Somewhere in the ocean.

The creaking, groaning protests of the ship, and its not-so-gentle swaying from side to side were the constant companions to the hunters and handlers aboard, but like all hunters in the fleet, they were made of much sterner stuff than the poor handlers aboard. All too often, a retch would break the din of conversation, earning the poor soul that sounded it a look of pity. It was in such a ship of the fifth fleet that Veteran Hunter Markos was going over his equipment for the fifth time today, much to the chagrin of his handler. Shizuo shook her head helplessly at the arsenal the man insisted on bringing with him. The man simply wouldn't stay still, and he had refused to take the entirety of his vast weapon and armor collection to the New World with him.

No, he had insisted on starting fresh. He had opted to take only the mass-produced Iron weapons the guild offered new hunters who undertook the Fifth fleet. The man was helpless. How he had ever settled down enough to have a daughter was beyond her. Deá is in many ways like her father; she has a love of combat, a peerless physique, and always looks like she is thinking about something. However, unlike her father, Deá was jovial, outgoing, and sociable. Honestly, she was a breath of fresh air on a ship filled with grizzled hunters and their silent, brooding determination. Deá had a way of bringing smiles to the faces of even the most battle-hardened veterans with her infectious laughter and friendly banter.

As Markos meticulously checked his Iron Sword and Shield set for the umpteenth time, Deá approached him with a mischievous grin on her face. "Dad, you really don't need to worry so much about your gear. We've got plenty of time to get everything sorted once we reach the New World," she said, her tone a playful tease.

Markos looked up from his equipment, his weathered face breaking into a rare smile as he ruffled his daughter's hair. "I know, Deá, but old habits die hard. Besides, I want to make sure I'm well-prepared for whatever monsters we might encounter."

Shizuo couldn't help but chuckle at the exchange between father and daughter. She had seen them together on many hunts, and it was clear that despite their differences, they shared a deep bond forged through countless battles and shared experiences.

The ship continued its rocky journey towards the New World, but with Deá's cheerful presence and Markos' unwavering determination, the hunters of the Fifth Fleet found solace in the knowledge that they were not alone in this daunting expedition. As they braced themselves for the challenges that awaited them, they knew that together, they would face whatever the New World had in store.

Mahana Village, Old World

Juno entered the tent of the Village Chief, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and trepidation. She knew the task ahead of her was not just any ordinary mission; it was a mission that could potentially change the course of history in the world.

Chief Omna, a wise and experienced Monster Rider, sat at the head of a large wooden table covered with maps and scrolls. Her eyes met Juno's, and there was a gravity to her expression that sent a shiver down Juno's spine. This was a mission that required the utmost discretion and skill.

"Juno, you have been chosen for a task of great importance," Chief Omna began, her voice steady and commanding. "As you know, reports have reached us of a new Elder Dragon, Imperialis, and its human mate residing in the New World. The existence of such a creature could bring about a profound change in our understanding of the world."

Juno nodded, her resolve strengthening. She had trained for years as a Monster Rider, honing her abilities and forming unbreakable bonds with her monsters. She was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.

"The Guild has tasked us with investigating Imperialis and acquiring any eggs that may be laid," Chief Omna continued. "But remember, Juno, this mission requires not only your skills as a rider but also your discretion and diplomacy. We don't know the true nature of Imperialis or its mate, and we must approach this situation cautiously."

Juno nodded again, her mind racing with thoughts of the unknown. She knew that Imperialis and its mate represented a potential turning point in the relationship between humans and Elder Dragons. It was a mission that carried the weight of responsibility for her village and the entire Monster Hunter community.

Chief Omna handed Juno a sealed scroll. "Inside this scroll, you will find all the information we have gathered so far, as well as a map of the New World. You are to depart immediately and proceed with the utmost care. Remember, Juno, You won't have the use of your monsters in the new world. You must be careful.."

With a final nod, Juno accepted the scroll, her determination unwavering. She would acquire the eggs of this Elder Dragon, No matter what the cost.

Guild Headquarters, Old World

In the dimly lit, cavernous chamber deep within the Guild's headquarters, the high-ranking officials gathered around a circular table, their expressions marked by a mixture of curiosity, concern, and intrigue. The topic of discussion was Imperialis, the newly discovered sentient Elder Dragon in the New World, and its human mate.

The first official to speak, a stern and experienced leader, cleared their throat and said, "We find ourselves facing a unique situation with the emergence of Imperialis. It is unlike any Elder Dragon we have encountered before, displaying not just intelligence but a capacity for forming bonds with humans. This raises profound questions about our understanding of Elder Dragons and their place in our world."

The second official, a cautious and methodical strategist, chimed in, "Indeed, this situation is unprecedented. Imperialis and its mate could potentially alter the balance of power in the New World. We must proceed with caution and gather as much information as possible before making any decisions."

The third official, known for their passionate advocacy for the preservation of nature, added, "Let us not forget that Imperialis appears to coexist peacefully with its mate and the ecosystem of the New World. Perhaps this is an opportunity for us to learn from this creature and find a way to coexist with Elder Dragons rather than merely hunting them."

The fourth official, a pragmatic and battle-hardened leader, voiced their concerns. "While I appreciate the sentiment, we cannot ignore the potential risks. An Elder Dragon with intelligence could pose a significant threat if it feels threatened or if its interests clash with ours. We must consider the safety of our hunters and the people of the New World."

The fifth official, a maverick with a penchant for unconventional ideas, leaned forward. "What if we were to establish diplomatic relations with Imperialis and its mate? It may be worth attempting a peaceful approach before resorting to more aggressive measures. We have hunters skilled in negotiation as well."

The sixth official, known for their unwavering commitment to the Guild's mission, spoke with determination. "Our primary duty is the protection of human life. While we should explore all options, we cannot rule out the possibility that Imperialis could become a threat. We must be prepared to defend ourselves if necessary."

The discussions continued late into the night, with no consensus reached. It was clear that the situation regarding Imperialis and its mate presented a complex moral and strategic dilemma for the Guild. As the officials debated the best course of action, they were acutely aware that their decisions could shape the future of their world and the delicate balance between humans and Elder Dragons.