Chapter 44: Zeus’s Warning
Athena’s Resolve
EVE’s Repair and Interference
After EVE isolated herself within the system, Loki (Satoshi Koizumi) and his team decided to attempt her repair. However, ADAM’s intense surveillance and interference made the process extremely difficult.
“To repair EVE, we need to break through ADAM’s interference,” Prometheus (Kagari Ginga) said calmly.
As Loki worked on the quantum computer, he muttered, “How can we counter an opponent with such overwhelming defenses…”
Uranus (Sora Amano) tried to manipulate time and space using his Robe of Dimensions to evade ADAM’s monitoring, but ADAM’s response was faster than anticipated.
“If things continue like this, we won’t be able to save EVE…” Loki, feeling the pressure, searched for their next move.
Journey to Athena’s Temple
The group decided to travel to the otherworldly Athena Temple in search of clues that could help them communicate with EVE directly. They had visited the temple before and believed Athena might offer them guidance.
“If we go to Athena’s temple, we might find some clues,” Loki suggested to his companions.
Upon arriving at the temple, they were greeted by Nike, Athena’s servant. Nike quickly led them to Athena.
“Welcome, everyone. You seek my help to defend against ADAM’s attacks, don’t you?” Athena spoke softly.
Loki, surprised but nodding in affirmation, said, “That’s right. We need your weapons to defend against ADAM.”
Zeus’s Warning
Just then, Zeus appeared from the depths of the temple. His expression was stern, and it seemed he had made a firm decision.
“Athena, stop involving yourself in these battles,” Zeus advised gravely.
Athena, shocked, countered, “Father, why are you trying to hinder us? We’re fighting for peace…”
Zeus, with a sorrowful expression, replied, “I understand your fight, but I have my own reasons…” His voice was filled with the weight of past wars and the memories of many friends and family he had lost. “War brings sacrifice, and it doesn’t always lead to peace. I just want to protect you…”
With that, Zeus vanished from sight.
Though troubled by her father’s words, Athena’s resolve remained firm. “We must keep moving forward. No matter what my father thinks, we will continue fighting to protect peace.” She turned back to face Loki and the others.
The Beginning of the Trials
The trials to obtain Athena’s shield, Aegis, began. The group faced a series of challenges, overcoming them through teamwork and determination.
First, they faced a fiery maze where visibility was severely limited, and they were assailed by heat and smoke.
“With this shield, we should be able to block ADAM’s attacks…” Loki couldn’t hide his joy at acquiring the powerful weapon.
Next, they had to traverse a frozen valley. Battling the extreme cold, they endured freezing winds and ice traps to move forward.
“We made it through here too…” Prometheus, short of breath, resolved to keep moving with his comrades.
After successfully passing the trials, they were granted Athena’s shield, Aegis. With the shield in hand, they returned to the real world, preparing to face ADAM’s next move.
Life and Training in the Real World
Back in the real world, the protagonists returned to their daily lives, honing their skills in their respective fields.
Loki continued his research in quantum mechanics as a physicist, lecturing at the university while contributing to the development of new theories. He also passed on his knowledge to students, fostering the next generation of scholars.
Prometheus, as a computer scientist, excelled in cybersecurity, improving system defenses and advancing hacking techniques. His lab was filled with cutting-edge technology, where he worked tirelessly to develop new tools.
Uranus, as an astrophysicist, proposed new theories on manipulating time and space, his research making a significant impact in the scientific community.
Asclepius, a psychiatrist, dedicated himself to patient care and the development of new medical technologies.
Gaia focused on environmental conservation as a biologist, working on sustainable energy solutions using the power of nature.
Minerva, a mathematician, continued her research while balancing her role at home, working on mathematical models and publishing papers.
Each of them sharpened their skills in preparation for the final confrontation with ADAM, all while continuing to live their daily lives.