Within just days of the ceremony, a new symbol began appearing across Tokyo — the mark of a rising legacy.
The Hayashi Clan was born.
Its emblem was striking: a crimson lotus in bloom, outlined in obsidian black. At its center was a silver swirl — representing motion, evolution, and the flow of Essence — encircled by a subtle Japanese kanji: 「絆」which means bond. The logo represented family, strength, and unity. It was worn with pride, stitched into cloaks, banners, and etched into walls.
In the heart of Tokyo, construction began at record speed. With support from the Essence Association and Riku's influence, an entire clan town was built — sleek, modern buildings infused with Essence energy, towering walls adorned with the Hayashi crest, and serene gardens where warriors could train or rest. The central hall stood tallest, where Riku would lead, plan, and protect.
Sayuri Hayashi, Riku's mother, and Yuki, his younger sister, were the first two residents — the heart of the clan.
Though the media begged to cover the selection process, Riku quietly stated that only 30 new members would be accepted for now. He didn't announce this publicly — knowing chaos would erupt — but his real reason was clear: he wanted to build a legacy, not a crowd.
The very first to approach the newly built gates was Yumi Aoyama.
Blushing deeply, she fidgeted in her hands, stepping in front of Riku beneath the large Hayashi banner.
"I… I want to join the Hayashi Clan," she said, eyes down, cheeks red.
Riku tilted his head. "Why are you blushing? Is something wrong?"
"N-Nothing!" she squeaked, turning even redder.
He smiled warmly. "Of course, you're in."
Not long after, 29 others arrived — a mix of powerful Essence users, loyal companions, and prodigies from across the world. Riku welcomed them into the main hall for their first clan assembly.
Standing at the front in his clan robes, wind gently pushing through the open windows behind him, Riku raised his hand.
"I've called you here because this isn't just a clan. It's a beginning. And to start that legacy, I'll share with each of you a part of my energy."
One by one, he stepped forward, placing his hand over each member's. A faint golden glow surged, and suddenly — a mark appeared. Either on their palm or the back of their hand, the symbol shimmered briefly before settling.
Some were shaped like swirling currents. Others like twin blades.
Riku continued, "These are clan marks. They're not just for power — they're for legacy. These markings will live on through you. Your children will be born with powers reflecting the mark you hold."
He paused, letting the weight of that sink in.
"There are four total markings. Each of you received either the First or Second Marking. The other two… haven't been granted yet."
Murmurs echoed through the group, half in awe, half in curiosity.
The Hayashi Clan had officially begun… and the legacy of Riku Hayashi was now carved into the future.