After the exhausting battle, Arou looked at his team with determination.
"We all need rest—and time to prepare for the next training. Let's head to my place," he said.
Shion and Rei nodded, while Nora gave a faint smile. Airi followed behind them, her steps slow, her thoughts still lingering on what had happened earlier—the slash that struck Arou's arm.
When they arrived, everyone fell silent for a moment, stunned by the grandeur of the mansion. Massive pillars stood elegantly carved, stained glass windows reflected the sunlight, and a vast garden with a fountain added to its majestic atmosphere.
Airi stopped at the gate. Her eyes were fixed on the mansion, but her heart felt heavy. She lowered her head, hesitant to step forward. The memory of injuring Arou still haunted her.
Arou noticed her and walked over.
"Airi… you don't need to hold back," he said gently but firmly, extending his hand. "I'm fine. It was part of the training. I understand."
Airi swallowed, then stepped forward.
"I… I'm sorry, Arou," she said, her voice trembling.
Arou gave a faint smile.
"There's nothing to regret. Your strength is impressive. We just need to remind each other and learn from every fight. Don't let guilt hold you back."
Nora placed a hand on Airi's shoulder.
"Arou's right. This is all to make us stronger. I'm here with you."
Airi took a deep breath, and slowly, her guilt began to fade.
---
Inside, they were welcomed by a grand dining hall with high ceilings and luxurious decorations. Nora prepared food and recovery drinks, while Airi sat quietly, calming herself before training resumed.
In the vast backyard, Arou led the training.
He began with physical drills—combinations of punches, kicks, and evasive movements that demanded peak strength and speed.
Shion trained his reflexes using obstacles, leaping and spinning mid-air to dodge simulated attacks.
Rei focused on strategy, analyzing patterns, reading movements, and anticipating every possible scenario.
Meanwhile, Airi practiced a new technique she had developed—combining speed and precision while maintaining synchronization with the team.
"Good, Airi! Keep your rhythm—don't tense up!" Nora called from the sidelines, watching sharply.
Arou paused and looked at everyone.
"Remember—this isn't just about individual strength. We need synchronization, timing, and anticipation. What we do today will determine the battles ahead."
Airi nodded and refocused.
She and Arou began paired combat training—Arou attacked, Airi anticipated and countered. Their movements flowed like a dance, demanding perfect coordination.
Nearby, Shion and Rei practiced fast-paced combat scenarios. Shion relied on agility to surprise, while Rei analyzed every move, forcing himself to stay sharp.
As evening fell, golden sunlight bathed the courtyard. The breeze was cool, yet the air remained tense. Everyone understood—each training session brought them closer to battles that would decide their fate.
---
As dusk settled, Arou tapped Airi's shoulder.
"That's enough for today. You've all done well. Get some rest—we continue tomorrow."
Airi looked at him. For the first time since earlier, she felt lighter. The weight of guilt was gone, replaced by determination.
---
Late at night, the mansion was quiet.
But Arou couldn't sleep.
Restlessness filled his mind as he thought about the battle—and the power he still needed to reach.
Seeking calm, he walked into the backyard. Moonlight reflected on the fountain, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
But it didn't last.
In the distance, flashes of light appeared—shadows moving rapidly. Arou focused his gaze and saw it—
A battle.
A massive creature stood there, its body covered in armor-like skin, glowing red eyes, and a terrifying dark aura.
Vendico—the Monster King.
But what shocked Arou wasn't the monster.
It was the man fighting it.
A figure in a long black coat moved through the night, his face hidden in shadow. His presence radiated calm confidence.
The mysterious warrior moved with incredible speed, dodging attacks and countering with deadly precision. Blue energy flashed from his hands, striking Vendico with force.
Arou froze.
Time itself seemed to slow around the man. Every attack from Vendico was anticipated and countered flawlessly.
Magic.
With one final movement, the warrior compressed time itself—shortening Vendico's moment of death. The Monster King's attacks lost all effectiveness, and in the end… he fell.
Silenced.
Defeated.
The warrior glanced briefly at Arou—cold, calm eyes—before disappearing into the shadows.
Arou stood there, stunned.
Under the moonlight, he realized one thing—
This world was far more dangerous than he had ever imagined.
---
The next day, Arou wandered through the busy streets, still lost in thought.
The mysterious man haunted him.
He searched through the crowd, his eyes scanning every corner—looking for that black coat.
Curiosity burned within him.
In a narrow market alley, he finally saw him.
Nova.
Standing casually in front of a small shop, his sharp eyes observing everything. A faint smirk rested on his face, radiating confidence—almost arrogance.
People around him kept their distance without even realizing it.
Arou approached slowly.
Their eyes met.
Tension filled the air instantly.
Nova tilted his head slightly, his smirk widening.
"So… you finally showed up," he said casually, his tone controlled and confident.
Arou steadied himself.
"You… last night…" he hesitated. "I want to know who you are. And how you defeated Vendico so easily."
Nova raised an eyebrow, studying him.
"Who am I? Hah… just know this—I don't waste time on the unworthy," he said arrogantly. "But you… might be interesting enough."
Arou felt a mix of awe, curiosity, and irritation.
"You're… really full of yourself," he said.
Nova chuckled softly.
"Arrogant? Maybe. But confidence… that's different. You'll learn the difference someday."
He stepped closer.
"And I'm curious… will you be able to keep up with me? Or will you get lost behind like everyone else?"
Arou met his gaze, unwavering.
"I'll follow. Even if it means facing whatever you throw at me."
Nova smiled—sharper this time.
"Interesting. Let's see how long you last. But remember… this isn't just a game."
In the middle of the crowded market, the two stood facing each other.
Their meeting was brief—
But it felt like the beginning of something far greater.
Something that would change both their fates forever.