Chapter 6

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In the vast and chaotic Region 139, heroes are more than mere protectors: they are symbols of hope, icons of power and justice, revered by the masses who place their faith in them. Among all the heroes that the Hero League J has formed and promoted, there is one name that few dare to question: Rubén Conthrer. For most, Rubén is the exemplary leader, an untarnished hero willing to sacrifice everything for the well-being of humanity. His face appears on promotional posters, his bravery is praised in the media, and his leadership is seen as the reason why the League remains so powerful.

However, behind that public façade, Rubén hides secrets that, if revealed, would shatter his reputation. Manipulative, calculating, and ruthless, Rubén has been using the League for his own ends, weaving a web of control that involves corruption, murder, and the exploitation of the heroes under his command. Those who discover the truth either mysteriously disappear or are forced to serve under his influence, turned into pawns in his dark game.

Inside the headquarters of the Hero League J, an imposing skyscraper made of steel and glass that dominates the city skyline, Rubén is in his office, a spacious room with dark walls adorned with medals, awards, and photographs chronicling his success as a hero. His solid wood desk is covered with reports, one of which holds special importance: the report on the disappearance of Álex, the hero known as The Warrior of Light.

Rubén, with a calm yet cold expression, reviews the document in detail. Álex had become a growing problem. An overly noble hero, too focused on justice, he had turned into a threat to Rubén's plans. The last time Álex was seen, he was investigating Rubén's secret operations, seeking proof to expose his corruption.

Rubén closes the report, satisfied. Álex is no longer a problem. His fate was sealed when he decided to confront Rubén.

Rubén (thinking): "Álex... always so naive. You couldn't understand that in this world, true strength is not found in light, but in shadows. And shadows... always win."

In addition to being a shrewd strategist, Rubén possesses a dark gift: the ability to manipulate shadows. It's a power he has perfected over the years, a lethal weapon he uses to dominate and eliminate his opponents. Shadows move around him, almost as if they have a life of their own, reflecting his control over them. And it was that same power he used to eliminate Álex in a dark alley of the city, far from prying eyes.

At that moment, the silence in the room is interrupted by a soft knock at the door. Rubén glances away from the report and, with a slight wave of his hand, indicates that the visitor may enter. The door slowly opens, revealing the small figure of a twelve-year-old boy. It's Maximiliano, his son, who steps cautiously into the room. Despite the darkness surrounding him, Maximiliano's eyes shine with admiration as he sees his father, a hero he idolizes completely.

Maximiliano is different from his father. Though he has inherited a gift, his power is far from the offensive and intimidating nature that Rubén exudes. Maximiliano has the ability to heal, a unique power, and while valuable, he considers it insufficient to meet the expectations he feels weigh upon him.

Maximiliano: "Dad, I've been practicing my gift, but... it's not enough. I want to be stronger, like you. I want others to trust me, to respect me like they respect you."

Rubén looks at his son in silence for a few seconds. Though he is a cold and calculating man, Maximiliano represents something deeper to him: the only emotional bond he has left. Despite his dark methods, Rubén feels a genuine love for his son, though he avoids showing it openly.

Rubén (with a slight smile): "Maximiliano, power is not always measured by strength or the ability to fight. Your gift is rare, much more valuable than you think. In a world full of destruction, being able to heal is a gift that few possess."

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