His eyes settled on Otone.
"Even now… most people can't even use it."
A pause.
"…Or rather, they don't even know it exists."
Virex's gaze met Otone's, steady, unwavering.
"Just like you, young man."
Otone's fists clenched with determination. "Teach me Mantra. Please."
Virex nodded. "Very well. First, you must understand the three basic types."
He drew invisible lines in the air, as if carving knowledge into reality.
Aegis Mantra: Harden your body with spiritual energy. Your fists, arms, even armor of your will can become unbreakable.
Clairveil Mantra: Observe your opponent's every move, predict attacks before they happen. The highest mastery allows entry into ultra instinct — a state beyond reaction, where the body acts before the mind.
King's Mantra: Dominate the will of others. Only those with unyielding resolve can wield it.
"How… how do I train?" Otone asked, eyes wide with determination.
"Come here tomorrow at 5 AM," Virex instructed. "We begin your true training."
Otone let out a long breath and allowed a small, hopeful smile to appear.
"Go rest now. And see a doctor," Virex commanded, his tone firm yet caring.
Otone nodded and stepped out. His heart pounded as he entered the hospital room.
There, lying in the dimly lit bed, was his brother. Though alive, his back was fractured and his legs were gone. He couldn't sit, he couldn't walk.
"I'm here, brother," Otone whispered, kneeling beside the bed.
His brother's eyes fluttered open. "Thanks… my little brother."
The doctor approached cautiously. "We can schedule another surgery…"
Otone's jaw tightened. "No. I won't allow it. You've attempted three surgeries already. Each one failed. More procedures would just make your suffering worse. You need to rest."
His brother, struggling to stay comfortable, tried to lie still.
Otone's hands clenched into fists at his sides. He could feel every ounce of his frustration, his pain, and his determination coiling inside him.
"As you say," the doctor relented, stepping away.
Otone's gaze lingered on his brother. His resolve hardened like steel. "I will grow stronger. I will protect everyone I care about. And one day… I will change this world."