The world had become a treacherous, unstable place for humanity. All of it was because of Zalak, a colossal demon who single-handedly wiped out half of the human race.

It began abruptly. On January 5th, 2024, a massive portal appeared, ripping open the sky and revealing a world that humanity was never prepared for. Demons poured out in a relentless tide, and then Zalak himself emerged, towering and merciless. The massacre that followed was unimaginable—entire cities reduced to ruins, countless lives lost, and the air heavy with the cries of the terrified.

In the midst of the chaos, when the screams of innocent children pierced the heavens, an angelic figure descended from the sky. A celestial being from realms beyond the stars. Regardless of its true nature, the being was a beacon of hope, cutting through the demonic hordes with divine power and striking down Zalak in a climactic battle.

The celestial being left humanity with a dire warning: this was not the end. “Cling to life and fight to survive,” it had said, before vanishing into the clouds. Scientists, driven by desperation and hope, worked tirelessly to create humanity’s last line of defense—Espers, powerful individuals with extraordinary abilities. And so, the history of the new world was forged, and humanity adapted to its harsh reality.

By December 24th, 2230, the world had changed dramatically. Anika, a S-rank Esper, was about to meet her first guide. Life as an S-rank was never easy, especially with her growing abilities: Combustion Inducement, a power both feared and respected.

Anika sat in a small coffee shop, her gaze fixed on the snow falling gently outside, her expression blank as she watched people go about their lives. The warmth of the café did little to ease the tension she felt, her mind lost in thought. Suddenly, a woman slid into the seat across from her, breaking her reverie.

Anika’s eyes locked onto the woman’s, and she immediately sensed the powerful aura emanating from her. There was no doubt—this woman had to be her guide.