《Asutsura: The Demiser of the Gods》 The beginning! High above the swirling clouds, bathed in radiant golden light, stood the almighty celestial warriors, the DEVAS. Each one was a beacon of divine power, their silhouettes burning with such intensity that even the heavens seemed to bow in reverence. Their presence was overwhelming, as if the cosmos itself had turned its gaze upon them. The DEVAS, guardians of Earth and defenders of the divine order, hovered effortlessly over the battlefield. Their energy cascaded from the heavens in brilliant waves, making the clouds part in deference to their power. As the golden light poured down, the faithful on the ground were bathed in its warmth, their wounds healed, their spirits lifted. But for the wicked, this same light seared flesh, scorched bones, and incinerated souls. Their white robes shimmered, laced with ethereal energy, while their armor glistened with ancient runes¡ªsymbols of an age-old power long forgotten by mortals. These celestial inscriptions pulsed with the force of creation itself, each line a fragment of the universe''s untold history. From the heavens, the DEVAS'' radiant light swept across the battlefield below, turning the tide of war. The souls of fallen demons, consumed by darkness, erupted in ash as divine fire obliterated their essence. What remained of the once-mighty demonic legions was reduced to nothingness, their existence wiped clean from the earth. The air, once thick with sulfur and smoke, slowly transformed, filled now with the scent of rain and the first bloom of life. The ancient war, a millennia-long struggle between humans and demons, had reached its conclusion. The forces of light, with humanity at their side, had prevailed at last. This was no mere battle for land or power; it was a cosmic struggle for the soul of the Earth. The ancient prophecy spoke of this day¡ªthe Final Battle. A battle in which only one side would emerge victorious. And the humans, led by their celestial allies, had fought through annihilation time and again. But this time was different. This was the Endgame. Wherever the DEVAS set foot, life flourished. Their steps turned barren wastelands into vibrant forests, and rivers of crystal-clear water sprang from the desolate earth. Flowers bloomed in their wake, fields once scorched by demonic fire now lush with green vitality. Their swords were not just weapons of destruction but also instruments of peace, bringing harmony where chaos had reigned. But this same divine energy was a death sentence for the demonic forces. Shadows and flame, the essence of the demons, recoiled in terror as the DEVAS'' light approached. The twisted forms of the Asura¡ªdark descendants of the ancient demons¡ªmelted away, their screeching cries drowned by the roar of divine fire. For them, the mere sight of the DEVAS was an unbearable torment, their end now certain. Yet, amidst the crumbling legions of darkness, one figure remained, defiant and unwavering. His presence alone silenced the battlefield, commanding attention and fear from all who stood against him. This was Ravana, the Demon Lord. His legend spanned realms, a being whose very name was synonymous with terror.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Ravana stood tall, his flowing silver hair whipping in the storm conjured by the DEVAS. His crimson eyes gleamed with a malevolent intelligence, one that could pierce through any illusion, any false hope of victory. His armor was not of this world; it pulsed with forbidden energy, a fusion of ancient sorcery and forgotten technology, creating an aura of invincibility around him. In his hand, he gripped Zanmato, the accursed blade. Forged in the depths of the underworld, this weapon had drunk the souls of a thousand fallen warriors, each death feeding its insatiable hunger. It was no mere sword¡ªit was a living embodiment of destruction. "RAVANA!" Shiruna, the king of the DEVAS, boomed from above, his voice shaking the heavens themselves. Towering over the battlefield, Shiruna''s form shimmered with divine energy, more spirit than flesh. His wings of light, each feather a radiant lance capable of shattering mountains, spread wide across the sky. In his grasp, the Staff of Solus burned with the fury of the sun, its light bright enough to blind lesser beings. "YOUR TYRANNY ENDS TODAY!" Shiruna''s words rang out like thunder, a divine decree that the earth itself seemed to echo. "THIS SACRED EARTH SHALL BE FREE FROM YOUR WICKEDNESS!" But Ravana was unmoved. He met Shiruna''s gaze with a sneer of defiance, his crimson eyes alight with amusement. The winds howled around him, yet he remained still, his posture unshaken by the storm of divine power surrounding him. "Ha ha ha ha ha!" His laughter echoed across the battlefield, chilling the hearts of even the bravest warriors. The DEVAS, despite their celestial might, paused at the sound of his mockery. "You believe this will end me?" Ravana''s voice was rich with sarcasm, his words sharp as blades. "Fools! Even if I fall today, the darkness will rise again. You cannot undo what centuries have built." And with that, Ravana did the unthinkable. He drove Zanmato into his own chest, blood erupting from the wound. A collective gasp rippled through the battlefield. Even the divine warriors watched in stunned silence as Ravana''s life force drained from him. But Ravana''s death was no surrender. It was a final act of defiance. As his blood spilled onto the ground, a massive magic circle, dark and foreboding, materialized beneath him. Pulsating with malevolent energy, the Resurrection Array activated¡ªa forbidden spell known only to the gods. Ravana had sacrificed his own life to resurrect his demonic army, ensuring their rise once more. The DEVAS, horror-struck, realized what was happening. Ravana''s sacrifice would doom the world to another era of darkness. In their desperation, the celestial warriors made a fateful choice. They bestowed upon humanity the ATSURA, divine weapons of unimaginable power. Each ATSURA held the strength to reshape mountains and part seas, forged to combat the rising tide of evil that would soon return. 500 Years Later: Humanity had flourished in the centuries since that fateful battle, guided by the teachings of the DEVAS. A new world order had risen, one founded on the mastery of elemental magic and the wielding of the sacred ATSURA. The elite warriors of DELIAN stood vigilant, humanity''s last line of defense, though none had faced a true Asura in centuries. "Ryuu! Wake up! You''re going to be late!" The shout pierced through the haze of his dreams, yanking him back to reality. Ryuu, a sixteen-year-old with bright eyes and an eager heart, bolted upright in bed. "Today''s the day!" His pulse quickened at the thought. Today was the Magic Aptitude Test, the event that could change his life forever. Students from across the nation would be tested for their magical potential, and only the strongest would earn the right to wield an ATSURA and join DELIAN, humanity''s elite defenders. (Hi, I''m Aramiya Ryuu, sixteen years old, and today''s the day I''ve been waiting for. I''ve dreamed of joining DELIAN for as long as I can remember. Who wouldn''t want to wield legendary weapons and protect the world?) Outside, the sun shone brightly in the morning sky, casting long shadows over the bustling streets. But all Ryuu could think about was the test ahead. Would he have the strength to wield an ATSURA..... The First Encounter The sun shone brightly, with a gentle breeze swirling through the streets as Ryuu sprinted toward school. "I can''t believe this¡­ I''m so late!" He muttered, legs pumping as he sped through the streets. Suddenly..... thud!!! Ryuu collided with someone, sending both of them crashing to the ground. "Ow, ow, ow¡­ I''m so sorry! Are you alright?" Ryuu quickly scrambled to his feet, reaching out instinctively to help the person up. When he finally took a good look, his words caught in his throat. It was a girl¡ªno, not just any girl. She was stunning, with silky, snow-white hair cascading around her shoulders and piercing crimson eyes that seemed to glow. Her beauty was otherworldly, like something out of a dream. "M-Miss, I''m really sorry, are you okay?" Ryuu asked again, still in shock, his hand still extended. Slap! Without a word, the girl coldly knocked his hand away. "I''m fine," she said icily, her voice as sharp as her gaze. Ryuu was taken aback, standing frozen as the girl brushed herself off and began walking away, her cold demeanor making her beauty seem even more intimidating. "Wait!" Ryuu called after her, stepping forward. "I didn''t mean to bump into you. At least, can I know your name?" The girl didn''t even turn around. "Whatever," she muttered, her voice barely audible as she kept walking. Ryuu frowned, watching her retreating figure. "Geez," he thought "she''s not just cold; she''s freezing." Just as he was about to turn and hurry to school, an intense pain suddenly shot through his chest.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. "AHH! What the¡ª?" Ryuu gasped, falling to his knees as he clutched his chest, the pain overwhelming him. His heart felt like it was about to explode. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead as he tried to catch his breath. Through blurry vision, Ryuu saw the girl had stopped walking and was watching him again. Her crimson eyes narrowed as she observed him from a distance. Then, without a word, she turned and disappeared into the morning crowd, leaving Ryuu panting on the ground. "What just happened?" Ryuu wondered, his chest heaving as the pain gradually faded. "Was that some kind of magic? A spell?" Shaking his head, Ryuu forced himself to stand, still feeling the lingering ache. "I don''t have time for this¡ªI''ve got to get to school." . . . . Fifteen minutes later, Ryuu stood outside the gates of Sakura High, pale and breathless. "Why does something weird always happen on the most important days?" he mumbled to himself. "Ryuu!" A familiar voice called out. Ryuu turned to see his childhood friend, Sengoku Seichii, running toward him, grinning. "You''re late too? What''s going on? Come on, or we''ll both get detention!" "Yeah, I''m coming," Ryuu sighed, still shaken from his earlier encounter. Together, they dashed into the building, trying to sneak into the classroom unnoticed. "STOP RIGHT THERE!" Their teacher''s voice rang out the moment they opened the door. Both boys froze. "It''s no surprise that Sengoku-kun is late, but you, Aramiya-kun? Even on a day like this?" The teacher sighed, shaking his head. Ryuu scratched the back of his head awkwardly. "Uh, sorry, sensei. I overslept, ha-ha¡­" "Overslept on the day your magic power is being measured? This is your future we''re talking about!" The teacher said, exasperated. "Now, sit down before I change my mind about letting you participate." Ryuu and Seichii hurried to their seats, avoiding eye contact with the rest of the class. The teacher straightened up, returning to the front of the room. "Alright, everyone, listen up! We have a new transfer student joining us today." Excited whispers filled the room. "A new student? Is it a girl or a boy?" someone asked. "Alright, you can come in now," the teacher called toward the door. The whispers stopped the moment the student walked in. Ryuu''s heart dropped. It was her¡ªthe white-haired girl from earlier. She walked into the classroom with the same cold, regal demeanor, her crimson eyes scanning the room with an unreadable expression. "Wow¡­ she''s stunning!" a boy whispered. "She looks like a model!" a girl murmured in awe. But Ryuu''s face had turned pale. ("It''s her....) He thought, struggling to process the coincidence. (But why is she here)... The Transfer Student! Ryuu''s breath caught in his throat, his face paling as sweat beaded on his forehead. ( It''s her... But why?) His mind raced, struggling to comprehend the sight in front of him. Standing at the front of the class was the same girl he had bumped into that morning. The icy, unapproachable aura surrounding her was unmistakable. "ALL OF YOU, BE QUIET NOW!" The teacher''s booming voice cut through the classroom, instantly silencing the chatter. A tense stillness fell over the room. "Now, you may introduce yourself," the teacher said, gesturing toward the girl. She stepped forward with the same cold, detached expression that Ryuu had witnessed earlier. "Hello, everyone. My name is Tatsuno Ryoko. Nice to meet you." Her voice was flat, devoid of warmth, just like her appearance. A murmur rippled through the room. Everyone was shocked at how her stoic demeanor didn''t match her beauty at all¡ªshe hadn''t so much as smiled since stepping into the classroom. "W-well," the teacher stammered, visibly thrown off by her icy demeanor, "you can go ahead and find a seat. The homeroom session is about to begin." Ryoko''s cold eyes scanned the classroom, pausing when they locked onto Ryuu. His heart sank. (No, it can''t be¡­) She walked straight toward him, her gaze never leaving his face. Ryuu froze, feeling a cold sweat trickle down his spine. The entire class held their breath as she stopped in front of his desk, her eyes boring into his. "Can I sit here, please?" Ryoko asked, her voice soft but still devoid of any emotion. Gasps erupted around the room. The same girl who had been so emotionless and distant was now politely asking Ryuu for a seat. Ryuu, however, was too stunned to respond, his mind swirling with confusion. (What does she want from me?!) He could barely muster a nod, still too shocked to speak. "I''ll take that as a yes," Ryoko said simply, sitting down beside him without another word. Ryuu felt the blood drain from his face. His thoughts were spinning wildly.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. Just what does she want with me? The teacher cleared his throat, bringing the class''s attention back. "Alright, students. As you know, today''s the day when your magic power will be measured. Representatives from the Board of Education are here to assess your magic capacity." Pshh! The door swung open, and four men in black coats and sunglasses walked into the room, each carrying a small glass orb. "Good morning, students," one of the men announced, his voice formal. "We are here to evaluate your magic potential. This is a magic assessment ball. When you focus your magic into it, the ball will change color based on the element you possess. If it turns red, you control fire; if it turns blue, you wield water, and so on. The brightness of the light will indicate the strength of your magic. The brighter the light, the more powerful your potential." Excitement mixed with nervous energy spread through the classroom. Students whispered among themselves, eager to discover their elemental affinity but anxious about their results. "Now, we will call you one by one to come forward and place your hands on the ball," the officer continued. "First up¡ªTanaka Hikuro." "Yes, sir!" A tall, strikingly handsome boy stood up, his presence commanding the room. His air of confidence was palpable, and his classmates began whispering eagerly. "Wow, it''s Tanaka-kun. He''s been top of the class since forever!" "Did you hear? His family''s part of the elite Tanaka clan¡ªone of the noble families!" "Not to mention his uncle is the captain of the First Defense Division of DELIAN!" Tanaka approached the front of the room, calm and composed. The officer gestured to the glass ball. "Place your hands on the ball and focus your magic." Tanaka nodded and placed both hands on the orb. For a moment, there was silence as he closed his eyes and focused. Then, suddenly¡ª FLASH! The ball lit up with an intense purple light, so bright that the entire class had to shield their eyes. Electricity crackled in the air, and the light from the ball filled the room. "OH MY GOD!" one of the officers exclaimed, his voice filled with awe. "It''s the rare lightning element, and the power is immense¡ªthis is at least A+ tier magic!" The other officers were equally astonished, murmuring among themselves. "This level of control at his age¡­ he''s truly a prodigy!" The light from the ball gradually faded, and Tanaka calmly removed his hands, opening his eyes as if the feat had been nothing extraordinary. He walked back to his seat amidst gasps and whispers of admiration. "Truly worthy of the Tanaka name," one officer said, still impressed. "You can return to your seat, Hikuro." As Tanaka returned to his seat, the officer called out again, "Next student, please step forward." Before anyone else could move, Ryoko stood up, her presence immediately commanding attention. The whispers stopped. Her cold aura froze the room as she stepped to the front. "I will go next," Ryoko said simply..... The unknown element! Ryoko stood up gracefully, moving forward with an air of confidence. All eyes were on her as the officer instructed "Place both your hands on the magic ball and focus your magic power into it." Without hesitation, Ryoko placed her hands on the glowing orb, closing her eyes to concentrate. The room was filled with silent anticipation as everyone waited. Five minutes passed, and the ball remained unchanged, sparking murmurs of confusion. Suddenly, the magic ball began to glow, slowly transforming into a bright white hue. It radiated a shimmering light that filled the room. "Whoa, it''s the Ice Element¡ªat A-level!" someone exclaimed, astonished. "What''s happening today? Two students with A-level magic! This is unprecedented!" The excitement in the room grew, but before anyone could process it, the light from the ball intensified further. The blinding light enveloped the room. "What''s going on? Why is it getting brighter? I can''t see anything!" a panicked voice cried out. Crack! Without warning, the magic ball shattered into countless pieces. Ryoko slowly opened her eyes, unfazed, and glanced at the shards scattered on the floor. The room was silent with shock. Then, one of the officers spoke, his voice trembling with awe. "I-it''s S-level magic! The highest level of magic possible! How could a student control such immense power? This is terrifying..." Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. Gasps echoed around the classroom as everyone realized what had just occurred. No one could believe it¡ªa student had shattered the magic ball and revealed mastery over S-level magic. It was a feat unheard of for decades. The last time anyone witnessed such raw power was thirty years ago when Japan''s legendary S-level mage, Tanaka Hiroka, emerged. "This is a monumental achievement," The officer continued, regaining his composure. "Miss Ryoko, we will need to report this immediately. You are required to visit the Magic Board''s Association within three days for further evaluation. Your cooperation is essential." Ryoko merely nodded, her tone as cold and distant as ever. "Understood." She returned to her desk without a hint of emotion. Meanwhile, Ryuu stared at her, eyes wide with shock. He had sensed she was strong, but this¡ªS-level magic¡ªwas beyond anything he could have imagined. And the knot of anxiety tightened in his chest as he recalled their earlier encounter. Why had his heart hurt so intensely when he first met her? What did she want from him? Ryoko, sensing Ryuu''s gaze, turned her head slightly, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks, though her expression remained icy. "Why are you staring at me like that, Ryuu-kun?" she asked in her usual cold tone, though her blush betrayed a sliver of emotion. Ryuu blinked in confusion, unsure why she was suddenly facing the other way. Before he could respond, the officer brought out a new magic ball for the next student. One by one, the students approached the ball. Some displayed impressive power, while others revealed modest magic. Yet the atmosphere remained tense, overshadowed by Ryoko''s stunning display. Then came Sengoku''s turn. He placed his hands on the magic ball, focusing intently. The orb glowed a bright blue. "Wind magic at A-level!" the officer announced. "What is happening today? Three students with A-level magic or higher! This is beyond extraordinary." The class murmured in awe. Three exceptional magic users in one class. The teacher stood in disbelief, filled with both pride and astonishment. Finally, it was Ryuu''s turn. His hands trembled slightly as he approached the ball. Sweat trickled down his face as the officer instructed him to place his hands on the magic orb. Taking a deep breath, Ryuu did as he was told, closing his eyes to concentrate. But nothing happened. The room grew tense with confusion. Time seemed to stretch on as the magic ball remained unchanged. Murmurs of concern rippled through the class. Then, at last, the ball began to shift. Slowly, it turned a bright azure color, but the light it emitted was dimmer than even F-level magic. The room fell silent. No one knew what the color meant. This was the first time the ball had ever turned azure, and no one could decipher its meaning. Except for Ryoko. She was staring intently at Ryuu and the glowing ball, her expression unreadable. It was as if she had just uncovered something she had been seeking for centuries. (I knew it....!) Ryoko thought, her heart racing. (It''s really you.!)..... A Sudden Attack! The classroom was enveloped in silence as all eyes remained on Ryuu and the magic ball. The puzzled expressions on everyone''s faces were clear¡ªno one had ever seen a magic ball change to an azure color with such dim light. "W-what element is this? Is it wind or water? Why is the light dimmer than even D-level magic? This has never happened before," One of the officers muttered in disbelief. "I must inform the Magic Association immediately." The officers hurriedly left the room, leaving the students in confusion. Ryuu, still bewildered by the result, sat back down at his desk, deep in thought. Just as he was lost in the whirlwind of his mind, a gentle hand landed on his shoulder, pulling him back to reality. "Hey, do you know or remember anything about that magic? Do you know what element it was?" Ryoko asked in a firm but surprisingly gentle tone. Her crimson eyes sparkled with expectation as if she was waiting for an answer only Ryuu could provide. Ryuu blinked, even more confused now. (Just what does she want from me?) "How could I possibly know when even the officers don''t?" Ryuu responded, feeling overwhelmed. Ryoko''s eyes briefly flickered with sadness, and her voice grew softer. "I will make you remember one day," She muttered under her breath, so quietly that Ryuu almost didn''t catch it. "Did you say something?" he asked, puzzled. "It''s nothing," Ryoko replied quickly, turning away, her usual icy demeanor returning. A short while later, the officers reentered the room, accompanied by the teacher. The officer cleared his throat before addressing the two students. "Tatsuno Ryoko and Aramiya Ryuu," He began, his voice steady but laced with urgency. "Three days from now, the president of the Magic Board will return to the country.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. You are both required to report to the Magic Association at that time¡ªRyoko for an interview, and Ryuu for further investigation into your unique magic." Both Ryoko and Ryuu nodded in acknowledgment, and with that, the officers departed. The class resumed as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened, but the tension in the air lingered. It wasn''t long before evening fell, and the school day came to an end. As Ryuu was packing his things, Sengoku approached his desk with a wide grin. "Ryuu, let''s head home together." "Oh, Seichii! Sure, just give me a second to grab my stuff," Ryuu replied, shoving his books into his bag. The two were about to leave when a soft, almost hesitant voice called out to Ryuu from behind. "R-ryuu-kun, wait!" Ryuu turned to see Ryoko standing there, her usual cold expression softened by a slight blush. "Can I head back with you too?" she asked, her voice gentle and uncharacteristically shy. Ryuu blinked, taken aback by her request. "You want to walk with me? But why?" He asked, confused as to why someone as beautiful and distant as Ryoko would want to walk home with him. Seichii sighed heavily, shaking his head. (This idiot... he''s going to die single for sure.) "W-well, it''s because my home is in the same direction," Ryoko stammered, her face turning an even deeper shade of red. "I thought... maybe we could walk together?" Ryuu hesitated, still unsure of her intentions. He was cautious, still wary of the cold aura she had displayed earlier. And yet, there was something else....something familiar, buried deep within him.....that urged him to say yes. "Okay... let''s go together," Ryuu finally agreed. Ryoko''s face lit up with a bright smile, a warmth that Ryuu had never seen before. His heart skipped a beat. (She''s... beautiful when she smiles.) He found himself both captivated and unsettled by the stark contrast between her warmth now and her icy demeanor from earlier in the day. With their bags slung over their shoulders, the trio started the walk home, chatting about the day''s events, particularly the magic test. After some time, they arrived in front of Ryoko''s house. "I will turn here" Ryoko said, her usual composure returning. "See you tomorrow at school, Ryuu-kun, Seichii-kun." "Yeah, see you tomorrow," Seichii replied, waving enthusiastically. Ryuu simply waved, still lost in his thoughts as they continued walking. As they walked away, Seichii couldn''t help but tease his friend. "Hey, Ryuu, isn''t Tatsuno-san really beautiful? Why do you always try to keep your distance from her when she''s being so nice to you?" Ryuu frowned. (Of course, she seems beautiful to you. You didn''t see the terrifying side of her that I saw this morning.) "It''s none of your business," he muttered. "Bro, you''re seriously going to die a virgin at this rate," Seichii teased, shaking his head. Suddenly, they heard heavy breathing coming from the woods beside them. "Hey, did you hear that?" Ryuu asked, freezing in his tracks. "What are you talking abou-?" Seichii asked, but before he could finish his sentence, a dark figure emerged from the trees. Its body was massive, black as night, with sharp fangs and water dripping from its tongue. "I-I-IT''S A DOG DEMON! B-but how could it appear here? The city is surrounded by magic barriers!" Seichii stammered, eyes wide with terror. The dog demon snarled, closing the distance between them in an instant. Without warning, it lunged at Seichii, its claws ready to tear through him. But Ryuu, acting on pure instinct, threw himself between Seichii and the beast. "RYUU!" Seichii screamed, watching in horror as the demon''s claws raked across Ryuu''s chest, leaving a deep, bleeding wound. Ryuu gasped, stumbling backward as blood soaked through his shirt. His vision blurred, and he felt himself losing consciousness. The dog demon growled, preparing to strike again, its claws aimed at Ryuu''s throat. "RYUU! NOOO!" Seichii shouted, helpless to stop it. Just as the demon''s claws were about to land the final blow, a flash of white appeared before Ryuu. The dog demon stopped, its snarl turning into a whimper. Ryuu''s fading vision caught a glimpse of white hair and crimson eyes. (Is that... Ryoko-san...?) The Azure flame Ryuu lay on the cold ground, his body motionless as darkness surrounded him. His breath came in shallow gasps, each one more difficult than the last. His mind raced with thoughts of regret and acceptance. "Am I really going to die here? Just like this? I haven''t even become the captain of the defense force yet..." His heart clenched as tears began to fall. "I guess this is really the end. Sorry, Mom, for being such an incompetent son. I''m leaving you alone, but at least I saved my best friend today. That''s something, right?" The darkness began to engulf him, creeping closer, swallowing every inch of his body. It felt final, inevitable. He shut his eyes, feeling the weight of it crushing his soul. Suddenly, a voice pierced the suffocating void. "Ryuu, you can''t die. I won''t let you leave me again. You have to live¡ªfor your people, and for me." Ryuu''s eyes shot open, barely able to comprehend what he was hearing. "W-who''s... who''s speaking?" His voice was faint, almost lost in the abyss. Just as the last of his strength began to fade, an azure light burst forth, cutting through the darkness. The light, pure and powerful, surrounded him. Azure flames, both warm and comforting, enveloped his body, driving away the darkness like it was nothing more than a bad dream. The flames entered his body, reigniting the spark of life within him. He could feel strength returning, slowly but surely. Voices began to break through the haze of his mind. "Ryuu-kun, wake up! Are you okay? Please wake up!" "Ryuu, are you alright? Please, open your eyes!" With a painful groan, Ryuu''s eyelids fluttered open. The world was blurry, but he could make out two familiar faces hovering over him. Ryoko was kneeling beside him, her hands tightly clutching his as tears fell from her eyes. Seichii was next to her, his face etched with worry.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. "R-Ryoko-san? S-Seichii? What are you... where am I?" Ryuu asked, his voice weak but full of confusion. "RYUU, YOU''RE AWAKE!" Both Ryoko and Seichii exclaimed in unison, relief flooding their faces as they threw their arms around him, holding him tightly. "W-what''s happening?" Ryuu mumbled, still dazed. "Ryuu, don''t you remember? We were attacked by a dog demon, and you... you were heavily wounded. If it hadn''t been for Ryoko-san, we wouldn''t have made it. She came just in time and... and saved us both," Seichii explained, his voice shaking with the memory. Ryuu''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Ryoko-san... killed the demon?" Seichii''s face turned pale as he nodded. "S-she didn''t just kill it, Ryuu. She tore that demon apart... limb by limb. It was terrifying. I couldn''t even move from the sheer power she unleashed. I''ve never seen anything like it." Ryuu was stunned. He had always sensed there was something more to Ryoko, but hearing this... it both shocked and comforted him. There was no denying her strength, but there was also no denying the warmth that flickered deep within his chest. He turned to Ryoko, his voice barely a whisper. "Ryoko-san... thank you. You saved both me and Seichii. I... I owe you everything. I''ll repay this debt one day, I swear." Before he could say anything more, Ryoko gently pressed him back onto the ground. "You need to rest, Ryuu-kun. There''s no need to thank me¡ªwe''re friends, after all. I would never let my friend die like that," She said, her tone firm yet soft. Ryuu blinked, the word friend echoing in his mind. He laid back down, allowing himself to rest as exhaustion took over. "You should recover fully soon," Ryoko continued. "Don''t forget, we''re due at the Magic Association in three days. Seichii and I will visit you tomorrow. For now, just focus on healing." Ryoko and Seichii stood to leave, and as they exited the room, a conversation between a nurse and a doctor in the hallway caught Ryoko''s attention. "Doctor! It''s impossible! The boy''s wound was critical, yet he''s almost completely healed in just a day. Even an experienced defense force officer would take at least a month to recover from that kind of injury." "Yes, I''ve never seen anything like it either," the doctor replied, astonished. Ryoko paused. (So, the azure flame... I was right. He''s starting to remember...) She thought, her expression unreadable as she walked away. The next day, Ryuu was miraculously discharged from the hospital, his body fully healed. Both Seichii and Ryuu''s mother were in disbelief at his rapid recovery. Even Ryuu couldn''t quite understand how he had healed so fast. Yet, a quiet part of him¡ªthe part that remembered the azure flame¡ªbegan to stir. Two days later, Ryuu and Ryoko stood in front of the towering gates of the Magic Association. The building loomed before them, its structure imposing and ancient, radiating power. Ryuu''s palms were slick with sweat, and his body trembled with nervous anticipation. "Are you nervous?" Ryoko asked in her usual cold tone, though her eyes flicked toward him with subtle concern. "O-of course I''m nervous!" Ryuu stammered. "I''ve never even seen the Association building before, and I don''t even know why they''ve called me here." Ryoko''s expression darkened, and her voice dropped to a chilling tone. "Don''t worry. If anyone here tries to harm you, I''ll tear them to pieces." The air around them grew icy, a sharp wind swirling with Ryoko at its center. Ryuu''s heart skipped a beat¡ªnot out of fear, but out of awe at the power she possessed. Before he could respond, the grand gates creaked open, revealing the officer who had been with them during the magic test. "Aramiya Ryuu and Tatsuno Ryoko," he greeted, his voice steady. "Welcome to the Magic Association. The president is waiting for you inside." With a deep breath, Ryuu and Ryoko stepped forward into the unknown... Shinju Hayato "Tatsuno Ryoko and Aramiya Ryuu, the president is waiting for both of you. Please follow me." The officer''s voice echoed through the grand halls of the Magic Association as Ryuu and Ryoko followed him deeper into the heart of the building. Ryuu''s heart raced, his nerves on edge as they passed towering statues and powerful mages who seemed to carry an aura of immense strength. "This is the main hall," The officer gestured. "To your left is the reception desk. Anyone wishing to have their magical abilities evaluated must first register there." Ryuu''s eyes darted around the room. He felt the weight of countless gazes upon him, each one scrutinizing him as if measuring his worth. Powerful mages whispered among themselves, their eyes lingering too long on him and Ryoko. Ryuu trembled under their scrutiny, beads of sweat forming on his brow. Ryoko noticed his discomfort. Without a word, she turned her head slightly and gave a cold, piercing glare to the onlookers. Her expression was like ice¡ªcalm, but chilling. Immediately, the room went silent. Every mage who had been staring at them averted their gaze, as if her mere presence was too much to handle. "They''re just jealous of your talent," Ryoko said quietly to Ryuu. "Don''t let their looks bother you." Ryuu blinked, still overwhelmed but grateful for her reassurance. Ryoko''s calm demeanor was both intimidating and comforting at the same time. "The president''s office is on the top floor," the officer continued, oblivious to the brief tension in the room. After a brief tour, they arrived at the imposing double doors that led to the president''s office. The officer stopped and gestured toward the door. "This is where my duties end. The president is expecting you." With a bow, the officer left them. Ryuu and Ryoko stood in silence for a moment before Ryuu''s anxiety got the better of him. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. He was sweating, his hands trembling slightly as he wiped his brow. "Are you really that nervous?" Ryoko asked, her voice steady and cold as usual. "Of course I''m nervous!" Ryuu replied, his voice trembling. "I''ve never been to a place like this, and I don''t even know why they called me here." Ryoko''s expression softened just a fraction. "Don''t worry. I promised I''d protect you, didn''t I? Just believe in me." Ryuu took a deep breath and nodded. With Ryoko beside him, maybe he could face whatever was ahead. Together, they entered the president''s office. Inside, a large, imposing figure sat behind a desk. Even seated, the man radiated a power that was suffocating. His presence was enough to make the air feel heavier, and Ryuu nearly collapsed under the sheer pressure emanating from him. The man was Shinju Hayato, the legendary former strongest mage of Japan and now the president of the Board of Education. Ryuu''s body trembled under the intense magical pressure, feeling as though his legs would give way at any moment. But Ryoko, standing beside him, remained unaffected. Her cold expression never faltered, and she stood tall, as if the pressure had no effect on her at all. Shinju Hayato''s eyes flickered with surprise and amusement. He stood up, his eyes locking onto Ryoko. "Welcome," he said, his deep voice filled with authority. "I am Shinju Hayato, president of the Board of Education." Ryoko bowed gracefully, her voice composed. "Tatsuno Ryoko, a pleasure to meet you, President Hayato." Hayato grinned, clearly impressed. His eyes then turned to Ryuu, who was still struggling to stand under the immense pressure. "M-my name is Aramiya Ryuu. It''s an honor to meet you, sir," Ryuu stammered, trying his best not to collapse from the weight of the president''s power. The president laughed, his voice booming. "Ha-ha-ha! No need to be so nervous, Aramiya-kun. I''m not here to harm you. In fact, you and Tatsuno-san are unlike any talents I''ve ever seen." Ryuu breathed a sigh of relief as the president gestured for them to sit down. He gratefully sank into the chair, feeling the pressure ease. Ryoko, ever composed, got straight to the point. "President, why have we been called here?" Hayato chuckled. "Straight to business, I like that. I apologize if the officers didn''t explain it clearly. You both have extraordinary potential. Tatsuno-san, your mastery of S-level magic at your age is unheard of. And Aramiya-kun... your magic element is one that none of us have ever seen before. It''s rare. Too rare." Ryuu swallowed hard, still unsure of what that meant for him. "To help you both¡ªand other talented students from your school¡ªthe Association has decided to organize a special three-month training program," Hayato explained. "Top instructors from across the country will teach you to better control your powers and hone your magic. We believe that one day, you will both be vital in protecting humanity from the demons that threaten our world." Ryoko nodded, processing the information. Ryuu, on the other hand, felt both relieved and overwhelmed at the thought of this intense training. Three months... top instructors... demons? The weight of it all began to sink in. "If you have no further questions, you may leave now," Hayato concluded with a nod. Ryoko stood, bowing respectfully. "Thank you, President Hayato. We''ll prepare for the training." Ryuu followed her lead, bowing quickly. "T-thank you, sir." As they turned to leave, the president''s expression grew serious. He watched them walk out, his mind racing. (These two are extraordinary. Tatsuno Ryoko stood unfazed, even under my full pressure¡ªa feat even the strongest S-rank soldiers struggle to achieve. She''s a talent that only comes once in a millennium.) But his gaze lingered on Ryuu''s back. (And the boy... there''s something hidden deep within him. Something that even made me, for the first time in years, feel a chill. There''s a power in him¡ªsomething ancient, something... terrifying. I must keep a close watch on them.) As Ryoko and Ryuu walked out of the president''s office, Ryuu felt a strange mixture of relief and uncertainty. He glanced at Ryoko, who was calm as ever. "Three months of training, huh?" Ryuu muttered nervously. Ryoko nodded. "You''ll survive. I''ll make sure of it." Despite her cold demeanor, Ryuu felt a sense of security, knowing that she would be by his side. Whatever lay ahead, they would face it together.... Training Session! One week had passed since Ryuu and Ryoko attended the association, and today was a bright, sunny day. A refreshing cold breeze danced through the air, accompanied by the cheerful chirping of birds. This was the day the training session for all students in the city capable of controlling A-level magic and above would begin. In his room, a young boy with azure-white hair was sleeping soundly. Suddenly, a loud voice shattered the tranquility, jolting him awake and sending him tumbling off his bed. "RYUU!! WAKE UP! TODAY YOUR TRAINING SESSION IS GOING TO BEGIN. DO YOU WANT TO GET LATE AGAIN LIKE LAST TIME?" Rubbing his eyes, Ryuu scrambled out of bed and hurried to change. Fifteen frantic minutes later, he was in the middle of packing his bag when the sound of the doorbell interrupted him. Ding Dong! "Ryuu, can you go open the door?" his mother called from the kitchen. "Yes!" Ryuu replied, racing to the front door. He opened it to find Seichii and Ryoko standing there. "Seichii? Ryoko-san? What are you doing here this early?" Ryuu asked, surprised. "G-good morning, Ryuu-kun! We came to pick you up so we can all go to the training camp together," Ryoko replied, her tone firm yet gentle. "Yo, Ryuu! Why aren''t you ready yet? You don''t want to be late today too, do you?" Seichii added, crossing his arms with a mock sternness. "Oh, I was just getting ready! Come inside and wait for five minutes."If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. (Inside?) "Okay, but hurry up!" Seichii said, his expression serious. The three of them stepped inside. "Ryuu, who was it?" his mother asked, walking into the hallway. "Oh, it''s Seichii-kun and Ryoko-chan. Come and sit! I was just making breakfast for Ryuu. Would you like some?" Ryuu''s mom offered, her face lighting up with a warm smile. "No, Auntie, you don''t hav¡ª" "Thank you, Auntie!" Ryoko interjected, but Seichii had already taken a seat at the dining table. Ryuu''s mom giggled and gestured for Ryoko to join him. "Seichii-kun, you haven''t changed a bit over the years! Ryuu, hurry up; everyone is waiting for you!" she urged. "Yes, I''m ready!" Ryuu called as he came downstairs with his bag and luggage. The three of them quickly ate breakfast, excitement bubbling between them. "All of you, take care of each other and yourself," Ryuu''s mother said, concern etched on her face. "Yes, we will!" the three of them replied in unison before walking out of the house. They made their way to school, where they would board the buses for the training site. As they arrived, the principal stood before the gathered students, beaming with pride. "Good morning, students! Today marks the beginning of your special training session. You have all made this school proud and are the future protectors of our country and planet. I urge you to look out for yourselves and each other during these three months. I pray to the Devas for your safety and success. Now, please report to the buses with your respective teachers." With that, the principal stepped aside, and the students eagerly filed onto the bus. After a two-hour journey, they arrived at the training area. As the students stepped off the bus, they were awestruck by the sight before them. "Wow, is this the training area? That entrance gate is enormous!" they exclaimed, gazing up at the towering structure. Meanwhile, high atop a distant tower, two figures stood, their eyes fixed on the students below. "We will finally get to meet the new S-rank, Tatsuno Ryoko," one of them said, a hint of intrigue in their voice. As anticipation filled the air, the stage was set for a training session that would test their limits and unveil secrets that would change their lives forever. Meeting! One week had passed since Ryuu and Ryoko attended the association, and today was a bright, sunny day. A refreshing cold breeze danced through the air, accompanied by the cheerful chirping of birds. This was the day the training session for all students in the city capable of controlling A-level magic and above would begin. In his room, a young boy with azure-white hair was sleeping soundly. Suddenly, a loud voice shattered the tranquility, jolting him awake and sending him tumbling off his bed. "RYUU!! WAKE UP! TODAY YOUR TRAINING SESSION IS GOING TO BEGIN. DO YOU WANT TO GET LATE AGAIN LIKE LAST TIME?" Rubbing his eyes, Ryuu scrambled out of bed and hurried to change. Fifteen frantic minutes later, he was in the middle of packing his bag when the sound of the doorbell interrupted him. Ding Dong! "Ryuu, can you go open the door?" his mother called from the kitchen. "Yes!" Ryuu replied, racing to the front door. He opened it to find Seichii and Ryoko standing there. "Seichii? Ryoko-san? What are you doing here this early?" Ryuu asked, surprised. "G-good morning, Ryuu-kun! We came to pick you up so we can all go to the training camp together," Ryoko replied, her tone firm yet gentle. "Yo, Ryuu! Why aren''t you ready yet? You don''t want to be late today too, do you?" Seichii added, crossing his arms with a mock sternness. "Oh, I was just getting ready! Come inside and wait for five minutes."The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. (Inside?) "Okay, but hurry up!" Seichii said, his expression serious. The three of them stepped inside. "Ryuu, who was it?" his mother asked, walking into the hallway. "Oh, it''s Seichii-kun and Ryoko-chan. Come and sit! I was just making breakfast for Ryuu. Would you like some?" Ryuu''s mom offered, her face lighting up with a warm smile. "No, Auntie, you don''t hav¡ª" "Thank you, Auntie!" Ryoko interjected, but Seichii had already taken a seat at the dining table. Ryuu''s mom giggled and gestured for Ryoko to join him. "Seichii-kun, you haven''t changed a bit over the years! Ryuu, hurry up; everyone is waiting for you!" she urged. "Yes, I''m ready!" Ryuu called as he came downstairs with his bag and luggage. The three of them quickly ate breakfast, excitement bubbling between them. "All of you, take care of each other and yourself," Ryuu''s mother said, concern etched on her face. "Yes, we will!" the three of them replied in unison before walking out of the house. They made their way to school, where they would board the buses for the training site. As they arrived, the principal stood before the gathered students, beaming with pride. "Good morning, students! Today marks the beginning of your special training session. You have all made this school proud and are the future protectors of our country and planet. I urge you to look out for yourselves and each other during these three months. I pray to the Devas for your safety and success. Now, please report to the buses with your respective teachers." With that, the principal stepped aside, and the students eagerly filed onto the bus. After a two-hour journey, they arrived at the training area. As the students stepped off the bus, they were awestruck by the sight before them. "Wow, is this the training area? That entrance gate is enormous!" they exclaimed, gazing up at the towering structure. Meanwhile, high atop a distant tower, two figures stood, their eyes fixed on the students below. "We will finally get to meet the new S-rank, Tatsuno Ryoko," one of them said, a hint of intrigue in their voice. As anticipation filled the air, the stage was set for a training session that would test their limits and unveil secrets that would change their lives forever. Nagamine Meiko. "We will finally get to meet each other: the new S-rank, Tatsuno Ryoko." The girl standing high atop the tower smirked as a fierce black aura surrounded her, the shadows twisting ominously around her. Meanwhile, Ryuu and the other students stood before the imposing gate of the training area, anticipation coursing through them. After a few tense moments, the massive gate swung open, revealing a group of men stepping out in formation. At the front was a muscular man whose presence radiated power, causing an immediate tension among the students. "Good morning, students. I am Tomoki Noato, the commander in charge of this training session," He announced, his voice deep and commanding. "This training program is designed to help you learn to control the high magnitude of magic that resides within you. For the next three months, you will undergo the most rigorous training of your lives. You will be divided into four divisions, each consisting of seven students. Contributive points will be awarded to those who perform exceptionally well during the session. The students with the highest points will be selected by the officers of the Defense Force for a chance to be tested with the legendary weapons known as ATSURAs." Gasps of disbelief filled the air as students absorbed the gravity of his words. The opportunity to witness the might of weapons descended from the gods themselves ignited excitement and determination among them. "Now, you can head to your rooms to rest. This evening, you will be assigned to your respective divisions," Commander Noato concluded, leaving with the other officers. The students, buzzing with energy, gathered their belongings and headed toward their rooms. Ryuu, Ryoko, and Seichii walked together, their conversation lively. "Hey, Ryuu! Did you hear that? We might get to see the legendary weapons! I''m even more excited about the session now!" Seichii exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious. However, Ryuu remained lost in thought, his brow furrowed. "Ryuu-kun? Hey, Ryuu-kun! What''s wrong? Why are you zoning out in the middle of the road?" Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. Ryoko asked, nudging him back to reality. "Ah, it''s nothing. Just thinking about the training and what lies ahead," Ryuu replied, trying to shake off his worries. "Okay¡ª" Suddenly, a loud boom erupted, and a fist hurtled toward Ryoko with incredible force. The ground cracked beneath the impact, sending up a cloud of dust and debris. "RYOKO-SAN! ARE YOU OKAY? WHAT''S GOING ON?" Ryuu yelled, panic rising in his chest as he dashed toward her. As the dust settled, Ryoko stood unharmed, gripping the incoming fist in her palm, her expression icy and fierce. The figure who had thrown the punch, cloaked in shadow, was visibly taken aback. (She... stopped my attack with just one hand! Interesting.) The black figure retreated slightly, landing gracefully on the ground. Ryuu rushed to Ryoko''s side, worry etched on his face. "RYOKO-SAN! ARE YOU OKAY? ARE YOU HURT?" he asked, concern lacing his voice. "I''m fine," she replied coolly, her gaze fixed on the assailant. "Who are you? What do you want?" Ryoko demanded, a chilling breeze swirling around her as tension mounted in the air. "Hn, you can dodge quite well. But you still aren''t worthy of being S-rank, Tatsuno Ryoko," came a voice from the shadowy figure as she pulled back her hood, revealing a smirking face framed by long, dark hair. "Who are you? Why did you attack me?" Ryoko asked, fists clenched, ready for a fight. "Oh, I''m sorry, my bad. I should''ve introduced myself first. I am Nagamine Meiko, one of the disciples of the head of the Hayashida family, Hayashida Yoshiro." "Y-you are Nagamine Meiko! One of the two disciples of Hayashida Yoshiro?" Ryuu stammered, his eyes wide with shock. The students around them were equally astonished. (The Hayashida family is one of the most prestigious families in the country. The head, Yoshiro, is said to be the greatest swordmaster in Japan. His skill is so refined that he can slice through a mountain with ease, even without the legendary weapons. His strength rivals that of the president of the Board of Education, Shinju Hayato. The name Hayashida carries immense weight, even surpassing the Tanaka family on a global scale.) "But what is a member of the Hayashida family doing here in Tokyo?" Ryuu asked, still trying to process the revelation. "Oh my, aren''t you a handsome little boy?" Meiko purred, stepping closer to Ryuu and lightly caressing his cheek. "What would I do if I fell for your charming face, huh?" "What are you here for? You said you''re also an A+ level magic user?" Ryuu managed, trying to shake off her unnerving presence. Nagamine Meiko grinned, "Of course! I''m here to attend the training session, just like you." Suddenly, the air turned frigid, sending a shiver down Ryuu''s spine. (What''s happening? Why is it so cold? It feels like I''m standing in the center of an icy cave, bare-skinned.) Meiko felt the sudden change in atmosphere, glancing around nervously. Ryoko, however, radiated an intense energy that froze the ground beneath her feet as she advanced on Meiko, her eyes filled with bloodlust. The pressure in the air thickened, making it hard to breathe. Meiko began to sweat profusely under Ryoko''s fierce glare. "HOW DARE YOU! HOW DARE YOU TOUCH RYUU-KUN! YOU SHOULD DIE¡ªYES, JUST DIE!" Ryoko shouted, an ice sword materializing in her hand with a chilling shimmer. Before Meiko could react, the blade was inches from her neck. Frozen in fear, she closed her eyes, bracing for the worst. "RYOKO-SAN, STOP! YOU MUST NOT DO THIS! CALM DOWN, I AM FINE!" Ryuu shouted, desperation in his voice, but Ryoko remained unyielding, the sword poised to strike. Just then, a clang echoed through the air as a figure jumped in, blocking Ryoko''s blade with a swift motion. "HIBINO!" Meiko cried, relief washing over her as tears streamed down her cheeks. The tension in the air shifted, and Ryuu watched, bewildered, as the situation hung precariously in the balance. Kawamura Hibino "HIBINO!!" The red-haired boy stepped forward, blocking Ryoko''s attack with a swift motion and deflecting it backward. The force sent Ryoko staggering back. "H-he''s Kawamura Hibino, the first disciple of Hayashida Yoshiro, before Nagamine Meiko. What are both of them doing in this training session?" Ryuu thought, astonished. Everyone knew that these two were once-in-a-century talents, personally trained by the legendary Hayashida Yoshiro. Kawamura Hibino rushed to Meiko''s side, helping her regain her footing. "I TOLD YOU NOT TO GET TOO EXCITED, IDIOT! WHAT IF SOMETHING HAPPENED TO YOU HERE? HOW COULD I FACE MYSELF¡ªface Master then?" Hibino scolded, his voice tense. Meiko was taken aback; she had never seen him this unsettled before, which oddly pleased her. (But this isn''t the issue right now. The real problem is that girl over there. Just one strike from her was enough to break a few bones in my wrist. If this continues, it could end badly for both me and Meiko. I have to think of a way out of this. She truly is an S-rank.) Hibino was acutely aware of Ryoko''s overwhelming power. Ryoko clenched her fists tighter, the air growing even colder. Sharp ice shards began to encircle her, a testament to her fury as she prepared for another assault. Suddenly, Ryuu''s voice cut through the tension. "RYOKO-SAN, YOU HAVE TO STOP! YOU DO NOT HAVE TO RISK YOUR LIFE FOR ME! JUST STOP THIS NOW!" Concern surged through Ryuu; he hadn''t witnessed her full power when she battled the dog demon, leaving him unaware of her true strength. Ignoring him, Ryoko launched a violent attack aimed at both Kawamura Hibino and Nagamine Meiko. The air crackled with energy, and both Hibino and Meiko braced themselves for impact. (I need to stop Ryoko-san. Even if she''s an S-rank, she''s new to magic. Those two are A+ level magic controllers and have trained under Hayashida Yoshiro. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Even with her rank, she can''t take on both of them at once. I need to save her this time; she once saved me.) As he contemplated this, a small azure flame ignited in his heart, and his eyes shimmered a brilliant azure. Suddenly, he felt a surge of power coursing through him, propelling him forward. In an instant, he was behind Ryoko, who was poised to strike Meiko and Hibino. He wrapped his arms around her tightly from behind, catching her off guard. She sensed a familiar presence and froze, her heart racing. For a fleeting moment, she wanted to stay in this embrace forever. Turning slowly, she met Ryuu''s gaze. His eyes glowed with a radiant azure light, stunning her into silence. Tremors coursed through her body. "I-i-is it really y-you?" she stuttered. "Yes," he replied softly. Ryoko was momentarily paralyzed, her anger dissipating as she lost control over her body. She felt herself begin to sway when Ryuu tightened his grip. "RYOKO-SAN! Ryoko-san! What happened? Are you alright?" he asked, concern evident in his voice. As if waking from a dream, Ryoko snapped back to reality. She saw Ryuu looking at her with worry, and his eyes had returned to their normal color. "I-I''m fine. Thank you," she managed to say, her voice steadier than before. (It was you. Just wait a little longer; I promise I''ll bring you back.) Ryoko stood upright, glaring at Ryuu, who turned his face away, blushing slightly. "Ryoko-san, why are you glaring at me like that?" Ryuu asked, flustered. "It''s nothing. Let''s just head to our rooms," she replied, brushing off the moment. "Yes." They both picked up their luggage and began walking to the dorm building. The atmosphere remained tense, and the other students nearby were still in shock. (T-th-that boy... Didn''t he have trouble using magic? How was he able to do that? When did he even get behind her? I couldn''t even see him move. And what was that immense power? The pressure he exerted in just a split second was more tremendous than Master''s when he goes all out.) Kawamura Hibino trembled, overwhelmed by Ryuu''s power. He was unable to move, fear rooted in place. "Those two are real monsters; they''re not someone we can handle," he murmured, trembling. Ryuu and Ryoko finally reached the dorm building designated for the students. "Haa, finally we can get some rest," Ryuu sighed, relieved, though his body ached from the day''s events. Ryoko was still lost in her thoughts, remaining silent. "Ryoko-san! What''s wrong? You''ve been spacing out the whole time. If something''s bothering you, you can tell me. I''ll do my best to help," Ryuu urged, concern etching his features. "Oh, i-it''s nothing, I''m just tired. I-I''ll be fine after some rest. Now let''s head to our rooms," Ryoko replied, brushing off his concern. Ryuu could tell something was off, especially since the incident earlier, but he couldn''t put his finger on it. "OI!! Ryuu, Tatsuno-san! You''re finally here! What have you two been doing this whole time? Don''t tell me you started flirting even in the training area!" Seichii called out as he stepped out of the dorm building, waving at them. Both Ryuu and Ryoko recalled their earlier embrace, their faces flushing bright red. Seichii noticed their reaction and sighed. "Sigh¡ª You two! Now take your luggage and get some rest. Ryuu, come with me; we''re in the same room," Seichii insisted. "WHAT?!" Ryuu shouted in disbelief. Seichii shot him a glare. "I wanted to stay with a beautiful girl, not you! Now hurry up; the evening assembly is going to start soon." The three of them entered the dorm building, tension still hanging in the air. From a distance, a man observed the unfolding events, a frown etched on his face. "I was right; that boy is not normal. A typical person could never unleash such tremendous power. Even if others didn''t see it, I did. I fear that even the ATSUTAs can''t produce such great power and pressure when wielded expertly. I need to gather more information about this power soon, or it will spell disaster for humanity and this planet."... A new friend! Ryuu and Seichii stepped into their room, and Ryuu tossed his belongings onto the bed, stretching out his sore body. "Haaa! Finally, I can get some rest. My whole body is sore," he groaned. "Make sure to rest up; all students have to gather in the main hall this evening. The commander will announce the divisions we''ll be assigned to," Seichii replied. With a nod, Ryuu got off the bed and began organizing his belongings in the wardrobe. Seichii watched him curiously, an amused smirk creeping onto his face. "Why are you staring at me like that?" Ryuu asked, feeling slightly annoyed. "Hey, Ryuu. I''ve been wondering for a while now... do you like Ryoko-san?" Seichii asked, his tone casual yet probing. Ryuu froze, taken aback by the unexpected question. "Why do you think that?" he stammered, surprised. "I don''t know, just a hunch. You''re a good-looking guy, but you don''t seem to connect with girls that much. Yet when you''re with Ryoko-san, you express yourself more, and you seem genuinely happy around her," Seichii observed. Ryuu was startled, lost in thought as memories flooded his mind. He recalled the day he first met Ryoko during the selection process and how his heart had ached at the time. He also remembered how she had saved both him and Seichii from the dog demon. "I... I''m not sure if I like her or not. I don''t understand her intentions or why she interacts with me the way she does. This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. I just know that whenever I''m with her, I feel this familiar sensation in my heart. Even though we''ve never met before, I can be more open with her. She''s someone I want to know better. I have complicated feelings for her, but one thing is for sure: she is now one of my best friends, and I would give my life for her." Seichii was taken aback; he had never seen Ryuu so serious when it came to girls. "Take your time, brother. But I''ll say one thing for sure: if you don''t hurry, someone else might sweep her off her feet. Now, get some rest." With that, Seichii left the room, and Ryuu lay back on the bed, closing his eyes. Confusion swirled in his mind, but soon, exhaustion took over, and he fell asleep. As evening approached, Ryuu and Seichii made their way to the main hall. Just as they arrived, they noticed Ryoko emerging from her room, accompanied by a delicate girl with long, dark hair that shimmered like the night sky and large, sparkling purple eyes. She wore thin black glasses that added an air of sophistication to her appearance. Ryuu and Seichii approached them. "Ryoko-san! Good evening!" they both greeted in unison. "Oh, Ryuu-kun, Seichii-kun! Good evening! Are both of you heading to the main hall as well?" Ryoko replied cheerfully. "Yes, we are. By the way, Ryoko-san, who is this girl standing beside you?" Ryuu asked, his curiosity piqued. "This is my roommate for the session. Her name is Sakaguchi Masumi. She''s an A+ level healer," Ryoko introduced, beaming with pride. "Masumi-san, this is Aramiya Ryuu-kun with azure-white hair and Sengoku Seichii-kun with brown hair." Ryuu and Seichii exchanged shocked glances at the revelation. Healing magic was incredibly rare, and few could control it at such a high level. "Nice to meet you. I''m Aramiya Ryuu," he said, extending his hand formally. "Hello, I''m Sengoku Seichii. Nice to meet you, Sakaguchi-san," Seichii added, matching Ryuu''s formality. "N-nice to meet you too. I w-will be in your care from now on," Masumi replied, her voice soft and slightly stuttering. She couldn''t bring herself to meet their gazes and looked down, making Ryuu and Seichii a bit startled. "Masumi-san is a shy person; she has trouble expressing herself to strangers. But I think she''s a good person," Ryoko chimed in, a smile lighting up her face. Masumi''s expression brightened at Ryoko''s kind words. "Okay, shall we go together? It''s almost time for the introduction party," Seichii suggested, scratching his head. "Yes, we should get going, or we''ll be late," Ryoko agreed, glancing at her watch. With that, the group started walking towards the main hall together, anticipation buzzing in the air as they prepared for the evening''s events..... The Invincible Solitude! Ryuu and the others arrived at the main hall, where the other students were already engaged in conversation. "We''re the last ones here," Seichii sighed, rubbing his hair in frustration. As Ryoko entered, the lively atmosphere shifted to an eerie silence, like the hush that falls before a storm. All eyes turned to her, the only person capable of wielding S-level magic. Students stared at Ryoko with a mix of emotions: agony, jealousy, astonishment, and fear. The air grew thick with tension, and Ryuu and Masumi tensed under the weight of their scrutiny. In response, Ryoko glared back, her expression icy and deadly. A palpable pressure enveloped the room, making even the most confident students break into a sweat. It felt as though a ferocious ice dragon were glaring down at them, thirsting for fresh blood. Many students couldn''t even bear to make eye contact with her, and a few looked close to collapsing under the strain. "AAAAH!" Ryuu suddenly fell to his knees, clutching his chest as his heart raced. "RYUU-KUN! ARE YOU ALRIGHT?" Ryoko rushed to his side, her earlier demeanor replaced by worry. It felt reminiscent of their first encounter, but this time, an azure flame flickered ominously on Ryuu''s forehead. Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. He howled in pain, and Ryoko''s concern deepened as she instinctively grabbed his hand. Closing her eyes, she concentrated, and a moment later, her eye color transformed to a crystalline blue. The azure flame on Ryuu''s forehead gradually diminished until it finally extinguished. Ryuu sighed in relief. "Ryuu-kun! Are you okay? Do you feel better?" Ryoko asked anxiously, her gaze locked on him. "Yes, I''m fine now. Thank you, Ryoko-san," he replied, his relief palpable. The other students in the hall were left dumbstruck, unable to comprehend what had just happened. They stared at the two of them, bewildered. "So, you''re the new S-rank, Tatsuno Ryoko." A commanding voice echoed through the hall, drawing everyone''s attention to a striking young man with purple hair that crackled like lightning and deep black eyes. "I must say, the rumors that you''re a beauty found once in a millennium are true, and your strength surpasses all tales. I hope we can get along in the future." He knelt before Ryoko, taking her hand. In an instant, Ryoko''s expression darkened. She slapped his hand away in disgust, shocking everyone present. The boy was none other than the Invincible Solitude, Kurata Rajin. Background of Kurata Rajin: Kurata Rajin had risen from humble beginnings, born into a family of farmers who were often overlooked and marginalized. While others received training and resources, farmers worked tirelessly under military orders, providing sustenance for the nation. Unlike his peers, Kurata had chosen a different path, focusing solely on honing his magical abilities. Through sheer determination, he mastered one of the rarest and most powerful elemental magics¡ªlightning. He challenged students from influential families who had the best resources, defeating them one by one and building his reputation as an undefeated warrior. Thus, he earned the title "Invincible Solitude," a testament to his solitary rise from obscurity to greatness. As Ryoko stepped back beside Ryuu, Rajin stood, momentarily taken aback. This was the first time someone had looked down on him since he had earned his title. A smirk appeared on his face as he straightened up. "You really are as cold as ice. The rumors about you were not wrong at all. I hope we get placed in the same division. Now, if you''ll excuse me." He began to turn away but paused to address Ryuu. "Aramiya-kun, I hope to see you soon as well¡ªthe only F-rank among us." His eyes flashed with a predatory gleam as he walked away. Ryuu felt a chill run down his spine at the underlying threat in Rajin''s words. "GOOD EVENING, STUDENTS! WELCOME TO THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SPECIAL TRAINING SESSION!" A loud, resonant voice echoed around the room as the commander and the officers took the stage. (Finally, the training session is about to begin.)..... The Training Session Begins! Tomoki Naoto, the chief in command of the training session, stood at the top of the stage alongside the other officers. "Good evening, students. I hope you all had a good rest. Now, let''s begin the ceremony marking the start of your training session." Every student faced the stage, their expressions reflecting determination and resolve. "As I mentioned this morning, you will be divided into four divisions for the session. You brilliant students are the future of our country and humanity. Over the next three months, you will be trained by professionals." He paused for a moment to let his words sink in. "The individual with the highest merits will be awarded contributive points, which will determine your rank at the end of the session. At the conclusion of these three months, inter-division battles will take place, where students from one division will face off against those from another. The division that excels will receive additional contributive points." A murmur of excitement rippled through the crowd at the thought of competition. "Students with the highest number of contributive points will become more eligible to be tested by the ATSURAs." A heavy silence enveloped the hall after this announcement. Yet, they were all exceptionally talented, seen as potential future officers capable of wielding the heavenly weapons known as ATSURAs. "Now, you will be divided into your respective divisions. The students from Toshiaki High and Takahara High will be in Division One. The students from Omaharu High and Sakura High will form Division Two. Teramoto High and Nagoto High will comprise Division Three. And finally, the Invincible Solitude, along with the students from Nishiyama High, will be in Division Four." The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. "Please form groups according to your divisions. That will be all for the ceremony. You may interact with each other before returning to your dorms. Tomorrow, the training session begins." With that, the Commander in Chief and the officers exited the stage, and the students began to gather with their respective divisions. "Masumi-san, we''re in the same division!" Ryoko exclaimed, her smile brightening the atmosphere. "Y-yes, Ryoko-san! I-I''m very happy to be in the same division as you," Masumi replied, her own smile growing in response. "From today onward, we''ll all take care of each other," Seichii added enthusiastically. "Tanaka-kun, come over here with us! Let''s get to know each other," Ryuu called out to Tanaka Hikuro, who was standing off to the side with his arms crossed. "Hmph! I don''t want to waste my time on childish things. I''m heading back to my room," Hikuro replied dismissively, turning to leave. "Hey, wait! Who are the other two members of our division? We''re only five people here," Ryuu asked, puzzled. Both Ryoko and Seichii exchanged glances, unsure about the identities of the remaining two members. They turned to Masumi, who, under their scrutiny, looked increasingly nervous. "I-it''s Nagamine-san and Kawamura-kun." Ryuu''s heart sank at the mention of their names. Tension filled the air as he thought of Ryoko. He didn''t know how to react. "WHAT!? IT''S NAGAMINE SAN AND KAWAMURA KUN! WHERE ARE THEY NOW?" Seichii shouted, excitement coursing through him. He knew they were the two disciples of the head of the Hayashida family: Nagamine Meiko and Kawamura Hibino. "I-I don''t know. I haven''t seen either of them since the afternoon," Masumi stuttered, startled by Seichii''s sudden outburst. She felt a twinge of envy watching Seichii express himself so easily, wishing she could be like him. Ryoko, on the other hand, remained unfazed by the names. "Aah! What a shame, I couldn''t be in the same division as Ryoko-san," Masumi said quietly, almost to herself. As they conversed, a confident voice rang out from behind. Rajin was striding toward them, flanked by his own division''s students. "Ryoko-san, it seems we couldn''t be in the same division. But don''t worry; we can surely be friends, even if we meet in battle someday," Rajin said melodiously, a smile gracing his lips. Ryoko''s disgust deepened at his words. "When did we become friends? I don''t even know you," she replied coldly, her eyes icy. "Ryoko-chan, don''t say that; it hurts my feelings," Rajin replied, placing a hand over his heart in mock dismay. (What a sarcastic display.) "Well, Ryoko-chan, I must take my leave now, but we will meet again soon. I look forward to facing you in the division battles, Ryuu-kun. I''m eager to fight someone with an unknown element." A smirk danced on Rajin''s lips as he glanced at Ryuu. Disgusted, Ryuu felt a wave of apprehension at Rajin''s words. Ryoko stepped closer to him, holding his hand and giving him an encouraging nod. He found comfort in her gesture and nodded back. "Now, shall we all head back?" Ryoko asked, looking at her friends. "Yes!" they agreed in unison, starting to walk back when a voice called out from behind them. "Aramiya Ryuu! The Commander in Chief is asking for you!" The group stopped, exchanging glances filled with confusion and concern. Ryuu swallowed hard, wondering what could be so urgent..... Morishita Shigeru. "Aramiya Ryuu! The commander-in-chief has requested your presence." An officer stood behind Ryuu, and the sudden invitation startled him. Confused and apprehensive, he wondered why the chief would summon him so unexpectedly. "Why? What does the chief want from me?" Ryuu asked the officer, his mind racing as he struggled to comprehend the situation. The officer responded with a straight face, his tone leaving no room for argument. "That cannot be discussed here. The chief wishes to speak with you in private. Please show your cooperation." A murmur of confusion rippled through the gathered crowd. Ryoko stepped forward, her protective instincts kicking in. "I will go with Ryuu-kun. I will protect him if anything happens." "No one except Aramiya Ryuu is permitted to accompany him. If you attempt to defy this order, you will be removed from the session," the officer stated with a formal and unwavering expression. Ryoko''s anger flared at his response. "I SAID I WILL COME ALONG WITH¡ª" "Ryoko-san, it''s okay. I will be fine; you should return to the dorm with the others," Ryuu interjected, sensing her anxiety. He looked into her eyes, seeing the deep concern reflected there. To calm her nerves, he offered her a reassuring smile. "Do not worry; just believe in me. Everything will be alright." Ryoko hesitated but began to calm down, comforted by Ryuu''s steadfastness. "Officer, let''s go," Ryuu said, his voice steady. "Follow me," the officer instructed, leading Ryuu through the corridor toward the chief''s office. As they approached the door, the officer knocked firmly and announced, "Sir, Aramiya Ryuu is here. I shall take my leave now." With a respectful bow, the officer stepped away, leaving Ryuu standing nervously in front of the door. "Come in!" a voice called from inside, its authority clear. With a deep breath to steady himself, Ryuu entered the room. The Chief was seated at his desk, facing the window, his silhouette outlined by the fading light.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. "Aramiya Ryuu, have a seat," the Chief commanded, gesturing toward the chair in front of him. Ryuu complied, settling into the chair, his heart racing as he began to speak. "Good evening, Chief in Command. My name is Aramiya Ryuu." "Good evening, Aramiya-kun! Do you know why I have called you here?" The Chief greeted him back with an inquisitive look, turning slowly in his chair. "No, sir. Why have I been summoned?" Ryuu responded, confusion still etched on his face. "As you are aware, you are a unique individual who has discovered a new form of magic. Unfortunately, we do not fully understand this magic or its effects," The Chief explained, his tone serious. "We also lack the means to teach you how to control this magic effectively. Therefore, the main purpose of this meeting is to gather more information about your abilities and to find a way to help you master them." He paused, allowing Ryuu to absorb this information. "To this end, the board of education and I have reached a conclusion: we will assign you a personal mentor." Ryuu''s heart skipped a beat. "Who will it be?" "You will be trained by the most experienced individual, a scholar who has devoted his entire life to the study of magic: Morishita Shigeru." "WHAT?!" Ryuu exclaimed, utterly stunned by the revelation. (Morishita Shigeru is the brightest scholar Japan has ever seen. He devoted his entire life to studying the elements and mastering the control of magic. His groundbreaking discoveries have significantly contributed to the war against the ASURAs. He was the first person in the world to create magical weapons inspired by the ASURAs, enhancing the capabilities of militaries worldwide. For his monumental achievements, he earned the title ''THE SCHOLAR ABOVE SCHOLARS.'') The idea that he could meet Morishita Shigeru had always seemed like a distant fantasy. But now, he was being granted the extraordinary opportunity to be guided by this legendary figure. Ryuu was overwhelmed, his mind racing as he tried to process this unexpected turn of events. Suddenly, a smooth and melodious voice interrupted his thoughts. "Oh! I see you are surprised to have me as your teacher. I apologize if my presence causes any discomfort." Ryuu turned around, eyes wide in astonishment. Standing before him was a man with long, silky blue hair cascading down his shoulders. His elegant demeanor and respectful tone reflected a noble character; this was indeed Morishita Shigeru. "My name is Morishita Shigeru, and I will be accompanying you for these three months. I sincerely apologize if my reputation has intimidated you," he said, a hint of warmth in his voice. Ryuu''s jaw dropped in disbelief. He stood up from his chair and knelt, overwhelmed by a mix of reverence and awe. "Good evening, sir. I''m honored to meet you. I could never have imagined that I would have the privilege of learning from you. Please do not misunderstand my surprise; I am simply in shock at the opportunity to study under you." "My my, no need for such formalities. I''m honored as well to teach a student like you. Because of you, I may be able to learn more about this world and the magic that resides within it," Shigeru responded gently, extending a hand to help Ryuu to his feet. "It''s late now; you should head back to the dorm and get some rest. We will discuss the details of your training tomorrow." "Yes, Master. I will take my leave now!" Ryuu replied with a newfound sense of purpose as he exited the office. Inside the room, Morishita Shigeru remained alongside the Chief. "Sir, what do you think of this child?" the Chief inquired, standing up from his chair, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. "Haaa... Chief, this child is indeed mysterious. When I looked within him, I sensed a tremendous power, something I have never encountered before. I do not know what it is, but I feel it deep within him." Shigeru paused, collecting his thoughts. "Now I understand what the president meant by his words. We must uncover the root of this power as quickly as possible. If this power were to be unleashed, no one can predict the consequences." He sighed deeply, a sheen of sweat glistening on his forehead, but the bright smile never left his face, indicating his unwavering optimism. The Chief was taken aback, having never witnessed Shigeru in such a state of concern before. . . . Meanwhile, Ryuu was on his way to the dormitory, his mind still reeling from the evening''s events. He approached the door and noticed Ryoko sitting on the steps, her head bowed, lost in thought. "Ryoko-san?" he called softly, his heart warming at the sight of her... A Breakfast with Everyone "Ryoko-san? Is that you?" Ryuu called out, his voice echoing slightly in the stillness of the night. He noticed Ryoko sitting on the steps of the dormitory ladder. At the sound of his voice, she lifted her head immediately. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of relief and satisfaction, and in an instant, she stood up and ran toward him. Without hesitation, she enveloped Ryuu in a tight embrace, tears streaming down her cheeks. Ryuu was momentarily startled by her sudden display of affection, but he didn''t say anything, feeling her emotional outpouring. "RYUU-KUN!!! THANK GOD YOU''RE ALRIGHT!" Ryoko exclaimed joyfully, her voice choked with emotion as the tears continued to flow. "Ryoko-san, I''m fine. There''s no need to cry. Please, calm down," Ryuu reassured her, gently patting her back to soothe her distress. As she held him tightly, Ryuu''s cheeks began to warm, and he whispered. "Umm, Ryoko-san, you see... you''re holding me very tightly." Realizing her grip, Ryoko quickly pulled away, her face flushed crimson. "I-I''m so sorry! I didn''t mean to make you uncomfortable. I was just really worried about you as a friend. Please don''t misunderstand my intentions!" Her words tumbled out in a flurry, and she felt heat rising to her cheeks. Both of them stood there, blushing furiously, as the awkwardness of the moment settled around them. "I-it''s getting late. S-should we head back to the dorms?" Ryuu suggested, attempting to change the subject. "Y-yes, let''s go," Ryoko agreed, relieved to move on. Together, they made their way back inside the dormitory, the silence now filled with a sense of camaraderie. As they arrived at Ryoko''s door, she paused. "This is my room. See you tomorrow, Ryuu-kun."This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. "Yes, see you tomorrow. I should head back to my room now," Ryuu replied, turning to leave. But just as he was about to step away, he stopped and turned back to her. "Ryoko-san!... Thank you for waiting and being so worried about me," Ryuu said, a bright smile lighting up his face. Ryoko''s heart skipped a beat at his words, her cheeks glowing even brighter as she managed a shy smile in return. "N-no problem, Ryuu-kun. It''s what friends do." "Alright then, I''ll see you later!" Ryuu said, waving before he headed to his own room, and Ryoko slipped into hers. The starry night passed, and the morning sun began to rise, painting the sky in hues of gold and orange. Today marked the first day of training, and Ryuu was still peacefully sleeping when an abrupt, loud voice shattered the tranquility. "RYUU!! Get up already! It''s time for breakfast! If you don''t wake up now, we''re both going to be hungry!" Seichii shouted from the other side of the room, his voice echoing with urgency. Startled, Ryuu bolted upright in bed, his heart racing. "It''s morning already?! I''m going to be late again!" he exclaimed, rushing to get ready. Both Ryuu and Seichii hurried through their morning routines, racing against time. After a flurry of activity, they made their way to the cafeteria. Once they entered the bustling cafeteria, they scanned the room for familiar faces. It didn''t take long for them to spot Ryoko and Masumi seated at a corner table, enjoying their breakfast together. "Good morning!! Ryoko-san, Sakaguchi-san!" Ryuu called out cheerfully as he and Seichii approached them. Ryoko looked up and beamed at them. "Good morning! Ryuu-kun, Seichii-kun! Come, join us for breakfast. Did you two sleep well?" Masumi, sitting quietly at the table, glanced up nervously but remained silent. Seichii, ever the extrovert, noticed her unease and decided to engage her. "Masumi-san! How are you? Did you sleep well?" Seichii asked with an excited grin, genuinely interested. Masumi jumped slightly at his sudden question, her eyes widening. "O-oh, S-Seichii-kun! G-good morning. I-I''m fine, thank you. How are you?" she stammered, her voice trembling as she tried to meet his gaze. Her face flushed with embarrassment as she felt guilty for not being able to respond more confidently. (I''m useless!!! I can''t even talk to people properly. Everyone tries to talk to me nicely, but I can''t even answer back to them. Why can''t I make eye contact with new people? Just why was I born this way?) The thought spiraled in her mind, overwhelming her as she fought back tears. Just then, a handkerchief appeared in front of her, breaking her reverie. "Masumi-san, I know you haven''t opened up to us yet, but I want to tell you one thing: you are our friend. You can talk to us normally without hesitation," Seichii said, his voice calm and encouraging. "I don''t know the reason why it''s hard for you to talk to new people, but I do know that you want to make friends and have fun, just like everyone else." Masumi looked up at him, stunned by his kindness. No one had ever spoken to her like this before. "So if you want to do anything or need help, just let us know. We''re here for you, your friends. I believe you are a very kind person, so trust in us," Seichii continued, offering her a bright, warm smile. "T-thank you! Seichii-kun," Masumi replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you to you too, Ryoko-san, Ryuu-kun, for being friends with someone like me. T-thank you, really, thank you." Tears streamed down her cheeks as she felt the warmth of their support enveloping her. "There, there, Masumi-san. Now stop crying; we''re happy to be your friends too. So let''s all enjoy breakfast together before it gets too late," Ryoko encouraged, patting Masumi''s back gently. As they all sat down at the table, laughter and chatter began to fill the air. Just then, a voice from behind them piped up, teasingly, "Oh! You have quite good friends, don''t you, Masumi-san?" A Special Bond "You''ve got yourself quite a few friends, don''t you, Masumi-san~?" A teasing voice broke the moment, causing all four friends to turn their heads in surprise. They saw Nagamine Meiko strutting toward them, a smirk plastered across her face. Beside her was Kawamura Hibino, his expression equally disdainful. "You must be thrilled to have found some other losers you can call friends. Aha ha ha," Meiko taunted, her laughter ringing with mockery as she directed her insults at Masumi and her companions. Ryoko''s anger began to simmer beneath the surface at Meiko''s hurtful words. Ryuu noticed her tense posture and felt the atmosphere shift as frustration brewed. "Now you don''t have to roam around lonely like you used to at school. Ha ha!" Hibino added, his tone dripping with sarcasm. That was the last straw for Ryoko. Her anger surged, and she was ready to lash out. "HOW INCOMPETENT¡ª" Before she could finish, Masumi interjected, her voice surprisingly bright. "Nagamine-san! Kawamura-san, you''re finally here! I wanted to meet you both since yesterday. Look, I got selected to join the training session! I''m so happy to be in the same division as you two!" Everyone froze, taken aback by Masumi''s unexpected reaction. Despite the insults hurled at her, she was smiling, filled with genuine excitement. Ryuu, Seichii, and Ryoko exchanged incredulous glances. Masumi, usually so reserved, was speaking so confidently and cheerfully¡ªit was as if they were witnessing a whole new side of her. "Hey! Why are you so happy? We''re here badmouthing you, and you''re talking to us while smiling. This is why you didn''t get any friends in school; you''re really weird," Meiko scoffed, her disdain palpable. "I can''t stay with you guys here; I''m going to the training area." With that, Meiko turned to leave, her expression twisted into a smug grin. Masumi, however, noticed and couldn''t help but smile brightly in return.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. As Meiko and Hibino walked away, Ryuu, Seichii, and Ryoko stood there, still in shock, staring at Masumi. The realization of how she had behaved struck Masumi, and she felt embarrassed. "I-I''m s-sorry! They both are my seniors from elementary school, so I think I can talk properly in front of them. Even if they don''t show it, b-both of them have always been kind to me. Only those two have ever cared for me at school. So please, don''t think poorly of them," she pleaded, bowing her head slightly. "Masumi-san, you don''t have to apologize. We can see in your eyes how much you adore those two," Seichii reassured her with a warm smile. Hearing his words made Masumi feel lighter, and she smiled back, gratitude shining in her eyes. Ryuu stood to the side, his expression encouraging. Only Ryoko maintained a cold, calculating look, still simmering from the earlier confrontation. After some time, the cafeteria closed, and the four friends made their way outside. They were headed toward the training area when a striking figure approached them. A handsome middle-aged man with blue hair, as deep and vibrant as the sea, exuded a calm aura reminiscent of an ocean breeze. "Aramiya-kun! You''re here! I''ve been searching for you everywhere. Did you have breakfast properly?" The man called out, his voice smooth and friendly. Ryuu blinked in confusion, not quite understanding why this man was looking for him. He recognized him as none other than Morishita Shigeru, a renowned scholar and educator. "Ryuu-kun, who is this guy?" Ryoko asked, curiosity mingling with suspicion. Her glare at Shigeru was sharp enough to cut through steel. Shigeru noticed her reaction and offered a warm smile. "I see you have a very beautiful companion here, Aramiya-kun. Young lady, don''t worry. I''m not going to steal your boyfriend away from you. I''m merely his teacher. I would like to request your permission to be his mentor as well." Ryoko''s face ignited in a fiery blush, her emotions swirling as she tried to hide behind Ryuu. He was equally flustered, not having expected Shigeru''s comment. The awkward tension only confused Shigeru further. "M-master! W-we''re just friends. T-there''s nothing romantic between me and Ryoko-san! She is one of my best friends. Please don''t misunderstand!" Ryuu stammered, his cheeks bright red as he tried to clarify their relationship. "Aha ha ha! My apologies! I misunderstood. I don''t know why, but I sensed a special bond between you two, something I''ve rarely felt before. So, I assumed you were a couple. Please forgive my carelessness," Shigeru chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. However, his mind began to race with thoughts. (There''s definitely a unique bond between these two. I have never encountered such a connection before. It feels as if the DEVAS themselves have destined these two for each other. I must observe them more closely.) "M-master! You don''t need to bow or apologize to us. How can a master bow to his student? Please, raise your head high," Ryuu insisted, startled by the formality. Shigeru lifted his head, placing a reassuring hand on Ryuu''s shoulder. "You truly are a noble and kind soul, Aramiya-kun. I have no doubt that one day, you will make history." "I''m honored to hear that from you, master," Ryuu replied, his voice steady but filled with reverence. Ryoko, Seichii, and Masumi were left dumbfounded, trying to process why Ryuu was calling this man his master. "Ryuu-kun, who is this man, and why are you calling him your master?" Ryoko finally asked, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Oh! I''m so sorry! I should have introduced myself first¡ªhow disrespectful of me. I am Morishita Shigeru. I study the nature of this world and its intricacies. I was given the honor of teaching Aramiya-kun in this training session by the president of the Board of Education. It''s a pleasure to meet such promising young talents of our country," Shigeru explained, his tone warm and inviting. All three friends stared at him in astonishment. They had heard of Morishita Shigeru, the most esteemed scholar in the nation. The fact that they were meeting him in person felt surreal. "Master, these are my friends. The girl by my side is Tatsuno Ryoko, the boy over there is Sengoku Seichii, and the girl beside him is Sakaguchi Masumi," Ryuu introduced, his voice filled with pride. "Nice to meet you, sir!!" they all exclaimed in unison, bowing deeply out of respect. "Ah! There''s no need for young talents like you to bow to me. I''m just an ordinary person, so please, stand back up," Shigeru replied, his voice warm and humble. They rose back to their feet, still reeling from the realization that they were conversing with one of the country''s finest minds. "But master, why were you looking for me?" Ryuu asked, curiosity piquing as he wondered about the purpose of Shigeru''s visit.... A Secret Location!? "But Master, why were you looking for me?" Ryuu asked, concern threading through his voice as his brow furrowed. Shigeru turned to face him, his expression calm but his tone firm. "Did you forget already? Today marks the beginning of your special training." He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "What else would I be doing but searching for you everywhere?" Before Ryuu could respond, Ryoko, who had been silently watching, interjected with a sharp glare. "If he was supposed to be practicing at the training grounds with everyone else, wouldn''t he already be there? You could have just taken him with you." Shigeru chuckled softly, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Little girl," he began, his voice filled with the patience of a seasoned master, "if Ryuu were meant to train alongside the others, I wouldn''t have taken him on as my disciple." He turned his gaze to the sky, the sun casting a warm glow on his weathered face. "Ryuu must experience the highs and lows of nature, the ebb and flow of life itself. Only in solitude can he truly understand his magic. This journey is about more than strength¡ªit''s about finding the connection between himself and the world around him." Ryoko frowned, her heart heavy with unease as she listened. She cared deeply for Ryuu, and the idea of him venturing into unknown territory for this "special" training filled her with doubt. Shigeru, sensing her concern, smiled warmly. "I can see how much you care for him, but you have nothing to worry about, little girl. I wouldn''t harm him¡ªhe''s far too important for that." Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. He laughed, his voice deep and reassuring. "Besides, if I can''t handle training a young man like Ryuu, what kind of master would I be?" A slight blush crept up Ryoko''s cheeks, though she felt her worries ease a bit. "Master," Ryuu spoke up, his curiosity piqued. "what is this special training area you mentioned?" Shigeru''s smile widened, but he maintained his air of mystery. "You''ll see soon enough. It''s not far from here." Without further explanation, he turned and began walking, calling back over his shoulder, "Come along, Aramiya-kun. Our training awaits." "Yes, Master!" Ryuu answered, determination replacing the earlier confusion. As they headed toward the distant mountains, Ryoko stood behind, watching their retreating figures. She clenched her fists slightly. (Just wait a little longer, Ryuu-kun. I will grow stronger, and I''ll make you remember everything. Just be patient with me.) Meanwhile, Ryoko, Seichii, and Masumi made their way to the training grounds when an obnoxiously familiar voice called from behind them. "Ryoko-san!" Rajin, swaggering towards them with his division members in tow, smirked as he approached. "What a coincidence! We''re also heading to the training area. Guess it''s fate we crossed paths, huh?" Ryoko''s eye twitched in irritation, and Seichii rolled his eyes. (Of all the people¡­) Rajin continued, his voice dripping with mockery. "By the way, where''s Aramiya-kun? Don''t tell me he got kicked out of training on the first day? Ha! I was looking forward to showing him who''s boss." Ryoko felt her temper flare, but before she could respond, Seichii stepped forward, his voice cold and cutting. "Ryuu isn''t training with the others because he''s a rare talent¡ªa talent that no one else can teach." Rajin''s smile faltered, his arrogance giving way to a flicker of anger. "Hmph. We''ll see who''s the real talent by the end of the month." With a final sneer, he turned and strode off, but not before Ryoko shot him a venomous glare. Her hands itched to wipe that smug look off his face. "Let it go, Ryoko-san," Seichii urged quietly. "We''ll deal with him during the inter-division battles." Ryoko sighed, her anger simmering down. "Yeah, you''re right. Let''s just focus on our training for now." Together, the three of them entered the training grounds, determined to put Rajin out of their minds. Meanwhile, Ryuu and Shigeru were trekking through the dense mountain woods. Ryuu''s legs were burning, his breath coming in ragged gasps. "M-Master¡­ h-how much longer do we have to climb like this? I can barely move¡­" Shigeru glanced back with a knowing smile. "Aramiya-kun, this is part of the training. To understand the essence of magic, one must first become one with the world. Strength is born from perseverance, and perseverance comes from knowing your limits¡ªand then surpassing them." Ryuu, though exhausted, felt a surge of inspiration from Shigeru''s words. He pushed through the pain, his determination renewed. After what felt like an eternity, they finally reached a clearing. The sound of rushing water filled the air, and as Ryuu stepped forward, his breath caught in his throat. Before him lay a breathtaking scene¡ªa secluded glade surrounded by towering trees, bathed in sunlight. A crystal-clear river cut through the middle, its waters sparkling like diamonds. "This," Shigeru said, spreading his arms wide, "is where your special training begins." Ryuu stared in awe, the sheer beauty of the place leaving him speechless. His fatigue vanished as a sense of wonder filled his heart. "M-Master¡­ t-this place¡­ it''s¡­" "Magnificent, isn''t it?" Shigeru grinned. "But don''t get too comfortable. The real challenge is yet to begin." "Echoes of the Heavenly Valley: Ryuus Awakening "M-Master! T-this is¡­ this is beautiful!!" Ryuu''s eyes sparkled with awe, as though he had just stepped into a dream. He turned slowly, taking in every detail, his breath catching in his throat. Shigeru chuckled softly, watching his disciple''s amazement. "Yes, it does feel like heaven, doesn''t it?" They stood in a lush valley, surrounded by towering trees with vibrant green leaves and bright flowers blooming in every corner. The sky stretched endlessly, a brilliant shade of blue, and a river wound its way down the mountains, flowing toward the distant city. In the heart of this paradise stood a magnificent maple tree, its branches spreading wide like a natural canopy. Atop the tree, a treehouse was nestled, blending perfectly with the environment, as if the Devas themselves had once lived here. "You could say this is my little heaven," Shigeru said, his voice softer now. "I found this place when I was just a kid, not much older than you." Ryuu glanced up, intrigued by the sudden nostalgia in his master''s voice. "I still remember it clearly. I was searching for herbs in the mountains for my research. I got so caught up in my work that I didn''t notice the sky turning dark. By the time I realized, it was pitch black, and I had no idea where I was." Shigeru''s eyes took on a distant look as he continued, his tone becoming more reflective. "I was lost, terrified. I couldn''t move. I just sat down and started crying, not knowing what to do." Ryuu felt a pang of sympathy, but he listened closely as Shigeru''s expression softened. "That''s when I heard it¡ªthe sound of a girl laughing. When I opened my eyes, there she was. A girl, about my age, standing in front of me with the most radiant smile I''d ever seen. It felt like she was saying, "It''s okay. I''m here now. There''s no need to worry.''"If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Shigeru smiled fondly, his voice warm with the memory. "That was the first time in my life I felt like I didn''t belong to this world, like I was part of something¡­ different. She reached out her hand, and I took it without hesitation. She didn''t say a word, not the whole time, but I followed her. She led me here, to this very spot. Just like you, I was stunned. It was like she had brought me to heaven." Ryuu''s eyes were wide with fascination. "And¡­ the treehouse?" Shigeru nodded. "She pointed to the treehouse and finally spoke. Her voice¡­ it was like music. She said, ''That''s my home. Would you like to come with me?''" Ryuu blinked in disbelief. "She invited you to her home¡­ in the middle of the night?" Shigeru laughed. "Yes. I was just a boy, and of course, my face turned beet red. But I was so tired and hungry that I didn''t care. I followed her up to the treehouse, where she gave me water and fruit. I ate like a starving animal. When I finished, I was so exhausted that I fell asleep immediately." "And when you woke up?" Ryuu asked eagerly. Shigeru sighed, his smile fading slightly. "When I woke up, she was gone. The morning sun was shining, but the treehouse was empty. I searched everywhere, but I couldn''t find her. So, I followed the river down the mountain and made my way home. My family had been worried sick, but all I could think about was that girl." Ryuu leaned forward. "Did you ever see her again?" Shigeru''s eyes twinkled. "Oh, I did. I went back to the mountain every day, hoping to find her again. For two months, she never appeared. I started to lose hope. But then, one day, I reached the clearing¡­ and there she was, sitting by the river, watching the fish swim by. My heart nearly jumped out of my chest. She noticed me standing there like an idiot and smiled, brighter than the sun. That''s when I knew¡­ this girl, Yokoyama Akiko, was special. She was the fairy of my life." Ryuu was captivated by the story. "So¡­ you visited her often?" Shigeru nodded. "Every day. She would wait for me by the river, and we''d spend time together. She told me about her lonely life in the city, her absent parents, and how she found solace in this place, surrounded by nature. This valley, this treehouse, and Akiko became a part of my heart." Ryuu''s voice was soft with admiration. "Master, what happened to her? Where is she now?" Shigeru''s expression shifted, his eyes dimming with a hint of sorrow. Ryuu immediately regretted asking. "M-Master, you don''t have to answer. I didn''t mean to bring up painful memories¡ª" Shigeru interrupted with a soft smile. "She''s my wife now." Ryuu froze, his jaw hanging open. "W-what?! She''s your wife?! Then why did you get all sad when I asked about her?!" Shigeru let out a hearty laugh. "Oh, it''s just the realization of how fast time has passed. We were just kids, and now we''re adults. Life goes by so quickly." Ryuu dropped to the ground in exaggerated despair. "What! I want my sympathy back! I can''t believe this!" Shigeru smiled down at him. "Alright, alright. It''s my fault for being dramatic. Now get up. We have training to start. And by the way, my wife''s here. She''ll be helping with the training too." Ryuu shot to his feet, surprised. "Wait, what?! Where is she?" Before Shigeru could respond, a voice called out from behind them. "Honey! You''re here!" Shigeru grinned. "Oh, there she is." Ryuu spun around to see a beautiful woman approaching, her smile as radiant as the day Shigeru had first met her. "You must be Aramiya-kun," Akiko said warmly. "I''ve heard so much about you. Shall we begin your training?" Ryuu stood there, utterly speechless. Yokohama Akiko "Honey!! You''re here!" A firm yet warm voice echoed behind them. Ryuu and Shigeru turned around to see a woman standing there, radiating an ethereal presence. Her silky golden hair cascaded down her chest like liquid sunlight, and her dark brown eyes shimmered like the very essence of nature itself. Sunlight danced upon her, making her appear as if she was the spirit of the forest, with butterflies flitting around her, gently landing on her outstretched fingers. Her bright smile seemed to hold the warmth of the entire world. "M-Master... Is she... really your wife?!" Ryuu''s voice trembled in disbelief. He couldn''t fathom how his scruffy, laid-back master could possibly be married to someone who looked like a living fairy. Shigeru noticed Ryuu''s stunned expression and sighed, giving him a side-eye. "What? Do you think I''m not worthy of a wife like her?" Ryuu, still wide-eyed, didn''t hesitate for even a moment before answering bluntly. "Yes." Shigeru''s face turned dumbfounded, his eyebrow twitching in mild irritation. He looked away, pretending not to care, but his pride was clearly a little wounded. Meanwhile, Ryuu was still reeling from the sight of his master''s wife, trying to wrap his head around the fact that this goddess-like woman was married to Shigeru. The woman¡ªAkiko¡ªbegan to walk toward them with a grace that made the butterflies follow her every step as if she were their queen. Her presence was serene, like she was part of the very nature around her. Suddenly, she broke into a sprint, rushing toward Ryuu, who immediately panicked and stiffened in place. "W-what''s happening?!" Ryuu thought as he instinctively raised his arms in a feeble attempt to protect himself. He shut his eyes tightly, expecting some kind of intense magic training to begin. But instead of feeling pain or pressure, he felt something warm. Akiko wrapped him in a tight hug, her bright smile never fading. "Honey! Is this the boy we''re going to train!? He''s so cute!!" she exclaimed, squeezing Ryuu so tightly that he struggled to breathe. "A-akiko!" Shigeru called out, alarmed by the sight. "You''re going to choke the poor kid! Let him go before you suffocate him!" If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Akiko gasped and quickly released Ryuu, her face filled with guilt and worry. "Oh my! I''m so sorry, little one! Are you okay? I got a little too excited..." Ryuu stumbled backward, gasping for breath as he tried to regain his composure. His face was flushed, and his heart was racing from both the hug and the sudden realization that he was nearly crushed to death by a beautiful woman. "I-I... I''m a-alright. Khu khu..." Ryuu managed to cough out between deep breaths. Akiko crouched down and patted him on the back. "Oh, dear, I really am sorry! I didn''t mean to¡ª" Shigeru sighed and placed a hand on his forehead, clearly exasperated. "Aramiya-kun, I apologize for my wife''s... enthusiasm. She''s not used to seeing anyone else up here except for me. Please, forgive her." Ryuu, still catching his breath, looked up at Akiko, who was beaming at him with the same dazzling smile as before. He couldn''t stay upset, not when someone so kind and radiant was apologizing. "N-nice to meet you, Akiko-san. I''m Aramiya Ryuu. I''ll be in your care from now on," Ryuu said with a polite bow, despite his lingering shock. "Oh, my!" Akiko giggled, gently patting Ryuu''s head. "What a sweet boy. You''re in good hands with us." Shigeru, now more composed, clapped his hands together. "Alright, now that we''ve all met, let''s get started with the special training. Akiko will be helping us as well." Ryuu blinked in surprise. "Wait... Akiko-san is going to train me too?" "Of course!" Shigeru said with a grin. "My wife is not just here for decoration, you know. She''s a powerful magic user in her own right, and she''ll be guiding you through some of the more advanced techniques." Before Ryuu could fully process this, Akiko cheerfully added, "I''ll make sure you''re the strongest warrior by the time we''re done, little one!" The trio laughed together, excitement building as they prepared for the training that lay ahead. . . . . Back at the training grounds, Ryoko sat beside Seichii and Masumi, her eyes distant as she stared up at the sky, lost in thought. (Why do I feel this strange sensation all of a sudden?) "Oko-san! Ryoko-san! Can you hear me?" Seichii''s voice broke through her reverie. He waved his hand in front of her face, trying to snap her out of her daydream. "Oh! It''s you, Seichii-kun. Yes, I can hear you," Ryoko replied absentmindedly, her expression still distant. Seichii sighed, then grinned mischievously. "What were you thinking about so deeply, huh? Let me guess... you were thinking about Ryuu?" Ryoko''s face flushed crimson, and she shot Seichii an embarrassed glare. Seichii chuckled softly, clearly enjoying her reaction. "Haa, how lucky is that fool, Ryuu," Seichii sighed dramatically. "To have someone like you thinking about him so much... Ah, why didn''t the gods bless me with that kind of luck?" He slumped to the ground in mock despair, while Masumi, who had been silently watching, averted her gaze with a slight blush on her cheeks. (Masumi, stop thinking like that. You''re not in Sengoku-kun''s league. He''s always so confident, kind, and friendly to everyone... and look at you. He''d never¡ª) Before she could finish her thought, a loud alarm blared across the training area, startling the trio. They exchanged confused looks before rushing toward the sound. When they arrived at the main grounds, they found the head instructor, along with the senior officers. Standing in front of a large assembly of students, each one lined up in their respective divisions. The chief instructor stepped forward, his commanding voice cutting through the murmurs of the gathered students. "Good morning, students! As of today, your official training session begins," He announced, his voice carrying across the field. "For the next month, you will undergo intense training to strengthen your abilities. Each division will compete to prove their strength, and only the best will be recognized. Prepare yourselves¡ªthis will be a trial like no other." Ryoko, Seichii, and Masumi stood at attention, the weight of the upcoming challenges settling in. Ryoko, however, couldn''t shake the strange feeling that had been growing inside her. (Stay safe, Ryuu. Whatever training you''re undergoing, I hope you''re ready for what lies ahead... because I''ll be waiting for you.) . . . Back in the mountains, Ryuu and his new mentors stood before the great maple tree, ready to begin. The peaceful surroundings masked the intensity of what was to come. The real battle was about to begin, not just against demons¡ªbut within himself. "Let''s begin," Shigeru declared, the air around them crackling with anticipation..... The ATSURAS! The Chief Officer stood tall, his voice echoing across the training grounds as the students listened with rapt attention. His imposing figure commanded respect, and the serious expressions on the faces of every student showed they understood the weight of the moment. "Dear students," The Chief began, his deep voice booming, "as we all know, the war between the human and demon civilizations is a tale etched into our history¡ªa conflict that ended five centuries ago. Humans stood victorious, but not without the aid of the divine beings known as the DEVAS. It was their intervention that ensured the safety and future of all living creatures on this planet." His voice lowered, adding a somber tone. "However, due to the cunning and unimaginable power of the demon lord, Ravana. Even the DEVAS were unable to completely eradicate the demon race. The demons, though weakened, persisted. To ensure that humanity could protect itself against future threats, the DEVAS bestowed upon us legendary weapons, forged in the heart of their own divine power: the Atsura." The mere mention of the Atsura sent a shiver through the students. These were not mere weapons; they were living legends, forces capable of shaking the earth itself. "The Atsura are nine weapons, each more terrifying than the last, entrusted to the strongest humans of the past. These weapons, passed down through generations, were intended to guard humanity and the balance of the world. Now, let me tell you about each one." The Chief Officer''s eyes gleamed as he began recounting the details of these fabled tools of destruction and protection. "First, the mythical sword that houses the deadliest lightning known to man, the black lightning itself. This weapon was entrusted to humanity by the God of Lightning and is known as Claiotsura, the Sword of Lightning." He continued, the intensity of his voice rising. "Then we have the spiked flail, capable of shattering the very earth in two with a single strike. Entrusted by the God of Land, this is Oritsura, the Flail of Destruction." The students were wide-eyed as the Chief described each weapon, their awe growing with every word. "The heavenly bow, as pure and white as ice but stronger than diamonds, was given by the God of Ice. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. This is Sharatsura, the Bow of Miracles." "Next, the navy-blue spear, calm like still waters but as fierce as the mightiest tsunami. Entrusted by the God of Water, this is Gurentsura, the Spear of the Ocean." "The hammer, burning hot as the sun and fierce as a lion, entrusted by the God of Fire. This is Sharutsura, the Hammer of the Scorching Lion." "The Scythe of Darkness, Harupetsura, granted by the God of Death, capable of reanimating the dead themselves." "The wand, capable of bending dreams into reality and turning reality into mere dreams, given by the God of Creation. This is Spectsura, the Wand of Nightmares." "And finally, the strongest of them all, the Atsura entrusted by the God Shiruna¡ªthe weapon that can rend space itself, capable of both creation and destruction. This is the Buramatsura, the weapon that shapes and reshapes existence." The students'' breath caught at the description of Buramatsura, the most fearsome weapon ever to exist. The legend was so great that even speaking its name brought an air of reverence and fear. "These weapons," The Chief continued, his voice deepening. "Were entrusted to humanity to ensure we could defend ourselves against the demons. However, with great power comes great greed. The families who inherited the Atsura gained immense fame and influence, and soon, that power turned them against each other." He paused, his gaze sweeping over the crowd of students. "Wars erupted between humans, as they fought to claim the Atsura for themselves. During these bloody conflicts, three of the most powerful Atsura¡ªSharatsura, Spectsura, and Buramatsura¡ªwere lost. Whether the earth swallowed them whole or the heavens spirited them away, no one knows. They vanished as if they never existed." His voice took on a grim edge. "To prevent further bloodshed and protect the remaining six Atsura, the organization known as Delian was formed. The Atsura were gathered and sealed under Delian''s protection. But remember this: each Atsura has a spirit of its own. It will not grant its full power unless the spirit of the weapon bonds with the spirit of its wielder. Only through that bond can a wielder unlock the true strength of an Atsura." The students remained silent, absorbing the weight of what they had just heard. "In the modern age," the Chief went on, "only one person has been able to forge a true bond with an Atsura. But I believe that each of you has the potential to become a true wielder. You are the future of our country and of humanity itself." With that, the Chief Officer concluded his speech. "The special training session will begin now," he announced. "May you all strive to earn your place among the great warriors of the past." The Chief stepped down from the platform, leaving the students buzzing with excitement and renewed determination. They watched him return to his cabin with the other officers, and then, in their respective divisions, began heading back to their training areas. Ryoko, Seichii, and Masumi gathered in a corner of the field. They were discussing the speech when suddenly Hibino and Meiko appeared in front of them, strolling over with confident smirks. Masumi''s eyes lit up, and she sprinted towards Meiko, throwing her arms around her in a tight hug. "MEIKO!" she cried, her face beaming with excitement. "WHAT THE HELL?!" Meiko shouted in disgust, struggling to free herself. "WHY ARE YOU CLINGING TO ME LIKE THIS? GET OFF!" Masumi recoiled, her expression falling. She let go and backed away, her head hanging low in disappointment. A sudden chill swept through the air. Masumi glanced up to see Ryoko standing nearby, her eyes cold and sharp, locking onto Hibino and Meiko. Her killing intent was palpable, sending an icy shiver down their spines. "Have you both forgotten about yesterday?" Ryoko''s voice was low, filled with menace. "How dare you treat Masumi-san like that when she''s shown you more kindness than any of us ever have? YOU BOTH DESERVE TO DIE!" Her words were like daggers. As she stepped closer, a glowing ice sword formed in her hand, crackling with raw energy. Hibino and Meiko froze in terror as Ryoko closed the distance in an instant. The blade hovered mere centimeters from their necks, its cold edge sending a sharp sting into their skin. Hibino stepped in front of Meiko, shielding her with his body, but the sword remained poised to strike. Both closed their eyes, bracing for the end. Then, suddenly, a large hand grasped the blade, stopping it in its tracks. A loud, booming voice came from behind them. "Now, now, students. Be careful. I may be old, but I can still dodge your attacks easily." A figure emerged from behind them. Ryoko''s expression shifted as she recognized the man who had intervened.... Nishikawa Teuro A man in his forties blocked Ryoko''s attack with one hand, his fingers firmly gripping the icy blade. The sheer force of his effortless defense sent a wave of shock through Ryoko. Her ice sword, a weapon infused with elemental magic, should have been nearly impossible to stop, especially with bare hands. "My bones might be old, but I think I still got something left in me, ha-ha-ha," The man chuckled, his laughter hearty and unbothered. Ryoko blinked, still stunned by the ease with which this man had deflected her assault. She quickly retracted her sword, the cold energy dissipating into the air as she took a step back. Her mind raced as she tried to process what had just happened. "Kid," the man said with an amused grin. "I have to admit, you''re quite the tough one. I didn''t think a kid like you could unleash such strong magic. I''ve never seen anyone so young capable of summoning an elemental blade¡ªespecially one with such pure energy. No wonder they gave you an S-rank." His words were filled with both admiration and intrigue, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of respect and curiosity. Ryoko''s usual cold, composed demeanor cracked for a brief moment as she tried to piece together her thoughts. But she quickly regained her composure, her face settling back into its familiar stern expression. She stared at the man, her sharp eyes narrowing in suspicion. "Mister," she said, her voice calm but with a hint of challenge. "who exactly are you?" "Oh, right!" the man exclaimed, as if suddenly remembering something important. "Where are my manners? I should''ve introduced myself sooner." He gave a slight bow, his jovial tone contrasting with the tension of the moment. "I''m Nishikawa Teuro, the teacher of the Fourth Division." The moment his name left his lips, everyone around them froze in disbelief. Nishikawa Teuro?! Ryoko''s eyes widened slightly. She had heard of him¡ªa legendary figure in the magical world. Teuro was known as a top-tier A-rank magic user, famous not only for his skill but also for his ability to teach some of the most promising young magicians at the Association. That''s why he was able to block my attack so easily. Ryoko thought, her pride wounded but her respect for the man increasing. Even someone as strong as me¡­ I''m still not strong enough to protect Ryuu-kun. I need to restore my power, and quickly. Her mind drifted to Ryuu, her heart tightening with the burden of her unfulfilled promise. She had to protect him, to help him remember who he truly was. Her eyes, once filled with cold resolve, now reflected a mix of sorrow and determination. Before she could delve deeper into her thoughts, Teuro clapped his hands together, breaking the tension. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. "Alright, kids! Let''s not waste any more time. The training session starts now!" Teuro was bursting with energy, practically bouncing as he began leading the group towards the training grounds. Ryoko, Seichii, Masumi, and the rest of the students exchanged glances, their faces a mix of confusion and disbelief. Is this guy really a teacher? they all thought simultaneously, letting out exasperated sighs as they followed the overly enthusiastic Teuro. . . . Meanwhile, deep in the mountain forests, Ryuu was following Shigeru and Akiko through the dense trees. They had been walking for a while, weaving through the labyrinthine pathways of the forest until they arrived at a secluded clearing. The air was thick with the scent of pine and earth, and towering trees encircled the area like ancient sentinels. In the center of the clearing stood a massive boulder, weathered and worn by the elements, yet still imposing. Ryuu scratched his head, utterly confused. "Master, what is this place? And¡­ why is there a giant rock just sitting in the middle?" Shigeru turned to him, a bright smile spreading across his face. "This is part of your training." Ryuu''s eyebrows furrowed. Training? With a boulder? He couldn''t make sense of it. "A rock¡­ for training? What does a rock have to do with magic?" "Ah, Aramiya-kun," Shigeru began, his voice taking on a more serious, contemplative tone. "Nature is the birth giver of all life. Humans, animals, even demons¡ªthey all come from nature. It is the mother of everything. Every phenomenon in the world, from the changing of the seasons to the rising tides, is the work of nature." Ryuu listened, his confusion slowly turning into curiosity. "Magic is also a gift of nature. The elements we command, the energies we wield¡ªthey come from nature itself. To truly understand magic, you must first understand nature. You must become one with it. When you do, your magic will become clear to you, and you will finally comprehend your own powers." Shigeru''s voice grew softer, almost blending into the sounds of the forest. It was as if he was not just speaking of nature¡ªhe was part of it. Ryuu realized he could no longer sense Shigeru''s presence. It was like the man had dissolved into the forest itself. "You see," Shigeru continued "When I was your age, I was considered a failure. I couldn''t understand my magical powers. I was a lowly F-rank magician, ridiculed by others in this world where magic is everything. I thought I had no place here. But instead of giving up, I sought knowledge. I studied magic not to wield it, but to understand it. I immersed myself in nature, and over time, I learned that even if I couldn''t cast the most powerful spells, I could still teach others. That is how I found my purpose." Ryuu was silent, absorbing Shigeru''s words. The older man''s wisdom struck him deeply. "It was nature that led me to meet Akiko," Shigeru added with a smile, his eyes softening as he glanced at his wife. Akiko, standing nearby, blushed slightly, her usual composure faltering. "H-hey! Don''t say things like that in front of Aramiya-kun! What kind of impression do you want to give him?" Ryuu, flustered by Akiko''s sudden outburst, stammered. "Ah, don''t worry about me! I''ll¡­ just close my eyes!" He quickly covered his eyes with his hands, causing Akiko to blush even more. Shigeru burst into laughter, his booming voice echoing through the clearing. "Ha-ha-ha! Aramiya-kun, you''re quite the funny kid!" Ryuu, still covering his eyes, couldn''t help but chuckle along with Shigeru. The lighthearted moment broke some of the tension, and the three of them shared a brief moment of laughter. However, Akiko quickly regained her composure and cleared her throat. "Alright, enough joking around. It''s getting late. Let''s start the training." Shigeru nodded, his smile fading as his expression turned serious once more. "You''re right. It''s time." Akiko stepped forward, her gaze fixed on the massive boulder in the center of the clearing. She extended her hand, placing her palm flat against the stone''s surface. In an instant, the air around her shifted. A powerful aura began to gather, swirling leaves and flower petals toward her like a cyclone. The natural energy coalesced around her, humming with raw power. With a single, graceful motion, Akiko directed the gathered leaves and petals toward the boulder. The moment they touched the surface, the enormous stone shattered into countless tiny fragments, scattering across the clearing like dust. Ryuu''s jaw dropped in disbelief. He had never seen anything like it. The sheer precision and power of Akiko''s magic were astonishing. Even seasoned captains of the defense forces would struggle to accomplish such a feat, yet Akiko had done it effortlessly¡ªwith mere leaves and petals. Akiko returned to Shigeru''s side, a proud smile on her face. "See? I''m still strong enough to be a defense force captain." Shigeru chuckled, patting her head. "That''s my wife for you. Strong and lively as ever." Ryuu could only stare in awe, admiration for Akiko''s strength filling his heart. "That was wind magic," Shigeru explained. "Akiko and I have spent our lives immersed in nature, and over time, she has mastered the art of wind manipulation. Her control is so precise that she can tear apart a boulder with the help of mere leaves." Ryuu''s eyes widened. He had never heard of wind magic being used in such a way. It was beyond anything he could have imagined. Shigeru''s tone turned serious as he addressed Ryuu. "Aramiya-kun, your training begins now. Your task is to tear that boulder apart, just as Akiko did." Ryuu''s eyes darted to the remnants of the shattered boulder, his heart racing. "M-Master, how am I supposed to do that? I don''t even know what my magical ability is!" Shigeru smiled gently, his eyes filled with confidence. "But Aramiya-kun, don''t you already possess fire element magic?".... Dual Elements!? "But Aramiya-kun, don''t you have fire magic?" Shigeru asked Ryuu with a small but knowing smile. Ryuu blinked, startled by the question, confusion flashing across his face. "M-master, I... I don''t have the fire element," Ryuu stammered, scratching his head awkwardly. "I don''t even know what element I have." His uncertainty was genuine¡ªhe had no idea what his true magic was. Shigeru, however, just kept that same odd smile on his face, as though he was in on a secret Ryuu wasn''t aware of. "You don''t have to lie to me, Aramiya-kun," he said, his tone light yet firm. "When I first saw you, your body was surrounded by two different magical powers. But for some reason, I could only clearly sense one of them." "Two?" Ryuu''s eyebrows furrowed. He had no memory of possessing more than one kind of magic. "Yes, two," Shigeru confirmed. "One of those powers was unmistakably fire magic. I could feel its warmth, the wild and untamed energy of flames. But the other..." Shigeru''s voice trailed off, his gaze becoming more distant as if recalling something beyond comprehension. "The other power inside you... I''ve never felt anything like it. It didn''t belong to this world. I couldn''t sense it properly, as if it was shrouded in a mystery beyond my reach." Ryuu''s heart pounded as Shigeru''s words sank in. Fire magic? An unknown power? His mind raced back to his childhood¡ªthe day he discovered his abilities. Back then, when he was just a boy, Ryuu had accidentally summoned flames. He remembered his parents'' wide-eyed shock, their disbelief that a child so young could wield magic. They had kept it a secret from the Association, fearful that Ryuu would be taken away for investigation if anyone found out. But when the day of his official selection came, Ryuu had expected the magical orb to glow red, signaling his fire element. Instead, it had glowed a vibrant azure, an unnatural color that no one could explain. His confusion and anxiety from that day returned now, as vivid as ever. "Aramiya-kun," Shigeru said gently, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder, pulling Ryuu out of his thoughts. "I know you''re confused. You''ve likely been struggling to understand your magic for a long time, haven''t you? But don''t worry, I''m here to help. I agreed to teach you personally because I believe you''re capable of more than you realize. You have a power within you that you''ve yet to uncover." Ryuu stared up at Shigeru, his mind whirling. He wanted to believe in his master''s words, but the uncertainty gnawed at him. Could he really trust himself to discover these powers? "Do you trust me, Aramiya-kun?" Shigeru asked softly, his eyes full of calm assurance. Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. Before Ryuu could answer, Akiko chimed in, her voice cheerful and supportive. "Hey, don''t forget me! I''ll be helping you too!" She gave Ryuu a warm smile, her presence a gentle but firm reminder that he wasn''t alone in this. Ryuu felt a weight lift off his shoulders. He looked at the two of them¡ªShigeru with his deep wisdom and Akiko with her boundless energy¡ªand felt an overwhelming sense of relief. For the first time in a long while, he didn''t feel lost. "Thank you, Master. Akiko-san," Ryuu said quietly, bowing his head. "I''ll do my best." Shigeru smiled. "That''s the spirit, Aramiya-kun. For now, focus on what you know. Practice your fire magic here, within this peaceful environment. Don''t worry about the other power for now¡ªit will reveal itself to you in time. But remember," Shigeru''s tone grew serious. "You must keep your fire magic hidden from the outside world. If people learn that you possess dual magic, it will cause an uproar. Only use your fire magic in situations where your life is in danger. Do you understand?" Ryuu nodded, feeling the weight of Shigeru''s words. "Yes, Master. I understand." "Good," Shigeru said, giving him a reassuring pat on the back. "Now let''s begin your training." Akiko, ever the lively one, jumped in. "Come on, Aramiya-kun! Time to get to work!" She said with a playful grin, and the three of them headed back towards the big maple tree where Ryuu''s training would take place. . . . In the training grounds, the atmosphere was completely different. Ryoko and the other students were now gathered in an open field, scattered among towering rocks and wide expanses of land. Teuro stood at the front of the group, his demeanor calm but commanding. "Alright, students," Teuro began, his voice carrying across the field. "As you all know, magic is not something that just exists within us. It is a flow of energy, connected to the world around us. To unleash your magical potential, you must first learn to control the flow of magic from the outside world into your body. Once you stabilize this flow within yourself, you can begin to wield that power in the physical world." Ryoko listened, her cold, calculating eyes observing Teuro closely. She had already mastered the basics of magic, yet something about the way Teuro spoke intrigued her. His approach was different from the teachers she had trained under before. Teuro walked towards one of the larger rocks in the field, his hands clasped behind his back. He closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath, and then, with a swift motion, his hand burst into a small, crackling flame. The fire danced in his palm, barely the size of a golf ball. With a flick of his wrist, he hurled the tiny flame at the rock. BOOM! The explosion was deafening, and a thick cloud of dust engulfed the area. When the dust finally settled, the students gasped in shock. The massive rock had been reduced to rubble, shattered into thousands of pieces by the tiny flame. Teuro smiled, the look of astonishment on the students'' faces giving him immense satisfaction. "That," he said calmly, "was the power of a basic fire spell. A small flame, practiced to perfection over years, can shatter a boulder. What you witnessed was not advanced magic¡ªjust the simplest form of fire element manipulation. The key to becoming a powerful magician is not about mastering complex spells, but perfecting the basics." Ryoko''s eyes narrowed as she processed what she had just seen. This man¡­ she thought, he''s stronger than I gave him credit for. A basic spell with that much power? It was an eye-opening experience for her. She had always viewed the basics as just a stepping stone to more advanced techniques, but now she realized that even the simplest spells, if honed to perfection, could rival the strength of high-level magic. Teuro continued "Now it''s your turn. Focus on the flow of magic within you, stabilize it, and channel it into a basic spell. This is the foundation of everything you''ll learn from here on out." The students spread out, each one beginning to concentrate, closing their eyes as they tried to feel the flow of magic within their bodies. All except for Ryoko, who stood off to the side, watching silently. Teuro, noticing her lack of participation, approached her. "Hey, kid," he said, his tone gentle but firm. "Why aren''t you participating? You need to practice like everyone else. Stabilizing your magic flow is key to¡ª" Before he could finish, Ryoko turned and walked towards a rock, her face expressionless. Teuro was momentarily taken aback by her cold demeanor. Is she ignoring me? he thought, his frustration building. This girl really is as difficult as the rumors say. Suddenly, a loud CRACK echoed through the training grounds. Teuro snapped his head in Ryoko''s direction and froze. The rock in front of Ryoko had turned completely to ice, jagged frost crawling up its surface. And then, as if in slow motion, the entire boulder shattered, crumbling into frozen dust. Ryoko stood there, unphased, her icy expression as cold as the magic she had just unleashed. Teuro''s eyes widened in disbelief. S-she just froze and shattered that massive rock¡­ in an instant. How could she have cast such a high-level spell so quickly? His mind raced, struggling to comprehend what he had just witnessed. Even for him¡ªan A-rank magician with years of experience¡ªsuch a feat would have taken more time and effort. Yet Ryoko had done it effortlessly, without breaking a sweat. Is this the power of an S-rank magician? he wondered, his respect for her growing. Or is this girl even more powerful than I thought? The other students, still struggling with their basic spells, looked on in awe as Ryoko calmly walked away, her frosty demeanor never wavering..... A Sudden Breakdown! "W-what is this power?! S-she just turned that huge rock into a pile of ice!" The voice echoed through the training grounds, the disbelief palpable in the air. Everyone, including Teuro, stood frozen, eyes wide in shock. Ryoko had just unleashed a high-level ice spell, the kind of magic that most would struggle to control after years of training. And yet, she had cast it effortlessly, in mere moments. Even the most seasoned soldiers in the defense force would hesitate to perform such high-level magic under normal circumstances, let alone with the ease and speed Ryoko had just demonstrated. The scale of her power was something unheard of for someone her age and rank. All eyes were on Ryoko now, their gazes filled with awe, fear, and confusion. But Ryoko paid no attention to the stunned faces around her. With a calm and indifferent demeanor, she turned away from the crowd and began walking toward the training center, her expression unreadable. Seichii, standing a few paces away, remained unmoved by the spectacle. While others gawked, his face remained composed, almost uncaring. Masumi, standing nearby, couldn''t help but notice his calmness amidst the chaos. Her heart was still racing from witnessing Ryoko''s overwhelming power. "S-Seichii-kun," she stammered, her voice trembling. "W-why are you so calm? D-didn''t you see what Ryoko-san just did? Isn''t her power terrifying?" Masumi''s face had gone pale, her fear of Ryoko''s abilities evident. She looked to Seichii, hoping for some explanation, some reassurance. Seichii glanced at her, a small smile playing on his lips. "Masumi-san," he said quietly, "what you saw just now was nowhere near her true power." Masumi''s eyes widened. "W-what do you mean?" Seichii''s gaze turned distant, his smile fading as he recalled a memory that still sent shivers down his spine. "Her true power... it''s far more terrifying than what you just saw. I''ve felt the full force of it before, and it nearly paralyzed me." He paused, his eyes darkening as the memory resurfaced. "There was a time when Ryuu and I were attacked by a demon¡ªa powerful one. It had us cornered. I thought... I thought we were done for. But then, out of nowhere, Ryoko-san appeared. She didn''t hesitate for a second. With one swift move, she tore the demon apart. I didn''t even see her strike. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. One moment the demon was attacking, and the next... it was in pieces, scattered on the ground." Seichii clenched his fists as he continued, his voice low. "I couldn''t move. I couldn''t breathe. Her power... her bloodlust was so overwhelming that it felt like the air itself was suffocating me. I was frozen, unable to even lift a finger. She was like a force of nature, completely unstoppable. To this day, just thinking about it makes me shudder." Masumi could see the lingering fear in Seichii''s eyes. It wasn''t just admiration¡ªit was pure, unfiltered fear. She had never imagined that Ryoko, who was always so quiet and composed, held such devastating power within her. The realization left her feeling both sad and inspired. She suddenly understood how little she truly knew about Ryoko, and it made her feel small. But at the same time, it sparked something within her¡ªa desire to grow stronger, to reach a level where she could one day stand alongside someone like Ryoko. Meanwhile, Teuro remained rooted to the spot, his eyes fixated on the direction Ryoko had walked away. He hesitated for a moment before stepping forward, drawn to the shattered remains of the giant stone she had frozen. As he knelt beside the icy fragments, a sudden wave of energy hit him, causing him to freeze in place. "W-what is this?" Teuro whispered, his eyes widening in disbelief. The energy radiating from the ice was unlike anything he had ever felt before. It was pure, concentrated magic, far beyond the scope of any ordinary spell. (What is this power? This... this isn''t something normal. I''ve never felt such raw, untainted magical energy in my entire life. I need to report this to the chief immediately...) While Teuro grappled with the implications of what he had just witnessed, Ryoko had already left the open training area. She found herself sitting beneath a large tree, staring up at the white clouds drifting lazily across the sky. "The clouds are beautiful today, aren''t they?" A familiar voice broke the silence. Ryoko turned, startled, to see Ryuu sitting beside her. "Ryuu-kun?" she exclaimed, her eyes widening in surprise. "What are you doing here? When did you return from the mountain?" But Ryuu didn''t answer. He simply smiled and continued to gaze up at the sky, a strange, distant look on his face. Ryoko frowned, sensing something off about him. He had never acted like this before. Instinctively, she stood up, summoning her ice sword into her hand. Without hesitation, she swung the blade at Ryuu, but the slash passed through him as though he were made of mist, leaving him completely unharmed. "I knew it," Ryoko muttered, lowering her sword. "You''re not the real Ryuu-kun." The figure of Ryuu smiled softly, turning to face her. "You''re right," he said calmly. "I''m not the real Aramiya Ryuu. I''m just a collection of his memories, a fragment of his spirit that resides within you." Ryoko''s heart sank. Her suspicions were confirmed, and a wave of guilt washed over her. "You don''t need to feel guilty," the memory of Ryuu said gently. "I know what happened in the past wasn''t your fault. I know you tried to protect him, to protect me, with everything you had. But sometimes... things don''t go the way we want them to. The past is behind us now. No one can change what''s already happened. But the future is still ours to shape." Tears welled up in Ryoko''s eyes as she listened to the spirit''s words. She had been carrying the weight of her guilt for so long, the sorrow of losing Ryuu and the burden of failing to save him. She had never allowed herself to truly grieve. The spirit of Ryuu smiled at her, his voice soft. "I believe in you, Ryoko-san. I know that you can create a brighter future, not just for yourself but for everyone. You''re stronger than you think, and you''ll find a way to make things right." Ryoko''s tears began to fall freely now, her composure breaking at last. She reached out and embraced the spirit of Ryuu, sobbing into his shoulder. "Why did it have to come to this?" she cried, her voice shaking. "Why did you have to forget everything?! Why did you have to forget me?!" The spirit held her gently, his presence warm and comforting. "I know how much pain you''re in, Ryoko. But you have to stay strong. You''re my light in this world, the one thing that gives me hope. Please... stay strong for both of us." As the spirit of Ryuu began to fade, his final words lingered in the air, leaving Ryoko sitting alone beneath the tree. She wiped away her tears, determination filling her heart. "I''ll make you remember me, Ryuu-kun," she whispered to the sky. "Just wait. I''ll make you remember." Suddenly, a voice broke through her thoughts. "Oko-san! Ryoko-san! Can you hear me?" Ryoko looked up to see Rajin approaching, waving at her. (What''s he doing here at a time like this?) "Ryoko-san!" Rajin called out as he neared. "What are you doing all the way out here? Did those weaklings from your division make you feel down, or are you just out here clearing your head?" Ryoko sighed, standing up and turning to face Rajin. She wasn''t in the mood for his antics, but she knew this conversation was inevitable.... Mysteries In The Heart Ryoko didn''t pay any attention to Rajin''s taunts, her eyes still fixed on the expanse of the blue sky above. The breeze was gentle, and for a moment, it felt like she was the only one in the world. Rajin''s voice, however, kept tugging at her peace, but she didn''t turn to look at him. Rajin''s playful grin faltered for a second, annoyance flashing in his eyes. But he quickly masked it, continuing in his usual mocking tone. "Well, Ryoko-san, where is Aramiya-kun hiding these days? I haven''t seen him even once since the welcoming ceremony. I''m really curious, you know? I mean, what kind of special training does he need to do all by himself with that pathetic F-rank magic talent? Ha-ha-ha!" His laughter echoed, cruel and sharp. Each word was carefully chosen to poke at Ryoko, to see how far he could push her. And for a brief moment, it worked. Ryoko''s fist clenched, her heart burning with anger. The urge to lash out, to silence Rajin with a single icy blow, surged through her like a storm. But then, in the midst of her rising fury, she heard a gentle, familiar voice in the back of her mind: "Stay strong." The words resonated within her, grounding her. Slowly, she unclenched her fist, forcing herself to calm down. She turned to face Rajin, her expression icy, her voice colder than the magic she wielded. "There''s no need for you to concern yourself with Ryuu-kun. He''s fine where he is," She replied, her tone cutting and final, leaving no room for further conversation. Without another word, Ryoko stood up and walked away, leaving Rajin sitting there, his eyes narrowing as his small, amused grin twisted into something far more sinister. "Oh, Ryoko-chan... just you wait until the inter-division battles. I can''t wait to see that pretty face of yours twist in despair when I break every single bone in that pathetic Aramiya Ryuu''s body," Rajin whispered under his breath, his voice dripping with malice. His fingers tightened into a fist as he watched her walk away. "Just wait." Far away from the training grounds, deep within the ancient forest atop the massive mountain, nature thrived untouched. The soft chirping of birds filled the air, blending with the rhythmic sound of the waterfall cascading down the rocky cliff, the water shimmering in the light as it flowed down into the valley below, bringing life to the city at the mountain''s base. Beneath the waterfall, two figures sat in deep meditation¡ªa breathtakingly beautiful woman and a young azure-haired boy. The cold water crashed down on their shoulders like a thousand tiny boulders, its force strong enough to break the concentration of most people. But the woman, Akiko, sat perfectly still, her eyes closed in serene focus, unshaken by the pressure. Ryuu, however, was trembling all over, his body straining under the waterfall''s relentless weight. His breath came in ragged gasps, and despite his efforts to maintain his composure, he could feel himself reaching his limit.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. "Akiko-san... I-I can''t take this anymore," He stammered, his voice shaky with exhaustion. "The pressure is too much... I''m going to black out if we don''t stop." Akiko opened her eyes and glanced at him, a soft smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Aramiya-kun, you want to take a break already? It''s only been ten minutes." She chuckled lightly. "But I suppose it''s only natural. This is your first time experiencing this kind of training. Come on, let''s step out." With graceful ease, Akiko stood up from the rock, the water falling off her like it didn''t even affect her. Ryuu, panting heavily, managed to stand as well, though his legs wobbled beneath him. Together, they walked toward the large maple tree at the edge of the forest clearing, where Shigeru was standing, his arms crossed, watching them with a proud smile. "Finished so soon?" Shigeru''s deep voice rumbled as they approached. "I have to admit, Aramiya-kun, you lasted longer under that waterfall than I expected. Most people would''ve passed out by now." Ryuu forced a weak smile, still catching his breath. "Th-thank you, Shigeru-san." Shigeru chuckled, patting Ryuu on the shoulder. "It''s almost sunset. I think we''ve done enough for today. Let''s call it a night and resume training tomorrow morning." The three of them stood together, watching as the sky slowly turned from blue to orange, the setting sun casting a warm glow over the landscape. The day was quietly giving way to the night, and as the three of them made their way back to the small treehouse they had been staying in, the peacefulness of the forest surrounded them like a comforting blanket. . . . . Later that night, with the stars twinkling in the sky and the moon shining brightly overhead, Ryuu found himself sitting on a thick tree branch, gazing up at the sky. The cool night air brushed against his skin, and the scent of night flowers filled the forest, their soft glow lighting up the darkness. He sighed, lost in thought. Despite the beauty around him, his heart felt heavy, like there was a storm brewing within him. He couldn''t shake the strange feeling that had been plaguing him since the day of the selection ceremony, The sensation that something important was just beyond his reach, something he couldn''t quite remember or understand. Suddenly, a presence appeared beside him, startling him out of his thoughts. He turned quickly, only to find Akiko sitting next to him, her eyes also fixed on the moon. "Couldn''t sleep?" she asked softly, not turning to look at him. "...No," Ryuu murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. A comfortable silence settled between them as they both stared at the moon. Its soft, silver light bathed the forest in an ethereal glow, and for a while, neither of them spoke. Then, Akiko broke the silence, her voice calm and reassuring. "Everything will be alright, you know. Just believe in yourself." Ryuu blinked, surprised by her words. "How... how did you know I was feeling troubled?" Akiko finally turned to face him, her gentle smile never leaving her face. "It''s written all over your face, Aramiya-kun. Your heart is confused, and your spirit is restless. I can see it in your eyes." Ryuu lowered his gaze, his hands trembling slightly. "I don''t understand what''s happening to me," he confessed. "Ever since the selection ceremony, there''s been this... painful sensation in my chest, like there''s something important I''ve forgotten. And then, in my dreams... I keep hearing this voice calling out to me, telling me to remember something, but I don''t know what it is." As he spoke, tears began to well up in his eyes, spilling down his cheeks before he even realized it. Ryuu''s hands shot up to his face, his voice quivering with confusion. "Why... why am I crying?" Akiko reached out, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Aramiya-kun... sometimes, our heart knows things that our mind hasn''t caught up with yet. Whatever it is that''s troubling you, it''s something you''ve been holding inside for a long time. Let it out. Only by facing it can you find the truth." The dam finally broke, and Ryuu sobbed, letting out all the pain and confusion he had been bottling up for so long. Akiko sat quietly beside him, her presence a steady source of comfort, as Ryuu cried out his frustrations to the night sky. From a distance, Shigeru watched the scene with a soft smile on his face. "Thank you, Akiko," he whispered to himself. "It will help him find the truth. This world is changing, and soon, we''ll all have to be ready. We must act quickly." . . . . The next morning, as the first light of dawn peeked over the horizon, Ryuu, Akiko, and Shigeru stood once again before the waterfall, the sound of rushing water filling the air. "Aramiya-kun," Akiko began, stepping forward, her expression serious. "Today, we''re going to show you a secret place that only Shigeru and I know of." Ryuu''s eyes lit up with excitement, curiosity sparking within him. "A secret place!?" Akiko nodded, holding out her hands toward the waterfall. She closed her eyes and began chanting in a low voice, her words barely audible. "Oh, Mother of Life, Spirit of the World. We, your children, ask permission to enter the Holy Cave. Divide the land, unite the air. Let the world shake, and bless us with your divine power." Suddenly, the ground beneath them trembled, and the waterfall split in two, the water parting down the middle as though an invisible force had commanded it to. Behind the curtain of water, a hidden cave emerged, glowing faintly with ancient power. Ryuu stared in awe, his mouth hanging open in disbelief. "The water... it''s like the laws of nature themselves are being rewritten." Akiko smiled softly, stepping forward. "Come, Aramiya-kun. It''s time for you to see the truth."..... A Mysterious Cave! The water parted in two, revealing a hidden cave behind the waterfall, and Ryuu''s jaw dropped in disbelief. He had never seen anything like it. The roaring cascade, which moments ago seemed invincible, had split effortlessly in front of him, as if nature itself bowed to Akiko''s command. Ryuu couldn''t help but stare, his eyes wide with astonishment. "Wha... How is this possible? The water just... split." Akiko, standing calmly beside him, giggled softly, and Shigeru let out a hearty laugh. "Ahaha! I didn''t expect to see you this shocked, Aramiya-kun. You look like you''ve seen a ghost." He grinned, clearly enjoying Ryuu''s reaction. "This is the power of nature itself, capable of defying its own rules. In the right hands, even the laws of the world can be bent." Ryuu''s gaze shifted to Shigeru, still trying to process what he had witnessed. "How¡­ how do you even know about this place?" Akiko continued to giggle softly as Shigeru stepped forward, placing a hand on Ryuu''s shoulder. His smile was warm, but his eyes gleamed with the weight of a deep secret. "Aramiya-kun, this cave is one of the most hidden places in the world. Not even the association knows of its existence. Only Akiko and I know the truth about what lies within." Ryuu blinked, still processing the enormity of what Shigeru had just revealed. "But¡­ how did you find it?" Shigeru''s expression softened as he began to recount the tale. "It was almost ten years ago. Akiko and I were still young, and we were exploring the mountains, searching for herbs for my research. We had ventured to the far side of the waterfall, not knowing the danger that awaited us." Ryuu listened intently as Shigeru''s voice grew more solemn, the memories clearly vivid in his mind. "We were walking along the cliffs when suddenly, the ground beneath my feet began to tremble. It was as if the earth itself had come alive. I was¡­ weak back then, far less capable than I am now. I couldn''t maintain my balance, and before I knew it, I was falling into the water." Akiko''s smile faded slightly, as if she, too, were reliving the moment. Ryuu could sense the weight of the memory as she stood quietly, watching Shigeru with a faraway look in her eyes. "Akiko jumped in after me," Shigeru continued, his voice quieter now. "But the water was stronger than we expected. The current pulled us toward the edge of the waterfall, and no matter how hard we tried, we couldn''t fight it. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. We were on the brink of death, staring down at the chasm below, and all I could think about in that moment... was her." Ryuu''s eyes widened. Shigeru''s usually carefree demeanor had shifted, and there was a deep vulnerability in his voice. "The ten years Akiko and I had spent together flashed before my eyes," Shigeru said, his voice soft. "Every memory, every laugh, every smile. That was when I realized the truth... my feelings for her were more than just friendship. In that moment, as we were about to fall to our deaths, I confessed my love to her." Ryuu gasped softly, his heart pounding in his chest as he listened to Shigeru''s story. "What... what happened next?" "I didn''t hear her reply at first," Shigeru admitted, a wistful smile crossing his face. "I thought my confession had fallen on deaf ears. But when I opened my eyes, I saw her face¡ªtears streaming down her cheeks, but she was smiling. A radiant, shining smile that I''ll never forget. And then... she hugged me. We held each other tightly as we fell from the cliff, smiling, knowing that whatever happened next, we had no regrets." Shigeru''s smile grew brighter, a rare sight that Ryuu had never seen before. There was true happiness in his words, and for the first time, Ryuu could feel the depth of Shigeru''s emotions. Even Akiko, who had been standing quietly, smiled softly as she listened to Shigeru''s recollection. Ryuu, though deeply moved by the story, was still filled with curiosity. "But¡­ how did you both survive? If you fell from the cliff¡­" Shigeru chuckled, shaking his head. "That''s the strangest part, Aramiya-kun. Neither of us knows how we survived. It was like... a miracle. One moment, we were falling, and the next, we woke up inside this cave." Ryuu''s curiosity piqued even further. "This cave? The one behind the waterfall?" Shigeru nodded. "Yes. When I opened my eyes, we were lying on the ground inside this very cave. I couldn''t move my limbs, but all I cared about was finding Akiko. I turned my head, and there she was, unconscious but alive, lying beside me. My heart felt like it could finally beat again." He paused for a moment, glancing at Akiko, who gave him a reassuring nod. "After we both regained consciousness, we began exploring the cave. It was like nothing we had ever seen before. The spiritual energy inside was unlike anything from the outside world. The walls were covered in carvings¡ªancient symbols and figures that told stories long forgotten. And when we reached the entrance..." He gestured toward the waterfall, his eyes filled with awe. "We saw the water, split in two just as it is now. The flow had parted, revealing the hidden cave behind it. We couldn''t believe our eyes. But that was only the beginning." Ryuu felt a chill run down his spine. "What do you mean?" Shigeru''s expression grew more serious, his tone somber. "As we ventured deeper into the cave, we realized there was something... off. The spiritual aura inside the cave was overwhelming, unlike anything we had ever encountered. It felt... alive. The carvings on the walls told a story, but many of them had been destroyed, as if someone didn''t want the world to know the truth. The deeper we went, the more the carvings disappeared, until we reached the end of the cave." "What did you find?" Ryuu asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "At the center of the cave was a stone¡ªa glowing, radiant stone unlike anything we had ever seen. We approached it, and as we did, the stone shattered, flooding the entire chamber with light. And then, on the wall behind where the stone had stood, we saw it." Ryuu held his breath, his heart pounding in his chest. "It was an ancient mural, depicting humans standing side by side with the Devas, fighting against the demons. It was a battle of immense power, and beneath the mural were carvings of the Atsuras¡ªthe legendary beings whose existence has been lost to time." Ryuu''s mind reeled at the revelation. "The Atsuras¡­ and the Devas¡­ this cave is connected to them?" Shigeru nodded gravely. "Yes. This cave holds secrets that could change everything we know about the past. Akiko and I realized that day that we had stumbled upon something far greater than ourselves. We decided not to inform the association. This cave, its power, its history... it''s a mystery that we''ve been trying to unravel ever since. But so far, all of our efforts have been in vain." Ryuu stood in stunned silence. He had never imagined that such a place could exist, hidden away from the world, containing the secrets of the Devas and the Atsuras. Shigeru''s expression turned more serious as he looked at Ryuu. "Aramiya-kun, the reason we brought you here today is because I sensed something in you¡ªsomething familiar. Your spiritual aura... it resonates with the energy of this cave. It''s as if your magic is connected to the Devas themselves." The bright smile that had once graced Shigeru''s face faded, replaced by a look of deep concern. Ryuu could feel the gravity of the situation weighing down on him, and he realized that this journey was far more dangerous and important than he had ever imagined. Shigeru''s voice dropped to a whisper. "There''s more to you than you know, Aramiya Ryuu. And whatever it is... we need to uncover the truth before it''s too late.".... A Sudden Pain Akiko gracefully extended her hand, her wind magic swirling gently around her. In an instant, a ladder of shimmering wind materialized in front of them, leading the way up to the entrance of the mysterious cave behind the waterfall. The sound of the rushing water echoed around them, but it was muted, as though the cave had its own distinct, otherworldly atmosphere. They ascended, with Shigeru leading the way, Akiko following close behind. Ryuu hesitated for a moment, standing at the threshold of the cave. He could feel a strange energy emanating from within, a pressure that weighed heavily on his chest and made his heart race. This wasn''t like any place he had ever been before. As Ryuu tentatively stepped inside, the atmosphere shifted even more dramatically. It was as if he had crossed an invisible barrier between the familiar world outside and something ancient and untamed within. (What is this strange power...?) Ryuu thought, gripping his chest as the pressure intensified. (This is completely different from anything I''ve felt before. Master was right. This cave... it has its own space, its own world separate from ours.) They continued deeper into the cave, and as Ryuu walked alongside Akiko and Shigeru, he couldn''t help but marvel at the intricate carvings lining the walls. The sculptures were ancient, unlike any he had ever seen, their artistry both delicate and powerful, telling stories of battles and rituals long forgotten by the world outside. His mouth hung open as he stared, captivated by the alien beauty of the artwork. Shigeru''s voice broke the silence, drawing Ryuu''s attention. "Aramiya-kun, you see the sculptures on the walls, don''t you?" Shigeru said, gesturing to a particularly large carving of an epic battle scene. "I know what you''re thinking¡ªwhat could these sculptures mean? What are they trying to tell us?" Ryuu nodded, his eyes still scanning the walls. He could feel a story within the carvings, but its meaning eluded him. "The truth is," Shigeru continued, his tone softening. "Neither I nor Akiko truly knows what message these carvings are conveying. The secrets of this place are locked away, and no matter how long we''ve studied them, they remain a mystery." Shigeru stepped closer to one of the walls, running his fingers gently over the ancient stone. His eyes lingered on a particular scene where humans fought alongside creatures that resembled Devas. "But," Shigeru said, pointing at a carved battle scene. "This... this looks like the battlefield of the war between humans and demons, the one described in the oldest texts of history." Ryuu, eyes wide, followed Shigeru''s lead, feeling a sense of awe as they ventured further into the heart of the cave. Each step they took seemed to bring them closer to something monumental, something ancient and powerful. The sculptures seemed to change as they neared the deepest part of the cave. Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Ryuu noticed that many of the carvings had been defaced or damaged, deep gashes and slashes marring the once-pristine walls. It was as if someone¡ªor something¡ªhad tried to erase the knowledge they contained. "Aramiya-kun," Shigeru''s voice called out, interrupting Ryuu''s thoughts. "Look over here." He pointed to one of the walls that had been particularly torn apart, large chunks of stone missing, and deep cuts visible in the rock. "These are the sculptures I mentioned before," Shigeru explained, running his hand along the slashes. "Something¡ªor someone¡ªdid this. They didn''t want the truth these walls contain to be discovered." Ryuu''s gaze followed the deep cuts in the stone, feeling a sense of loss for whatever knowledge had been stolen from the world. But as he scanned the damaged wall, something else caught his eye. There, partially obscured by a massive boulder, was a strange figure etched into the stone. Unlike the other carvings, this one seemed to pulse with a dark energy, and as Ryuu approached it, a voice echoed in his mind. "W-why...?" Ryuu froze in place, his breath catching in his throat. The voice was faint, but it was there¡ªclear, pained, filled with sorrow. His body stiffened, and cold sweat began to trickle down his back. (What is happening?!) Ryuu thought, panicking. His heart felt heavy, almost as if it were being crushed under an unseen weight. His legs trembled as he stared at the figure on the wall. (Why does my heart feel like this? What is this pressure?!) "Aramiya-kun!" Akiko''s voice snapped him out of his trance. She rushed to his side, worry etched across her face. "Are you alright? You''ve just been standing there. We need to keep moving; it''s going to get dark soon." Ryuu blinked, still in a daze. "A-Akiko-san... I-I was just... looking at this picture," He said, pointing toward the figure partially hidden by the boulder. Akiko frowned, following his gesture. "Aramiya-kun," she said softly, concern in her voice. "There''s no boulder there. And no picture. What are you talking about?" Ryuu''s heart stopped for a moment. He turned to look at her, his eyes wide with disbelief. "W-what do you mean? It''s right there! You don''t see it?" Akiko placed a hand on his forehead, her brow furrowing. "Are you tired, Aramiya-kun? You look pale. Maybe you need to rest." "I-I''m fine!" Ryuu stammered, though his body was trembling. (What''s going on? Why can''t Akiko-san see it?) Shigeru, who had been watching the exchange quietly, approached. His expression was unreadable, but his eyes lingered on Ryuu for a long moment. He seemed to understand that something had happened but chose not to press further. "Let''s keep going," Shigeru said, turning back toward the depths of the cave. "It''s getting late, and we''re nearly there." Reluctantly, Ryuu followed, though his mind was spinning. He couldn''t shake the image of that boulder¡ªor the voice that had called out to him. What was that? They entered a vast dome, the ceiling disappearing into darkness above them. The air was thick with a strange energy, almost oppressive in its intensity. Shigeru raised his hand, and a small, glowing orb of golden light appeared above his palm, casting a soft glow throughout the chamber. "Aramiya-kun," Shigeru said, glancing at him with a sheepish grin. "This is my light element magic. It''s pretty rare, but unfortunately, my magic is still only F-rank. I''ve never been much good at this sort of thing. Ha-ha-ha." The light from Shigeru''s magic illuminated the dome, revealing a breathtaking sight. In the center of the vast chamber was a serene pond, its surface perfectly still, reflecting the golden light like liquid glass. Ryuu couldn''t believe that such a place could exist, hidden deep within the dark cave. They moved toward the far side of the pond, where a massive wall stood, its surface adorned with even more carvings. Shigeru pointed toward the base of the wall, where nine distinct weapons were etched into the stone. Ancient writing accompanied each weapon, the symbols indecipherable to Ryuu''s eyes. "These are the legendary Atsuras," Shigeru said reverently. "The nine heavenly weapons. Ever since the disappearance of the three strongest Atsuras, no one has ever seen depictions of them. But here, in this cave, they''re all carved into the wall." Ryuu''s mouth fell open. For centuries, people had searched for any trace of the lost Atsuras, yet no one had ever found so much as a hint of their appearance. But here, on this wall, all nine weapons were depicted, as if waiting to be rediscovered. "And look up there," Shigeru continued, his voice filled with awe. He pointed toward the top of the wall, where nine towering figures were carved into the stone, standing above all the other creatures. "Those... those must be the Devas themselves." Ryuu''s eyes followed Shigeru''s gaze, his heart pounding in his chest. As he stared at the figures of the Devas, the voice returned. "W-why...?" Suddenly, pain exploded in Ryuu''s chest. He fell to his knees, gasping for breath as a searing flame of azure erupted on his forehead. His vision blurred, and he coughed violently, blood spilling from his lips as he screamed in agony. "Aramiya-kun!" Akiko shouted, rushing to his side, her hands trembling as she tried to help him. Shigeru knelt beside him, his face pale with concern. "Aramiya-kun, what''s happening?!" But Ryuu couldn''t answer. The pain was too intense, the pressure in his chest unbearable. He could hear the voice again, louder now, clearer. "Why¡­?" . . . . Meanwhile, far away in the training grounds, Ryoko sat in the garden, meditating quietly. But suddenly, her heart began to race, an overwhelming sense of dread washing over her. Her eyes snapped open, and she clutched her chest. "No... no! Ryuu-kun... Ryuu-kun is in danger!" Her mind screamed, panic filling her as she felt the connection between them trembling, something dark closing in on Ryuu''s heart.... An Emergency!? "Aramiya-kun, are you alright? What happened?" Shigeru asked, his voice tight with concern. Akiko knelt beside Ryuu, her eyes wide with worry as she gently lifted him to a sitting position. His breathing was ragged, his face pale, and his body drenched in sweat. Shigeru could feel the tension building in his chest as he tried to make sense of the situation. (What in the world is happening to Aramiya-kun? Something felt off earlier when he was staring at that wall, but this... this is beyond anything I could''ve anticipated.) Ryuu let out another agonizing scream, his voice echoing in the cavern, shaking both Akiko and Shigeru to their cores. His entire body convulsed, and his forehead blazed with a large, azure flame, flickering like a cursed mark from a forgotten age. Tears streamed down his face as the mysterious fire raged, but despite the pain, Ryuu fought to stay conscious. Akiko''s heart broke at the sight. "Aramiya-kun, hold on! Please, hold on!" Her voice was trembling as she cradled him. She had seen many injuries, many forms of magic, but never something like this. It wasn''t just his body that was in distress¡ªhis very spirit seemed to be collapsing. "Akiko!" Shigeru''s voice was commanding now. "Carry Aramiya-kun on your back. We need to get out of here, fast!" Without hesitation, Akiko scooped Ryuu up, slinging him over her back with ease despite her small frame, the strength from her wind magic making the burden feel lighter. Tears still streamed down Ryuu''s face, but his eyes, though hazy, were wide with terror. "I-It hurts..." Ryuu choked out, his voice barely a whisper. Akiko''s heart sank as she ran, her feet moving swiftly over the uneven cave floor. "Hang on, Aramiya-kun! We''ll get you out soon. Just stay with us!" Suddenly, in the depths of Ryuu''s mind, a voice¡ªsoft and familiar¡ªwhispered. (Stay strong... for me... and for you...) His eyes widened further as the words echoed through his thoughts. (W-What? That voice... Why does it feel so familiar?) A single name escaped his lips before he could even process it: "R-Ryoko-san..." Akiko''s eyes flicked over her shoulder in confusion. If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. "Ryoko-san? Aramiya-kun, what are you saying?" Shigeru''s face darkened. He had heard the name, and immediately it made sense to him. "Akiko, we need to hurry. He''s calling for Ryoko-san... the one I told you about." "The girl you said has a strange bond with him?" Akiko''s voice trembled. "Do you think she can help him?" "I don''t know," Shigeru admitted grimly. "But if she''s the only one he''s thinking of in this state, then yes. She may be the only one who can save him." Akiko nodded. Without another word, they pushed forward, racing through the narrowing cave. But just as they neared the entrance, the ground beneath them trembled violently, and the very walls of the cave began to shudder. "Akiko, watch out!" Shigeru shouted, grabbing both Akiko and Ryuu, pulling them toward him as large chunks of rock began to fall from the ceiling. Akiko''s heart pounded. "W-What''s happening? Why is the cave collapsing now of all times?" Shigeru clenched his jaw. "This never happened before when we came here. Something must have triggered it... or someone." The air around them was thick with dust and the sound of rock crashing against rock. Shigeru''s grip tightened on Akiko. "We don''t have time to think about it! Use your wind magic to get us out of here before we''re buried alive!" Akiko nodded, her breath ragged from both fear and exertion. She concentrated, summoning a gust of wind strong enough to carry them forward. With one powerful push, the three of them burst through the collapsing entrance, just in time to avoid the entire cave being sealed shut. Once outside, they watched in horror as the waterfall that concealed the entrance surged forward, and in a blink, the mysterious cave was gone. It was as if it had never existed. Shigeru shook his head in disbelief. "The cave... it''s disappeared." Akiko didn''t have time to respond; her focus was still on Ryuu, who had fallen into unconsciousness after uttering Ryoko''s name. "Shigeru, we need to move fast. His condition is getting worse by the minute." Shigeru agreed, his expression grim. "We''re heading to the training area. If anyone can help him now, it''s Ryoko." . . . . Back at the training area, Ryoko sat in the garden, her gaze fixed on the horizon. Suddenly, her heart clenched painfully, and a cold sweat broke out across her skin. Her chest tightened, and she instinctively knew something terrible had happened. "N-No..." she whispered, her hands trembling. (R-Ryuu-kun... he''s in danger!) She leaped to her feet, her breath quickening. Masumi, who had been sitting next to her, was startled by the sudden movement. "Ryoko-san? What''s wrong? You''re sweating, do you have a fever?" Ryoko shook her head, her eyes filled with desperation. "Ryuu-kun... he''s in danger! I have to go!" Without another word, she bolted toward the mountain, leaving Masumi standing in stunned silence. "Ryoko-san! Wait!" Masumi called after her, but Ryoko was already gone, running faster than she had ever before. Moments later, Seichii appeared, carrying two cups of water. "Masumi-san, what''s going on? Where did Ryoko-san go?" Masumi turned to him, tears welling in her eyes. "Seichii-kun! Ryoko-san... she said Ryuu-kun was in danger, and then she just ran off! I''ve never seen her like that before." Seichii froze, the cups slipping from his grasp and shattering on the ground. "W-What did you say?" "She said... Ryuu-kun was in danger..." Masumi''s voice was shaky. Seichii''s face turned pale. "R-Ryuu''s in danger? Where did Ryoko go?! Tell me!" Masumi hesitated, startled by Seichii''s sudden change in demeanor. "T-Toward the mountain where Ryuu-kun went for his special training." Seichii wasted no time. "Thank you, Masumi-san!" He dashed off, his heart pounding in his chest. He couldn''t afford to waste a single second. Masumi called after him. "Wait, Seichii-kun! I''m coming with you! Ryuu is my friend too!" Seichii paused, then smiled, despite the situation. He ran back to her, scooping her up in his arms, much to her shock. "S-Seichii-kun! What are you doing? I can walk by myself!" Masumi protested, her face flushing red. "I know, but this is faster," Seichii replied earnestly. "We need to get there as soon as possible." Masumi''s embarrassment quickly gave way to determination. (Ryuu, we''re coming! This time, I won''t just stand by. I''ll save you too!) Seichii, with Masumi in his arms, summoned the wind to carry them toward the mountain, determined to reach Ryuu before it was too late..... Demons!? Ryoko had finally reached the bottom of the mountain, her face a mask of emotionless calm. She moved with an eerie grace, and a bone-chilling cold aura surrounded her, freezing everything in her wake. Each step she took left a trail of ice, the ground beneath her feet crystallizing instantly. R-Ryuu-kun! Just wait for me! I''m coming. I promised I would save you! Please, just hold on! Her inner thoughts were fierce and determined, despite the icy calm on her exterior. With a fluid motion, Ryoko raised her hand, and in a swirl of frost and mist, an ice sword materialized in her grasp. Its blade gleamed with a sharp, otherworldly light. She pointed it forward with purpose, her eyes narrowing. "Fsshh!" In one swift movement, she swung the sword through the air, sending an icy slash in the direction ahead of her. The attack was so powerful that everything in its path¡ªtrees, grass, rocks¡ªfroze instantly before shattering into countless fragments of ice. Nothing stood in her way, and the once lush and vibrant forest was now a desolate, frozen wasteland. --- Meanwhile, Shigeru and Akiko had made it back to the treehouse, where Ryuu lay on the floor, breathing heavily and slipping in and out of consciousness. His pale face glistened with sweat, and his body trembled as if in constant pain. Aramiya-kun''s condition is getting worse by the minute. We have to reach the training area soon or¡­ Shigeru''s heart pounded with fear and anxiety as he glanced at his unconscious friend. He turned to Akiko, who was also gravely concerned. "Akiko! We need to get to the training area¡ª" A deafening growl interrupted him mid-sentence. His words died in his throat as both he and Akiko instinctively turned toward the window, their eyes widening in horror. Emerging from the dark shadows of the forest was a sight neither of them had expected: a horde of demons, their grotesque forms shifting and writhing, poured out from between the trees. The sheer number of them was overwhelming. "T-this... what is happening?!" Shigeru stammered, his voice barely a whisper. "We''re in the heart of Tokyo... h-how can demons be here, in such large numbers?" His disbelief was palpable. Tokyo was fortified by powerful protective arrays, designed and maintained by the highest-ranking officers of the Defense Force. These barriers were supposed to incinerate any demon attempting to enter the city unless they were of an incredibly high rank. But here, not one, but dozens¡ªno, hundreds¡ªof demons had broken through. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. This is impossible! These demons must be at least C-rank or higher. How could so many appear here all at once? And why? Shigeru''s thoughts whirled as he looked down at Ryuu, lying unconscious on the floor. Could they be after Aramiya-kun? Suddenly, a deafening crash shook the treehouse as the demons attacked the giant maple tree supporting it. The massive trunk groaned under the pressure, its branches trembling violently. "Honey! They''re attacking the tree! If this keeps up, the treehouse will collapse!" Akiko cried, clutching Ryuu protectively in her arms. Shigeru''s face was drenched in sweat, his mind racing in search of a plan. But before he could act, Akiko approached him with a determined look in her eyes. She gently handed Ryuu over to him, her voice firm yet tender. "Shigeru, take care of Aramiya-kun. I''m going down there to fight. I will protect you both, even if it costs me my life." Shigeru''s heart sank at her words, and panic surged within him. "No! Akiko, you can''t! You can''t face all those demons alone! Don''t throw your life away like this!" But Akiko merely gave him a sad, loving smile. "Thank you for everything, honey." Before Shigeru could react, Akiko leaped from the treehouse, landing gracefully on the ground below. The demons immediately surrounded her, their eyes filled with bloodlust and hunger. A pack of wolf demons lunged at her, their sharp fangs gleaming in the pale light. Akiko closed her eyes, preparing herself. "Fssh!" In an instant, the wolf demons collapsed to the ground, their bodies slashed open and blood pooling beneath them. Akiko opened her eyes, summoning two sharp shurikens of wind into her hands. The air around her crackled with energy as her determination grew. "Today, I, Yokoyama Akiko, will destroy you vile creatures!" With a fierce battle cry, she hurled her wind shurikens at the oncoming demons, the spinning blades cutting through the air like a whirlwind. The demons that were hit were instantly sliced in half, their lifeless bodies crumpling to the ground. But no matter how many demons she cut down, more kept coming. The onslaught seemed endless. From above, Shigeru watched in horror, tears streaming down his face. Why? Why am I so weak? Why can''t I help her? Akiko fought valiantly, but as the battle dragged on, her movements began to slow. Suddenly, a massive wolf demon appeared behind her, its eyes glowing with malice. "Psh!" The wolf swung its massive claws, delivering a devastating blow to Akiko''s back. She cried out in pain and crumpled to the ground, blood pouring from her wound. "AKIKO!!" Shigeru screamed in despair as he saw his beloved wife fall. In a moment of desperation, he jumped from the treehouse, landing awkwardly and breaking his leg in the process. But the pain was nothing compared to the sight before him. Akiko lay on the ground, her breaths shallow, and the giant wolf demon raised its claw again, ready to deliver the final blow. No! Please, someone¡­ anyone, save her! Just as the wolf''s claws descended, blood splattered through the air. Shigeru braced himself for the worst, but when he looked up, he was stunned. The wolf''s claw had been severed, lying in a pool of blood on the ground. The giant beast howled in agony as it stumbled backward, its leg bleeding profusely. Standing before Akiko was a girl with stark white hair, her expression cold and emotionless. She held a gleaming sword of ice in her hand, its surface glowing with a deadly chill. The air around her was frigid, and even the demons, known for their ferocity, trembled in fear. "I-it''s¡­ Tatsuno Ryoko!" Ryoko raised her sword, her voice barely a whisper as she muttered, "Crystal Cut." In an instant, her ice sword grew larger, and with one powerful swing, she unleashed a devastating slash. Every demon in the field were torn to pieces, their body shattering like glass under the force of attack. Shigeru was frozen shock, his mind unable to process the sheer magnitude of her power. Only one thought was in his mind (Monster...!).... A White Flame? (S-she¡­ H-how can someone unleash such tremendous power at such a small age!?) (M-MONSTER!!!) Shigeru''s entire body trembled as the realization of Ryoko''s terrifying strength settled in. The world around him felt like it was collapsing. Ryoko, a teen girl, possessed a power that defied all logic. This was a force unlike any he had ever encountered¡ªa force that rivaled the greatest warriors of his era. The air was thick with her icy energy, as though the very atmosphere bowed to her will. Ryoko stood amidst the frozen devastation, her posture calm yet commanding. Her eyes remained closed, her expression devoid of any emotion, but her presence was undeniable. The frost covering the ground glittered under the moonlight, a reflection of the cold, lethal aura that surrounded her. The ice she conjured wasn''t just cold in temperature; it radiated an oppressive pressure that made it difficult for Shigeru to even breathe. His mind was racing, trying to process what had just happened. The little girl, who appeared so innocent and fragile moments before, had transformed into a merciless force of nature. Shigeru''s limbs were pinned to the ground under the weight of the force she exerted, and his thoughts turned toward Akiko. In the distance, behind Ryoko''s small yet powerful figure, Shigeru could make out the motionless form of his beloved wife. Akiko lay on the ground, her body battered but miraculously still breathing. Relief flooded Shigeru''s heart. His entire world revolved around her, and to see her alive in this massacre was the only thing keeping him from falling apart completely. He felt tears welling up, his eyes glistening under the weight of both fear and overwhelming gratitude. His heart, though exhausted, swelled with emotion. Ryoko had saved Akiko¡ªsaved them both, really. In that moment, Shigeru''s hatred turned to awe. (Th-thank you, little girl¡­ I swear on Akiko''s name that I will repay this favor. No matter what, I will stand by you one day. Thank you¡­ thank you¡­) Shigeru''s body gave way to exhaustion as he whispered his thanks in his mind. The relief of knowing Akiko was alive, coupled with the immense pressure surrounding him, proved too much. His vision blurred, his body slackened, and with a final grateful smile, he lost consciousness, tears trickling from his eyes as he slipped into darkness. Ryoko remained standing, seemingly indifferent to the chaos around her. As the last of her enemies fell, a bright, ethereal flame burst to life on her forehead¡ªa brilliant blue fire that glowed with raw energy. Slowly, her eyes opened, revealing a cold, determined gaze that now focused solely on the maple tree where Ryuu was waiting. The ice sword she had conjured vanished from her hand, turning into crystalline mist that disappeared into the air. Without hesitation, Ryoko raised one hand and summoned a pathway made of pure, glittering ice that rose from the ground, coiling around the massive tree like a spiraling staircase leading to the heavens. Her movements were graceful yet swift as she dashed up the path. The ice formed a perfect bridge to the treehouse at the top, where her sole purpose awaited her. When she reached the entrance of the treehouse, Ryoko stepped inside. Her eyes immediately found Ryuu, lying limp on the floor, his body bruised and cold. The cold mask she had worn since the battle melted away, replaced by a desperate, relieved smile. Her stoic facade broke down as emotions rushed through her. "R-Ryuu-kun!" she whispered, her voice cracking as she ran to him and collapsed beside him. She gathered his unconscious body into her arms, hugging him tightly as tears began to pour down her face. "I-I''m here¡­ I''m here to protect you¡­ N-nothing will happen to you. I won''t let anything hurt you ever again."If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Ryoko''s sobs shook her small frame as she held Ryuu close, her forehead pressing against his. The flame on her forehead flickered brightly, and as it touched Ryuu''s, the two flames began to merge. They intertwined like two souls reuniting, blending into a single, brilliant flame. Slowly, as the two flames became one, their light began to dim, shrinking smaller and smaller until, finally, the flame extinguished entirely. Both Ryoko and Ryuu fell unconscious, their bodies resting in peaceful slumber, side by side, on the cold wooden floor of the treehouse. For the first time in a long while, Ryoko''s face looked calm¡ªfree of pain, fear, and anger. . . . . Deep in the forest, Seichii and Masumi were still following the ice trail left by Ryoko. The frozen path glittered in the moonlight, guiding them through the thick woods like a beacon. Despite the urgency driving them forward, a nervous silence had fallen between the two as they both worried for Ryuu and Ryoko. "Seichii-kun! W-where are we? How much further?" Masumi''s voice was tinged with anxiety. She had never felt so lost. Seichii kept his gaze focused ahead, his eyes scanning for any sign of movement. "We''re close, Masumi-san. I can feel it. The ice path¡­ only Ryoko-san could have created something like this." The forest began to thin, and soon they could see the open sky beyond the trees. But as they broke through the treeline and into the clearing, both Seichii and Masumi froze, their breath catching in their throats. The sight that lay before them was nothing short of a battlefield. The ground was soaked in blood, the bodies of demons scattered everywhere. Some had been torn to pieces, others frozen solid in grotesque poses. It was a scene of utter carnage, and the stench of death hung heavy in the air. Masumi clung to Seichii''s arm, her grip tight as she stared at the scene in horror. "S-Seichii-kun¡­ W-what is happening? W-why are there so many demons? This is the center of the city! How did they get here? And who¡­ who did this to them?" Seichii''s heart was pounding in his chest. He had never seen anything like it. The demons had been annihilated with such force that even the most skilled warriors would have struggled to match. His eyes scanned the battlefield, noticing the shards of ice embedded in the ground, and it suddenly all made sense. "This¡­ this was Ryoko-san," he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. He had seen Ryoko''s power once before, but never like this. She had always seemed controlled, calculated. But this¡­ this was destruction on a scale that he couldn''t have imagined. It was terrifying and awe-inspiring all at once. (W-Who in the world can annihilate so many demons like this? Ryoko-san¡­ she''s really a¡­ a monster.) Masumi tightened her grip on his arm, pulling him closer. Seichii''s face flushed a deep shade of red, his thoughts momentarily distracted by her closeness. (S-so close! W-what do I do? M-Masumi-san''s chest is touching my arm! No! Seichii, focus! This isn''t the time to think about this. You''re supposed to be helping!) His internal battle was interrupted when he noticed a figure lying on the ground. "Masumi-san! Look! There''s someone there!" The two rushed over to the figure, a beautiful woman with golden hair lying unconscious. Masumi knelt beside her, checking for signs of life. "S-Seichii-kun¡­ she''s badly injured. There''s a deep wound on her back¡­ I-I think she was fighting the demons," Masumi said, her voice shaking. Seichii''s heart sank as he looked at the woman''s pale face. But just as he turned to Masumi, his eyes caught sight of another figure nearby. "Masumi-san! There''s a man over there too!" They hurried over, and when they reached him, Seichii''s eyes widened in shock. "H-he¡­ He''s Ryuu''s teacher! Morishita Shigeru¡ªthe world''s greatest scholar!" Masumi immediately checked Shigeru''s condition. "He''s alive¡­ just a few broken bones." Together, they lifted both Shigeru and the injured woman, laying them on a nearby rock. Both of their injuries were severe, and time was running out. "A-akiko¡­" Shigeru''s weak voice mumbled in his sleep, calling out for someone. Masumi and Seichii exchanged worried looks. "Masumi-san, can''t you use your healing magic? You have to help them!" Masumi froze, her heart pounding. "I¡­ I don''t know if I can¡­ I''m not skilled enough. I just started learning magic. I¡­ I''m a coward." Her voice cracked, her body trembling with the weight of her self-doubt. Seichii, seeing her despair, gently placed a hand on her head, a bright smile spreading across his face. "You''re not a coward, Masumi-san. You''re trying, and that''s what matters. Everyone has something special inside them, something they''re good at. You just have to find yours. And you won''t know until you try. So¡­ will you help them, Dr. Masumi-sama?" His words were soft but filled with encouragement. Masumi''s eyes filled with tears as she stared at him, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, Seichii-kun¡­ for always believing in me. I''ll try. I''ll do everything I can to help them." Determined, Masumi moved toward Shigeru and Akiko. She took a deep breath, her hands trembling as she raised them over their injured bodies. She closed her eyes, trying to summon the courage and concentration she needed. Time felt like it slowed down. She could hear her own heartbeat thundering in her ears, her fear threatening to overwhelm her again. But then, a soft voice echoed in her mind. ("Masumi-san, it''s okay. Don''t lose hope. I know you can do it.") Seichii''s words gave her strength, and she focused on the injured couple in front of her. Slowly, a faint green light began to form in the palms of her hands, flickering uncertainly like a small flame in the wind. Masumi gritted her teeth, pushing past her doubt and fear, channeling every ounce of energy she had into her magic. The green light grew stronger, brighter, forming two small circles that hovered above her hands. "I can do this," Masumi whispered, her voice firm with newfound determination. She lowered her hands toward Shigeru and Akiko, releasing the circles of light toward them. The green circles floated down and rested gently on their foreheads. For a moment, nothing happened, and Masumi''s heart sank, fear gripping her again. But then, the magic took hold. Shigeru and Akiko''s wounds began to glow with a soft green light. Slowly, the deep cuts started to heal, the skin knitting back together before their eyes. Shigeru''s broken bones began to realign and set themselves as the magic worked its way through his body. Masumi gasped, her hands trembling with disbelief as the magic continued to flow from her. "It''s working!" Seichii cried out, his face lighting up with joy. He grabbed Masumi''s hands, his excitement overflowing. "You did it, Masumi-san! You''re healing them!" Tears of relief welled up in Masumi''s eyes as she watched the magic complete its work. Shigeru''s breathing became steady, and the strain on Akiko''s face softened as her pain faded. The two of them looked peaceful now, their injuries almost fully healed. Masumi collapsed to her knees, exhausted but overwhelmed with happiness. She had done it. She had saved them. Tears streamed down her face as she looked up at Seichii, her heart swelling with gratitude. (It''s all thanks to you, Seichii-kun. I¡­ I couldn''t have done it without you.).... The Healing Magic.. "A...A-akiko." Shigeru''s eyes fluttered open, his vision blurry at first, but gradually sharpening to the familiar scene of the forest clearing. He blinked a few times, his body weak but his mind immediately racing. Seichii and Masumi, standing beside him, exchanged a relieved glance, overjoyed to see him awake. But Shigeru barely registered their presence. His lips moved, mumbling the only name that consumed his thoughts. "A-aki... A-AKIKO!!!" With a sudden jolt, he sat up, his body trembling as consciousness fully returned. His heart pounded wildly in his chest, panic flooding his veins. He couldn''t remember anything after blacking out, but the name echoed in his mind, pulling at his very soul. "AKIKO!! AKIKO! WHERE ARE Y-" Frantically, Shigeru''s eyes darted around, searching with growing anxiety. His hands shook, his breathing uneven. Then, finally, his gaze landed on her¡ªthe sight that nearly broke him a moment ago but now filled him with overwhelming relief. Akiko lay beside him, still as the night, but her skin was no longer pale, and the deep, ghastly wounds that marred her body were mysteriously gone. Her breathing was calm, her chest rising and falling softly, as if in a peaceful slumber. Every wound, even the large, fatal slash across her back, had vanished, leaving behind smooth skin where torn flesh once was. Tears welled up in Shigeru''s eyes, blurring his vision again, but this time they were tears of joy. He reached out, gently brushing a lock of hair from Akiko''s face, his heart swelling with gratitude. She was alive. She was here. But amidst his joy, confusion tugged at the corners of his mind. How could her injuries, which should have claimed her life, be healed so quickly? He glanced around, his mind still racing. That was when he noticed Seichii and Masumi standing nearby, watching him quietly. The joy he felt turned to a new wave of confusion. "Y-you two..." Shigeru''s voice cracked, hoarse from exhaustion. "Weren''t you with Aramiya-kun that day? W-what are you doing here, so deep inside the forest?!" His voice carried a mix of disbelief and concern. He hadn''t expected to see anyone else in this isolated place, except maybe Ryuu. This area was his and Akiko''s little heaven¡ªfar removed from the chaos of the world.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. Seichii stepped forward, his face serious. "We''re here to find¡ª" "W-we''re here to find Aramiya-kun!" Masumi suddenly interrupted, her voice trembling. Seichii looked at her, surprised by the urgency in her tone. Masumi, who rarely spoke up, had suddenly taken the lead in explaining their presence. Seichii blinked, a flicker of astonishment crossing his face¡ªMasumi had never done that before. He wasn''t the only one surprised. Masumi glanced down, her cheeks flushing slightly, realizing what she had done. But she quickly pressed on, her words stumbling as she tried to recount the events that led them here. "R-ryoko-san and I were at the t-training area, watching the sunset..." Masumi''s voice was shaky but determined, her usual shy demeanor slipping away in the urgency of the moment. "W-we were just sitting there when suddenly, Ryoko-san stood up. She started acting strangely, as if something had taken control of her. S-she kept mumbling that Aramiya-kun was in danger... that she had to save him. I was terrified, b-but before I could stop her, she dashed toward the mountain." Masumi''s eyes widened as she recalled the scene, her fear still fresh. "I-I didn''t know what to do, but that was when Seichii-kun returned from getting water. I-I explained what happened, and we both followed her... deep into the forest." Seichii nodded in confirmation. "We followed her trail through the forest, trying to catch up, but she was so fast. We found a path... it was made of crystal ice, which we knew Ryoko-san had created. It led us straight out of the dense woods and into an open field." Masumi shuddered at the memory. "B-but what we saw there... the bodies of demons... they were scattered everywhere, torn apart, as if some terrible force had ripped them to pieces. We had never seen anything like it. But we didn''t stop. We kept looking for Aramiya-kun and Ryoko-san." She hesitated, her gaze lowering for a moment before continuing. "And then we found you... and the lady beside you." Her eyes drifted to Akiko, still lying peacefully next to Shigeru. "She was gravely injured... her wounds were beyond what I could handle. But I tried. I used my healing magic. It was the best I could do... a temporary fix. You both need professional care, or the injuries might return." Seichii, who had been quietly listening, couldn''t help but marvel at Masumi''s sudden courage. She had never spoken so much, so confidently. He found himself staring at her, his heart swelling with pride and something more, something he couldn''t quite put into words. Masumi noticed his gaze and turned her face away, her cheeks reddening further. Shigeru, still processing everything, sat in stunned silence. The tears that had pooled in his eyes earlier now spilled freely down his cheeks. He stood slowly, his body still weak from the ordeal, but his gratitude overwhelmed every other emotion. Without a word, he knelt down before Seichii and Masumi, his head bowed low in respect and humility. Both Seichii and Masumi gasped, their eyes widening in shock. "Professor Shigeru! What are you¡ª" "Sengoku Seichii-kun, Sakaguchi Masumi-san," Shigeru''s voice cracked with emotion. "I, Morishita Shigeru, owe you my deepest thanks. You saved my beloved wife, Akiko. She is my reason for living, the light of my world. When that demon wolf attacked her, I... I thought I''d lost everything." His voice trembled with sincerity as he continued. "But you both... you brought her back to me. Not just her life, but mine as well. I cannot repay this debt. But if there is ever anything you need, any wish or desire... I swear upon my life, I will fulfill it. Even if it costs me everything." Seichii and Masumi stood frozen, their hearts pounding in disbelief. The greatest scholar in the world¡ªMorishita Shigeru¡ªwas kneeling before them, offering his life in return for theirs. They could barely comprehend the weight of the moment. "S-sir, please!" Seichii stammered, his voice shaking. "You don''t have to do this! Please stand, we can''t bear to see you like this..." Masumi, too, was trembling, her hands clasped tightly together. "P-professor, if you truly want to help us... please, tell us where Ryoko-san and Ryuu are."... A Nightmare or Reality? "If you really want to help us... then please, tell us where Ryoko-san and Ryuu are. I need to find them as soon as possible." Seichii''s voice trembled with urgency, his eyes filled with a deep resolve. "Ryuu is my only friend from childhood. He saved my life once before. Now it''s my turn to save him, especially when his life is in danger. So, please, tell us¡ªwhere is Ryuu?" Seichii bowed deeply in front of Shigeru, his desperation palpable. Masumi stood beside him, her face equally filled with concern. Shigeru, sensing the gravity of the moment, was about to speak. "Aramiy¡ª" "There''s no need to worry about Ryuu-kun!" A sudden voice interrupted Shigeru, echoing through the tense atmosphere. Startled, everyone turned toward the sound. Ryoko emerged from the shadows, cradling an unconscious Ryuu in her arms. Her steps were slow, graceful, and deliberate, and to everyone''s surprise, her usual icy cold demeanor had melted away. Her face was illuminated by an expression of pure joy, radiating a warmth that felt almost otherworldly. She looked like a goddess who had descended to earth, her presence serene and captivating. Seichii and Masumi were taken aback. Ryoko was someone they had always known to be distant, almost unreachable in her coldness. But this version of her was a stranger¡ªone who smiled so brightly, it felt like she was a different person altogether. "Sengoku-kun, Masumi-san," Ryoko''s voice was soft but filled with gratitude as she approached. "Thank you for being concerned about me and Ryuu-kun. And thank you for coming all this way to help us. I''m deeply grateful." She bowed respectfully toward them, a gesture so sincere it stunned them both further. Ryoko shifted her gaze to Ryuu, lying peacefully in her arms. "Ryuu-kun is no longer in immediate danger; he''s just resting. He''ll wake up soon." Masumi, overcome with emotion, rushed forward and threw her arms around Ryoko, her voice trembling. "R-Ryoko-san! I... I''m so happy to see you''re safe. I was so worried about you both!" Tears streamed down Masumi''s face, and Ryoko, though slightly startled, smiled gently in return. She placed a comforting hand on Masumi''s back, her own eyes softening. "Thank you, Masumi-san. I appreciate your concern." Seichii couldn''t help but smile, relieved to see Ryoko and Ryuu safe. But as the others shared their heartfelt reunion, Shigeru stood apart, silently observing the scene with furrowed brows, his mind racing. (Something is wrong. What was that azure flame on Aramiya-kun''s forehead earlier? And where did it go?) His eyes locked onto Ryuu, still unconscious in Ryoko''s arms, and then to Ryoko herself. The bond between them¡ªhe could sense it¡ªit had always been there, but now it felt different, more intense, more volatile. (The mysterious bond between them has strengthened significantly... but it''s fluctuating unpredictably. Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. And Ryuu''s magical aura... it''s changed. It''s far stronger than before, but there''s something off about it. This pressure...) Beads of sweat formed on Shigeru''s forehead as unease settled into his chest. (I need to get to the bottom of this before something even more dangerous happens.) Shigeru took a deep breath and broke his silence. "It''s getting late. We should head back to the training area. Both Aramiya-kun and Akiko need thorough check-ups." His voice was steady, but the urgency lingered beneath his calm exterior. With that, he gently lifted the unconscious Akiko into his arms, and together, the group made their way back to the training grounds, unaware of the dark forces stirring elsewhere. . . . . Far beneath the surface of the earth, in a cavern shrouded in absolute darkness, a low, ominous rumble echoed. The sheer magnitude of the sound sent tremors through the ground, reverberating against the cave walls. The darkness felt alive, as if it was breathing, waiting. A voice, deep and filled with malice, rumbled from within the depths of the cavern. "So... it is truly him. The time of our return is upon us. And this time, we will stand victorious, above all." . . . Three hours had passed since Ryoko and the others returned to the training area. Both Ryuu and Akiko had been taken for medical examinations, while the rest waited anxiously for news. Thanks to Masumi''s quick healing magic, Akiko was no longer in immediate danger, though she still required rest. Ryuu, however, had not yet woken up. Inside his mind, Ryuu found himself drifting in an empty void, a vast expanse of nothingness, where only darkness stretched out infinitely in every direction. He slowly opened his eyes, blinking in confusion. "W-where am I?" he muttered groggily, his voice echoing in the void. He sat up, rubbing his eyes, trying to make sense of his surroundings, but nothing came to him. The place felt surreal, detached from reality. "Is anyone here?!" Ryuu shouted, his voice rising in panic. "Anyone?! Can anyone hear me?! Answer me!!" His words were met with silence, the kind of silence that presses in from all sides, suffocating in its stillness. Fear began to creep into Ryuu''s heart as he stood and started running aimlessly through the endless dark, calling out for someone¡ªanyone. "Ryuu-kun," a soft, familiar voice called from behind him. Ryuu froze, his heart racing. He turned quickly to see Ryoko standing a short distance away, smiling at him. "R-Ryoko-san!? Is that really you?" Ryuu''s face lit up with joy at the sight of her, but something about the way she stood, her expression... felt off. He tried to move toward her, but with each step he took, Ryoko seemed to drift further away, her figure fading into the darkness. "Ryoko-san, wait! Why are you moving away?!" Ryuu''s voice cracked with desperation as he ran after her. "Where are you going? Why won''t you answer me?!" Tears started welling in Ryoko''s eyes as her smile faded. "Ryuu-kun," she said softly. "did you forget about me?" Her question struck Ryuu like a dagger to the heart. "W-what are you talking about?" he stammered, shaking his head in disbelief. "You''re Tatsuno Ryoko-san, an S-rank magic user, and more importantly, you''re my precious friend. Of course, I haven''t forgotten you!" But Ryoko''s expression grew sadder. "So you truly have forgotten," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "But don''t worry... I will make you remember. I''ll help you remember everything." Ryuu''s steps faltered, confusion clouding his mind. "W-what do you mean, Ryoko-san? Remember what?" But Ryoko only smiled faintly. "Goodbye, Ryuu-kun. I''ll see you soon." And with that, she disappeared completely into the abyss, leaving Ryuu alone once more. He dropped to his knees, exhausted and helpless, as the void swallowed him up. The last thing he heard was the faint echo of his own voice calling her name before everything went dark again. . . . . Back in the real world, Ryuu shot up from his bed, drenched in sweat, his eyes wide with terror. "RYOKO-SAN!! RYOKO-SAN!!" he screamed, his voice hoarse. Ryoko, who had been sitting beside him in silence, immediately leaned forward in concern. "Ryuu-kun! You''re awake! What happened? Why are you sweating like this?" She placed a hand on his shoulder to calm him. But Ryuu, still caught in the emotional aftermath of his dream, instinctively pulled Ryoko toward him, embracing her tightly. Ryoko gasped, her face turning crimson as she found herself in his sudden, desperate hug. "R-Ryuu-kun! W-what are you doing!?" Ryoko stammered, flustered by the sudden intimacy. But Ryuu said nothing. He simply held her, his grip firm, as if afraid that letting go would mean losing her again. Understanding the situation, Ryoko''s flustered expression softened. She gently wrapped her arms around him in return, her voice soothing. "Ryuu-kun... Did you have a nightmare?" She asked softly, brushing his hair back tenderly. "It''s okay. I''m here. No matter what happens, I''ll always protect you." Her calm words and comforting presence helped Ryuu regain his composure. Slowly, he loosened his grip and sat back on the bed, his face flushed with embarrassment. "I-I''m sorry, Ryoko-san. I didn''t mean to¡ª" Ryoko interrupted him with a light-hearted laugh. "Ha-ha-ha, Ryuu-kun, are you blushing?" She giggled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "It''s the first time I''ve seen you like this! Don''t worry, I know you didn''t do it on purpose." Ryuu smiled sheepishly, his embarrassment fading as he started to laugh along with her. For a moment, everything felt normal, but in the back of their minds, both Ryuu and Ryoko knew that something deeper was stirring, something that could change everything... A Mockery? Both Ryuu and Akiko were now fully healed, their spirits rejuvenated and ready for the challenges ahead. The following day, they returned to the mountainous training grounds with Shigeru, who guided them with a steady determination. Despite the busy atmosphere, Ryoko remained preoccupied with thoughts of Ryuu, her worry palpable as she frequently glanced in his direction. In the training area, students diligently practiced their spells, the air thick with the sounds of magical energies crackling and surging around them. Yet, Ryoko felt disconnected from the bustling activity. Instead of joining her peers, she sought solace in the tranquil garden nearby. There, she settled beneath a sprawling tree, staring at the clear blue sky as clouds drifted lazily overhead, lost in her thoughts. Meanwhile, Ryuu immersed himself in training alongside Akiko and Shigeru in the mountains. Each day unfolded as a new adventure, filled with the wonders of nature and the intricacies of the magical world. He learned to harness the fire element with increasing skill, his confidence blossoming with each passing lesson. As the sun rose and fell, so too did his understanding of the power that surged within him. Time flew by, and the three months of the training session came to a close. The transformation among the students was remarkable. Seichii and Masumi, once hesitant and unsure, had risen to unleash Intermediate-level spells with impressive control. Every student had developed in their own unique way, showcasing their potential and dedication. However, Ryoko remained unchanged, her icy demeanor steadfast as she watched the others thrive. The upcoming Inter-Division Battles loomed large, just three days away. Each student felt the weight of the competition pressing down on them, determination etched into their expressions. Winning the battles meant more than just pride. It would grant them extra contributive points that could significantly enhance their overall performance, increasing their chances of being selected as elite students. Elite students would be given the rare opportunity to witness the legendary weapons known as the Atsuras, a coveted privilege that spurred their ambition even further. As the day of the announcement arrived, all the students gathered on the training ground, their faces set with seriousness. The air buzzed with anticipation as the chief and several officers ascended the stage, ready to address the eager crowd. "Good morning, students!" the chief boomed, his voice strong and commanding. "After enduring relentless training over the past three months, this special training session, organized by the Board of Education, is nearing its conclusion. This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. Each and every one of you has put forth an extraordinary effort, practicing tirelessly day and night. Your hard work has not gone unnoticed, and you have all shown the potential to become the saviors of humanity one day." Cheers erupted from the crowd, the energy infectious, but the chief raised his hand to quiet them. "Now, as we prepare for the Inter-Division Battles scheduled for three days from now, you will have the opportunity to showcase the improvements you''ve made during this session. This is your chance to prove yourselves. The competition will determine who stands out, who has truly earned the right to be called elite students." His words ignited a fire within the students, a fervor that spread like wildfire among them. The chief concluded. "I look forward to seeing your progress and the fruits of your labor. Now, return to your dorms and practice diligently for the upcoming competition." With that, the chief and his officers departed the stage, leaving the students behind, their expressions resolute and determined. The atmosphere buzzed with intensity, a shared understanding that greatness awaited those who excelled in the upcoming battles. As the crowd began to disperse, Ryoko remained in her spot, still staring up at the expansive sky, her mind elsewhere. Seichii and Masumi stood beside her, concern etching lines on their faces. "Ryoko-san! What are you thinking about?" Seichii asked, attempting to break through her contemplative state. Ryoko, lost in thought, didn''t respond. Instead, she continued to gaze at the azure above. Seichii sighed, knowing her well enough not to expect a response. "Aha-ha-ha, Ryoko-san, you''re truly marvelous as always," a voice interrupted, dripping with insincerity. Rajin sauntered up to them, flanked by his division members, a smug expression plastered on his face. "Not giving your attention to the people who are unworthy of your time." Seichii felt a wave of disgust wash over him as Rajin approached Ryoko, kneeling before her as if she were royalty. "Ryoko-san, how are you doing? My eyes have been yearning to witness your beautiful face," he purred, holding one of her hands in his. Ryoko instinctively pulled her hand away, her expression turning to one of disgust. "Don''t touch me," she replied coldly, her eyes narrowing. Rajin, undeterred by her rejection, chuckled condescendingly. "Aha-ha-ha! Looks like you''re not worthy of Ryoko-san''s attention either!" Seichii couldn''t contain his laughter, clutching his stomach as Rajin''s face flushed with anger. The tension in the air thickened, but Rajin composed himself and stood up, brushing off the embarrassment. "Ryoko-san, let''s meet in the Inter-Division Battles. I''m eager to face you and Aramiya-kun in the competition," He said with a smirk as he walked away, his division members snickering behind him. Ryoko glared at his back, a storm brewing in her expression. Seichii and Masumi exchanged worried glances, concerned for Ryuu. As the trio contemplated the implications of Rajin''s words, Meiko and Hibino approached them, their faces twisted in mischievous smiles. "That kid is doomed since Rajin has laid his eyes on him," Meiko giggled, a playful tone in her voice. However, she was abruptly silenced when a chill swept through the air, the temperature dropping as an overwhelming pressure enveloped her. Ryoko stood directly behind her, her aura suffocating and dark. The intensity in her gaze reflected a deep-seated bloodlust that sent a shiver down Meiko''s spine. "Speak that again, and I will make you regret ever living," Ryoko hissed, her voice low and menacing. "R-Ryoko-san! Please stop! Don''t harm Meiko-san!" Masumi interjected, stepping in front of Ryoko and grasping her arm tightly. Ryoko''s fury simmered just below the surface, but she held back, unwilling to hurt Masumi. "If only you weren''t so close to Masumi-san," Ryoko muttered, her voice cold as ice, "I would have snapped your body in half today." With one last glare that promised retribution, she turned on her heel and walked away, leaving Meiko trembling in her wake. Masumi let out a shaky breath, her heart racing from the confrontation. (Thank you for stopping, Ryoko-san. I owe you one for that.) Ryoko''s cold exterior remained, but her loyalty to Masumi was evident. As the atmosphere in the garden began to shift back to normal, the weight of impending competition loomed over them all. With just three days remaining until the Inter-Division Battles, each student felt the anticipation build. They knew the stakes were high, and they were prepared to fight for their dreams, their friendships, and their futures... Hes Ready! In the heart of a deep, dark forest, surrounded by towering trees that loomed like silent sentinels, Ryuu sat atop a flat rock, his body still and his eyes closed. The forest was alive with the sounds of nature: the rustling of leaves, the chirping of distant birds, and the whispering wind. Ryuu focused, drawing upon the energy within him, tapping into the elemental magic he had been training to master for the past three months. Suddenly, he opened his eyes, a spark of determination igniting within their depths. He raised his hand high into the air, and to his amazement, a bright red flame flickered to life above his palm, dancing with vitality and power. With a swift motion, he directed the flame toward a nearby rock, a sense of exhilaration coursing through him. "Here goes nothing!" he thought, heart racing with anticipation. Boom!!! The flame collided violently with the stone, unleashing a shockwave that kicked up a massive dust storm. The explosion echoed through the forest, sending fragments of rock scattering in all directions. Dust enveloped the area, obscuring vision as the air grew thick and heavy. As the dust storm began to settle and the air cleared, two figures emerged from the haze: Shigeru and Akiko, both staring wide-eyed at the spectacle before them. When the dust finally cleared, the sight was astonishing. The rock had been utterly pulverized at the point of impact, a gaping hole left where the bright red flame had struck. Ryuu''s heart swelled with pride and joy at the sight of his accomplishment. He jumped off the stone and ran toward Shigeru and Akiko, a radiant smile illuminating his face. "Master! Akiko-san! I did it! I was finally able to use the basic-level spell of fire magic!" He exclaimed, his voice filled with uncontainable excitement.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. Both Shigeru and Akiko were astonished, unable to hide their surprise. Akiko, in particular, couldn''t believe the speed of his growth. She had watched him struggle at times, never imagining he would come to understand the flow of magic in the world so quickly and effectively. Shigeru, too, felt a wave of happiness wash over him. However, beneath that surface joy, a complex web of thoughts began to weave through his mind. (I''ve never witnessed anyone progress at this rate. The way Aramiya-kun grasps everything feels so instinctive. And that flame¡­ it''s pure¡ªmore potent than I could have anticipated. It pulverized everything in its path.) Shigeru regarded Ryuu with a proud smile, mixed with a hint of curiosity. "Aramiya-kun," he began, his voice steady and reassuring. "All your hard work over these past three months has finally paid off. You''ve unleashed the power that resides within you." Ryuu met his gaze, excitement bubbling within him as he felt the weight of Shigeru''s words. This was just the beginning of his journey¡ªan adventure he had long dreamed of. "Aramiya-kun," Shigeru continued, his tone shifting to one of seriousness. "In three days, the Inter-Division Battles will commence. As the Board of Education decided to assign me as your teacher, you haven''t had the chance to earn any contributive points in the training area. However, the president has determined that if you stand out in the Inter-Division competition, you will be granted the opportunity to witness the legendary weapons¡ªthe Atsuras." Ryuu''s heart skipped a beat at the mention of the Atsuras. Memories of the mysterious cave flooded his mind, where he had first encountered the ancient images of those legendary weapons. He remembered vividly how an azure flame had appeared on his forehead at that moment, igniting a fire of curiosity within him. Shigeru continued. "Do you remember that day? When you saw the pictures of the Atsuras in that mysterious cave, and suddenly, that azure flame manifested? I believe witnessing the Atsuras with your own eyes could provide us with crucial insights about that azure flame within you. This is a chance to understand more about yourself, to uncover the depths of your potential. So now, Aramiya-kun, it all hinges on your performance in the Inter-Division Competition." Shigeru''s serious demeanor conveyed the gravity of the situation. He knew this was a golden opportunity not just for Ryuu, but also for his own quest for knowledge about the unknown element that resided within his student. As Ryuu listened intently, the weight of the impending competition settled on his shoulders. He was determined, his resolve solidifying. He wanted to unravel the mysteries behind the strange dreams that had haunted him and confront the pain that lingered in his heart. (Inter-Division battles, I''m coming. This is my moment to prove myself, to find answers and embrace the power within me.) With a deep breath, Ryuu envisioned the battles ahead¡ªnot just as a test of his magical abilities, but as a critical step toward understanding who he truly was. The anticipation of the Inter-Division Battles filled him with a mix of excitement and determination. Igniting a fire within him as fierce as the flames he commanded..... Reunion.... Ryuu was serious about the upcoming Inter-Division Battles, only three days away. Today, after a full three months of rigorous training, Ryuu, Shigeru, and Akiko were finally heading back to the training area. It had been three months since he last saw Ryoko, Seichii, and Masumi, and he could hardly wait to see them again. His heart raced with both excitement and nerves, mirrored in his friends. As they walked, Shigeru glanced over at him. "Aramiya-kun, today we''ll return to the training area. Remember, this competition will be the gateway you need to clear if you want to uncover the mysteries within you." Shigeru placed a reassuring hand on Ryuu''s shoulder. Ryuu listened intently, his determination unwavering. "Master, I''ll make you and Akiko-san proud. I won''t let all your hard work over these three months go to waste." Shigeru shook his head with a smile. "You''ve got it all wrong! We only pointed the way. The one who did the hard work¡­ was you." Akiko''s eyes sparkled with pride. "Exactly, Ryuu-kun! We just set the course¡ªyou''re the one who followed it." She sighed dramatically, glancing around at the endless trees. "Now, can we finally go back? I''m tired of living out here in the forest!" Ryuu and Shigeru burst into laughter, watching her switch from seriousness to her usual playful self. "What''s so funny?" She demanded, puffing her cheeks in a mock pout.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. "Nothing," Shigeru replied with a smirk, "just admiring how cute and innocent my wife can be." Akiko''s cheeks reddened, and she huffed, turning and marching ahead of them. Shigeru and Ryuu followed, both smiling as they trailed behind her. . . . The sun was setting as they reached the training area, casting a soft, amber glow over the surroundings. Shigeru patted Ryuu on the back. "Aramiya-kun, the chief has summoned Akiko and me. Go ahead to your dorm and get some rest. You''ve earned it after a long journey." Ryuu nodded gratefully, watching his mentors head off to the command office. His whole body felt heavy with fatigue. "Finally¡­ a proper bed after three months," he murmured with relief. As he walked towards his dorm, a familiar figure caught his eye. Under a nearby tree, someone sat quietly, gazing out at the setting sun. His heart skipped a beat. (Is that¡­ Ryoko-san?) He approached quietly, aiming to surprise her. "Ryoko-san! What are you staring at?" Startled, Ryoko looked over her shoulder, her eyes widening slightly before she composed herself and looked back at the horizon. "Oh, Ryuu-kun, I was just looking at the su¡ª" But before she could finish, her eyes widened as if seeing him for the first time. She turned and rushed toward him, taking both of his hands in hers. "Ryuu-kun! It''s really you! When did you return? Why didn''t you tell me?" Her voice trembled with joy, and he could see tears shimmering in her eyes. She''d been waiting here, her mind always on him, and the realization made his chest ache. "Ryoko-san, calm down," He said gently, giving her hands a reassuring squeeze. "I''m sorry I didn''t let you and Seichii know¡ªI was just so focused on getting back." A soft, relieved smile broke through her tears. "Let''s go to the dorms, Ryuu-kun. You must be exhausted after traveling all day." Ryuu let out a weary sigh, rolling his shoulders. "Master insisted we walk back to ''build endurance.'' My legs are practically falling off." Ryoko laughed lightly as they walked, but he noticed her expression had turned thoughtful. When did he come up behind me without me noticing? Eventually, they arrived at Ryoko''s room. Ryuu offered a small wave. "See you tomorrow, Ryoko-san. Rest well." "Good night, Ryuu-kun," She said softly, watching him turn toward his dorm. But as she reached for her door handle, the door swung open, and Seichii stepped out. Ryoko and Ryuu both froze, staring at Seichii in shock. A sudden chill filled the air around them, and Ryoko''s eyes narrowed, her voice low and icy. "Seichii-kun¡­ what were you doing in my room?"... A Small Misunderstanding. "R-Ryuu? W-when did you return from the mountain?" Seichii stammered, eyes wide as he noticed Ryuu and Ryoko watching him. He froze, clearly taken off guard, his face going pale. Ryoko''s eyes narrowed, a cold aura starting to swirl around her. "Seichii-kun! What were you doing in my room?" Her voice was laced with suspicion, and the temperature around them seemed to drop with her tone. Seichii gulped, glancing nervously between Ryuu and Ryoko as if trying to escape their intense stares. "I-I¡­ M-Masumi-san needed my help with something, so I came to give her a hand." Ryuu raised an eyebrow, clearly stunned by the situation, while Ryoko''s expression turned downright icy. Small gusts of cold wind began to whip around her. "Are you trying to hide something, Seichii-kun? Tell me the truth now!" Her tone was low and dangerous. "Ryoko-san, calm down! You''ve got the wrong idea!" Seichii protested, stepping back cautiously¡ªonly to bump into someone behind him. "Ouch!" He turned, finding himself face-to-face with Masumi, who had somehow ended up directly behind him. The collision sent them both stumbling, and Masumi accidentally landed on top of Seichii as they hit the ground. Their faces flushed a deep red, and they quickly scrambled apart, standing up and avoiding each other''s gaze in awkward silence. Ryoko and Ryuu looked on with blank, unimpressed expressions, each silently processing the bizarre scene before them. After a moment, Masumi noticed Ryuu and Ryoko standing there, their faces unreadable. She seemed genuinely surprised to see Ryuu. "A-Aramiya-kun! Y-you''re back! I didn''t expect to see you here!" She gave him a flustered smile, her excitement tempered by the tension hanging in the air. But Ryuu and Ryoko kept looking at her and Seichii with the same flat expression, clearly unconvinced. "Masumi-san," Ryoko started, her voice sharp, "did Seichii-kun force you to do this? If he did, just tell me. I''ll bring his head to your feet!" Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! She grabbed Masumi''s arms with a fierce look in her eyes, seeming ready to take drastic action. Masumi blinked in confusion, completely taken aback. "R-Ryoko-san, what are you talking about?" Ryoko''s face turned red as she realized what she was implying. She glanced around, mumbling as she struggled to say it out loud. "T-the¡­ thing¡­ y-you two were doing in there." "Oh! Y-you mean the packing and stuff!" Masumi replied innocently, her expression clearing up. But she quickly noticed Ryuu and Ryoko''s blank stares. Ryoko frowned, clearly still confused. "W-what packing?" Masumi''s face lit up in realization. "The training session is almost over, so I was trying to get all my belongings packed up. I had some heavy things, so I asked Seichii-kun to help carry them. That''s all!" "Oh! S-so it was just packing¡­ ha-ha-ha¡­ just packing." Ryuu let out a nervous laugh, the earlier frostiness melting away into embarrassment. Both Ryuu and Ryoko finally understood, though their cheeks were now red with the misunderstanding. Just then, Masumi''s face turned bright red as she seemed to realize what Ryoko had assumed. "RYOKO-SAN! Y-you''ve got it all wrong! Sengoku-kun was only helping me with my things! Please don''t misunderstand!" Seichii sighed in exasperation, casting a sidelong look at Ryoko. (I told you it wasn''t what you thought¡­) He thought to himself, holding back a smile. Ryoko and Ryuu both bowed apologetically, their faces filled with regret. "Seichii-kun, Masumi-san, please forgive us. We got the wrong idea¡­" "A-Aramiya-kun! R-Ryoko-san! It''s okay, really!" Masumi said, flustered and waving her hands, clearly baffled by the pair bowing before them. "You don''t need to apologize; it was just a little misunderstanding! We''re all friends." Seichii chuckled softly. "Come on, Ryuu. It''s getting late, and you must be exhausted from the journey." Ryuu nodded, smiling gratefully. "You''re right, Seichii-kun." He gave Ryoko and Masumi a polite bow. "Goodnight, Ryoko-san, Masumi-san. See you tomorrow!" Both Ryoko and Masumi returned the smile. "Goodnight, Ryuu-kun, Seichii-kun. Rest well," Ryoko said softly, while Masumi nodded beside her, trying to shake off her lingering embarrassment. . . . The next few days flew by, with Ryuu catching up on rest and spending time with his friends. Seichii dedicated himself to perfecting his wind magic, focusing intensely in the days leading up to the big event. The day of the Inter-Division Battles finally arrived. The training arena was filled with students and spectators, the air buzzing with excitement. Students from all over the city gathered in the stands, each cheering on their schools and divisions. In the center of the spectator stands sat Shinju Hayato, the esteemed President of the Board of Education. His presence caused a wave of shock and disbelief among the crowd¡ªit was rare to see someone of his standing attending a mere student competition. Everyone whispered among themselves, wondering what had brought him here. The rumors flew that something important was at play. As the students lined up in the arena, a hush fell over the crowd, anticipation and nervous energy building. They all knew this wasn''t just a regular competition; it was an opportunity to prove themselves and unlock new paths. As the students assembled in the arena, a hush settled over the crowd, thick with anticipation. The usual hum of conversation faded, leaving only the electric tension in the air. Each competitor felt the weight of this moment¡ªnot just as a test of skill, but as a gateway to uncovering secrets that lay beyond their reach. For Ryuu, this was more than a battle; it was a chance to uncover the secrets that had haunted him, to push past his limits, and to face whatever awaited him on the other side... Inter Division Battles. The crowd in the arena went completely silent. A heavy, almost oppressive pressure filled the air, emanating from Shinju Hayato. His mere presence was enough to make even the most seasoned warriors tremble. The spectators could feel the weight of his power, and many dared not even look in his direction. "Shinju Hayato, once Japan''s strongest man... huh," Meiko whispered, her voice tinged with astonishment. "He truly lives up to the rumors. That kind of power is... unimaginable. If it weren''t for the protective array, the crowd here might have been crushed under his pressure." Hibino stood beside her, rolling his eyes. "Hah, Meiko, you shouldn''t talk about normal people when you''re trembling like this yourself." He grinned, holding her steady, but there was a hint of nervousness in his own voice. Around the arena, students from the four divisions stood in tense groups, eyeing one another. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation. Rajin sat with his division, a quiet, knowing smile on his face as he watched the competitors from the other divisions, his eyes narrowing on one person in particular. (Aramiya Ryuu... Today''s the day I show Ryoko-san just how weak you really are.) Shinju Hayato rose from his seat with deliberate grace, his movements commanding attention. Stepping forward, he raised his hand into the air, and in an instant, a brilliant golden light enveloped the entire arena. The pressure that had made the crowd uneasy lifted, replaced by a calm yet potent energy that seemed to hum with authority. "To all who have gathered here today," Shinju''s voice boomed, strong and unyielding, "I, Shinju Hayato, the president of the Board of Education, welcome you to witness the strength of these young talents. They represent the future of our nation. They are the finest we''ve seen in centuries." The crowd held their breath, hanging on his every word.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. "As the danger from the demons has increased exponentially over the past decade," Shinju continued, his tone growing more serious, "the Board of Education has worked tirelessly to train these promising students. Today, we witness the culmination of their hard work and dedication. The Inter Division Competition is not just a test of strength, but a demonstration of everything they have learned. The time has come to see if they can live up to their potential." A murmur of awe rippled through the audience as the gravity of his words sank in. "Now, the moment we''ve all been waiting for. The Inter Division Competition officially begins!" Shinju''s declaration was met with a roar of excitement from the crowd. Cheers echoed through the arena, the air buzzing with energy. The chief in command, Tomoki Noato, stepped into the center of the arena, his voice cutting through the noise. "People of the arena, I am Tomoki Noato, chief commander of this training session," He began, his tone firm but welcoming. "Let me explain the rules of the Inter Division Battles." He paused for a moment as the crowd settled, eager to hear more. "There will be both solo and team battles. First, each division will send its members to fight individually against the members of another division. After that, all seven members of each division will compete together in a team battle." The crowd leaned forward, eyes wide with anticipation. "The results of both the solo and team battles will determine the winner of the competition. The two winning teams will then face each other in the final round. The final winner will be crowned the champion." A murmur of excitement passed through the audience. "Contributive points will be awarded based on performance in both individual and team battles. The students with the highest number of points will be selected as the elite students." At this, a ripple of gasps filled the stands. The idea of elite students was a coveted honor, and the promise of being recognized at such a high level sent a wave of urgency through the competitors. "And those elite students," Tomoki continued, his eyes gleaming with pride, "will be granted the rare and incredible opportunity to witness the legendary Atsuras¡ªthe ancient weapons gifted to humanity by the gods themselves!" The entire arena froze in stunned silence. The Atsuras. Only the strongest and most deserving could even lay eyes on these legendary weapons. The mention of their name had everyone in the stands on edge, wondering what it would take to earn such a privilege. The students'' expressions hardened as the gravity of the competition hit them. For them, the battle was not just about victory¡ªit was about proving their worth, earning the right to face the greatest challenge they would ever know. "Now," Tomoki gestured to Shinju, "I would like the President to draw the names for the first battle." Shinju Hayato, with the quiet authority of someone who had seen it all, stepped forward. He held four slips of paper in his hand, each one sealing the fate of the divisions. He drew two slips, revealing them to the crowd. The arena was on edge, everyone holding their breath. "The first battle of the Inter Division Battles will be between... the First Division and the Fourth Division!" Shinju announced. The atmosphere exploded. Whispers turned into gasps, and the crowd erupted into cheers and applause. The students from both divisions stood tall, preparing for what would surely be an intense and crucial fight. As Ryuu looked toward his opponents, a wave of determination washed over him. Today was not just about winning. It was about proving that he belonged among the elite. And the Inter Division Battles were only the beginning... The First Battle! (1) Rajin''s smirk deepened as the draw was announced, his confidence unwavering. Aramiya Ryuu, you got lucky. We don''t face off in the first round, but I''m certain you''ll win the first round easily with Ryoko-san by your side. That just means we''ll meet in the final. No one can change that. He grinned, already envisioning his victory. His team, noticing his expression, grew more confident by the second. "Rajin''s smiling. There''s no way anyone can beat us with the Invincible Solitude on our side." Laughter bubbled up among his division members, and their confidence soared as they stared at the opposition. The feeling of invincibility was almost tangible. The chief commander raised his hand, and the atmosphere shifted. The audience fell silent, waiting for the next move. "Teachers of the First and Fourth Divisions, bring your students to the center of the arena," He called out, his voice booming. The teachers from both divisions stepped forward, ushering their students to the arena''s center. The crowd''s excitement was contagious, and the air buzzed with anticipation. "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome these young talents to the battlefield!" The arena erupted in applause and cheers. Students stood facing each other, full of determination. Shinju Hayato, the former Japan''s Strongest, rose from his seat, his presence commanding the entire arena. He raised his hand, and in an instant, the ground beneath them trembled. A deep rumbling filled the air as the arena floor cracked open. In the blink of an eye, a massive battlefield emerged from beneath the ground¡ªan elaborate and dangerous-looking terrain, with jagged rocks, deep trenches, and scattered debris. The spectators gasped, awed by the sheer scale of the transformation. The magnitude of power Shinju Hayato wielded was beyond comprehension. Ryuu, standing nearby, felt a chill run down his spine as the earth shook violently. Such immense strength¡­ The ground beneath him trembled with every step. But then he looked to his side, noticing Ryoko standing unflinchingly, her expression as calm as a still pond. No fear, no tremble. She was completely composed, even in the face of such overwhelming force. Ryuu stared at her, perplexed. How is she so unfazed by all this? Meanwhile, Tomoki Naoto, the chief commander, appeared above the battlefield, his voice booming across the arena, commanding everyone''s attention. Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. "First, both teams will engage in solo battles. Each team will send one member to face the other. After each battle concludes, the next members will step up," He explained. He paused, ensuring everyone was paying attention. "All students must approach the officers and draw a slip from the box. There are six slips, each numbered from one to six. The students who draw matching numbers will face each other in their respective matches. Those with healing magic will only participate in the team battles." The students of each division approached the officers and drew slips, their faces tense as they awaited the outcome. The air was thick with anticipation. "Now, the student with the number one slip from each division, please make your way to the battlefield." The student from the First Division, Himejima Miyuki, stepped forward, confidence in his stride, but that confidence faltered the moment his eyes landed on his opponent. He froze. His heart skipped a beat. Across from him stood Rajin, the Invincible Solitude. The intense pressure emanating from Rajin was suffocating. It wasn''t just physical strength; it was an aura of dominance, one that made the very air feel heavy. Miyuki couldn''t move. His body locked in place, the weight of Rajin''s presence nearly paralyzing him. "The first battle of the Inter Division Competition will be between Himejima Miyuki of the First Division and the Invincible Solitude, Kurata Rajin of the Fourth Division. Begin!" The announcer''s voice echoed throughout the arena, and the crowd erupted in cheers. Gasps of excitement and whispers filled the air. The Invincible Solitude had arrived, and they were about to witness him in action. Miyuki, barely able to breathe, tried to steady himself. He could feel the pressure building¡ªlike a heavy weight pressing on his chest. His palms were clammy with sweat. Rajin, on the other hand, stood as calm as ever, his eyes locked on Miyuki with a lazy, confident gaze. "I''ll give you three chances to attack me, with everything you''ve got," Rajin taunted, his voice dripping with arrogance. "I won''t use any magic to defend myself." Miyuki''s face turned red with fury. He had heard the rumors about Rajin''s power, but this was another level entirely. How could anyone be so arrogant? "You may be Invincible, but don''t forget¡ªI''m an A-rank magic user too!" Miyuki snapped, veins popping in his forehead. His hands shook with barely contained anger. "Don''t you dare underestimate me!" Rajin didn''t flinch. He merely raised an eyebrow, waiting for Miyuki''s move. "Fine," Rajin said coldly, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade. "I gave you a chance. Now, make your move. But don''t waste it." Miyuki''s fury boiled over. With a battle cry, he raised his hand, summoning a surge of magical energy. A wave of raw, destructive power shot toward Rajin with blistering speed. But Rajin remained perfectly still. His gaze never left Miyuki. With a swift motion, Rajin raised a single hand, and the air around him shimmered with a burst of energy. In an instant, the blast aimed at him shattered against an invisible barrier, splintering into harmless sparks before it could touch him. The crowd gasped. (Such raw power...) Miyuki staggered backward, wide-eyed in shock. His attack hadn''t even scratched Rajin. Rajin''s lips curled into a mocking grin. "Is that all you''ve got?" He taunted. "You still have two chances." Miyuki''s face flushed with embarrassment and anger. He wasn''t going to back down. He was an A-rank user, after all. He wouldn''t let Rajin make a fool of him. He took a deep breath, summoning more magic. This time, the energy crackled around him, stronger, more focused. Rajin''s smirk deepened as he watched. "Better. But not enough." With lightning speed, Rajin raised his other hand, and an intense wave of power erupted from him, crashing into Miyuki''s attack, overwhelming it effortlessly. The energy surged around the arena, sending dust and debris flying. Miyuki, shaken by the force of the blast, stumbled back. His breathing came in ragged gasps. He was out of time. Rajin took a slow step forward, his presence suffocating. "Your last chance," Rajin murmured, his tone mocking. "Don''t disappoint me." Miyuki clenched his fists, his body trembling from both fear and frustration. This was his final chance. He had to prove himself.... The First Battle! (2) "You!!! Filthy bastard!!" Miyuki''s voice was thick with rage as his fist trembled at his side. His face flushed red with fury, veins throbbing across his forehead. "I will make you regret ever looking down on me!" He shouted, eyes blazing with determination. With a sharp movement, he raised his hand high, calling upon the wind. The air around him stirred violently, a wild vortex forming as he channeled his magic. The intensity of the wind swirled around him, almost as if nature itself was bowing to his will. "The flow of wind, hear my call, and become one with me!" Miyuki commanded, his voice full of intensity. The winds around him spiraled, transforming into two deadly tornadoes that wound themselves tightly around his fist, growing larger and more powerful by the second. The crowd gasped as they realized what he was about to unleash. "I-it''s a lower Intermediate level magic!!" A murmur spread through the arena, with everyone shocked at the strength of the attack. Miyuki''s eyes glinted with pride as he swung his arm forward. "TORNADO TWIST FIST!!" With a roar, he launched his tornado-fisted punch directly at Rajin. The force behind it was so immense that it seemed to distort the very air in front of him. Miyuki''s heart raced with the certainty that this would be enough to break Rajin''s arrogance. "You''re going to regret this, Rajin!" He muttered under his breath, thinking victory was within his grasp. However, Rajin remained calm, his eyes locked onto Miyuki''s every move, unflinching. He didn''t even budge as the powerful tornado rushed toward him. Whoosh! A sudden hush fell over the arena as the attack collided. Everyone watched in disbelief. The tornado''s force should have ripped through Rajin''s defense, but it didn''t. Miyuki''s attack was blocked¡ªby a single hand. "Did... did he just block an Intermediate level magic attack with his bare hand?" One of the onlookers whispered in shock. The crowd was stunned into silence. They''d heard legends of Rajin''s strength, but witnessing it firsthand was on an entirely different level. Even the teachers, including Shinju Hayato and Shigeru, exchanged astonished looks. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. They had heard stories of Rajin''s training and past feats, but seeing his power in person was mind-blowing. Rajin''s smirk grew wider as he tightened his grip around Miyuki''s arm, effortlessly stopping the tornado-fueled punch. With a single motion, he tossed Miyuki aside like a ragdoll, sending him crashing to the ground. "You still have two more strikes left," Rajin taunted, his voice low and mocking. "Hurry up, before I crush you." Miyuki, shaken but fueled by his growing anger, pushed himself up from the ground. His pride stung, but his desire for revenge burned brighter. With an almost frantic speed, he raised both arms into the air. The wind around him began to swirl once again, this time even more violently than before. His magic surged, the power within him growing. The crowd gasped as Miyuki''s body became enveloped in a massive storm of swirling winds. His body was consumed by the swirling vortex, and the air around him began to tremble from the sheer intensity. "This is my last chance!" Miyuki shouted, his voice almost unrecognizable with rage. "Twisted Cyclone Storm!" The powerful tornado surrounding his body shot forward, growing in size and intensity. It spun toward Rajin, tearing up the battlefield as it moved. The raw force of the storm tore apart the ground, uprooting everything in its path. "H-How can he use Upper Intermediate level magic at this age?" someone in the crowd gasped. Miyuki''s eyes were filled with bloodlust as he watched the storm head toward Rajin. He could feel the pressure of the magic coursing through him, and he smiled to himself, thinking, (This is it. You''re finished, Rajin.) The tornado roared forward, its destructive power rushing toward Rajin like a freight train. It engulfed him whole, the cyclone twisting around him, and for a moment, the crowd held their breath, unsure of what would happen. (Is Rajin going to survive this?) But then, to everyone''s shock, the tornado started to fade. The winds around Rajin seemed to have no effect on him. Slowly, the storm dissipated, and there stood Rajin, completely unharmed. Miyuki''s jaw dropped in disbelief. His knees began to shake as sweat drenched his face. (H-He''s still standing!? How!?) Rajin was standing calmly, his expression unbothered as if the powerful storm had been nothing more than a light breeze. Miyuki''s fear began to take over. He couldn''t comprehend what he was seeing. "How is this possible?" Miyuki thought, trembling. How could anyone withstand the power of an Upper Intermediate level attack? Rajin''s mocking grin remained. He stepped toward Miyuki, his footsteps slow and deliberate. "One strike left, and you still haven''t learned. Is that really all you''ve got?" Rajin taunted, his voice dripping with disdain. Miyuki could hardly breathe. His body was frozen in terror, his entire being consumed with the realization that he couldn''t win. "I-I forfeit!" Miyuki cried out in a voice laced with desperation. "I can''t fight this monster!" Rajin tilted his head slightly, the smile still lingering on his face. "I see¡­ So it''s my turn now?" Rajin moved with terrifying speed, closing the distance between them in an instant. "I forfeit!! Please don''t¡ª" Miyuki tried to plead, but the words caught in his throat as Rajin''s fist struck him. Miyuki barely had time to react before he was sent flying through the air, the impact knocking the wind out of him. Miyuki''s body slammed into the ground, and he lay there, dazed, blood spilling from his mouth. The entire arena fell into stunned silence. Rajin had taken down his opponent with a single strike, leaving the crowd speechless. Miyuki''s teammates rushed to his side, frantic with worry. He was barely conscious, his body battered and broken. The chief commander, Tomoki Naoto, looked at the defeated Miyuki and then back at Rajin, who had returned to his seat, still smirking as if the fight had been nothing more than a minor inconvenience. "Well, I guess the match is over," Rajin muttered, casually. The announcer, his voice shaking, finally broke the silence. "The first match of Battle One goes to Kurata Rajin of the Fourth Division!" The arena erupted in stunned murmurs, but the atmosphere was thick with tension. Rajin''s performance had shattered any illusions about the Fourth Division''s power. The crowd couldn''t believe their eyes. Shinju Hayato, who had been watching closely, nodded silently in approval, though his expression remained unreadable. Ryuu stared at Rajin, his eyes filled with disgust. (This guy... He''s nothing but sarcasm and arrogance wrapped in power) Ryuu thought, his fists clenched at his sides. Ryoko stood beside him, her face cold, her eyes narrowed in disdain. This... isn''t just strength. It''s cruelty, she thought, the disgust clear in her gaze. "The second match will begin in ten minutes," the chief announced, his voice steady, but the tension in the air was palpable. "The students for the second match, please enter the battlefield."..... Carol Johansson Two girls entered the battlefield facing each other. "Second match of the first round between Tamashiro Aimi of the first division and Hokama Chika of the fourth division begins!" . . . . "And the winner of the fifth match is Kajiwara Tetsuya!" Tomoki Naoto announced the result of the fifth match. Till now, the fourth division was leading with one more win than the first division. Now was the final match of the solo battle, everyone in the arena was hyped up. If the first division won this round, they would tie with the fourth division in the solo battles. But everyone in the Fourth division were relaxed. "The contenders of the final match of the first round solo battles, come on the battlefield!" Tomoki instructed the contender to came at the battlefield. A muscled guy entered the battlefield from the fourth division. Everybody in the fourth were carefree and had a wide grin on their faces. "Taguchi, finish it early!" A girl from the fourth division shouted to the big muscled man. "D- don''t tell me what to do! I know my part perfectly. He-he-he." The muscled guy cracked his knuckles as a big grin appeared on his face. (Taguchi Masaru, a well known figured in the society. He was the only heir of the Taguchi industries. When he was a child, he had a weak body. He always remained sick and couldn''t enjoy his life like a normal kid. He was always at home, staring at the kids playing outside from the window. He wasn''t jealous of them....he loathed them! Once he became a little older, his health started to get better. He was now able to move normally. Due to his family high standing, he got every service he needed. He went to the mountains for training when he was in first year of Middle school. But when he returned, he was different! The once a weak and frail kid was now a big and muscled guy. He trained years in the mountains to enhance his physical body. Ever since then, he challenged many older people than him but no one has even able to tuck him to the ground. Everyone in the fourth division knew, in strength, Taguchi was not that behind of Rajin himself. So no matter how strong his opponent might be, they would never be able to cross this huge mountain.) "Taguchi Masaru of the fourth division enters the battlefield, contender from the first division, please enter the battlefield!"Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Taguchi was standing in the battlefield alone. He laughed out loud. "Did the first division got this scared of me that they even forgot to send someone on the battlefield!? This is hilarious, ha-ha-ha!" Taguchi was mocking the first division, looking down on them all. The crowd aslo begin to mock them. "Carol of the First Division enters the battlefield!" Suddenly a melodious sound ranged around the arena. A bright girl, with her Golden silky hair flowing down from her waist, entered the battlefield. Her big hazel eyes were shining brightly. Everyone in the crowd were shocked to witness a beauty like her, she was like a fairy descended upon the earth. Ryoko was staring at her. (Carol Johansson, She is the only big daughter of the Royal Family of Sweden. She came to Japan to finish her schooling. Rumours says that, the real reason for her to came in Japan was to find someone capable, she could brawl with. She is a prodigy in swordsmanship. There was no one at her level in the whole Sweden, who can even stand up to her sword. She transferred to Japan so she can find someone capable to even stand up to her.) "Both the contenders are in the battlefield. The final match of the first round solo battles, between Carol Johansson of the First divison and Taguchi Masaru of the Fourth division begins!" Tomoki announced the beginning of the match. Caral and Taguchi was just standing there glaring at each other. Taguchi stepped forward, smirking. "Oh well if it isn''t the her Highness! Greeting her Highness, I will try my best to restrain myself in respect was the Royal family. He-he-he" Taguchi was just mocking her. Carol was just standing there calm. (Well if isn''t the princess a bit calm!? ) Taguchi was a little confused seeing her standing all composed even after the mockery. "Come at me with all you got!" Carol opened her mouth and gave Taguchi an opened challenge, Taguchi was a bit enraged by her mocking him back. "Did I heard the her Highness wrong!?" "I said, come at me with all you got." Carol replied to him with the same composed and calm voice. Taguchi was now furious,fumes were coming out of his head. "Don''t blame me you Highness for what''s going to happen now. It was all your own fault." Taguchi clenched his fists. Shh!!! He sent the fist in the direction of Carol in a high speed. Carol was just standing there without even twitching. "Don''t blame me now!!" Taguchi shouted as his fist was now infront of Carol face, it was about the hit her face. Psh!!! The fist went through her head, suddenly Carol disappeared. Taguchi was very confused. "What happened? I said to go all out, didn''t I?" Carol appeared behind his back, Taguchi was shocked as well as confused as when did she came behind his back. Everyone in the arena was jawdropped, nobody knew how she went behind Taguchi. It was like she teleported. "I will give you one more chance, come at me with all you got." Carol mocked Taguchi while, smirking. Taguchi was now infuriated, he turned around and send another high speed fist toward Carol. But when the fist was about to hit her, she disappeared and reappeared behind him. Taguchi was shocked and confused. He sent multiple fist towards Carol, but everytime he was about to hit her, the fist passed through her and she disappeared. "STOP RUNNING AWAY AND FACE ME HEAD ON!!" Taguchi was now annoyed and shouted at her. Carol appeared infront of him. "I guess it''s my turn to attack me." Carol walked toward him, Taguchi was infuriated by her. "Do you think you will be able to fight me head on!? Aha-ha-ha, what a jo-" As Taguchi was laughing, a fist appeared infront of his face, the next moment he was sent flying in the air. Everyone in the arena were shocked, all the students were jawdropped. This was the first time someone was able to get Taguchi on ground. Taguchi was surprised by the sudden attack. He didn''t even saw when the fist appeared infront of his face and moreover how could a frail girl like her have such physical strength? "You wanted to fight head-on, well i guess it''s going to be interesting." Carol giggled as blood lust flowed inside her eyes..... The Past Carol''s menacing smile sent shivers down Taguchi''s spine, her eyes gleaming like shards of glass, cold and merciless. She exuded confidence, a predator sizing up its prey. Taguchi stood frozen, every muscle in his body betraying him. Sweat dripped from his forehead, tracing lines of fear down his pale face. His heart thundered like a war drum, the sound deafening in his ears. The arena was a cacophony of whispers, the crowd watching with bated breath, waiting for him to falter further. Their judgment hung in the air, sharp and unforgiving. "Is he scared of her?" "Pathetic!" "How did he even make it this far?" Each word stung, like daggers stabbing into his already trembling heart. He felt the weight of their scorn, their pity pressing down on him, suffocating him. Carol began to move, her steps deliberate, her boots echoing ominously against the stone floor. Her movements were slow, mocking, as if savoring the moment before the kill. Taguchi instinctively stepped back, his breath coming in shallow gasps. He tried to steady himself, but his knees threatened to buckle beneath him. Then, without warning, his vision blurred¡ªnot from fear, but from a memory clawing its way to the forefront of his mind. . . . A Memory of Pain . . . A younger Taguchi sat on the floor, screaming at his father, his small fists pounding helplessly against the man''s lap. "WHY, DAD? WHY CAN''T I GO OUT AND PLAY LIKE THE OTHER KIDS? WHY DID I HAVE TO BE BORN LIKE THIS?!" Tears streamed down his pale cheeks, his body trembling with frustration and despair. His father, a man once full of strength and laughter, now looked weary and broken. He said nothing, only wrapping his arms around his son in a futile attempt to offer comfort. Taguchi had been born frail, his body ravaged by a rare illness that left him teetering on the edge of death for most of his childhood. His immune system was a shadow of what it should have been, rendering him too weak to live a normal life. His mother had passed away during childbirth, her body too weak to endure the strain of labor. Her final words to his father were a plea to protect their son at all costs.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. Taguchi grew up confined to a bed, his world limited to the four walls of his room. His father abandoned his career, spending every waking moment caring for him, calling in doctors from across the globe. But no cure could be found. By the time Taguchi was five, he had given up hope. He spent his days staring at the ceiling, waiting for the inevitable. He hated his frailty, hated the pain it caused not just him but his father as well. One evening, as the sun set and painted the sky in hues of gold and crimson, Taguchi turned to the window. Outside, children were playing, their laughter carrying on the warm breeze. It was a sound that cut him deeper than any blade. He clenched his jaw, bitterness boiling in his chest. It wasn''t jealousy¡ªit was hatred. Hatred for the futility of life. . . . The Turning Point . . . That night, as he drifted into a fitful sleep, a figure appeared in his dreams¡ªa woman with kind, familiar eyes and an aura of peace. "Mom?" he whispered, his voice trembling as tears welled in his eyes. The woman smiled, her arms outstretched. Without thinking, Taguchi ran to her, burying his face in her embrace. Her voice was soft yet unyielding, carrying a weight that shook him to his core. "Live, my child. There is beauty in this world¡ªbeauty you must see for yourself. Do not let fear or pain define your life." Her touch was warm, her words a lifeline. "Even though my life was short, I experienced moments of joy and sorrow. That''s what life is¡ªa collection of moments, both light and dark. And it''s worth it, Taguchi. Every second is worth it. But you must learn to love your life. The more you curse it, the more life will turn away from you. Embrace it, my son. Only then will it embrace you back." When he woke, tears streaked his face, but his heart felt lighter than it had in years. He vowed that day to fight¡ªnot just for survival, but for a life worth living. . . . The Present . . . Taguchi''s eyes snapped open, his gaze now steady, burning with an inner fire. The whispers of the crowd faded into the background as his clenched fists began to tremble¡ªnot with fear, but with a raw, untamed power rising from deep within him. The ground beneath the arena began to shake. Fine cracks spiderwebbed across the stone floor as energy coursed through his veins, making them glow with an otherworldly light. The spectators gasped, their judgment turning to awe. Carol froze mid-step, her smirk faltering for the first time. Her eyes narrowed, not with fear, but with something akin to excitement. "Well, well," she purred, her voice dripping with anticipation. "Looks like you''ve finally decided to fight." Taguchi took a step forward, his voice booming across the arena, silencing the crowd. "CAROL JOHANSSON! TODAY, YOU WILL PAY FOR LOOKING DOWN ON MY LIFE!" His words hung in the air, a declaration of defiance not just to Carol, but to the world. The energy around him intensified, the cracks in the ground spreading as dust rose into the air. Carol''s grin returned, wider than ever. "Finally getting serious, huh?" she said, her voice laced with thrill. "This is going to be fun." Taguchi''s determination burned brighter than ever. This wasn''t just a battle¡ªit was his ultimate test. He wasn''t fighting to prove himself to Carol or the crowd. He was fighting for the life he had once despised but now cherished. And he would defend it with everything he had... Charming Maniac... "I see... Finally getting serious, huh? This is becoming interesting. He-he-he," Carol giggled, her Hazel eyes alight with pure bloodlust. The whole arena trembled violently as her aura flared. The crowd gasped in fear, some clinging to their seats as cracks began to form in the battlefield. Thankfully, the protection array held firm, deflecting the destructive energy into the ground. Amidst the chaos, Taguchi stood motionless, his face calm but his body tense, like a mountain bracing for a storm. Carol smirked, vanishing in a blur as she darted around him at an impossible speed. "Even if you shatter the entire battlefield, you''ll never catch me!" Carol taunted, her voice echoing from every direction. Taguchi didn''t flinch. His eyes remained focused ahead, as if he were in a trance. This unnerved Carol, though she hid it behind her mocking tone. (What is this pressure? It''s... heavier than before. What''s changed about him?) Despite her unease, Carol seized an opportunity. She noticed a gap in his defense¡ªhis unprotected back. "An opening!" she whispered with a predatory grin, lunging forward like a bullet. She aimed a strike at his back, only to be stopped mid-attack by a massive rock pike erupting from the ground. "What?!" Carol cried, barely evading the impact as she landed on her feet. She stared at the pike, her mind racing. (When did he cast a spell? I didn''t even sense him channeling mana!) Taguchi turned to face her, his expression calm, but a mocking grin spread across his lips. "What happened, Your Highness? Did you miscalculate?" he sneered. Carol''s fists clenched. His newfound confidence stoked her irritation, but she forced herself to stay composed. This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. "This doesn''t change anything," she muttered, brushing dust off her sleeve. "I''m still faster than you." "Are you?" Taguchi countered. His grin widened as veins pulsed across his body, and the ground beneath him began to quake. Massive stone spikes erupted around him, spiraling into a whirling formation. "Upper Intermediate Earth Magic¡ªEarth Drill!" The spikes spun at high speed, tearing through the battlefield as they surged toward Carol. The crowd gasped. "Can she dodge that?" someone whispered. Carol remained still, her lips curling into a smirk as the deadly spikes closed in. BOOM! The battlefield exploded in a cloud of dust and debris. For a moment, nothing was visible. Taguchi turned away, certain of his victory. "The match is over. Referee, announce the resul¡ª" "He-he-he..." The eerie giggle stopped him mid-sentence. The dust cleared, revealing Carol standing unscathed, her crimson eyes gleaming. Two golden blades floated beside her, their edges glowing faintly. "Taguchi Masaru," she called out, her voice soft yet menacing. "Did you really think that would finish me off? How disappointing." Taguchi froze, his confidence shattered. (How? How is she unhurt?!) Carol walked toward him, her golden blades spinning ominously. "Now," she whispered, "it''s my turn to play." Before Taguchi could react, one of the blades shot forward, piercing his side. "Ahhh!" he screamed, clutching his wound as blood dripped onto the ground. Carol didn''t stop. She pointed at him again, and the second blade struck his leg, forcing him to his knees. "Is this all you''ve got?" Carol mocked, her voice laced with sadistic glee. "Stand up, Taguchi! I thought you wanted to prove yourself!" Taguchi tried to rise, but his limbs trembled. Every time he attempted to move, one of Carol''s blades would strike him again. "H-help... anyone... please!" he whimpered, his voice weak and desperate. The crowd fell silent, their expressions shifting from shock to pity. Carol laughed, her maniacal cackle echoing through the arena. "Begging already? You''re pathetic!" She raised her hand for another strike, but before the blade could descend¡ª "STOP!" A thunderous voice cut through the chaos. Tomoki Naoto, the chief referee, stepped onto the battlefield, his aura suppressing Carol''s bloodlust in an instant. "That''s enough, Carol Johansson!" he roared, his piercing gaze locking onto hers. Carol''s eyes widened, and she quickly lowered her hand, bowing her head in apology. "My apologies, Chief. I got carried away." Tomoki ignored her, his focus shifting to Taguchi, who lay battered and bleeding on the ground. Medical staff rushed in, lifting his limp body onto a stretcher. As they carried him away, Taguchi''s half-conscious eyes fixed on Carol. His lips moved, barely forming words: "C-Carol Johansson... I... will make you... pay..." He fainted, his hand falling limply by his side. Tomoki turned back to the audience. "The winner of this match is Carol Johansson!" A murmur spread through the crowd, but their excitement was tempered by unease. Carol''s brutal display had left many shaken, her beauty now overshadowed by the image of a bloodthirsty maniac. As the medics left the arena, Tomoki announced, "The first round of solo battles is complete. Prepare for the next stage. The second round begins soon!" Carol smirked as she walked off the battlefield, her golden blades vanishing into thin air. Her gaze flicked to the stretcher carrying Taguchi. "Don''t take it personally," she muttered. "You were just unlucky to face me." The crowd roared as the announcement ended, but the tension lingered. The matches were far from over, and everyone knew the worst was yet to come..... A trap!? The entire arena was eerily silent, a heavy weight hanging in the air. The crowd, still reeling from Carol''s merciless display of power, stood frozen in shock. Taguchi''s desperate cries still echoed in the minds of many. Carol''s cruelty had shaken the spectators to their core, and the aura of bloodlust that lingered from her victory seemed to hover above the battlefield. It was now clear: the First and Fourth Divisions were locked in a tie, each having claimed three points in the solo battles. All eyes were now on the team battle, where the final winner would be determined. However, before that, the solo battle between the Second and Third Divisions was about to begin. Both teams moved toward their designated spots around the arena, each competitor preparing for what was to come. Shinju Hayato raised his hand, causing the ground beneath them to tremble as a new battlefield materialized from the earth itself, forming a wide, open area designed for combat. Two officers, each carrying six slips, approached the teams. One by one, each member of the teams drew their slip, returning to their designated corners after seeing who their opponent would be. The tension in the air grew thicker as the audience eagerly awaited the next battle. Tomoki Naoto, stepping forward to address the crowd, his voice booming across the arena, announced the start of the second solo battle. "Dear spectators," Tomoki began, his voice carrying across the still arena, "the second battle of the first round, between the Second Division and the Third Division, will now begin!" A chorus of excited murmurs rippled through the crowd. They were about to witness the battle of a lifetime, the first time an S-rank magic user like Tatsuno Ryoko would fight in front of them. Shigeru, standing off to the side, watched eagerly. He had already seen Ryuu''s capabilities and knew that today''s battle would test the strength of everyone involved. He was particularly interested to see how Ryuu would handle the challenges that lay ahead. "The first match of the second battle will now begin!" Tomoki continued. "Competitors, please step forward!" As the crowd''s energy surged, the tension in the air seemed to tighten. Everyone''s eyes were on the Second Division, awaiting the first competitor. A stillness settled over the team before Seichii, with a fierce determination written across his face, stepped forward. "I guess it''s me first," Seichii muttered to himself, eyes narrowing. His heart raced in his chest as he prepared to face his opponent. Before he could take another step, however, a hand fell on his shoulder. He turned, surprised to see Ryuu standing there, his expression unreadable. This was the first time Ryuu had spoken to anyone that day. Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. Seichii looked into his friend''s eyes and instantly understood¡ªRyuu wasn''t giving him a command or advice, but rather offering silent support. Seichii let out a small chuckle. "This guy¡­ always so serious." With a final nod to Ryuu, Seichii squared his shoulders and moved toward the battlefield, his mind set on proving himself worthy¡ªnot just in front of Ryoko or Masumi, but most of all, in front of Ryuu. Seichii had always known there was something different about his childhood friend. Ryuu''s power had always been on another level, but it was only recently that Seichii had fully understood the gap between them. The magic bowl turning an azure blue during the selection was the final sign that Ryuu was destined for greatness. Seichii could never catch up, but today, he would show that he wasn''t a mere spectator in his friend''s rise. As he stepped onto the battlefield, his opponent stood waiting, her face a picture of innocence. A young girl, no older than Seichii, stood with a bright, welcoming smile on her face. Her presence seemed angelic, and the crowd was immediately charmed by her demeanor. But Seichii wasn''t fooled. There was something off about her. Suddenly, a faint but insidious pressure that weighed down on his chest, making it hard to breathe. His heart thudded painfully, and a deep sense of unease coiled within him. (What is happening? Why is the air so heavy? Why does it feel like I can''t breathe?) Seichii''s confusion intensified as the pressure on his chest grew stronger. Suddenly, a loud voice rang out from the edge of the battlefield. "I-IT''S A B-BLOOD DRAINING ARRAY!!" The voice belonged to none other than Tatsuno Ryoko, her tone sharp with realization. The crowd gasped in shock as the girl''s sweet smile shifted into a sinister smirk. "Oh, my secret got out," the girl mocked, her voice dripping with malice. The transformation in her expression was jarring. The innocent, angelic fa?ade was gone, replaced by a predatory grin. Ryoko''s shock was evident as she scanned the battlefield in disbelief. "She deployed an Intermediate-level Array¡­ and so perfectly," Ryoko muttered, her voice tinged with admiration and concern. "I didn''t sense it until it was too late." Even Ryoko, was stunned by the girl''s expertise. Deploying such an array, especially one that drained blood, was no easy feat. It was a technique often reserved for the most experienced¡ªyet here was a young girl, deploying it flawlessly. Seichii, now fully aware of what was happening, was struggling to stand. The Blood Draining Array was draining his life force, sapping the very essence of his strength. He was trembling uncontrollably, his body fighting against the invasive force. Blood began to leak from his mouth as his strength began to fade. "Kgh!" Seichii coughed, the crimson stain on his lips confirming his worst fears. Both Ryuu and Masumi rushed toward Ryoko, concern etched on their faces. "Ryoko-san!" Ryuu cried out. "What is the Blood Draining Array? What''s happening to Seichii?!" Masumi, standing beside him, was visibly distressed. Her eyes were wide with panic. Ryoko, sighing heavily, turned to face them. "The Blood Draining Array is an upper Intermediate-level Array," She explained. "Anyone who comes within a hundred-meter radius will begin to feel the effects¡ªtheir blood is drained away and converted into the deployer''s strength. It will continue until the array is deactivated or the deployer is defeated." Ryuu and Masumi turned back toward Seichii, their hearts heavy with worry. He was barely able to stand, his knees buckling under the strain. Blood seeped from his wounds as his body was slowly torn apart by the array. Masumi''s eyes filled with tears. The sight of Seichii in pain was unbearable. Without thinking, she dashed toward the battlefield, her feet pounding against the ground. "MASUMI-SAN, STOP!" Ryoko called out, but it was too late. The crowd gasped as Masumi ignored the warning and continued her run. She reached Seichii''s side, kneeling beside him. "Seichii-kun!" She cried, her voice trembling. "Stand up! I know how hard you''ve worked! Don''t let it all go to waste!" Seichii looked up at her, his vision blurry. But when he heard her words, something shifted inside him. Her voice was a lifeline, a beacon of hope. She believed in him. "Stand up, Seichii-kun! Aramiya-kun, Ryoko-san, and I¡ªwe''re all here with you!" Tears welled up in Seichii''s eyes. The pain in his chest was unbearable, but Masumi''s words reignited the fire inside him. Slowly, shakily, he pushed himself to his feet. "Seichii!" Masumi exclaimed, a smile breaking through the tears. The girl standing before him, still grinning maliciously, tilted her head. "What''s this? A love bond?" she sneered. But Seichii''s glare was unyielding. The smirk on his face was gone, replaced by a look of pure determination. He wasn''t going to give in. The atmosphere around the arena shifted as Tomoki Naoto stepped into the battlefield, raising his hand. The moment had arrived. "The first match of the second battle, between Sengoku Seichii of the Second Division and Ozawa Rika of the Third Division, begins now!" And with that, the match began in earnest, a battle not just of power, but of will. Seichii had his back against the wall, but he was determined to stand tall¡ªno matter what..... The End Of Masumi.....? The first match of the second battle began, and the tension in the air was palpable. Every person in the arena stared at the battlefield, the crowd silent in anticipation. Seichii stood trembling, blood dripping from his mouth, his body barely holding together after the brutal effects of the Blood Draining Array that Rika had deployed. His chest rose and fell unevenly, each breath a struggle. Across from him stood Rika, her cruel smirk never wavering, her eyes glinting with malice. Masumi stood at the edge of the battlefield, her heart racing as she watched Seichii''s suffering from afar. A cold sweat dripped down her neck as her gaze locked onto him, her worry intensifying with every passing second. Rika, sensing her victory, loomed over Seichii like a predator ready to strike. Seichii''s injuries were not only physical but internal, a gnawing, painful weakness eating away at his life force. The Blood Draining Array had already taken its toll, and with every passing moment, his blood was drained, pulverized by the force of the magic. Seichii could barely see through his blurred vision, but he refused to give in. "It''s useless to even try to stand up," Rika taunted, her voice laced with mockery. "The more you resist, the more it will hurt. In five minutes, your blood will be pulverized. Just give up and die quietly. Maybe, just maybe, I''ll let you keep that pretty face of yours." She giggled sadistically, her words cutting deeper than any physical blow. Despite the agonizing pain, Seichii didn''t flinch. He stood there, his knees barely able to hold him up, his face bloodied but his spirit unbroken. His eyes, though heavy with pain, were filled with an unspoken determination. Ryuu and Ryoko stood outside the battlefield, fury boiling in their veins. Seichii was their friend, someone they cared for deeply, and seeing him like this was unbearable. But Ryoko''s thoughts were elsewhere, her gaze fixed on Shinju Hayato, who was sitting calmly, his face unreadable. She clenched her fists, her blood burning with anger. (If anything happens to Seichii or Masumi, you will regret it, Hayato. I swear on my life.) Rika leaned in closer, her hands gripping Seichii''s hair, yanking his head back with brutal force. The air around them grew colder as she prepared to land the next blow. BAM! Seichii''s head snapped back from the impact. Blood poured from his nose, staining his already ruined face. Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. He staggered, his vision blurry, but his resolve never wavered. He didn''t speak. He didn''t scream. He only stood there, enduring the pain like a silent warrior. "You damn bastard!" Rika shouted, enraged by his defiance. "You sure have a death wish, huh?" She twisted his hair violently, her fingers digging into his scalp as she roared in fury. Seichii''s body was on the brink of collapse, yet he still refused to fall. His blood continued to flow freely, staining the dirt beneath him. "Even if you kill me today... I''ll never accept defeat in front of a dirtbag like you." His voice was hoarse, barely a whisper, but the words were filled with unshakeable conviction. Rika''s rage boiled over. BAM! Her fist collided with Seichii''s face once again. His head jerked to the side, more blood spraying from his mouth. But Seichii remained standing, a weak smile on his bloodied face. Rika''s fury only grew with each punch, her hands shaking with anger as she pummeled him again and again. "STILL NOT ENOUGH!?" She screamed, her voice cracking with frustration. She threw Seichii to the ground, his body crumpling like a ragdoll. The pool of blood surrounding him was grotesque, a testament to his agony. The arena was silent, save for the sound of Seichii''s labored breathing. Masumi''s heart broke at the sight. She had never seen Seichii like this¡ªso broken, so vulnerable. But even in his suffering, he had not given in. He refused to let Rika win, refused to allow her to break him. Rika, seeing that Seichii had reached his limit, suddenly shifted her focus. Her eyes landed on Masumi, standing just outside the battlefield. A dark glimmer of satisfaction passed through her gaze. She grinned as she began to walk toward her next target, a predator sensing an opportunity. "I see... You don''t care if you die for yourself," Rika said, her voice soft but laced with cruelty. "But what about her? Will you die for your little friend, too?" Masumi froze as Rika''s eyes locked onto her. She felt a chill run down her spine, her body paralyzed with fear. Rika''s footsteps echoed in the stillness of the arena as she moved closer, her ice-cold smile widening. "You''re pretty close to this boy, aren''t you?" Rika''s voice was honeyed with malice as she approached Masumi. The air felt thick, suffocating, as if the very atmosphere was pressing in on Masumi''s chest. "I wonder... How would you feel if something happened to him, hmm?" Masumi''s legs trembled, but she refused to back down. She had watched Seichii suffer, and now, she would face Rika''s cruelty head-on. "You''re wrong," she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper, but steady. "I''m not afraid of you. Even if I die today, I won''t regret being friends with Seichii." A surprised silence swept over the arena. Masumi, the quiet girl who never spoke out of turn, was now facing the one who had terrorized them all, her voice filled with defiance. "He was the one who taught me the real joy of a smile, the beauty of life," Masumi continued, her voice growing stronger with each word. "Because of him, I was able to see the world in a way I never thought possible. So even if I have to walk through hell itself, I''ll always be his friend. In this life, or the next." Rika''s smirk only deepened, but her eyes narrowed with fury. "I love people who fall in love, but you know what I love even more? Breaking them." With a swift motion, Rika conjured an ice crystal in her hand, the cold energy radiating off it like an impending storm. "Goodbye, Masumi. You''ll never forget me." The crystal shimmered in the light as Rika hurled it toward Masumi. Time seemed to slow as the deadly projectile sailed through the air, its jagged edges glistening like the harbinger of death. Masumi closed her eyes, accepting the end. In that moment, she wasn''t afraid. She was at peace. (Even if this is the end, I won''t regret a thing. I was lucky to have known such wonderful people.) "MASUMI-SAN!!!" Ryoko''s scream echoed across the arena as the crystal neared its target. Masumi opened her eyes just as the ice crystal reached her. She just smiled, as she had accepted her death. Psh!!! The ice crystal collided causing Icey winds to cover the whole battlefield. Blood splattered high in the air, as everyone in the arena gawked at the battlefield with their face fell. Ryoko stared at the battlefield in utter shock as her hands trembled. Veins bulged on her face as pure rage filled herr crimson eyes. On the other hand, Rika stood their grinning as she enjoyed the horrified look on the people''s face.... A Miracle The entire battlefield was swallowed by an icy fog, and the arena fell into stunned silence. The temperature plummeted, the cold biting through the air like sharp knives. Spectators shivered, their jaws dropping as the scene unfolded before them. Ryoko stood frozen, her heart shattering as she watched Masumi fall. Her first true friend, the one who had always stood by her, was attacked right in front of her ¡ª and she couldn''t do a thing to stop it. Her body trembled, her hands balled into fists at her sides. The pain of helplessness was unbearable. But then, her gaze snapped toward Rika, the one responsible. That''s when the sorrow in her chest turned to molten fury, burning through every ounce of her grief. Her eyes blazed with unfiltered bloodlust, and the air around her grew colder, sharper. Rika, who had been reveling in her victory, felt an unsettling chill creep down her spine. Rika''s gaze flickered nervously toward Ryoko. The pressure mounting in the air made her knees shake. She''d heard the rumors about Ryoko''s power, but never had she imagined she would be on the receiving end of it. The crowd stirred uneasily. "W-what is happening?" people whispered, as the temperature dropped even further. The icy winds howled around the arena, ruffling clothes and raking over skin. Ryoko took a step forward. With each movement, the temperature dropped further, and the air became impossibly cold. Ice began to form at her feet, creeping across the arena, a reflection of the fury that emanated from her. Rika gasped, her breath coming in shallow, panicked gasps. She could feel the weight of Ryoko''s presence bearing down on her like an oppressive storm. "I-I can''t¡­" Rika stammered, her teeth chattering as she fell to her knees, unable to withstand the pressure. Ryoko took another step, the frost crackling underfoot as her gaze never wavered from Rika. Her hand lifted into the air, and in an instant, an ice crystal sword materialized in her grip. Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. It shimmered in the cold light, a deadly extension of her will. The arena was silent now, everyone watching in stunned anticipation as Ryoko''s crimson blood eyes locked onto Rika, her movements slow but deliberate. Rika''s eyes widened in fear, her body trembling as Ryoko surged toward her. The crystal blade gleamed, a silent promise of retribution. But just as the sword was about to cleave through Rika''s neck, a loud voice rang out. "RYOKO-SAN, STOP!!" Ryoko''s movements halted. Her sword hovered inches from Rika''s neck, the cold blade shimmering in the dim light. She turned her head, recognizing the voice ¡ª it was Seichii. Her heart clenched as she saw him, standing defiantly, blood still dripping from his body, but his gaze burning with fierce resolve. The fog began to lift, revealing Seichii in front of Masumi, the ice crystal lodged in his chest. Masumi, wide-eyed and trembling, stood behind him, unscathed but clearly in shock. The crowd gasped. Seichii had barely been able to stand moments before, but now he was here, taking the blow for Masumi. Blood poured from his wounds, but his expression remained resolute, his stance unyielding. He wasn''t going to fall. Not like this. Rika stared, disbelief etched across her face. The Blood Draining Array had been working on him for over ten minutes. His blood should have been gone by now. He should be dead. But there he stood, unbroken, glaring at her with a fury that made her blood run cold. "Ryoko-san!" Seichii''s voice cracked through the tension, raw with anger. "This is my fight, not yours!!" Ryoko hesitated, the fury in her chest burning brighter but mixing with a twinge of regret. She stepped back, her sword vanishing as she glanced at Seichii, knowing she had to trust him. But in her heart, a seed of doubt remained. Don''t make me regret this, Seichii-kun. Seichii''s eyes never left Rika as he spoke, his voice barely more than a growl. "I''m not done yet, Rika." His body swayed slightly, still reeling from the effects of the Blood Draining Array, but his resolve was as sharp as ever. He wasn''t going to let her win. Not like this. Rika stood, her grin returning, though it was edged with uncertainty. She''d underestimated him. She had been so sure of her victory, but Seichii was still standing. Still fighting. She turned to him, her smirk widening. "Oh, Seichii¡­ you were so foolish to let her interfere," She mocked, her voice dripping with venom. "Now, you''ll regret it." With a flick of her wrist, dozens of ice crystals materialized in the air, floating ominously around her. She sent them hurtling toward Seichii, a deadly barrage. Seichii stood motionless, his chest heaving with labored breaths, but his eyes glowed with a fierce white light. As the ice crystals neared him, he moved. With a single swipe of his arm, the crystals shattered mid-air, their shattered pieces floating like snowflakes around him. Rika stumbled back, her jaw dropping. "W-what was that?!" She gasped. The ice should have pierced him, should have torn him apart, but he had deflected it with sheer force. Her eyes flickered to his face, and that''s when she saw it ¡ª his eyes were glowing, an unearthly white light pulsing from deep within them. "What¡­ is happening?!" She whispered to herself, fear creeping into her voice. Seichii''s glare intensified, his eyes burning with an inner fire. He was done playing. The Blood Draining Array no longer held him captive, and his resolve had solidified. He wouldn''t let Rika''s tricks win. "You should have killed me when you had the chance, Rika." His voice was cold, a chilling contrast to the heat of battle. "Now, you''re going to regret that decision."..... Seichiis Burst Out! The entire arena fell into an eerie silence. The crowd couldn''t believe their eyes. Rika stood frozen, utterly appalled. Her ice crystals had turned into nothing but dust before her very eyes. (W-what just happened!? How did my ice crystals... crumble?) Confusion and shock gripped her. She hadn''t seen Seichii move, hadn''t felt his presence shift. The attack had been countered effortlessly, but by what? His power, his pressure¡ªit was overwhelming. (How could this be? When did he even react!?) A sharp chill ran down her spine, but there was no time to waste. She knew she had to act fast before Seichii could take full advantage of the situation. "Weak¡­" Seichii''s voice echoed through the silence, his tone cold and mocking as he casually pulled the ice crystal from his chest. Rika''s eyes flashed with anger. "Don''t think you''re invincible just because you survived my weakest attack! This fight has just begun! Heh-heh-heh..." A wide, unsettling grin spread across her face. She raised both hands to the sky, and the ground beneath them began to tremble. A complex, glowing pattern spread across the battlefield, leaving the crowd in a state of awe and confusion. The energy was palpable. "She''s using the power drained from Sengoku Seichii through the Blood Draining Array!" Tomoki Naoto''s voice cracked with astonishment from the stands. "How is that even possible?!" The Blood Draining Array¡ªan upper-intermediate level Array¡ªwas designed to not only deplete a person''s blood but to store the drained magical energy. It was a feat in itself for someone like Rika to summon such an array, but to activate its core? That was unheard of. "Sengoku Seichii, you should have accepted your fate!" Rika''s voice rose with an unsettling calmness. "No one can escape fate, not even you!" With a sudden roar, the array''s core flared to life, bathing Rika in a blinding white light. The crowd shielded their eyes as the blinding brilliance intensified, filling the arena with a radiant, deadly pressure. The atmosphere cracked under the weight of the energy. Even the protective array, set up by Shinju Hayato, began to tremble, its integrity failing against the immense power. (This is bad! We need to stop her before anyone else gets hurt!) Shinju Hayato thought urgently as he stood from his seat, raising his hands to the sky. "SUPER LEVEL PROTECTION ARRAY! SCALE OF THE DRAGON!!" A deep, dark blue light burst from him, enveloping the arena and neutralizing the pressure. The spectators could finally breathe again, but the damage had already been done. The battlefield itself had been shattered, with pieces of the arena falling apart under the strain of Rika''s power. "Ha-ha-ha! Look at this, Sengoku Seichii! Feel the full extent of my power!" Rika''s manic laughter rang out, echoing through the ruins of the arena. Just as the white light shot toward Seichii, the entire arena seemed to hold its breath. "SEICHII-KU¡ª!!!" Masumi cried out from behind him, her voice filled with terror. But Seichii, unfazed, stood tall and resolute. He raised his hand to the sky, his eyes burning with determination. "LOWER HIGH LEVEL WIND MAGIC¡ª THE AIR SHIELD!" A translucent barrier of wind appeared in front of Seichii, absorbing the full force of Rika''s destructive light. The white light cracked and shattered against the shield, losing its power in an instant. The crowd gasped in disbelief. A sixteen-year-old boy¡ªusing high-level magic with such precision¡ªwas something they would only see once in a lifetime. Even Akiko, renowned for her mastery in wind magic, stared in stunned silence. As the light faded, Seichii stood unaffected, his posture defiant, while Rika fell to her knees, her confident grin replaced by pure fear. For the first time in her life, Rika had met someone stronger than her. This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. Both Ryuu and Ryoko watched in stunned silence. It felt as though a different person was standing before them now¡ªa true monster in his own right. Seichii''s eyes never left Rika, his gaze burning with pure hatred. He began walking toward her slowly, his every step causing the air around him to crackle with menace. Rika''s body trembled in terror, unable to move, paralyzed by the overwhelming presence Seichii radiated. "Please¡­ anyone¡­ help me! Save me from this monster!!" Rika begged, her voice breaking as tears streamed down her face. Seichii didn''t pause. His bloodlust was palpable. He raised his hand once more, summoning another wave of power. "UPPER HIGH LEVEL MAGIC¡ª THE AIR SWORD!!" The air around Seichii spiraled into a violent whirlwind. A massive, shimmering sword formed above him, made of nothing but raw wind. "An UPPER HIGH LEVEL MAGIC SPELL?!" Akiko shouted in disbelief. Seichii swung his hand forward, sending the massive air sword crashing toward Rika. The arena fell silent in anticipation. But just as the blade was about to strike her, Masumi, her voice filled with panic, cried out, "SEICHII-KUN, STOP!!" Time seemed to slow. The air sword froze mid-flight, suspended in time by the sheer force of Seichii''s will. He turned, his face hardening as he met Masumi''s desperate gaze. Seichii''s rage faltered for a moment, replaced by a flicker of confusion. "Masumi-san, but she¡ª" "It''s okay!" Masumi interrupted, her voice calm but firm. She stepped toward him, her hands outstretched. Seichii''s fists clenched. "She tried to¡ª" "It''s okay..." Masumi repeated, her voice softer now as she approached him. She placed her hands gently on his shoulders, pulling him into an embrace. Seichii stiffened for a moment but then melted into her arms, the weight of his anger lifting slightly. "You''re not like that, Seichii-kun. I know you have a heart of gold. I know it was hard for you... and you were doing all of this for me. But... it''s okay now. You don''t need to carry that burden anymore. Thank you... for everything." Seichii''s heart ached. He tightened his grip on her, his emotions breaking free as he finally allowed himself to release the pain he''d been holding in. Time passed in silence as the two stood there, comforting each other. When Seichii finally pulled away, he smiled, a weight lifted from his shoulders. "Masumi-san, you really set my heart at ease..." Masumi blushed, surprised by his words. Seichii, oblivious to her reaction, turned his gaze toward Rika, still sitting on the ground in disbelief. Masumi walked toward Rika, her eyes hard but not unkind. Rika trembled, unsure of what to expect. Masumi stopped in front of her and, to Rika''s shock, raised her hand in a soft gesture. A green ring formed on top of her hand. The green wind went and encircled around Rika. "W-what a-are you doing.....?" Rika asked her, totally confused but still scared. "I''m healing you." Rika blinked in confusion, unsure of what to make of the kindness. As Masumi''s healing magic enveloped her, Rika felt the pain from her wounds slowly fade away. When the healing was complete, Masumi stood and turned back to Seichii. "Rika..." She said quietly. "You don''t have to be this way anymore. Try to be yourself." Rika''s heart twisted at the words, tears flowing down her cheeks. "Thank you..." She whispered, her voice thick with emotion. Masumi gave a small, understanding smile before returning to Seichii''s side. The crowd, having witnessed the drama unfold, erupted into cheers. The match had been a spectacle, an event to be remembered. "The winner of the first match of the second battle... Sengoku Seichii of the Second Division!!" Tomoki Naoto''s voice rang out over the arena. "Yeah!!!" The crowd roared in celebration. Ryuu and Ryoko rushed toward Seichii and Masumi. "Masumi-san!!" Ryoko cried, pulling her into an embrace. "I''m sorry, I couldn''t do anything to protect you..." Masumi patted her head gently, smiling. "It''s okay, Ryoko-san. I''m alright." Seichii was looking at them, smiling, when he caught sight of Ryuu, who was staring at him from the side, his eyes intense. "Oi! What are you staring at, moron¡ª" Before Seichii could finish, Ryuu, overcome with emotion, suddenly surged forward and embraced him tightly, catching him off guard. "Thank you for coming back to us! Thank you!" Ryuu cried, tears streaming down his face. Seichii was stunned, unsure how to react to the overwhelming display of emotion. He''d never seen Ryuu so vulnerable, so completely undone. A lump formed in Seichii''s throat, and for a moment, he forgot about the tension in the air, about the arena still buzzing with energy. "Hey, Ryuu, come on!" Seichii laughed nervously, trying to break the awkward tension, "Why are you acting like this? I''d rather be hugged by a beautiful girl than some dirtbag like you." The teasing smile on Seichii''s face was unmistakable, but before Ryuu could register the joke, his temper flared. With a swift motion, Ryuu pulled back and delivered a punch straight to Seichii''s mouth. "Beautiful girl, my ass!!" Ryuu shouted, his face flushed with frustration. Seichii staggered back, caught off guard by the force of the punch. He looked up at Ryuu, rubbing his jaw with mock indignation. "Oi! Why did you punch me?!" "Because you deserved it!" Ryuu grinned, crossing his arms. Despite his anger, a playful glint shone in his eyes. The two of them stared at each other for a brief moment before both burst out laughing, the tension melting away as the others watched, amused by the rare display of camaraderie between the two. Masumi and Ryoko exchanged smiles, relieved to see the battle finally over and their friends safe. They had been through so much together, and yet, in these fleeting moments of light-heartedness, they could finally breathe again. "Come on, you two," Masumi chimed in with a grin, "We need to get Seichii-kun and myself treated. You can bicker later." "Yeah, yeah," Seichii groaned, rubbing his sore jaw as he began walking with Ryuu toward their corner. . . . The entire arena, though still buzzing from the intense battle, fell into a moment of quiet awe. Seichii''s performance had surpassed all expectations, and his resilience in the face of such powerful opponents left the crowd in stunned silence. As the group made their way to the side, the announcer''s voice boomed across the battlefield, signaling the end of the match. "Ladies and gentlemen, as we''ve all witnessed, the second match of the Inter-Division Competition has come to a thrilling end! The winner, by incredible force and determination, is Sengoku Seichii of the Second Division!" The arena erupted into applause, the sound deafening. Cheers echoed from all corners as Seichii gave a nonchalant wave, his usual smug grin returning to his face despite the exhaustion that tugged at his body. . . . This was a match that would go down in history, the audience thought. The power, the magic, the emotional moments¡ªeverything was a spectacle. It wasn''t just a battle; it was an unforgettable story. Seichii''s name would be etched into the annals of this competition forever.... A plan!? The sun dipped below the horizon, casting the sky in shades of deep blue and purple. Night had fallen, and the once-bustling arena was now deserted, its vast emptiness echoing the silence that had descended upon the area. Every person had long since returned to their dorms, seeking rest after the day''s intense events. The remaining matches of the second battle would resume the following day, but for now, the arena was still. Yet, amidst the quiet, a lone figure appeared in the center of the arena. It was none other than Shinju Hayato himself, standing tall in the middle of the empty space, his gaze fixed on the darkened sky. "You seem quite pleased, huh? Looks like things have unfolded just as you expected," A melodic voice rang out from behind him. A soft chuckle escaped Shinju''s lips as he turned to face the source of the voice. Standing there, with his trademark bright smile, was Morishita Shigeru. "Ha-ha-ha. I see your habit of sneaking up from behind hasn''t changed one bit, Shigeru." Shigeru shrugged with a sigh. "I don''t like it either, but what can I do? I''m not strong enough to face someone head-on." Shinju chuckled again. "But it seems like you''re satisfied with how things are progressing, aren''t you?" Shigeru''s expression turned serious, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Indeed, but there''s something that even caught me by surprise." Shinju raised an eyebrow. "Oh? What''s that?" "The Sengoku boy," Shigeru began, his tone thoughtful. "I never imagined, not even in my wildest dreams, that he would unleash such a high-level spell out of nowhere." Shinju''s face momentarily tightened, the mention of Sengoku Seichii striking a chord. "He was on the verge of death, and yet, when Rika tried to harm that girl, a power surged through him¡­ It was almost as if he was possessed. They say it''s the power of love, don''t they? Ha-ha-ha!" Shigeru closed his eyes, nodding. "That''s true.But there''s something else I wanted to say. You''ve done a marvelous job teaching that little girl the Intermediate Blood Draining Array." Shinju''s eyes softened, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Of course. After all, she is my granddaughter. But¡­ she''s still just a child. She does everything I ask of her, without question. If she is to take my place one day, she must develop a ruthless nature. That''s the only way to ensure her success." Shigeru let out a mock sigh. "You and your endless fantasies about becoming the strongest. Let her enjoy her childhood, Shinju. Not everyone can stand out just by following your methods. She needs time to figure out what she truly wants. Otherwise, who''s to say she''ll even comes after you in the future?" The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Shinju stared at Shigeru, his expression unreadable. For a moment, there was silence between them, before Shigeru sighed and gave him a mock bow. "Well, I''ve got other matters to attend to. Mr. President, I''ll take my leave." With that, Shigeru turned and began walking away, leaving Shinju alone in the quiet arena. Shinju''s gaze drifted back to the night sky, his thoughts swirling. (Let her think, huh...) . . . Meanwhile, outside the dormitory, Shigeru and Akiko stood waiting as Ryuu emerged, a concerned look on his face. "Master! Akiko-san!" Ryuu greeted them, walking toward them with a bow. "Ah, Aramiya-kun, you''re finally here," Shigeru said with a warm smile. Ryuu stood upright, confused but polite. "Master, Akiko-san, why did you call me here at such a late hour? What''s going on?" Shigeru glanced at Akiko before responding. "Aramiya-kun, we apologize for the late summons, but we need to speak with Sengoku-kun as soon as possible. Could you take us to him?" Ryuu looked startled, his expression growing more concerned. "Master, there''s no need to bow before me. I''ll take you to Seichii, but he''s in the medical room right now. After today''s battle, he was in bad shape¡ªhis bones were broken, and though Masumi-san''s healing magic has helped, he''s still being examined." Shigeru gave Ryuu a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "You''re a good friend, Aramiya-kun. Don''t worry, Sengoku-kun will recover." Ryuu led them into the building, guiding them to the room where Seichii rested. "This is where he''s staying. I''ll take my leave now¡ª" "Aramiya-kun, please stay! Also, could you bring Tatsuno-san here too? I need to speak to all of you." Ryuu was puzzled, but nodded. "Okay, master. I''ll fetch Ryoko-san right away." As Ryuu left to find Ryoko, Shigeru and Akiko entered the room, but Shigeru suddenly stopped, gripping Akiko''s arm gently. "Shh," he whispered, his finger pressed to his lips as he motioned toward the bed. Inside, Masumi sat beside Seichii''s bed, staring at his face with a look of guilt etched across her features. "Sengoku-kun, I''m so sorry! It''s because of me that you ended up in this state. Please, forgive me. I''m so, so sorry." Tears welled in her eyes as she looked down, her voice shaking. Seichii, eyes closed, remained still for a moment before finally speaking. "I won''t¡­" Masumi froze, her heart sinking. "What?" Seichii''s face flushed red, his voice barely audible. "I won''t forgive you, not until you call me something like before." Masumi blinked in confusion, then the realization hit her. Her face turned bright red as she stammered, "P-please forgive me¡­ S-se¡­ Seichii-kun!" Suddenly, Seichii burst into laughter, his body shaking with amusement. "Aha-ha-ha! Masumi-san, are you blushing?! Ha-ha-ha!" Masumi buried her face in her hands, utterly embarrassed. Seichii continued to laugh, and for a brief moment, the tension in the room melted away. "Still," Masumi murmured, her voice quieter now, "thank you, Seichii-kun, for everything you''ve done. I''m happy I met you." Seichii''s face went bright red, and a flurry of thoughts ran through his head. (W-what does she mean by that!?) Before he could respond, Shigeru stepped into the room with a smirk. "Okay, lovebirds, that''s enough of your flirting." Seichii and Masumi froze, surprised by the sudden interruption. Both of them turned to face Shigeru, confusion written all over their faces. "Morishita-san!? W-what are you doing here!?" Seichii''s voice cracked slightly in his confusion, and Masumi remained silent, her face still flushed from the earlier exchange. Akiko, however, noticed Masumi''s discomfort and walked over to her with a playful smile. "What a cute girl you are! I understand your feelings¡ªmen can be such foolish creatures," She said, giving Seichii a pointed look. Masumi''s face reddened even more, her embarrassment now reaching new heights. Ryuu and Ryoko entered just then, and Seichii''s confusion grew deeper. "Ryuu!? Ryoko-san!? What are you two doing here?" Shigeru stepped forward, his expression shifting to something more serious. "I''ll explain. As you all saw today, Sengoku-kun unleashed not one but two high-level spells, despite his young age. But as you can also see, his body can''t handle the backlash of such power at this stage." Shigeru''s gaze softened, and he looked at Akiko. "That''s why Akiko and I have decided¡ªsince both of you specialize in wind magic¡ªAkiko has agreed to take Sengoku-kun as her personal student. She will help him overcome the limits that currently hold back his potential." Everyone in the room stood in stunned silence. This was an opportunity few could ever dream of. Seichii''s heart raced, but it was too sudden for him to fully process. Shigeru smiled gently, sensing the hesitation. "I know this is sudden, so take your time to think it over, Sengoku-kun. No rush." But before he could finish, Seichii looked up with determination in his eyes. "I''m ready!" he declared, his voice filled with newfound confidence. Shigeru blinked in surprise but quickly recovered. "Then it''s settled. After the training session, Sengoku-kun will begin his training with Akiko." Seichii''s mind raced. If I want to stand beside Ryuu and protect Masumi-san in the future, I need to become stronger. This is my chance. I can''t let it slip away... With a new resolve burning within him, Seichii embraced the challenge ahead..... The Showdown Begins! Revised and Enhanced Version: The sun rose once more, casting its first rays across the sky, heralding a new day. The arena, now bustling with energy, had drawn an even larger crowd than the day before. The spectators, who had been captivated by the display of youthful power and potential, filled the stands, eager for more. Whispers of excitement rippled through the crowd as they anticipated the second day of these once-in-a-century battles. Everyone knew that today would bring new spectacles of strength, strategy, and perhaps even a few surprises. Shinju Hayato stood at the edge of the arena, his eyes scanning the throngs of onlookers. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation. All divisions had gathered in their designated corners, their champions ready to clash. Tomoki Noato, the charismatic announcer, appeared in the center of the arena, his voice ringing out across the battlefield. "Dear people! After yesterday''s intense battles, which showcased the true power of our students and left the battlefield in ruins, we now move on to the second day of the Inter-Division Battles!" The crowd erupted in cheers at Tomoki''s declaration, the excitement palpable in the air. Shinju raised his hand, and with a subtle wave, the entire arena seemed to tremble. In an instant, the battlefield materialized in the center, ready for the next confrontation. "The second match of the second battle," Shinju''s voice boomed, "will be between the Second Division and the Third Division. Contestants, please take your places." The arena fell into a hushed silence as the first competitor entered the battlefield. A tall, handsome man stepped forward¡ªhis dark, mesmerizing eyes gleaming under the bright lights of the arena. His presence exuded an almost regal air, as though he were a prince stepping out of a fairytale. His striking appearance made the crowd gasp in awe. The Third Division members looked on with pride, their eyes filled with admiration for their champion. But as the man stepped further into the arena, his gaze locked on his opponent, and his expression faltered. "T-t-tatsuno-san!?" Standing in front of him, calm and poised as ever, was Ryoko Tatsuno. She stood with her eyes closed, her presence alone sending an almost unbearable pressure into the air. The man from the Third Division felt a cold sweat break out across his back. He had heard of Ryoko''s legendary strength, but seeing it firsthand was a different experience entirely. His legs trembled as he stepped forward, knowing deep down that he stood no chance against her. Before the match even began, the man was already defeated in spirit. Tomoki, ever the professional, raised his hand to signal the start of the battle. "The second match, between Tatsuno Ryoko of the Second Division and Haga Kenshin of the Third Division, begins!" But before the words had fully left his mouth, a shrill scream pierced the air. The crowd''s collective breath caught as they watched in disbelief. Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Without a single movement, Ryoko sent Haga Kenshin flying out of the arena, his body crashing to the ground outside. He landed in a heap, blood leaking from his mouth. His eyes were closed, and he was clearly unconscious. The arena fell silent, the spectators stunned by what they had just witnessed. It had all happened so quickly¡ªone moment, Kenshin was standing, and the next, he was launched out of the battlefield without Ryoko even lifting a finger. Shinju Hayato, the most experienced fighter in the arena, stared at the scene in disbelief. How¡­ How did she do that? How did she move so fast, or did she even move at all? Tomoki stood frozen for a moment, unable to comprehend the event he had just witnessed. The crowd''s cheer had turned to stunned silence. "Announce the results already," Ryoko said nonchalantly, turning to walk away from the battlefield, unfazed. Tomoki snapped back to his senses and reluctantly announced, "T-the winner of the second match is Tatsuno Ryoko of the Second Division!" The arena remained silent. The crowd had heard the rumors that Ryoko was an S-rank fighter, but no one had expected her to be this powerful. It was more than just strength¡ªshe had dispatched her opponent in a way that defied comprehension. Shigeru Morishita, watching from the stands, let out a soft sigh, his lips curling into a small smile. It''s nothing compared to when she fought those demons. This girl¡­ she''s truly a monster. --- The day moved on, with the Second Division dominating the battlefield. In the fifth match, Kawamura Hibino stepped onto the field, his confidence on full display. "And the winner of the fifth match of the Second Battle is Kawamura Hibino of the Second Division!" Tomoki declared. The crowd''s excitement was tempered by Hibino''s smug remark as he returned to his corner. "Hmph! Weak." With each successive match, the Second Division''s dominance became undeniable. Hikuro, Meiko, and Hibino all won their respective battles without breaking a sweat, solidifying the Second Division''s status as the front-runner in this round. Finally, it was time for the last match of the day¡ªthe most crucial one. "The final match of the Second Battle of the First Round will now begin!" Tomoki called, his voice booming across the arena. "Contestants, please enter the battlefield!" The anticipation in the arena reached a fever pitch as Ryuu Aramiya stepped out from the Second Division''s corner. His expression was calm, but his heart raced with excitement. Ryoko, who had been watching with a supportive gaze, walked up to him, her fingers brushing his hand before she smiled at him warmly. "Be careful out there," she whispered softly. Ryuu returned the smile and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze before stepping into the battlefield. As he entered, he saw his opponent waiting for him, a smirk on her face. It was clear that she had no respect for him, believing him to be a mere obstacle in her path. Ryuu could feel her dismissive attitude, but he refused to let it rattle him. He remained calm, his focus sharp. Before the match began, Tomoki addressed the crowd once more. "Before we start, let me declare that if the Second Division wins this final match, they will be declared the overall victors of the battle, as no member of the Third Division has won a match thus far." The crowd gasped, their eyes flickering between Ryuu and Misaki. The stakes were high, and this final match could decide everything. "Now, the final match of the Second Battle between Aramiya Ryuu of the Second Division and Hino Misaki of the Third Division, begins!" The arena erupted in cheers as the match started. Ryuu stood resolute, while Misaki''s laughter echoed through the air. "Hah! As if I could lose to someone with only R-rank magic control!" Misaki taunted, her voice dripping with arrogance. Ryuu, undeterred by her words, stood silent, his focus unwavering. Shigeru watched from the sidelines, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "This boy¡­ He''s learned how to stay calm in the heat of battle." Akiko, standing beside him, furrowed her brows, confused by his calm demeanor. "Why are you so relaxed? I''m worried about Aramiya-kun!" Shigeru''s smile widened. "Just watch. You''ll see soon enough." And just as he said it, the battlefield erupted in a massive explosion. A fierce fire engulfed the arena, and the crowd screamed in alarm. Misaki stood at the side, her grin widening as the flames roared. The arena watched in stunned silence. Ryuu had been caught in the inferno, his fate seemingly sealed. Seichii, watching from the sidelines, yelled in panic, "RYUU!" Misaki, believing the match to be over, began walking away with a smirk on her face. "I guess it''s over now, huh? Heh heh." But just as she turned her back, a voice echoed through the arena. "Not yet!" The crowd froze. Ryuu emerged from the fire, unscathed. He stood tall, not a single burn mark on his body. His expression was calm, almost serene, as if he had walked through the flames without a second thought. Misaki stood frozen in disbelief. (How? He survived?) The entire arena was silent as Ryuu slowly advanced, his steps measured and deliberate. He had come out of the fire, unhurt. And with that, he had shattered every expectation. An Inhumane Power Misaki stood frozen in place, her breath caught in her throat. Her mind struggled to process what she was seeing. Ryuu. An F-rank magic user. Someone who shouldn¡¯t even be able to stand on the same battlefield as her, an A-rank. Yet there he was¡ªcalm, composed, and untouched. The smoke from her spell still lingered faintly in the air, but Ryuu stood in the middle of it like it had meant nothing. It didn¡¯t make sense. That attack should¡¯ve ended it. A single slash, a single spell, and Ryuu should¡¯ve been down for the count. But he wasn¡¯t. He hadn¡¯t just survived her magic¡ªhe looked like he didn¡¯t even feel it. Misaki''s eyes narrowed. Her hands trembled slightly¡ªnot out of fear, but from frustration. This wasn¡¯t just impossible; it was insulting. Ryuu took a few steps forward, the smirk on his face growing wider with each step. ¡°Is that it?¡± he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. ¡°That was supposed to scare me? You couldn¡¯t even make a scratch¡­ Are you sure you¡¯re an A-rank?¡± The crowd around them fell into a stunned silence. Some spectators couldn¡¯t believe what they were seeing. Others simply stared, jaws slack, unable to speak. Misaki¡¯s face twisted with fury. Her pride had been shattered. A-ranks were respected, feared even¡ªbut now, an F-rank was looking down on her? ¡°You¡¯ve got a real mouth on you,¡± she hissed. ¡°Don¡¯t go thinking you¡¯re strong just because you tanked one spell. That was me holding back.¡± She clenched her fists, her magic flaring violently around her. ¡°Now, I¡¯ll show you what happens when I get serious.¡± The air around the arena suddenly shifted. The ground cracked beneath her as a blazing wave of heat surged out from her body. Veins popped on her face, her eyes glowing a deep, furious red. The atmosphere grew heavier. Sweat trickled down the faces of spectators. Even some of the teachers and higher-ranked magic users in the stands leaned forward, uneasy. Misaki raised her hand into the air. The ground quivered beneath her feet. ¡°THE LAND BEGINS TO TREMBLE AND THE GROUND GETS PULVERIZED! THE EARTH BECOMES HELL AND ALL DEVILS ARE EMBRACED BY ITS SCORCHING HEAT! THE UPPER INTERMEDIATE MAGIC¡ªFIST OF THE SCORCHING LION!!¡± This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. A burst of molten energy erupted from the ground. Lava cracks opened beneath her, glowing orange and red, spilling steam and ash. The air shimmered. Stones that touched the lava instantly crumbled into powder. Misaki¡¯s feet lifted slightly as she hovered above the trembling battlefield. Fire coiled around her arms like twin serpents. She walked toward Ryuu, eyes locked on him, her aura surging like a storm ready to consume everything in its path. Ryuu stood still. Sweat rolled down his temple. The heat was overwhelming¡ªeven metal would melt in this inferno. But he didn¡¯t move an inch. In the stands, Akiko leaned forward, alarmed. ¡°Shigeru¡ª!¡± Shigeru''s eyes were fixed on the battlefield, his brows furrowed. (¡°It¡¯s bad¡­ The flames are too strong. That lava¡ªit¡¯s real. If Ryuu gets caught in that, he¡¯ll be seriously injured. Fatal even.¡±) He clenched his fists. (¡°The only way he survives this¡­ is if he reveals his fire magic. But in front of all these people¡­¡±) Back in the arena, Misaki sneered. ¡°Try being cocky now.¡± She raised her flaming fists, now glowing white-hot. With a roar, she charged forward. The pressure of her attack was immense¡ªeveryone could feel the shockwaves ripple through the arena. Even Rajin, sitting at the far edge of the platform, wiped sweat from his brow. (¡°This girl¡­ she¡¯s no joke.¡±) Misaki reached Ryuu in a flash. She brought her fire-encased fist down with all her might. BOOM! The explosion lit up the sky. A deafening blast echoed across the arena. A massive cloud of black smoke surged outward, swallowing everything in sight. The audience gasped. Some stood from their seats. Others shielded their eyes from the intense heat. ¡°RYUU!!¡± ¡°ARAMIYA-KUN!!¡± Both Shigeru and Seichii screamed. Without thinking, Seichii dashed forward¡ªstraight into the scorched battlefield. The ground sizzled under his feet. His clothes began to burn at the edges, but he didn¡¯t stop. ¡°SEICHII-KUN, STOP!¡± Masumi¡¯s voice rang out. ¡°YOU¡¯LL BE BURNED ALIVE!!¡± But Seichii didn¡¯t listen. ¡°Ryuu!!!¡± Just as he stepped deeper into the smoke¡ª A voice cut through the chaos. ¡°Seichii.¡± It echoed¡ªloud and firm. The smoke began to fade. And then¡ªtwo silhouettes emerged from the black mist. Ryuu was standing tall¡­ completely unharmed. His hand was outstretched, gripping Misaki¡¯s flaming fist with his bare hand. Misaki stared at him, wide-eyed, her lips parted in shock. Everyone in the arena froze. The world seemed to stop. How? How could someone block that spell¡­ with no barrier, no counterattack, and no burns? Even Rajin stood up from his seat, stunned. (¡°What¡­? I would''ve taken damage from that¡­ and he just¡­ caught it?¡±) Ryuu grinned, his fingers tightening around Misaki¡¯s wrist. The fire around her fist fizzled¡ªdisappearing like smoke in the wind. Misaki¡¯s knees trembled. Her lips moved, but no words came out. At the far end of the arena, Ryoko watched silently. Her eyes sparkled slightly as she looked at Ryuu. And then¡ªever so fa intly¡ªa soft smile appeared on her lips...... A Tremendous Victory! "H-How¡­!?" Shigeru and Akiko stood frozen at the edge of the battlefield. Their eyes were locked on the scene before them, unable to process what they had just witnessed. "Did... did that really just happen?" Akiko whispered, her voice barely audible. Even the instructors and staff, seasoned in combat and magical warfare, were rendered speechless. A deep silence blanketed the entire arena. Thousands of eyes watched in disbelief, their expressions a mix of awe and confusion. Students had stopped mid-cheer, frozen with their mouths hanging open. The buzzing noise of excitement had been replaced with stunned silence, as if the world itself had skipped a beat. Rajin, known for his analytical calm, was now standing with wide eyes. His confident smirk had faded, replaced by a rare look of uncertainty. But the most stunned of them all¡­ was Misaki. She couldn''t move. Her heart was pounding against her ribcage, sweat trickling down her face¡ªnot from the heat of her own attack, but from the raw, incomprehensible fear settling in her bones. Her strongest technique¡ªBlazing Tempest Fist¡ªthe pinnacle of her training and discipline, had been stopped cold. For months, she had poured her soul into perfecting that move, keeping it hidden as a trump card to use against Rajin. She was confident that even a prodigy like him wouldn''t be able to withstand its destructive heat. But Ryuu¡­ Ryuu had caught it. With his bare hand. "No... this... this isn''t possible," Misaki whispered, her lips trembling. Ryuu stood tall in front of her, his hand wrapped firmly around her burning fist, completely unfazed. No signs of pain. No burns. Not even a scratch. A faint smile played on his lips. "H-H-How!? H-How can you block my fist with just your bare hands!?" Misaki''s voice cracked, her breath ragged. "Y-Your hand¡­ it should have been torn to pieces! How are you still standing like it''s nothing!?" Her voice rose in pitch with every word, desperation and disbelief clawing at her throat. Ryuu''s calm eyes met hers¡ªsteady, unwavering. A soft chuckle escaped his lips. "Aha¡­ I can''t blame you for being that shocked." He tilted his head slightly. "After all, I''m blessed with a certain... gift." Misaki blinked. "W-What do you mean by that!?" she demanded, her voice trembling more from fear than rage. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. "You''ll understand soon enough." CRACK!! "AAAHH!!" Misaki screamed in pain as Ryuu''s grip suddenly tightened. The bones in her wrist creaked under the pressure. She dropped to one knee, her body trembling uncontrollably. "I-It hurts!! It really hurts!! Please stop it, please!" she cried out, tears welling up in her eyes. The audience watched in stunned silence, unable to believe what they were seeing. A supposed F-rank was making an A-rank elite tremble in fear and drop to her knees. It was unheard of. Unthinkable. Even the members of the Third Division could only stare in disbelief. Shinju, usually composed and calculated, was wide-eyed. "What... what is this¡­? Just who is he?" He muttered under his breath. Ryuu''s smile faded into something colder. "Stop, huh?" His voice dropped, low and dangerous. "It''s far too late for that." His eyes glinted sharply. Misaki''s pupils shrank. Without another word, Ryuu reared his free arm back¡ªhis muscles coiling like a drawn bowstring¡ªand thrust his fist forward toward Misaki''s face. BOOM!!! But the punch never landed. His fist stopped just inches away from her face. And yet, the shockwave alone was enough to tear the arena apart. Behind Misaki, the reinforced stone stage exploded outward in a deafening blast. Dust and debris shot into the air like cannon fire. The ground cracked, the battlefield shattered. A massive crater had formed just from the pressure of Ryuu''s punch. Misaki fell to both knees, trembling. Her limbs refused to move. She stared up at him, petrified. Her confidence, her pride, her fire¡ªgone. Seichii and Masumi stared from the sidelines, unable to look away. "W-What is this monstrous power...?" Seichii whispered, his voice dry. "I-I always felt something different about Ryuu since we were little¡­ but to think it was this incredible..." The entire crowd had fallen into stunned silence again¡ªuntil one spectator broke into a soft chuckle. Ryoko. She sat calmly in the observation box, a serene smile on her face, as if none of this surprised her. As if she had seen it coming. Seichii noticed her smile, his brows furrowing. (W-Why is she smiling...? Did Ryoko-san know all along about Ryuu''s strength? There''s¡­ something she''s hiding.) Shigeru, meanwhile, stared at Ryuu for a long moment before a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. "Heh¡­ This boy never ceases to surprise me," he muttered. "Just how many secrets are hidden inside you, Aramiya Ryuu?" Back on the battlefield, Ryuu turned away from Misaki, his expression calm once more. He began walking back toward the Second Division corner. Behind him, Misaki stared at his back, tears still glistening in her eyes. "T-Thank you¡­" Ryuu paused mid-step. Slowly, he turned his head, his eyes locking with hers one last time. "Never look down on anyone," He said firmly. "No matter how strong you become. Because one day, the world will look down on you¡­ and all you''ll be able to do is cry like a child." With that, he walked away. The crowd remained silent for a few moments¡ªuntil the announcer, Tomoki, finally stepped onto the destroyed stage, still visibly shaken. "T-The winner¡­ of the final solo match of the Second Battle¡­ is Aramiya Ryuu of the Second Division!" A heartbeat later¡ª "THE SECOND DIVISION WINS THE BATTLE!!" WOAHHHHH!!! The crowd erupted into thunderous cheers. Students screamed, instructors clapped, flags were waved. The Second Division had crushed the Third Division in every solo match, and now they were heading to the finals. But even amidst the celebration, a few sharp eyes were focused not on the scoreboard¡­ but on Ryuu. Shinju stood silently, staring at both Ryuu and Ryoko. His thoughts were racing. (So the legends¡­ they might be true after all...) The cheers began to die down as a new announcement echoed through the arena. "Up next¡ªTeam Battle! First Division versus Fourth Division! All members, please report to the center of the arena immediately!" One by one, the seven members of both teams entered the battlefield, lining up on opposite sides. Carol, tall and imposing, locked eyes with Rajin. The killing intent radiating from her was almost suffocating. A dark, focused fury burned in her eyes. Rajin smirked, excitement bubbling in his chest. (So this is my next opponent¡­ heh. Things just got interesting.) And the battle was far from over...