The sun had dipped low over the mountains of Reiketsu Village, casting long shadows across the estate's backyard where the waterfall continued its eternal roar. It had been two weeks since that fateful snap, two weeks since Chaos had turned our world grayscale and left scars that no amount of training could fully erase. Hey, it's Rein here. I hope you all remember me, the guy with the shadow that's more than just a dark spot on the ground. A lot has happened since then, and honestly, it's been a whirlwind. Let me catch you up.
First off, the aftermath of Chaos's little "visit" was brutal. Azrael and Wilson... they took the worst of it. That shadow blade sliced Wilson across the chest like it was nothing, and Azrael got impaled right in front of us. The sight of our mentors, our pillars, bleeding on the ground? It shook everyone to the core. We rushed them to the treatment room, hearts pounding, hands shaking. Yuna was incredible that day; her green healing light poured out like a lifeline, stabilizing them enough for Azrael's own power to kick in. Stella and Esil worked on bandages and salves, while the rest of us just... prayed, I guess. It took days for them to recover fully, Wilson with a fresh scar across his chest, Azrael moving a bit slower at first, but neither complained. If anything, it made them fiercer. "This is why we train," Azrael said once, his pale gray eyes steady as ever. "The Void doesn't forgive weakness."
Training resumed almost immediately after, and let me tell you, it was hell on a whole new level. Azrael wasn't kidding when he said he'd push us harder. No more casual spars or rest days slipping in; every session felt like a battle for survival. Mornings started with dawn runs up the mountain trails, lungs burning in the thin air, legs screaming by the halfway mark. Afternoons were endless drills: energy control, suit deployments, Vein breakthroughs simulated until we collapsed. Evenings? Group combats where we rotated partners, learning each other's weaknesses like our lives depended on it, because they might.
Kaiser threw himself into it like a machine, his lean frame glistening with sweat after every session. He and Maki paired up more often now, their strikes precise and unforgiving, but with a new layer of trust after her apology. "We're stronger together," he'd say, orange eyes focused, helping her up after a hard takedown. Maki... she's changed a bit, too. That fire in her blue eyes is still there, but it's tempered now, less anger, more purpose. She's training harder than anyone, pushing limits like she's making up for lost time. "I won't let that bastard use me again," she muttered once during a break, her light orange ponytail damp and disheveled.
Esil? Still the same chaotic Esil, purple hair flying as she weaves illusions to dodge Zen's bursts, laughing the whole time. "Come on, speedy! You gotta be faster than that!" she'd tease, her pink eyes twinkling with mischief. Nothing phases her for long; she's the glue keeping our spirits up, turning brutal drills into games whenever she can.
Zen... man, he's still Zen. Goofy, hype, never without a joke. But even though he's gotten serious, his golden energy crackles brighter now, and those Tri Vein bursts? He's pushing them to Quad territory. "Watch this!" he'd yell, teleporting in flashes during spars, landing hits that leave us all impressed. And yeah, he and I? We're lean as hell now. The training's carved us, defined arms, sharp abs, that low-body-fat look from endless runs and energy drains. No more soft edges; we're built for war.
Stella and I... we're doing a lot better. Amid all the chaos (pun not intended), we've found these quiet moments. Late-night talks on the rooftop under the stars, her silver hair glowing in the moonlight, her electric-blue eyes full of that unwavering support. "We're in this together," she'd whisper, her hand in mine. It's amazing, grounding me when the tolls hit hard. She's broken through to Quad Vein, too, her blue energy stronger, more precise. Watching her spar with Valkyrie? It's like poetry—silver and blue clashing in perfect harmony.
Valkyrie's as steady as ever, her silver-pink hair a blur in combat. She's taken Yuna under her wing more, signing fluently now, making sure our new healer feels included.
Speaking of Yuna, she's come so far. Her healing training with Wilson and Azrael? It's going incredibly well. She's now on the same level as Stella in terms of healing, but slightly higher; she can close big wounds now, her green light steady and warm. "You're a natural," Wilson told her once, signing with a proud smile. She's still simple and cute, Yuna through and through, but there's a quiet confidence growing. Watching her mend scrapes during training? It's like seeing hope in action.
As for the rest of us... Our Vein-Codes have leveled up. Me, Zen, Stella, and we're all Quad now. It wasn't easy; breaking from Tri to Quad felt like shattering a wall inside, energy surging in ways that left us drained for days. But we did it. Kaiser, Esil, and Maki were already Quads when we first met them; their ranks haven't changed yet. Once you hit Quad, it's a lot harder to break the limits... the jumps feel massive, like climbing a sheer cliff with no ropes.
And my Chaotic Vein-Code? Still stuck at Tri. Master Voss is working on it, poring over ancient scrolls in the library, testing theories during our private sessions. "We'll find a way," he says, his voice steady. "But carefully. No more risks like last time."
These past two weeks have been a grind, bodies aching, minds racing with Chaos's words echoing like poison. "See you soon, vessel." We all feel it hanging over us, that crimson-eyed shadow waiting in the wings. But we're stronger now. Leaner. Closer.
The Demon King's decree lingers... but so does our resolve.
We're ready for whatever comes next.
The waterfall roared in the distance as the last echoes of training faded across the backyard. It was only 2:44 p.m.—unusually early for Azrael to call it quits. Everyone was sprawled out, drenched in sweat, and utterly spent.
Rein, Kaiser, and Zen lay flat on their backs in a loose circle on the grass, chests heaving. Esil, Stella, Maki, and Valkyrie sat nearby on the stone benches, legs stretched out, looking just as wrecked. Yuna had finished her healing drills a bit earlier and wandered over to join them, her pale pink hair still tied back, warm brown eyes bright with quiet curiosity.
Azrael stood at the edge of the yard, arms crossed, silver brown-streaked hair catching the afternoon light. "That's enough for today," he said, voice calm but final. "Rest while it lasts."
Zen let out a dramatic groan, throwing an arm over his eyes. "AGH, finally! Freedom! I thought my legs were gonna fall off."
"No kidding," Kaiser muttered, rolling onto his side with a wince. "I'm pretty sure my ribs are bruised from blocking your wild swings, Zen."
"My whole body hates me right now," Rein added, staring up at the sky, violet eyes half-lidded. "I can still feel that last combo in my spine."
Esil stretched her arms overhead, purple hair sticking to her forehead. "Who's ready for a bath? Because I'm about to melt."
"Me." Zen shot up immediately, grinning despite the exhaustion. "Hot water sounds like heaven."
"Count me in," Rein said, pushing himself up with a tired chuckle. "If I don't soak soon, I'm not moving tomorrow."
Stella smiled softly, brushing silver strands from her face. "I'm in too. My shoulders are killing me."
Maki nodded, standing slowly. "Same. Valkyrie?"
Valkyrie gave a quiet thumbs-up, already heading toward the bath hall. "Definitely."
Yuna signed quickly, cheeks flushing a little: Me too? For fun?
Esil laughed and looped an arm around Yuna's shoulders. "Of course! Come on, the more the merrier."
The whole group trudged toward the estate's bath hall, the girls in simple swimwear (practical for the hot springs), the guys in trunks. No one batted an eye—after weeks of brutal training together, modesty had taken a backseat to survival.
Inside the steaming bath hall, the air was thick with mineral-scented mist. The large communal pool glowed faintly under paper lanterns, hot water bubbling gently.
Zen sank in first with a loud, satisfied sigh. "Aghhh… that old geezer didn't hold back shit this time. My back is still screaming."
Kaiser eased in beside him, leaning against the stone edge. "Haha, tell me about it. My hands feel like I've been punching concrete all day."
Rein slid in on the other side, letting the heat seep into his aching muscles. "My whole body hates me, man. I swear every Vein feels fried."
Kaiser glanced over at the girls' side of the pool, smirking faintly. "You three were lucky he held back a little today."
Esil, floating lazily on her back, grinned. "Agh, I'm beyond pleased he did. I'd be dead otherwise."
"No kidding," Stella said, sitting close to Rein, her head resting lightly against his shoulder for a moment. The warmth of the water—and him—eased the tension in her voice. "I'm just glad we get this break."
Maki leaned back, eyes closed. "Don't jinx it. He'll probably double it tomorrow."
Valkyrie signed with a small smile: Worth it. Feels good.
Yuna, sitting between Esil and Stella, signed happily: Hot water best! Thank you for letting me join.
Zen splashed a little water her way playfully. "You earned it, Yuna. Those healing sessions you ran today saved my arms at least twice."
"How about we enjoy this in peace for once?" Esil said, voice light but pleading. "I don't want to talk about training. Not right now. Not ever again, ideally."
Everyone chuckled, the sound echoing softly off the stone walls.
Rein tilted his head back, staring at the steam curling toward the ceiling. After a quiet moment, he spoke up. "Hey, Maki… random question. How is Master Voss still so insanely strong? He's Quad like some of us now, but he wipes the floor with everyone."
Maki opened one eye, considering. "No clue at all. Experience, maybe? Control? He's been at this longer than any of us has been alive."
Kaiser nodded. "It's not just power. It's precision. He hits exactly where it hurts most, every time."
Stella glanced at Rein. "You could always ask him directly."
Rein laughed softly. "Good idea. I'll corner him tomorrow and report back."
Zen grinned. "Make sure to record his answer. I wanna know the secret to becoming that terrifying."
"Oi, shut up," Esil said playfully, splashing water at Zen. "Some mysteries are better left unsolved."
More laughter rippled through the group, the hot water easing sore muscles and, for a little while, the weight of everything waiting outside.
The waterfall roared on in the distance.
But here, in the steam and quiet company, they could finally breathe.
The group trickled out of the bath hall one by one, skin still warm from the hot springs, yukatas loosely tied, and hair damp. The evening air felt cool against flushed cheeks as they padded barefoot across the covered walkway toward the center hall.
"Agh, that was nice," Zen sighed dramatically, stretching his arms overhead. "I might actually survive tomorrow."
Esil smirked, wringing out her purple hair. "Don't jinx it. Azrael's probably planning something twice as bad."
Ring. Ring.
The sharp sound cut through the relaxed chatter. Everyone paused.
"Eh?" Esil and Zen said in unison, heads tilting toward the main gate.
All eyes turned to Azrael, who was already moving—silent, purposeful—toward the entrance. The rest followed instinctively, curiosity overriding exhaustion.
Through the open shōji doors, Wilson's familiar figure stepped into view, travel coat dusted with road grit. But behind him loomed someone else: taller, broader in the shoulders, moving with a predator's quiet economy.
"Who's that?" Esil whispered, pink eyes narrowing.
"No clue," Kaiser muttered, orange gaze sharpening.
Wilson and the stranger entered the center hall. The group filed in behind them, forming a loose semicircle on the tatami. Lantern light cast long shadows across the room.
Rein stepped forward first, offering a tired but genuine smile. "Welcome back, Principal Wilson. How'd it go with the Board?"
Wilson removed his coat, folding it neatly. "Thank you, Rein. It went… productively." His eyes flicked to the man beside him. "And it seems we have a new guest joining us for a while."
He gestured invitingly. The stranger stepped fully into the light.
Tall—easily 6'3"—with messy black hair falling into his face and a long black duster coat over simple tactical wear. Scars traced his exposed skin: thin white lines on his arms, a jagged one over his left eyebrow, a faint burn mark on his neck. Deep green eyes scanned the room without emotion, taking in every face in a single, unhurried sweep.
"My name is Kaito Hargreave," he said, voice low and even, no wasted words. "You can call me Zero. I'm twenty. Hope I'm not interrupting your training."
The room went quiet for a beat.
Kaiser blinked. "Uh… that was straightforward."
Zen tilted his head, golden eyes curious. "Sooo… why exactly are you here?"
"The Board sent me," Zero replied, as if that explained everything.
"Okay…" Zen drew out the word, glancing at the others. "That's… cryptic."
Wilson chuckled softly, settling at the low table. "I know you all have questions. Let our guest settle in first. Kaiser, if you wouldn't mind showing Zero to one of the guest rooms?"
"Yes, Master," Kaiser said immediately, stepping forward. He gestured toward the hallway. "This way."
Zero gave a short nod and followed without another word, coat swaying silently behind him.
As soon as they were out of earshot, the room erupted in hushed questions.
Wilson raised a hand, smiling. "Patience."
Zen leaned forward eagerly. "Yo, old man—what Vein is he? I didn't feel anything. Like, zero energy."
Wilson's chuckle deepened. "You can ask him that yourself when he's settled."
"Huh?" Zen blinked.
Rein frowned, violet eyes distant. "I sensed nothing from him. No flow, no aura… yet he feels dangerous. Powerful."
Yuna, standing close to Rein, tugged gently at his yukata sleeve. Her warm brown eyes were fixed on the doorway where Zero had disappeared. She signed slowly, deliberately: His heart feels broken. Heavy. Like carrying something alone for too long.
Rein's expression softened. He signed back while speaking quietly: "Yeah… I felt that too."
Stella crossed her arms, silver hair still damp. "The Board doesn't send just anyone. Especially not after…" She trailed off, glancing at Azrael.
Azrael remained standing, pale gray eyes narrowed in thought. "Wilson," he said finally, voice low. "I hope he's not here to live with us permanently."
Wilson shook his head, pouring himself tea. "No, Master. Only until the current situation stabilizes. He's… insurance."
Esil flopped onto a cushion, purple hair splaying out. "Insurance that looks like he could snap any of us in half without breaking a sweat. Great."
Maki, quieter than usual, stared at the hallway. "He didn't even smile. Not once."
Valkyrie signed thoughtfully: Strong. But alone.
Zen grinned, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Well, tomorrow's training just got a lot more interesting."
Rein exhaled slowly, glancing toward the guest wing. Something told him "interesting" was an understatement.
The waterfall roared outside, indifferent.
But inside the estate, a new shadow had arrived, one that cast no energy at all.
The center hall glowed softly under paper lanterns as evening settled over Reiketsu Village. The waterfall's distant roar provided a steady backdrop to the quiet chatter inside.
Kaito stepped in wearing a simple gray yukata, damp hair still slightly tousled from the bath. His presence was impossible to ignore—tall, scarred, silent. Deep green eyes swept the room once, taking in everything without reaction.
Everyone was already there, scattered in their usual spots.
Zen sat cross-legged on a cushion, Valkyrie patiently teaching him sign language while Yuna sat beside her, correcting his hand shapes with gentle nudges and a warm smile. Rein and Stella shared a bench near the open shoji doors, shoulders touching, watching the golden sun sink behind the mountains. Maki and Esil knelt at a low table playing poker, cards fanned out between them. Kaiser lounged against a pillar, old Walkman clipped to his waist, headphones on, eyes half-closed as he nodded to the beat. Wilson and Azrael sat at the main low table, tea steaming between them.
Kaito's gaze lingered on Kaiser first. The Walkman caught his eye.
"They still make Walkmans?" Kaito asked, voice low and even.
Kaiser pulled one earbud out, glancing up. "No. My Grandad gave it to me on my birthday. Last gift before…" He trailed off, shrugging. "Still works."
"I see." Kaito moved to the low table. A simple meal had already been set out for him—rice, grilled fish, miso soup, pickled vegetables. He sat without ceremony and began eating in silence.
The room stayed quiet for a moment.
Zen, still struggling with a sign, finally looked over. "Umm… what Vein are you?"
Kaito didn't pause. "I don't have one."
Zen blinked. "What?"
Esil lowered her cards, pink eyes narrowing. "Why?"
Kaito took a slow sip of tea. "I'm Null Vein."
Esil tilted her head. "Null Vein? What's that?"
Wilson's gaze dropped to his cup. Azrael's pale gray eyes narrowed slightly, but he stayed silent.
Zen's golden eyes widened. So did Stella's, Rein's, and Kaiser's. Maki and Esil exchanged confused glances.
Kaito set his chopsticks down calmly. "For those who don't know: it's a rare genetic defect. Zero Astral Vein channels. No energy flow at all."
Esil's mouth formed a small "o." "Oh… sorry."
"I don't like pity," Kaito said flatly, resuming his meal.
Maki's blue eyes flicked to him. "Oh."
Zen threw his hands up. "Okay, HOLD UP."
Kaito kept eating.
"THEN HOW THE HELL ARE YOU SHREDDED?" Zen demanded, gesturing wildly at Kaito's visible arms and shoulders. "You look like you bench-press mountains!"
Kaito swallowed, then answered without looking up. "The Board—"
"CAN YOU BE MORE DETAILED?" Zen interrupted, leaning forward eagerly.
Kaito finally lifted his deep green eyes, giving Zen a long, unreadable stare. The room went quiet again.
Zen gulped. "Uh… please?"
Kaito exhaled through his nose. "The Board took me in when I was ten. My parents died in a rift collapse. They were Void Seekers—people who hunt artifacts and knowledge inside unstable zones. Reckless. They didn't make it out."
He paused, chopsticks resting on the bowl.
"The Board found me alone in the ruins. Trained me. Turned me into what I am now: a Void Killer. No energy, so no reliance on it. Just body. Speed. Strength. Instinct."
Zen stared. "Whoa…"
Esil leaned forward, intrigued. "So you fight… without any glow? No suits? No blasts?"
Kaito nodded once. "Exactly."
Rein spoke up quietly. "That's why you feel… different. No aura. But you're still dangerous."
Kaito met Rein's violet eyes. "Dangerous enough."
Stella tilted her head. "The Board sent you here because of Chaos?"
"Partly," Kaito said. "Partly to observe. Partly to train under Azrael." He glanced at the master. "If you'll allow it."
Azrael's voice was calm. "We'll see."
Wilson smiled faintly. "He's not here to disrupt. He's here to help."
Yuna, sitting beside Valkyrie, signed quickly to Rein: Strong. But sad. Like missing something.
Rein signed back: Yeah. I feel it too.
Zen, still processing, grinned suddenly. "Okay, but real talk, can you beat Kaiser in a straight fight? No energy, just fists?"
Kaito finally gave a tiny smirk, the first expression he'd shown.
"Try me."
Kaiser pulled the other earbud out, orange eyes lighting up. "Tomorrow. Dawn. No holding back."
Kaito nodded once. "Dawn."
The room buzzed with new energy, curiosity, wariness, and excitement.
Esil leaned toward Maki, whispering loudly: "This just got way more interesting."
Maki smirked. "Understatement."
The golden sun finally slipped behind the peaks.
Inside the hall, a new tension settled—quiet, sharp, promising.
Zero had arrived.
And training was about to change forever.
The night had settled over Reiketsu Village, the waterfall's roar softened to a distant lullaby. Lanterns along the walkways cast warm, flickering pools of light, and the estate felt quiet—almost peaceful after the day's intensity.
Rein couldn't sleep.
His room felt too still, thoughts too loud. Chaos's crimson eyes, Zero's arrival, the ache in his muscles that refused to fade—everything circled back to the same question. He slipped out of bed, pulled on a light yukata, and padded down the hallway toward Azrael's quarters.
He knocked softly.
"Come in," Azrael's voice answered, warm and steady.
Rein slid the shoji door open. Azrael sat at a low desk, scroll half-unrolled, silver-streaked hair loose over his shoulders. A single lantern illuminated the room, casting gentle shadows across his face.
"Hello, Master," Rein said quietly.
Azrael looked up, pale gray eyes softening. "Couldn't sleep?"
Rein rubbed the back of his neck. "Yes. And… I wanted to ask you something."
Azrael set his brush aside, gesturing to the cushion across from him. "Sit. What is it?"
Rein knelt, folding his legs. He took a breath. "How are you still so much stronger than us? We're all Quad Vein now, some of us, but you… You wipe the floor with everyone. Even Zero felt it today."
Azrael chuckled—low, fond, the sound rare enough to make Rein relax a fraction.
"Experience, my child," Azrael said gently. "And perfection of every single step along the way. My own master was only Dual Vein when he trained me. Yet even after I reached Quad, he still defeated me without breaking a sweat."
Rein's eyes widened. "Seriously?"
Azrael nodded. "Rank is only a measure of potential. Mastery is what you do with it. I learned to read every movement, every breath, every flicker of intent. I perfected timing, precision, and, most importantly, I strike where it hurts the most. Not always the strongest blow. The right one."
Rein stared at the tatami, processing. "So… it's not just power. It's control. Knowing exactly when and where."
"Exactly." Azrael's voice was calm, almost paternal. "Power without precision is just noise. Precision without power is useless. You have both, Rein. You're already on the path. You simply need time and patience."
Rein exhaled slowly. "Thank you, Master. That… helps."
Azrael smiled faintly. "You're welcome. Now go to sleep. Tomorrow's training waits for no one."
Rein stood, bowing slightly. "Yes, Master. Good night."
"Good night, my child."
Rein slid the door shut behind him, the hallway quiet except for the soft creak of wood underfoot. He walked past his own room without stopping, drawn instead toward the far end of the corridor, Stella's room.
He knocked gently.
"Come in," her voice answered, soft and sleepy.
Rein stepped inside. Stella sat on her futon, silver hair loose and spilling over her shoulders, electric-blue eyes catching the lantern light. She looked up and smiled—small, warm, tired.
"Hey," Rein said, closing the door behind him.
"Hi, Pure Bear," she teased gently.
Rein chuckled, the nickname easing the knot in his chest. He crossed the room and sat beside her. The futon dipped slightly under his weight.
"Couldn't sleep either?" she asked, shifting closer.
"Not really." He rubbed his face. "Talked to Master. Asked him how he's still so far ahead of us."
Stella tilted her head. "And?"
"Experience. Precision. Hitting the right spots." Rein shrugged. "It's not just Vein rank. It's… everything else."
She nodded slowly. "Makes sense. He's been doing this longer than any of us has been alive."
They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the waterfall's hum filtering through the walls.
Rein glanced at her. "Can I… sleep here tonight?"
Stella's smile widened. She lifted the blanket without hesitation. "Absolutely."
Rein slid in beside her, the futon warm from her presence. She curled against his side, head resting on his chest, silver hair fanning across his yukata.
"Better?" she whispered.
"Much," he murmured, arm wrapping around her shoulders.
She pressed a soft kiss to his collarbone. "Good. Now sleep, Rein. We've got training in the morning."
He exhaled, tension finally draining from his body. "Yeah. Together."
The lantern flickered once, then dimmed.
Outside, the stars watched over the estate.
Inside, for the first time in days, Rein felt steady.
The morning light slipped through the shoji screens, soft and golden, painting gentle stripes across the futon where Rein and Stella lay tangled together. The waterfall's distant roar was the only sound for a long moment, until Stella stirred first, silver hair spilling across Rein's chest.
"Morning," she murmured, voice still thick with sleep, electric-blue eyes blinking open.
"Morning," Rein replied, smiling faintly as he brushed a strand from her face. He glanced toward the window. "No training?"
Stella propped herself up on one elbow, listening. "I don't hear Azrael yelling at anyone yet. Wanna check?"
"Sure." Rein sat up, stretching with a quiet groan. "My back's still mad at yesterday."
They slipped into light yukatas, padding barefoot down the hallway. The estate felt unusually calm—no clashing energies, no shouts of effort. As they reached the main corridor, Azrael and Principal Wilson were already up, seated at the low table with tea steaming between them. Both looked rested, though Azrael's pale gray eyes carried that ever-present sharpness.
"Morning, Master. Principal Wilson," Rein and Stella said together, bowing slightly.
Wilson smiled warmly. "Morning, you two."
Azrael gave a small nod, acknowledging them.
Rein hesitated. "Umm… no training today?"
Azrael set his cup down. "Not quite. We'll be having a sparring session later—with Kaito. Or Zero, as he prefers."
Stella's eyebrows lifted. "Oh. Okay."
Rein exchanged a glance with her. "That's… interesting."
Wilson chuckled softly. "Go relax. It's still early. You both woke up on time even without knowing there'd be no dawn run—I'm proud."
Azrael's gaze drifted toward the hallway where the others' rooms lay silent. "Although the rest of them… I'll have a word later."
Rein nodded, a small grin tugging at his lips. "If you'll excuse us."
"Take your rest," Wilson said gently.
They bowed again and turned back toward Stella's room, footsteps quiet on the wooden floor.
Once inside, Stella slid the door shut and leaned against it. "I wonder how training with Zero's gonna go."
"Yeah, me too," Rein said, sitting on the edge of the futon. "He's got no energy at all, but… he feels like he could break us in half without trying."
Stella crossed the room and dropped down beside him, pulling a small deck of cards from a nearby drawer. "In the meantime… wanna play poker?"
Rein laughed softly. "Sure. Why not?"
They spread the cards between them on the futon. Stella dealt with practiced ease, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
The first few hands were close—Rein's luck holding steady, Stella's bluffing sharp. But as the game went on, she started winning more and more.
By the tenth hand, the score was 9-1 in her favor.
Rein stared at the cards, then at her. "Okay, how are you this good?"
Stella leaned forward, smirking. "Years of beating Zen. He's terrible at bluffing."
Rein shook his head, laughing. "Rematch later?"
"Always," she said, gathering the cards.
She set them aside and shifted closer, resting her head on his shoulder. "Feels… nice. Just this. No training, no Chaos, no new scary guy. Just us."
Rein wrapped an arm around her. "Yeah. Let's enjoy it while it lasts."
Outside, the sun climbed higher.
Inside, for a little while longer, the world was quiet.
The morning sun had climbed higher, spilling warm light across the estate's dining hall. The long, low table was set simply but generously: stacks of fluffy pancakes drizzled with honey, fresh berries, whipped cream, and a pot of steaming tea. A rare treat after weeks of disciplined miso soup, grilled fish, and rice.
Everyone was finally awake, trickling in with sleepy yawns and rumpled yukatas. Zen arrived first, hair a mess, eyes lighting up the second he saw the food.
"FINALLY!" he exclaimed, dropping onto a cushion. "Something that isn't miso soup, fish, and rice! I was about to start eating the wallpaper."
Esil slid in beside him, smirking. "You'd eat anything if it sat still long enough."
Maki sat across from them, already reaching for the syrup. "Don't tempt him."
Kaiser entered quietly, headphones around his neck, giving a small nod to the group. Valkyrie followed, silver-pink hair tied back, expression calm as always. Yuna slipped in last, smiling shyly as she signed a cheerful "Good morning" to everyone.
Rein and Stella arrived together, still a little sleepy-eyed from their early-morning poker rematch. Stella's silver hair was loose, catching the light; Rein's was tousled, violet eyes bright.
Azrael stood at the head of the table, arms crossed, watching them settle. Wilson sat beside him, sipping tea with a faint, knowing smile.
"Eat up," Azrael said, voice even. "After breakfast, we're having a sparring session with Kaito or Zero. Kaiser, Maki, Esil, Zen, Valkyrie… you five will go first."
Zen paused mid-bite, syrup dripping from his fork. "Wait, all of us? Against him?"
Azrael's pale gray eyes didn't waver. "Yes. And after that… we're having a word."
He let the sentence hang.
Stella looked away quickly, cheeks tinting pink. Rein chuckled under his breath, nudging her gently under the table.
Esil raised an eyebrow, glancing between them. "What was that look for?"
"Nothing," Stella said too fast, focusing very hard on her pancakes.
Maki smirked. "Sure."
Kaiser glanced at Rein and Stella, then back at Azrael. "The word… is about us waking up late?"
Azrael's lips twitched, just barely. "Among other things."
Zen groaned dramatically. "We're doomed."
Wilson chuckled softly. "Eat first. Worry later."
The group dug in, the clink of plates and quiet laughter filling the hall. Pancakes disappeared fast, Zen stacking three high, Esil stealing berries from Maki's plate, Yuna signing happily about how fluffy they were.
But under the surface, anticipation simmered.
Zero's spar was coming.
And Azrael's "word" afterward promised no one would escape unscathed.
Breakfast tasted sweet.
The rest of the day? Not so much.
The dining hall was filled with the warm smell of pancakes and honey, plates clinking as everyone dug in. Zen was already on his third stack, cheeks puffed out like a chipmunk.
"Where's Zero?" he asked through a mouthful, looking around.
Azrael set his tea down with deliberate calm. "He said pancakes are just pieces of a unicorn's shit."
The table went quiet for half a second.
Zen choked on his bite. Esil snorted so hard she almost spilled her syrup.
"In simpler words," Azrael continued, completely deadpan, "he doesn't like them. So he's eating miso soup, fish, and rice in his room. Proper training fuel."
Esil wiped her mouth, grinning. "Oh… cold. But we've been eating that same stuff for weeks. We deserve this."
Azrael's pale gray eyes slid toward the five of them—Kaiser, Maki, Esil, Zen, and Valkyrie—his voice sharpening just enough to cut. "I wouldn't say deserved. After what you five pulled this morning."
Wilson hid a chuckle behind his cup.
Esil's grin faltered. "We… overslept a little."
"A little?" Azrael raised an eyebrow. "I had to send Rein and Stella to drag you all out of bed."
Zen swallowed hard. "In my defense, the futon was really comfortable."
Maki muttered, "We're dead."
Kaiser just sighed and kept eating, already accepting his fate.
Yuna, sitting close to Rein, tugged gently at his yukata sleeve. Her warm brown eyes were wide and worried as she signed quickly: Is Master mad?
Rein signed back with a soft smile: Don't worry about it. He's just being Master.
Yuna hesitated, then signed again: Okay…
She relaxed a little, picking up her fork and taking a small, careful bite of pancake.
Stella leaned toward Rein, voice low. "He's definitely mad at them."
Rein nodded, whispering back. "Yeah. But the pancakes were still worth it."
Azrael glanced their way, catching the exchange, but said nothing, only the faintest twitch at the corner of his mouth.
The five "late risers" exchanged nervous looks while the rest of the table pretended not to notice.
Breakfast continued, sweet and sticky.
But the sparring session with Zero loomed closer.
And Azrael's "word" afterward felt even heavier now.
The breakfast plates had been cleared, the sweet taste of pancakes lingering as everyone dispersed to change. Azrael's voice carried down the hallway, calm but firm: "Sports wear. We're not wasting the morning."
Minutes later, the group reconvened in the backyard. The sun hung higher now, warm light glinting off the waterfall mist. Kaiser, Maki, Esil, Zen, Valkyrie, Rein, and Stella emerged in their usual black training gear—fitted shirts, shorts, or pants, ready for whatever came next.
Then Kaito stepped out of his room.
He wore a fitted black short-sleeve compression shirt that clung to his torso like a second skin, every ridge of his ripped abs, broad shoulders, and corded arms on full display. The plain black fabric had no logos, no distractions—just raw muscle. Below, loose, wide-legged traditional gray hakama-style pants billowed slightly as he moved, tied at the waist with a dark blue-black obi that hung in a simple knot at the front. On his feet: black tabi socks and simple black zori sandals.
He walked with that same silent, predatory grace, scars catching the light along his arms and neck.
"Morning, Principal Wilson. Master Voss," Kaito said, voice low and even.
Wilson smiled, setting his tea aside. "Morning, Zero. Looks like you're ready to break the kids apart."
Kaito's deep green eyes flicked toward the group. "Don't worry. I'll go easy."
He paused, then looked directly at Azrael. "But I'd love to spar with you sometime, Master Voss."
Azrael met his gaze steadily. "We'll see."
The rest of the group stared in stunned silence as Kaito joined them on the grass.
Zen broke first, eyes wide. "Um… Master?"
Azrael raised an eyebrow.
Zen pointed at Kaito like he was a walking natural disaster. "HE LOOKS LIKE HE'LL KILL US."
Kaito tilted his head slightly. "I'm going easy. For now."
Azrael exhaled slowly. "This… or the morning run?"
Zen swallowed. "Uhh… this."
"Exactly," Azrael said, voice dry.
He stepped forward, arms crossed, silver-streaked hair catching the breeze.
Azrael's inner voice flickered: He's stronger than he looks. I don't want them snapped like twigs.
"You seven," Azrael said aloud, "I'll pair you up."
Esil blinked. "Uh… I thought you said just the five of us were going first?"
"I changed my mind," Azrael replied, tone final.
No one argued.
Azrael's pale gray eyes scanned the group. "Rein and Zen. You're up first."
Zen grinned despite the nerves, slapping Rein on the back. "Oh, sweet! Time to kick his ass. Ready, bud?"
"Hell yeah," Rein said, violet eyes sharpening as he stepped forward.
Azrael raised a hand. "Also, no Astral—"
Kaito cut in smoothly. "No need, Master Voss. Let them use it."
Azrael studied him for a long second, then nodded once. "Hmm. As you wish, Zero."
Rein and Zen moved to the center of the yard, the grass soft underfoot. The rest of the group formed a loose circle, Stella's hand finding Rein's briefly before stepping back, Kaiser's arms crossed, Esil bouncing lightly on her toes, Maki watching with narrowed eyes, Valkyrie silent and observant, Yuna fidgeting nervously beside her.
Kaito stood opposite them, relaxed, hands loose at his sides. No glow. No energy. Just that deep green stare and the quiet certainty of someone who'd survived worse than this.
Zen cracked his knuckles. "Alright, Zero. Let's see what a Null Vein can do."
Kaito's lips twitched, just the barest hint of a smirk.
"Try not to break."
The air tightened.
The spar was about to begin.
The backyard was silent except for the waterfall's steady roar and the crunch of grass underfoot. Azrael's voice cut through the tension like a blade.
"Fight."
Kaito stood motionless in the center, gray hakama swaying faintly in the breeze, black compression shirt stretched tight over his scarred, muscular frame. Rein and Zen charged at once, Zen leaping high with a wild grin, Blue-Silver Astral energy coalescing into a massive, glowing axe above his head. Rein flanked low, violet eyes sharp, purple flickers of Abyssal Amethyst already dancing along his fists.
Azrael's calm instruction followed: "Rein, try not to use Chaotic energy."
"Yes, Master," Rein called back, voice steady.
Kaito didn't move. He watched them come, two blurs of speed and power.
Zen brought the axe down in a vicious overhead swing. Kaito raised one hand—casual, almost bored—and caught the glowing blade mid-descent. The impact rang out like metal on stone. Blood welled instantly from Kaito's palm, dripping dark onto the grass, but he didn't flinch.
Rein slid in fast, launching a powerful kick toward Kaito's right ribs. Kaito's other hand snapped up, catching Rein's ankle mid-air with bone-jarring force. The momentum stopped dead.
"That's all?" Kaito said, voice low, almost curious.
He released them both. Rein and Zen staggered back, breathing hard.
Zen stared at his axe, now flickering weakly in his grip. "Dude… what the hell?"
Kaito glanced down at the cut across his palm, flexing his fingers once. Blood smeared, but the wound was already closing—slow, but visible.
"My turn," he said.
One blink.
That was all it took.
Kaito vanished from where he stood and reappeared between them, a faint, menacing smile curling his lips. The air itself seemed to compress around him.
Everyone watching froze.
Stella's hand flew to her mouth. Esil's illusions flickered instinctively. Maki's fists clenched. Kaiser's orange eyes narrowed. Yuna signed frantically: Too fast!
Kaito's right hand lashed upward toward Rein's face. Rein crossed his arms just in time, blocking the strike, but the force sent a shockwave of raw wind ripping outward, flattening grass in a circle and whipping hair across faces.
Rein's inner voice: Holy crap… what the hell? He's Null, but still this strong?
Zen darted in to assist, golden energy flaring as he tried to force Kaito back. Rein's forearm was already bruised, dark purple blooming under the skin.
"Hey, Zen, high alert," Rein said through gritted teeth.
"Yeah, no kidding," Zen shot back.
The fight continued.
Zen summoned another Astral axe, this one larger, sharper, and hurled it sideways at Kaito's ribs. Kaito caught it again, blood welling fresh in his palm. This time, he twisted, using the axe's momentum to yank Zen forward like a ragdoll—then hurled him through the air toward the treeline.
Zen crashed into the pines with a sickening thud, branches snapping.
"Zen out," Azrael said calmly.
Yuna rushed over instantly, green healing light blooming from her hands as she knelt beside him.
"Thanks, Yuna," Zen groaned, wincing.
Azrael's voice carried across the yard. "Rein. You're the only one left."
Rein exhaled, steadying himself. Purple Abyssal Amethyst surged around his hands, compressing into sleek, medieval-style gauntlets, sharp, glowing, deadly.
He charged.
Kaito met him head-on, throwing a single, clean punch.
A shockwave exploded outward again, grass torn up, dust swirling.
Rein blocked with crossed gauntlets, but the force drove him back several feet, boots skidding furrows in the dirt.
They clashed again—fists meeting fists in a brutal rhythm. Each impact sent ripples through the air. Rein's breathing grew ragged, sweat dripping down his face. Kaito? Not a single bead of sweat. His deep green eyes stayed calm, focused, unreadable.
One final blink.
Kaito closed the distance in an instant. His fist slammed into Rein's chest—clean, precise, unstoppable.
Rein took it full force. Air exploded from his lungs. He staggered back, knees buckling, then dropped to one knee, hand clutching his sternum.
The yard went dead silent.
Kaito lowered his fist slowly.
"Nice work, Rein," he said quietly.
The fight was over.
Kaito had won without breaking a sweat.
Azrael stepped forward, voice calm. "That's enough."
The group stared, some in awe, some in shock, all in stunned respect.
Kaito flexed his bloodied hand once, then turned to Azrael.
"Still want that spar, Master Voss?"
Azrael's lips curved, just slightly.
"We'll see."
The backyard fell into a tense hush as Azrael's voice rang out again.
"Next up: Kaiser."
Zen leaned forward on his cushion, golden eyes gleaming with excitement. "Alright, I've been waiting for this!"
Kaiser shot him a sideways glance as he stood. "You're more excited than me."
"Uh, of course," Zen said, grinning widely. "I wanna see which lean muscle-head wins."
Kaiser rolled his shoulders, smirking. "You're lean too now."
"Hehe—two different things," Zen shot back, flexing dramatically. "I'm the speedy lean. You're the tank lean."
Kaiser shook his head with a quiet laugh and walked to the center of the yard. He dropped into a low, grounded stance—knees bent, fists raised, orange eyes locked on Kaito with focused intensity. The black compression shirt hugged his carved physique, every muscle defined from weeks of brutal training.
Kaito stood opposite, relaxed, hands loose at his sides. Gray hakama pants shifted slightly in the breeze, black shirt clinging to his dense, scarred frame. Deep green eyes met Kaiser's—calm, unreadable.
"Ready?" Kaiser asked.
"Always," Kaito replied, voice low and even.
Azrael exhaled once. "Fight."
Kaiser exploded forward—fast, powerful, a blur of controlled aggression. He led with a straight jab, testing Kaito's guard. Kaito didn't block; he slipped it by a hair, the fist grazing his cheek. Before Kaiser could follow up, Kaito countered with a short, vicious hook to Kaiser's ribs.
The impact echoed—Kaiser grunted, staggering half a step. The force was raw, physical, no energy behind it, just pure momentum and precision.
Kaiser recovered instantly, pivoting into a spinning backfist. Kaito ducked under it, rising with an uppercut that Kaiser barely parried. The collision sent a shockwave of wind rippling outward, grass bending flat.
The group watched, frozen.
Esil whispered, "He's not even trying yet…"
Kaiser pressed the attack—rapid punches, each one aimed at vital points: solar plexus, jaw, throat. Kaito weaved through them like water, letting most pass by inches, countering with sharp elbows and palm strikes. Every hit Kaiser landed was solid—but Kaito absorbed them, red marks blooming on his skin without slowing him down.
Kaiser lunged with a powerful straight kick to Kaito's midsection. Kaito caught the shin with both hands, twisted, and hurled Kaiser sideways. Kaiser flipped mid-air, landing in a crouch, boots skidding furrows in the dirt.
He exhaled hard, chest heaving. "You're insane…"
Kaito flexed his fingers. "You're strong. Keep coming."
Kaiser grinned—fierce, determined—and charged again.
This time, he feinted high, then dropped low for a sweeping leg kick. Kaito jumped over it, landing with a downward elbow that Kaiser rolled away from. The elbow cratered the ground, dirt exploding outward.
Kaiser sprang up, grabbing Kaito's wrist mid-recovery and yanking him into a knee strike. Kaito twisted free at the last second, the knee glancing off his ribs instead of connecting fully. He retaliated with a brutal palm thrust to Kaiser's sternum.
The impact lifted Kaiser off his feet for a split second—air forced from his lungs in a sharp gasp. He landed hard, rolling once before pushing back to his feet.
The group was dead silent now.
Stella's hand gripped Rein's arm. "He's… not even breathing hard."
Maki's blue eyes were wide. "That's impossible…"
Kaito cracked his neck once. "Again."
Kaiser wiped blood from his lip, orange eyes blazing. He roared forward—full power now—chain of punches, kicks, elbows. Kaito met him blow for blow, blocking with forearms, countering with open-hand strikes that left red welts across Kaiser's chest and arms.
Each exchange grew faster, harder. Kaiser's breaths came in sharp bursts; Kaito's remained even.
Finally, Kaiser feinted left, then drove a devastating right hook toward Kaito's jaw.
Kaito caught the fist in his palm—stopped it cold.
The shockwave from the impact flattened the grass in a perfect circle around them.
Kaiser's eyes widened.
Kaito twisted Kaiser's arm, forced him down to one knee, then drove a knee into his solar plexus.
Kaiser coughed, doubling over.
Kaito released him immediately, stepping back.
Kaiser dropped to both knees, gasping, one hand on the ground for support.
The yard was silent except for Kaiser's ragged breathing.
Azrael's voice cut through. "That's enough."
Kaito lowered his hands, looking down at Kaiser. "You're strong. Good fight."
Kaiser lifted his head, coughing once more, then managed a weak grin. "Yeah… you too."
He pushed himself up slowly, wincing. Yuna was already there, green healing light blooming around her hands as she knelt beside him.
Kaito turned to Azrael. "Still want that spar?"
Azrael's lips curved—just barely. "Soon."
The group stared at Kaito—awed, a little afraid, completely impressed.
Zero had just dismantled one of their strongest without breaking a sweat.
And training had only just begun.
The tension in the backyard thickened as Azrael turned to Principal Wilson, voice low but carrying across the grass.
"Wilson, no shame in going one round, right?"
Wilson chuckled, setting his tea aside with a small, knowing smile. "Not at all. Go ahead, please. I'd like to see you fight, Master."
Azrael gave a single nod. "Hm. Okay."
Zen's eyes went wide. "OHLY CRAP."
Maki stepped forward, voice hesitant. "Um… Master? What about us?"
Azrael glanced back at the group, Maki, Esil, Valkyrie, Stella, and Yuna, all staring in stunned silence.
"I don't want any of you fighting him," he said simply. "Not yet."
No one argued. The weight of those words settled over them like a shadow.
Azrael walked to the center of the yard. His movements were calm, unhurried—gray yukata shifting slightly, silver-streaked hair catching the sunlight. No aggression, no posturing. Just quiet, absolute certainty.
Wilson rose smoothly, stepping forward to officiate. He positioned himself between them, hands clasped behind his back.
"Ready?" Wilson asked Kaito.
Kaito rolled his shoulders once, deep green eyes locked on Azrael. He gave a short nod.
"Ready?" Wilson asked Azrael.
Azrael raised one hand—open palm, beckoning. "Try me."
Wilson exhaled once. "Fight."
The yard held its breath.
Kaito moved first—fast, explosive, closing the distance in a heartbeat. He led with a straight palm strike aimed at Azrael's chest. Azrael sidestepped without seeming to move much at all, his own hand snapping up to redirect Kaito's wrist. The momentum carried Kaito forward; Azrael pivoted and drove an elbow into Kaito's ribs.
The impact cracked like thunder. Kaito grunted, staggering half a step—but recovered instantly, spinning into a low sweep. Azrael leaped over it, landing with a downward palm strike that Kaito blocked with crossed forearms. The shockwave flattened grass in a wide circle, wind whipping hair across faces.
The fight escalated in seconds.
Kaito pressed—rapid punches, elbows, knees—each strike precise, brutal, aimed to end it quickly. Azrael flowed around them like water, redirecting force, countering with open-hand strikes that landed with surgical accuracy. Every time Kaito committed to a powerful blow, Azrael turned it against him—twisting arms, redirecting momentum, striking pressure points that made Kaito's movements stutter.
They took to the air.
Kaito leaped high, chaining a spinning kick into a diving elbow. Azrael met him mid-air—silver Astral energy flaring briefly around his fist. The collision sent a blast of wind ripping outward, trees bending, dust exploding. They landed in crouches, then exploded back into motion.
The group watched, jaws slack.
Zen whispered, "Holy… they're actually flying."
Esil's pink eyes were huge. "That's not even full power…"
Stella gripped Rein's arm. "Azrael's not even breathing hard."
The fight dragged on—minutes that felt like hours. Kaito pushed harder, faster, drawing on every ounce of his Null Vein-enhanced physicality. He landed solid hits—cracking Azrael's guard, drawing a thin line of blood from his lip. Azrael countered with devastating precision—strikes that targeted joints, nerves, and balance. Kaito's hakama tore at the seams; Azrael's yukata ripped across the shoulder.
Finally, Kaito overcommitted—a powerful straight punch aimed at Azrael's sternum.
Azrael caught the fist in one hand.
The shockwave exploded outward again, grass torn up in a perfect ring.
Azrael twisted Kaito's arm, forced him down, then drove a knee into his solar plexus. Kaito gasped, knees buckling. Azrael released him, stepping back.
Kaito dropped to one knee, breathing ragged for the first time, hand pressed to his chest.
Azrael stood calm, a single drop of blood at the corner of his mouth. He wiped it away with the back of his hand.
"Good fight, Kaito."
Kaito looked up, deep green eyes meeting Azrael's pale gray ones. A faint, respectful smile tugged at his lips.
"Good fight… Master Voss."
He collapsed backward onto the grass, chest heaving.
The backyard went dead silent.
Every jaw was on the floor.
Zen's voice cracked. "He… he beat him. Like it was nothing."
Esil whispered, "That was insane…"
Maki stared, blue eyes wide. "Master Voss didn't even break a sweat."
Kaiser exhaled slowly. "He's on another level."
Yuna signed frantically: Master strong! Very strong!
Wilson chuckled again, soft and proud. "That's why he's the master."
Azrael offered Kaito a hand. Kaito took it, pulling himself up with a wince.
"Still think you want more?" Azrael asked.
Kaito rolled his shoulder, testing it. "Soon."
Azrael nodded once.
The group stared at them both—awed, a little terrified, completely humbled.
Training had just reached a new tier.
And Zero had just found someone who could actually push him.