Earth Metaverse 10 years, October 1 ,2031 AD.
Behind the podium, the emblem of the Meta Origin Society hung in solemn silence, radiating an air of dignity.
Soft lighting bathed the hall, casting a clear glow on every attendee's face. A subtle yet palpable tension filled the air, as if each breath carried a mix of anticipation and unease.
The audience displayed a range of emotions.
Some sat with bright eyes and expectant expressions, exuding confidence in Ranzi, who was about to ascend to the position of Grand Hierophant. Others, however, wore frowns, their fingers unconsciously tapping against the table, as if calculating an unseen equation.
Kent's gaze swept across the hall—calm on the surface, but with a glint of sharpness beneath.
He understood that today's assembly was not just about a leadership transition; it was a turning point that could shape the inheritance and future of Meta Origin Wisdom in the modern era.
Yet, as always, his speech was concise and direct. In a low, commanding voice, he announced, "Next, I invite Mr. Kennedy, Chapter Magister of the Wyrm Guardians, to take the stage. He will present a report on behalf of Elder Pingzi, summarizing this year's key developments."
Kennedy stepped forward, his voice steady and authoritative.
He delivered a comprehensive report, covering everything from financial figures to the expansion of new chapters and membership growth, backed by precise data and thorough analysis.
As he concluded, the audience responded with resounding applause, marking a successful end to his presentation.
Without delay, Kent then called upon Ranzi—the nominee for Grand Hierophant—to outline his vision for the Society's future. This was the moment everyone had been waiting for.
Ranzi ascended the podium with deliberate steps, his posture upright and composed.
Clad in a light yellow Hanfu top, black trousers, and simple flat shoes, he exuded an air of quiet strength. His deep-set gaze carried a presence that was impossible to ignore.
His voice was rich and commanding. After a brief yet weighty introduction, he spoke with precision, each word striking like a blade, cutting straight to the heart of his audience.
"The Meta Origin Society exists not only to preserve the ancient wisdom of the Meta-I Ching but also to evolve and integrate it into modern civilization. We must actively engage with, support, and even guide the formation of a future 'soul culture'—a spiritual foundation for humanity. Only through such a framework can technology, economics, and politics progress in harmony and order."
Ranzi then outlined his strategic vision:
"First, we must expand our membership and establish chapters worldwide to strengthen the Society's organizational foundation."
"Second, we must deepen our understanding and global reach of Meta Origin Wisdom, ensuring the Meta-I Ching becomes an influential force on the world stage."
"Third, we must actively build partnerships across various sectors, establishing a multidimensional development model that paves the way for the Society's global rise."
From there, he shifted his focus to the state of the world.
"Today, the world stands at a crossroads—economic downturns, financial crises, escalating disasters and wars. Yet beyond these tangible struggles lies an even deeper crisis: the erosion of faith, cultural decay, moral decline, and unchecked desires. Many see this as the twilight of an era, a time of spiritual desolation. But I see it differently. I believe this is the Meta Origin Society's defining moment—our Phoenix Rising."
His speech was both methodical and impassioned, captivating the audience. Waves of applause rippled through the hall.
Yet, despite the compelling rhetoric, one crucial topic remained unaddressed—the long-standing issue of the Society's sealed .
This omission did not go unnoticed, stirring a quiet undercurrent of doubt among some members.
With Ranzi's speech concluded, the assembly transitioned into a deliberation session. The atmosphere grew more intricate—while many praised Ranzi's vision and strategy, not all were convinced.
Jordan, a representative from the Shudu Chapter, was the first to speak. His tone was sharp and unreserved.
"Ranzi's speech was well-structured, but ultimately hollow. It's all grand theory—where is the practicality? Where are the concrete goals?"
Murmurs spread through the audience, and the room's initial calm tensed into unease.
Then, York, from the Damingfu Chapter, stood up, raising an even more contentious point.
"about the Grand Hierophant's inauguration, I believe a key condition must be set. It is undeniable that the Society's greatest challenge right now is the unresolved issue of sealed. If the Grand Hierophant cannot break the seal, how can he prove his leadership? A leader incapable of addressing this crisis is unfit for the role."
His words struck like a thunderclap, sending shockwaves through the room.
The topic of the seal had long been a taboo within the Society. Now, it had been laid bare before all, as if exposing an unhealed wound to the open air.
"This isn't the place to discuss the seal," someone murmured.
"But how much longer can we keep avoiding it?" another retorted.
The hall split into factions—one side firmly backing Ranzi, believing his vision alone was enough to justify his leadership; the other insisting that breaking the seal was the sole true test of his capability.
As the murmurs escalated, Jordan rose once more. His gaze swept the room, carrying a subtle provocation.
"Let's set aside the matter of Ranzi's appointment for now. What truly matters is that the Meta Origin Society must go beyond cultural preservation and actively shape the global agenda."
His words were deliberately ambiguous, leaving both supporters and skeptics unsure of his intent.
After a pause, his tone grew clear and resolute.
"To that end, I propose that the Society formally participate in the AGI-ST Program. This initiative has the potential to reshape the world as we know it. By aligning ourselves with this program, we won't just open a new frontier for the future of Meta Origin Wisdom—we will place the Society at the very heart of the next global paradigm."
A charged silence followed. Some members exchanged uneasy glances, while others leaned forward, intrigued.
The deliberations had taken an unexpected turn.
The proposal sent ripples through the assembly hall. A low murmur spread among the attendees, and many representatives nodded in agreement.
"The AGI-ST Program is indeed one of the most promising interdisciplinary initiatives in the world today," a representative from the Taiwan Chapter remarked. "If we can participate, the Meta Origin Society's status will undoubtedly increase. At the same time, we will have greater influence in bridging psychic energy with science and technology."
"But won't this compromise our independence?" a representative from the Singapore Chapter countered. "Can we ensure the Meta Origin Society remains autonomous?"
Jordan gave a faint smile, his voice calm yet resolute. "In an era of rapid technological advancement, true leadership lies in integration, not isolation. If we cling to old frameworks, the Meta Origin Society will gradually fade into obscurity, losing its relevance and influence."
His argument resonated with many in the room, shifting the discussion in favor of the proposal. However, this also broadened the meeting's focus—from Ranzi's nomination to the organization's future strategic direction.
Kent and Ranzi sat quietly on stage, listening attentively. As the moderator, Kent refrained from intervening in the debate.
Meanwhile, Ranzi remained silent, offering no defense. His calm, unwavering gaze suggested he was waiting for the right moment.
At that moment, Shawn and Lindsay, who were assisting with venue operations, noticed two familiar figures in the audience.
Donner, clad in a dark gray trench coat, sat among the Shudu Chapter members, diligently taking notes. Jolie, dressed in a simple, flowing gown, sat with the Damingfu Chapter, her head bowed in deep concentration.
Lindsay turned to Shawn with a puzzled expression. "Them...?" she asked in a hushed voice.
"They officially joined the Meta Origin Society earlier this year," Shawn replied, recalling their past conversation at the Source of Tao Wetland Park.
Yet, what surprised him even more was the presence of two unexpected attendees—President Will of Sunzen University and Dean Les of the College of Letters—seated with the Sunzen Chapter.
Could they also be members of the Meta Origin Society?
As the assembly moved into the voting session, Shawn suddenly felt a shift—the Zhen Palace Spirit Key hanging around his neck grew warm, emitting a faint glow.
His expression darkened as a thought flashed through his mind: There's an external interference in the spiritual energy of this venue.
His pulse quickened. Someone was attempting to manipulate the vote to prevent Ranzi from becoming the Grand Hierophant.
The voting proceeded under the supervision of Kennedy, the Chapter Magister of the Wyrm Guardians.
When the final count was announced, Ranzi had barely secured a majority, passing by a narrow margin. Meanwhile, Kent's appointment as Grand Sage was confirmed with an overwhelming 83% approval.
Shawn let out a quiet breath of relief—Ranzi's position as Grand Hierophant was finally secured.
As the final segment of the meeting commenced, all eyes turned to Ranzi.
His voice was steady, yet his words took everyone by surprise. "I deeply appreciate your trust," he began, "but I believe it is premature for me to assume the full title of Grand Hierophant. Therefore, I ask the Assembly to approve my temporary leadership under one condition—I vow to resolve the sealing crisis within six months. If I fail, I will voluntarily step down."
The hall fell into a stunned silence.
Ranzi's declaration was both a bold commitment and a self-imposed challenge. His confidence earned admiration, but it also placed immense pressure upon him.
Even Kent, who had anticipated many possible turns in this meeting, was caught off guard. Yet, as the convener, he had no choice but to call for another vote.
The Assembly voted almost unanimously in favor of Ranzi's proposal. Still, his words—Temporarily acting as Grand Hierophant—echoed in many minds, leaving lingering questions and contemplation.
As the meeting concluded, the midday sun had risen high, replacing the morning chill with the warmth of the afternoon. A gentle breeze swept through the patio, dispelling the tension that had filled the hall.
Shawn and Lindsay stood quietly at the edge of the courtyard, their minds swirling with unanswered questions.
Lindsay turned to Shawn, her expression thoughtful.
In a low voice, she asked, "Ranzi's promise won him support today, but do you think he can truly resolve the sealing issue in just six months?"
Shawn gazed toward the dispersing crowd, his voice calm but heavy with meaning. "The answer doesn't lie with him alone. It depends on the choices made by every member of the Meta Origin Society."
Beneath the afternoon sun, Yi Yuan Villa appeared serene. Yet beneath that tranquility, an unseen undercurrent was stirring.
On their way back to campus, Lindsay suddenly looked at Shawn, her eyes filled with quiet determination. "Tell me," she said firmly. "How do I join the Meta Origin Society?"