Chef in the Apocalypse

The Central Square was abuzz with conversation as people waited for the proceedings. Jayce looked at the large crowd of people as the appointed time drew nearer.

In the seats were some of the strongest people in the world, those whose names were famous in his previous life for their accolades in the Apocalypse. Jayce’s eyes scoured the crowd, as if looking for someone in particular.

His eyes eventually fell upon a large man who was about Colin’s height, yet lacked any visible muscles on his chubby body. His hair was blond and spiky and he usually carried a massive greatsword with him wherever he went.

This was Cloud, the #97 supporter and his old Faction leader from his previous life. While he didn’t have much to do with him due to his lacking strength, it was in that faction where he had met his comrades that had died alongside him.

He had already met Heath, who was the party leader. Thanks to him changing the time line, the Beast Tide happened earlier, eventually leading to Macie surviving. This led to him never heading eastward and joining up with Avalanche to begin with.

A trace of hope fluttered in Jayce’s eyes as he searched the people surrounding the giant of a man, only to be disappointed a few moments later. It made sense that they weren’t here, after all they were never a part of the main squad.

"I hope they’re okay..." Jayce muttered, a hint of worry flashing across his features.

It was then, like a spectre, Macie arrived next to him with a big smile. In her arms was a child around 2 months old, fast asleep.

Jayce’s mood instantly cheered up, seeing the mother and son. Of course, Heath was not far away, checking on the two every few seconds with no subtlety whatsoever.

"Macie, what brings you here?" He asked cheerfully, resisting the urge to prod the baby’s soft cheeks.

"I needed a little break from the fun police over there" Macie didn’t try to hold her annoyance, making sure that Heath could overhear her.

Jayce couldn’t help but laugh, seeing the overprotective Heath shamelessly ignore the remark. In truth, he was happy that the man had finally received a proper son, there was no one who deserved it more than him.

"Well, just take it easy otherwise you’ll give him a heart attack." Jayce replied with a smile.

Macie sighed before nodding. "You looked a little worried earlier, is it because your friends aren’t here?"

Jayce’s jaw opened wide in response to the question, however he composed himself a moment later. He had been so busy these past 6 months that he had forgotten Macie was someone who could tap into the strings of fate.

"Yeah, I’d be fine as long as I knew they were safe."

"Well you don’t have to worry about that. I can tell you that they are safe and sound, despite all the errands they are running." Macie let out a giggle.

"Why were you checking on them? Was it for me?" Jayce asked with a hint of worry. He was not complaining, he just knew that using her powers would drain her energy considerably. This, paired with raising a newborn would have been very difficult.

"Haha, just remember who my husband is. He actually forces me to nap so he can look after little Rowan." However, her smile turned a little melancholic in the next moment.

"Also, they weren’t just your friends..." She added.

"Ah." Jayce was startled for a moment, before smiling softly. That was true, they had also been there for Heath throughout his tough times after he had lost his wife. It would make sense why Macie would want ensure their safety.

"Well I better leave you to it. It looks like people are getting impatient." Macie smiled, heading back over to Heath.

Jayce smiled and added, "Once Rowan’s old enough, Uncle Jayce will make him some baby food so he can grow up big and strong like his Papa."

"I’ll be counting on you then." Macie replied, not turning around.

Letting out a small sigh, Jayce felt much better. Knowing that his old party members were safe and sound took a load off his chest.

"Let’s do this."

With that, he walked up the stairs on the side of the wooden stage, feeling the gazes of everyone in the bleachers focusing on him. He made his best effort to calmly walk up the steps one by one, ensuring he wouldn’t trip and make a fool of himself.

Once he was in the center of the stage, he silently surveyed the people in their seats. Feelings his nerves begin to kick in, Jayce closed his eyes and began to circulate his Qi, feeling his body fill with strength.

A majestic feeling began to emanate from the stage, causing everyone’s eyes to widen with shock.

"W-What is this?"

"A god?"

The crowd clamored, feeling oppressed by the aura coming from the stage. It was as if a divine being had descended in front of them, causing a feeling of awe and dread to assault them.

In the next moment, Jayce opened his eyes and let out a turbid breath, all of his nervousness had vanished.

"Everyone! Thank you for joining me for the first World Summit of the New World."

Jayce’s voice was loud enough to reach the entire square, cutting through the clamor and demanding everyone’s attention.

"My goal for this event is to forge friendships and alliances in preparation for the upcoming invasion."

Most of the people did not react to the word invasion, however there were a few that either had questioning looks or seemed panicked at this prospect. 𝐟𝗿𝐞𝚎𝚠𝐞𝚋𝕟𝐨𝚟𝐞𝕝.𝕔𝕠𝚖

"Should you choose to enter into our Human Alliance, I will wholeheartedly provide you with a way to grow stronger outside the system. This power is something that all human’s are capable of, something we can properly rely on."

"Pfft. What’s this Human Alliance bullshit? Aren’t you just trying to make us your underlings so you can become the king of the new world?" A man stood up and shouted wildly.