The Void Player's Ascension

As the car headed toward Malacañang Palace, Adrien couldn't help but wonder why the President himself had summoned him. He tapped his fingers against the armrest, his mind racing with possibilities.

What could he possibly want from me?

After two hours of navigating through the busy streets of Manila, the car finally arrived. Adrien's thoughts were interrupted as he stepped out, only to be greeted by an unexpected sight: dozens of people waiting to welcome him.

"The President is waiting for you, Mr. Black," said the secretary, guiding him inside.

This was Adrien's first visit to Malacañang, and he couldn't hide his surprise at the grandeur of the place.

So this is where they run the country... he thought, taking in the massive hallways and ornate decor.

"We're here," the secretary announced, opening a grand double door.

Inside, the President sat behind an imposing desk, two bodyguards flanking him. His presence was commanding but warm.

"It's nice to meet the famous Black," the President greeted with a smile.

"You're complimenting me too much," Adrien replied, offering a slight bow of respect.

"Let's get straight to the point," Adrien said firmly. "What do you need, Mr. President?"

The President's expression shifted, becoming more serious.

"Ah, straightforward—I like that. I need your help."

Adrien leaned forward. "What kind of help?"

The President sighed, clasping his hands on the desk. "There's been a surge in gates appearing across the Philippines. The government simply can't respond to all of them in time, especially in remote islands. We need someone capable of assisting in rescuing citizens and managing these threats."

Adrien frowned. "What about the guilds?"

"We've already asked for their cooperation," the President explained. "But they're overwhelmed, dealing with monsters pouring out from the gates. Their resources are stretched thin."

Adrien leaned back, processing the situation. After a moment, an idea struck him.

"Why not create an association?" Adrien suggested. "Unify all the players in the Philippines under one governing body. That way, you can balance the power between guilds and still maintain peace and order."

The President's eyes lit up. "That's a brilliant idea! But… who would lead this association?"

He stared directly at Adrien, his intent clear.

Adrien's eyes widened in alarm. "Don't tell me… You want me to be the president of this association?"

The President nodded, smiling.

Adrien groaned, running a hand through his hair. "I don't even like exhausting myself! But…" He sighed, realizing he couldn't back out. "Fine. I'll do it."

The President stood up happily, clapping his hands together. "Then it's decided! I'll have my staff contact you later to finalize everything."

---

As Adrien rode home in the car, he gazed out at the night sky, his thoughts swirling.

I didn't sign up for this... but maybe it's not such a bad idea.

A smirk tugged at his lips as he leaned back, his reflection glinting in the car window.

"This might actually work in my favor."