Anime Tournament of Power 2 (ATOP 2)

Chapter 37: Apex

"Hey babes, it's your favorite host but before we can get into this week's chapter I have to spread the good news as I always do. You guys are doing great because we are at 6K reads already. This is in the span of perhaps three to four months, I personally think that's amazing."

"So I just wanted to thank you fellow readers because when we ring in the views my paychecks get bigger! With that being said keep up the work and let's push for 7K before our lovely Author's birthday which is April 28th."

"But enough chatter! Let's get back to it!"

Author's Note 1/2

After talking with my good friend, the same guy who has done the collaborations in this series. Yes, I'm talking about Drako himself, he opened my eyes and made me realize that this chapter was not my best work and it could definitely be better. So instead of releasing chapter 38 on April 10th, I'll release an edited version of this chapter and a revised version of chapter 38 on April 17th. I was hesitant because I have been keeping up a good streak with my uploads but if I can do better then I'd ultimately rather have you guys wait another week.

On the bright side though, you'll get a double upload so yay and it'll be better than the first product. I'm usually not one to go back and edit any of my work because I literally do this in my limited free time as a hobby. But even then after talking to an aspiring author I still feel obligated to fix my wrongings. I apologize for the wait but I prefer this version that I now present to you much more. So I hope you enjoy it.

Whether it was those who stood behind him or those who stood in front, both sides were surprised to see Jegal standing in the middle of what was about to conspire. He had one of his hands in his pockets implying that he thought he was at the top of the food chain. His cocky smile was enough to make Meruem inquire with little to no noticeable emotion.

"Interrupting your meal you say? Correct me if I'm wrong but I thought I saw you standing alongside those three not too long ago. Are you not on the same team then?"

Jegal shook his head while chuckling to himself because of such a silly question but after moving his hair back he answered.

"It's true that we were sent here on the same team but make no mistake, I have no interest in working with losers like them. What I'm trying to say is that I came to this tournament a lone wolf the minute this whole thing started. I'm using what you see as teammates as stepping stones to get what I want, the opportunity to wish for anything I desire."

Meruem continued to stare at the boastful human who stood before the king with such arrogance, after his assessment the ant spoke once more.

"I see, then it should be known that I care not for your petty affairs. One of my men has been taken out by one of your teammates whether you claim them or not. So you will all be punished accordingly."

Pouf kneeled to Meruem's side when he apologized while holding his chest.

"Sire, please don't concern yourself with such rubbish as this foolish human. I alone could deal with these impudent roaches, even Pitou could-."

Meruem turned his head to look down at Pouf who stopped talking the moment his savior glared right at him, sending chills down his spine. However what happened next was not what the royal guard expected, instead of being punished Meruem reminded.

"Pouf, we have to win this at all cost remember? Save your strength until I order you to use it, winning this tournament is crucial to me this time around."

Meruem looked at his hand slowly closing it so that it formed a fist before he emphasized.

"Your time will come, be patient."