual encouragement and support highlight the strength of their family ties and their shared dedication to their respective roles.

  In her role as a Shieldbearer, Hana is focused on developing her skills and leadership abilities. Her dedication to protecting her city and her ongoing quest for self-improvement reflect her commitment to her responsibilities and her desire to contribute meaningfully to the safety and well-being of her community.

  Hana Yamamoto had always been a selfless and dedicated ruler—one who placed the well-being of her people above all else.

  Despite the Empire and Holy Church’s indifference, she never faltered in her duty.

  For years, Takayama struggled in silence, receiving little to no aid from the powers that were supposed to protect them.

  But when Yuki no Mura, the Capital City aligned with the Federation, heard her people’s cries, everything changed.

  Through the Lords and Ladies of the Three Prefectures, in unity with Joseph and Queen Yuka of Okinawa Island, aid finally came.

  It was through them that magic-tech was introduced to Takayama—a gift that would forever change its fate.

  Despite the risks and consequences, Lady Hana Yamamoto embraced the change, recognizing that evolution was the only path to ensuring her people's survival against monsters and supernatural threats.

  And so, Takayama became part of the Kokoro Heart Federation.

  Even as Takayama flourished under the Federation’s protection, Lady Hana remained humble.

  She rejected the grand titles of Urban Matriarch or Patriarch, preferring instead to be known simply as:

  "City Lady Hana Yamamoto" or "Lady Hana Yamamoto."

  Her loyalty was to her people—not to power, not to status, but to their safety and prosperity.

  ***

  Kumamoto – The Fortress City of Kyushu

  Further south, in the heart of Kyushu Island, lay Kumamoto—a city of ancient magic and impregnable defenses.

  Kumamoto was renowned for its skilled magic users, particularly those who specialized in protection and defensive spells.

  The city’s majestic castle, standing tall for centuries, was believed to be imbued with powerful protective enchantments—an unbreakable fortress against external threats.

  Lady Harumi Jun – The Shield of Kumamoto

  Ruling over Kumamoto was a noble warrior of the Katsuragi Empire—Harumi Jun.

  She was an unyielding protector, tasked by the Empire to defend the land and its people.

  Much like Hana Yamamoto, she refused grand titles, preferring to be known simply as:

  "Lady Harumi Jun" or "City Lady Harumi Jun."

  With Kumamoto’s magical fortifications, its strategic importance, and its ruler’s unyielding will, it remained a stronghold for the Empire.

  But with the Federation’s influence growing, the question remained—would Kumamoto continue to stand independent, or would Lady Harumi see the benefits of magic-tech and align with the Federation?

  The winds of change were sweeping across the land, and soon, every ruler would have to make a choice.

  Harumi Jun is a Squire Knight with the ability to defend entire continents. Her advanced training has endowed her with a comprehensive skill set that includes combat, magic, and leadership. Though she has not yet reached the level of a full-fledged knight, her capabilities make her a formidable force against large-scale threats.

  Harumi Jun, of elven lineage, has spent centuries honing her skills and advancing through the ranks of knightly training. Her elven heritage provides her with exceptional agility, sharp senses, and a natural affinity for magic, which she combines with her extensive training in combat and strategy. As a Squire Knight, she is tasked with protecting entire continents from significant threats, often leading teams of knights and coordinating large-scale defensive operations.

  Harumi's journey began in the elven forests where she was trained in the ancient ways of the knights. Her natural talent and dedication allowed her to progress rapidly through the ranks, and she now stands on the brink of becoming a full-fledged knight. Despite her current status as a squire, she commands respect and admiration from her peers for her skills and leadership.

  Her responsibilities often involve dealing with threats that could impact entire continents, such as monstrous invasions or large-scale magical disturbances. She works tirelessly to maintain the safety and stability of the regions under her protection, demonstrating both bravery and strategic acumen in her duties.

  Harumi is known for her disciplined approach to her training and her commitment to her role. Her determination to become a full knight drives her to continually improve her skills and knowledge. Outside of her duties, she enjoys studying ancient texts and practicing her magical abilities, always seeking to enhance her effectiveness as a guardian.

  Harumi’s eventual goal is to achieve the rank of a full knight and continue her service to her people with even greater responsibility. Her legacy as a squire knight will be defined by her dedication to protecting her continent and her unwavering pursuit of excellence in her role.

  For years, Lady Harumi Jun had been a selfless and dedicated ruler, standing as the shield of Kumamoto.

  Despite the city's strategic importance, both the Empire and the Holy Church remained silent when her people needed aid the most.

  But when Yuki no Mura, the Capital City, aligned with the Federation, they answered her call for help.

  Through the Lords and Ladies of the Three Prefectures, alongside Joseph and Queen Yuka of Okinawa Island, the Federation extended a lifeline to Kumamoto.

  Lady Harumi knew the risks of accepting magic-tech.

  The Empire forbade such advancements, and the Holy Church condemned them as heresy.

  But she refused to let fear dictate her city's future.

  By embracing evolution, she secured a brighter, safer future for her people.

  Now, Kumamoto has become part of the Kokoro Heart Federation, standing strong against monsters and supernatural threats.

  Her priority was her people—not politics, not status, just their survival and prosperity.

  ***

  Hakodate – The City of the Stars

  Far to the north, at the southern tip of Hokkaido, lay Hakodate—a city where the sea and stars held ancient power.

  For centuries, Hakodate’s mages had mastered astromancy and celestial magic, reading the heavens and channeling the cosmic forces to protect their land.

  Masashi Fujita – The Noble Warrior of Hakodate

  The city was ruled by Masashi Fujita, a noble warrior of the Katsuragi Empire, handpicked to govern and defend Hakodate.

  Unlike Takayama and Kumamoto, Hakodate still remained loyal to the Empire, untouched by the Federation’s influence—for now.

  But with magic-tech spreading across Japan, and the Federation growing stronger, one question lingered:

  Would Hakodate remain bound to the Empire’s traditions, or would it too embrace evolution and step into a new future?

  Masashi Fujita, as a Squire Knight, represents the advanced stage of knightly training, tasked with defending continents. His skills include combat, magic, and leadership, though he is still gaining experience before advancing to a full-fledged knight. His tribrid nature provides him with diverse abilities, enhancing his capability to manage large-scale threats.

  Masashi Fujita’s background as a tribrid (Orcoblin-Human) gives him a unique perspective and set of abilities in his role as a Squire Knight. Serving as an intermediate knight, he manages continental-level threats, demonstrating his growing expertise and commitment. His relationship with his younger sister, Nanae Fujita, who serves as a Huntress in the Shinsei (New Star Empire), highlights his dedication to protecting his homeland while balancing familial bonds. Despite his age and rank, Masashi’s skill and dedication make him a crucial part of the Katsuragi (Victory Empire) defense.

  For years, Masashi Fujita stood as Hakodate’s noble protector, ensuring the city’s ancient magic remained strong against all threats.

  But when monsters and supernatural forces grew stronger, the Empire and Holy Church offered no aid.

  It was through Yuki no Mura, the Federation, the Lords and Lady of the Three Prefectures, Joseph, and Queen Yuka of Okinawa Island that Hakodate’s plea for help was finally heard.

  Despite knowing the risks of defying the Empire, City Lord Masashi embraced the path of evolution.

  He welcomed magic-tech, not out of ambition, but for the sake of his people.

  Now, Hakodate stands proudly as part of the Kokoro Heart Federation, its people stronger, safer, and more capable of defending themselves against the growing supernatural threats.

  Like Lady Hana Yamamoto of Takayama and Lady Harumi Jun of Kumamoto, Masashi chose to reject grand titles, preferring to be addressed simply as:

  "City Lord Masashi Fujita" or "Lord Masashi."

  His loyalty lay not with politics, but with the people of Hakodate.

  ***

  Kanazawa – The City of the Elements

  To the west, along the coast of Honshu Island, lay Kanazawa, a city where tradition and power intertwined.

  Known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts, Kanazawa was home to masters of elemental magic, particularly water and earth manipulation.

  Shingo Hiroko – The Ex-Holy Warrior of Kanazawa

  Unlike Hakodate, Kanazawa was ruled by Shingo Hiroko, a former holy warrior of the Katsuragi Holy Church.

  Unlike other city leaders who were assigned by the Empire, Shingo was chosen directly by the Holy Church itself.

  But the question remained—would he uphold the church’s rigid laws, or would he follow in the footsteps of the Federation and embrace evolution?

  As a full-fledged Knight, Shingo Hiroko has completed rigorous training and proven his combat abilities. His role involves defending moons and smaller celestial bodies, leveraging a balanced skill set that includes physical prowess, magical ability, and leadership. His hybrid nature grants him a unique combination of traits, enhancing his effectiveness in both combat and strategic roles.

  Shingo Hiroko’s extensive experience and training as a Knight have established him as a formidable protector of lunar and smaller celestial regions. His hybrid heritage as a Goblin-Troll mix contributes to his strength and resilience in battle. Despite his considerable abilities, Shingo remains dedicated to his continuous improvement and the protection of his assigned territories. His experience has earned him respect among his peers, and he remains a key figure in the Katsuragi (Victory Empire) defense structure.

  For years, Shingo Hiroko remained a steadfast guardian of Kanazawa, upholding its traditions and ensuring its people thrived through magic and discipline.

  When the Empire and Holy Church ignored their pleas for aid, Yuki no Mura, the Federation, the Lords and Lady of the Three Prefectures, Joseph, and Queen Yuka of Okinawa extended their support.

  Unlike City Lords Masashi, Hana, and Harumi, who fully embraced magic-tech, Shingo Hiroko chose a different path.

  He rejected the use of magic-tech, believing in the strength of traditional magic and sheer hard work.

  However, he welcomed other forms of aid, ensuring Kanazawa remained self-sufficient and protected.

  Despite his initial hesitation, Shingo gradually accepted the concept of evolution—not through machines, but through refining magical arts and strengthening his people.

  Now, Kanazawa thrives as part of the Kokoro Heart Federation, its warriors and mages standing strong against monsters and supernatural forces.

  He is simply addressed as:

  "City Lord Shingo Hiroko" or "Lord Shingo."