Back in Japan the assassin walked in the hall as the unknown individual hidden in the darkness spoke out in anger, "You dare return after your failure!? He spoke in a rage, "I told you not to fail!" the flames flickered when he moved closer slowly removing his mask and kneeled in respect, "father" he spoke, "it was merely a show of our strength, he doesn't know of his roots, much less be a threat to our cause."
The figure walked towards his son, immediately slapping him in a rage that pushed him to the side of the wall. Groaning in pain, he spit the excess blood and bowed down, his father warning him to accomplish his mission and never fail again. The flames flickered continuously with another individual entering the hall as its eyes glowed in violet.
Ethan was left alone much to Katelyn's protest. He laid on his bed, recalling the fight, his words echo continuously and each event flashing before his eyes, "You are not what I expected—you lack the knowledge of our ways." The thought made him feel confused until his door slowly opened. Jimmy and Elizabeth coming in both looking glad to find him okay, yet jimmy only made an annoying remark of how he lost a fight much to Ethan's annoyance and they all laughed in joy, his mother smiled from the kitchen in relief and assurance.
After some time, he began to dream of the same people both wearing white kimonos as they began to walk towards him repeating in a soft voice as it echoed around him, "fulfil your destiny…become the one."
"Remember who you are—or you will die!" bleeding and falling down, his blood reflected a dark katana yet it was still unclear. Suddenly waking up gasping and breathing heavily with chills in his spine.
Taking a makeshift nunchaku, he began to spin it while gradually increasing his pace and mixed it up with kicks and various techniques slowly breathing, "believe it or not bro, Sarah was the one who found you passed out," James' words echoed in his head.
After a morning shower he got dressed and quickly took his breakfast on the go as the bus came and both teens got on as most of the students only stared at him recalling what happened that day in the gymnasium.
After an awkward bus ride, they arrived at school when Jimmy began to tip toe behind Ethan, "don't even think about it jimmy," he spoke, immediately startled by Ethan's awareness, "dude... do you have eyes behind your head?" he remarked, "I'm impressed."
They both only joked around as they walked to class unknowingly passing Sarah and her friends who just smiled in delight. The school day went on as students studied and hung out with each other, but Ethan still couldn't figure out what the memories or even the person he saw was as it all rushed to him.
Still recalling about the memories, he was suddenly startled by a touch on his shoulder, a feminine voice called his name, but instead of delight, he just gasped for a while until he noticed Sarah. who he then asked why she was calling him with a taunting expression as she blinked in confusion while the fragrance of her perfume touched his nose.
"You seem…out of it, you alright?" asked Sarah with a gentle, yet alluring tone, "are you kidding? I'm just— feeling the silence that's all," Ethan replied in a low tone; looking out the window as a gentle breeze blew on his face.
The school day later came to a close, Ethan packed his belongings and headed towards the school gate. Just before he exited the building, he felt a gentle tap on his shoulder to which he instinctively grabbed the individual's hand Turning around, he saw Sarah standing there, a faint smile on her face.
Walking out the gym class his steps echoed, yet he stopped when he suddenly heard a heartbeat that's not of his own as if it's about to strike when some of the other boys came in and his concentration was snapped from all the noise.
The feeling Ethan felt made him uneasy and kept on thinking that the assassin who tried to kill him the first time maybe here to take care of him permanently, but his thoughts were cut as Sarah yet again came behind him and wrapped her hands in his eyes.
"Guess who?" she lightly giggled; Ethan slowly grinning, "ah…could it be the girl who literally can't get enough of me?" a bit annoyed, she took her hands off his eyes looking at him with a pouty look as she was expecting more flattery.
Ethan let out a small chuckle as he faced her, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "Oh Sarah, you always finding ways to surprise me," he said, his voice filled with playful affection.
Sarah rolled her eyes, but a hint of amusement danced in her gaze. "Well, someone's got to keep you on your toes," she retorted, feigning annoyance.
"You were lost in your own little world there. What's got you so preoccupied?" Ethan's playful demeanour shifted slightly, and he glanced around the room, making sure no one was eavesdropping.
Yet Ethan brushed it off as both headed for the exit, but he continued feeling uneasy about earlier and decided to walk back.
"I know you're there— now show yourself. Right now!" A male figure appeared from his left wearing a stealth suit of the same design and just froze.
"Long time no see boy, you've changed quite a bit," the individual mocked while Ethan formed a scowl, "who are you? and what do you want from me?" giggling softly, "your life basically, since I failed to take you out."
Ethan was prepared to fight him, but the assassin immediately disappeared as Sarah came in calling him out.
His heart raced watching the figure in the stealth suit vanish before his eyes. The encounter left him feeling vulnerable and exposed, knowing that someone was targeting him. He turned towards Sarah, trying his best to maintain composure and not reveal his inner turmoil.
"Are you sure everything's okay, Ethan? She asked calmly, "I saw you walking back in here alone. Did something happen?"
"Hey…Sarah," Ethan said, attempting to sound calm, "Just thought I… dropped something back here. Must have been mistaken." He forced a smile, hoping to reassure her. But deep down, he knew it was far from alright.
She didn't press the matter further, respecting his desire for privacy. Feeling uneasy, knowing that assassins have infiltrated his school, it was a revelation to him that he would need to figure out why they are coming after him. To make matters worse, his family would be the next likely targets. He stood there, watching Sarah and her friends driving away, a mix of emotions swirling within him.
Walking along the walkway, the street lights began to light up as he recalled the words of the assassin and tried to think how he could take advantage of his muscle reflex to try and figure out how they tend to react each time.
Lost in his thoughts, he finally arrived home as he was welcomed with leg hugs from the young twins and a hug from Katelin as he then told them that he needed to train for a little while as he climbed up the stairs. Changing into his usual training gear, he walked down the stairs as he walked towards the door when a curious Katelin followed him from behind as he began running to his rundown gym with Katelin trying to keep up with him.
Arriving at his place of seclusion he closed his eyes and took a deep breath as he took in all his surroundings as if a bat in a cave with sonar as all the images appeared in his mind, but not used to it taking it like another reflex, he suddenly opened his eyes but this time he wasn't terrified as he began to get used to it.
Ethan remembering the layout he felt a familiar presence and called out, "Katelin, I know you are there. So come out."
She entered the room, "what are you doing here?" he asked, "I… just wanted to see you train that's all," she replied with him looking rather amused "stay and observe, okay?" she smiled in delight.
Ethan continued his training routine, going through a series of intense exercises and techniques. With each move, his body displayed a fluidity and precision that showcased his skill and dedication. Katelin watched with a mix of awe and admiration, captivated by his graceful movements.
As he went through his training, he occasionally glanced over at Katelin, who was observing him intently. He could see the genuine interest and curiosity in her eyes. It was evident that she held a deep respect for his abilities and wanted to understand more about his world.
She noticed the determination on his face, the way his body flowed effortlessly from one move to another. She was captivated by his skill and agility. It was clear to her that he had spent countless hours perfecting his craft.
After a particularly intense sequence of moves, Ethan paused for a moment to catch his breath when Katelin approached him, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "That was amazing, Ethan," she said, a hint of awe in her voice, "I've never seen anyone move like that before."
Ethan smiled warmly at her, "Thanks sis. It appears Martial arts has always been a big part of my life, and it's something I'm deeply passionate about."
The training session progressed, Ethan occasionally glanced over at Katelin, who was observing him with a mixture of awe and excitement. He could sense her genuine interest in his training and it brought a smile to his face.
Katelin listened intently, her eyes never leaving Ethan's face. She could sense the passion and dedication he had for his craft, and it resonated with her.
The training session finally came to an end, Ethan walked over to Katelin while wiping the sweat off his forehead. "Did you enjoy watching?" he asked, a hint of playfulness in his voice.
Katelin nodded eagerly. "Yes, it was amazing!" she shouted joyfully, "You're so skilled Ethan. I'm glad I had the chance to see you in action."
Ethan smiled warmly at her. "I'm glad you enjoyed it." Wiping his sweat from his face, "maybe one day, if you're interested, I could teach you a few moves."
Katelin's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? That would be incredible! I would love to learn from you."
Ethan chuckled and ruffled her hair gently, "We'll see. For now, let's head back home. It's getting late."
Ethan gently carried Katelin on his back and headed back to their home, making sure not to disturb her peaceful sleep. He laid her down on her bed and covered her with a blanket, taking a moment to watch over his sister with a soft smile. It had been a long and tiring day, but he felt content knowing she was safe.
Meanwhile, in a secluded monastery in the mountains, a group of warriors dressed in black robes underwent rigorous training. The atmosphere was intense; honing their combat skills under the watchful eye of an old man, who appeared to be their leader or instructor. They moved in sync, their movements swift and precise while the old man watched over them, observing their progress.
Suddenly, a guard rushed towards the old man, panting heavily. He reported that there was a possibility that the heir to their lineage might still be alive and residing in Emerald city. Furthermore, assassins were actively pursuing him. The news struck the old man with worry, as the safety of the heir was of utmost importance.
In response to the guard's report, the elder stamped his staff onto the wooden floor, signalling his determination, knowing the situation required careful consideration and strategic action. He called forth a kunoichi, a female ninja to his side, he conveyed his instructions with a tone of urgency.
"Proceed with caution," he instructed the kunoichi, his voice filled with concern, "maintain normalcy until the time is right. We cannot let our enemies discover our true intentions." She nodded respectfully, understanding the gravity of the situation, and disappeared into the shadows.
The following morning, Ethan decided to leave much earlier as he took in his surroundings, but suddenly cut short when Sarah came behind him thinking he did not notice her.
"Hey Sarah," he spoke, she felt stunned with a surprised look, "Sometimes— I think you have eyes in the back of your head."
Ethan just smiled as they both walked to school, yet she noticed his distracted demeanour. "Is something bothering you, Ethan? You seem a bit— off today."
He was about to reply when a sudden commotion diverted their attention. A flashy sports car pulled up alongside them, playing music at a high volume. Ethan turned his gaze towards the car, his face displaying a hint of annoyance.
"Hey, Sarah," he spoke, "care for a ride to school in style?!" he called out, catching Sarah's attention, and simply ignored the offer, opting to continue walking with Ethan. Appearing displeased he watched them walking away, his annoyed expression evident.
"Who was he?" Ethan asked with curiosity "Kevin Arthur," she replied as she held her left hand in discomfort, "he's the schools leading jock and a total…bother."
Ethan was taken by Sarah's expression and he held her hand and gave her a reassuring smile, "Just be the usual, and let him know how you handle things. Okay?" she looked at Ethan taken by his words "okay, I will."
Inside the school, the bustling hallways filled with students going about their morning routines. The chatter and laughter echoed through the corridors, creating a sense of normalcy. However, Ethan couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that the assassin he encountered was somewhere nearby.
Intrigued by the poster for the school martial arts club, Ethan felt a surge of excitement. Perhaps joining the club could help him tap into his dormant abilities and regain some of his lost memories. Without hesitation, he decided to attend the club's practice session later in the day.
When the final bell rang, signalling the end of the school day, Ethan made his way to the designated meeting spot for the martial arts club.
The club's instructor, Sensei Hiroshi, noticed Ethan's interest and approached him. "Hello there?" he spoke, "are you interested in joining the martial arts club?" he continued with a warm smile.
Ethan nodded, "Yes, I am." he replied "I've been looking for a way to challenge myself and perhaps… uncover more about my own abilities."
Sensei Hiroshi seemed intrigued by Ethan's words. "That's excellent to hear. Martial arts can be a path of self-discovery and growth. We focus on various disciplines here, including karate, judo, and aikido. You're welcome to try out any of them, and see what resonates with you." After their conversation, sensei Hiroshi left the hallway leaving young Ethan with enough interest in their talk.
He opened the door, finding only a single member training in aikido, yet it would seem the she was facing trouble with her form. since he didn't even know the form of martial arts he was using, he just kept his silence until the girl realised it.
"Hey?!" she called him while tying her belt, "welcome, my name is Elizabeth Michael, it's nice to meet you." She extended her right hand to him, replying the gesture, "Nice to meet you, I'm Ethan Harper it's a pleasure—" but he was suddenly met with a grab that kept him in a hold to the ground.
Ethan struggled a bit before he got out of it and double flipped to a safe distance. Taking his stance, he complemented Elizabeth for her technique as she was also impressed of how he managed to break free. Both combatants lunged at each other with Ethan more careful than their earlier meet since the hold, he was in no easy time.
"You're more skilled than expected miss Michael [performing a spin kick and blocked by her left arm]" she held the impact and counter attacked with a high uppercut "you're not bad yourself mister Harper [they both exchange punches each being reflected on opposite sides in a quick pace]"
Their punches immediately came into contact pushing each other back when Mr. Hiroshi arrived finding both combatants in their opposing sides holding their stances in delight
Both breathing in exhaustion, "last attack wins?" Elizabeth spoke in delight, "last attack wins," Ethan replied while taking an unfamiliar stance taking her by surprise and running towards him with a flying kick.
Ethan slowly breathed; he's eyes took a silver glow like in his fight with James Dark, dodging Elizabeth's kick immediately spinning towards her and grabbing her in the same hold from her earlier attack, yet Elizabeth saw the silver glow in his eyes, "I surrender, [the silver glow fades away from his eyes; slowly breathing out] you win mister Harper" Ethan released the hold.
"If this was an entrance exam, I swear no one could pass it easily," Ethan remarked after flipping back up, "Mr Harper, despite the rumours, you're more skilled than I expected. [she slowly walks towards him] That being the case? welcome to the club, hope we make it as great as we can." Elizabeth shook his hand in delight "just call me Ethan."
Ethan just smiled as they both formally bowed to each other in mutual respect and gave him his personal douki. After a while Ethan came out dressed for practice yet Elizabeth was struck of how muscular Ethan was compared to how he looked earlier.
Ethan took his usual stance; Elizabeth told him to do any type of form or kata he can. He took a deep breath and began his demonstration that made Elizabeth even more interested and tried to mimic him, yet without any success. Ethan felt even more in the zone as he then felt like his body became even lighter as he later on finished his final form with a short breath and his arms in a suppression form.
After sometime they finally left the school dojo. walking outside, the cool evening breeze brushed against their skin. Elizabeth broke the silence, "Ethan, could you tell me more about your martial arts style? It's so… intriguing, and I'm really curious to know its origins."
Ethan told her about his predicament, yet Elizabeth's interest grew even more, captivated by the enigma surrounding Ethan's martial arts abilities.
"That's incredible! You possess such skill and yet have no recollection of your training. It's like you were born with it."
Ethan chuckled softly; his eyes gleaming with amusement. "It does feel that way sometimes. [walking while looking at his palm] It's like my body knows what to do instinctively. I can't explain it, but it's become a part of me."
Continuing their leisurely walk, Elizabeth couldn't help but shower Ethan with praise for his exceptional forms and techniques. Her enthusiasm bubbled over like that of a dedicated fan, and Ethan couldn't help but be delighted by her genuine admiration.
Ethan glanced at her, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I wish I could provide more information Elizabeth," looking disappointed "but the truth is, my memory is hazy when it comes to the origins of my style."
She looked at him in disappointment, "I don't remember who taught it to me or where it came from. All I know [clenching his fist; his knuckles cracking] is that I've been practicing it for as long as I can remember."
Elizabeth's curiosity grew even stronger, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. "That's amazing Ethan! To have learned such a unique and ancient style without any recollection of its origins. It's like you have a hidden treasure within you."
Ethan smiled warmly, appreciating Elizabeth's enthusiasm. "Thank you, Elizabeth. I've always felt a deep connection to this martial art, as if it's a part of who I am. It's become second nature to me, and I continue to refine and explore its techniques on my own."
Elizabeth nodded, her eyes shining with eagerness. "Well Ethan, from now on, consider me your student or at least your training partner. I want to learn from you and help uncover the secrets of this mysterious style together."
Ethan smiled warmly, appreciating Elizabeth's genuine interest. "I'm glad you liked it," he replied. "To be honest, I don't know much about the style myself. It's a part of me that has always been there, but the memories of its origin remain elusive. I wish I could provide more answers".
"That sounds amazing," Ethan replied, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "I would be honoured to have you as my partner in this search for knowledge. Let's discover the roots of my style and learn from the masters who hold the key. Together, we can unlock a world of ancient wisdom."
Elizabeth smiled warmly. "The pleasure is mine, Ethan. I look forward to our future training sessions and unravelling the mysteries of your unique martial arts style."
After some time, they reached a crossroad near the park. Elizabeth, now feeling slightly bashful, looked down at the ground before mustering the courage to meet Ethan's gaze. "Um... Ethan, it's getting late. You still strolling?"
Ethan smiled warmly; his eyes filled with a gentle kindness. "I don't mind walking a bit longer, besides, It's a beautiful evening."
Elizabeth's face brightened, and a blush tinted her cheeks. "Would... would you mind if I joined you a bit?"
Back home, Katelin was sitting in the living room tutoring the twins, yet she was feeling uneasy when she didn't see Ethan after school, until his voice was heard announcing his arrival making the twins drop their focus to run towards their brother. Patting their heads Katelin only hugging him with delight asking him why he was late,
"I signed up for the martial arts club" slowly walking upstairs "I needed something to distract me for a bit." Yet Katelin, who had noticed Ethan's growing unease, also became increasingly concerned.
The days that follow both, Elizabeth and Ethan trained under sensei Hiroshi until yet she felt more exhausted than Ethan; breathing much heavier than usual looking at him taking it easy while his douki showed a small glimpse of his chest that made Elizabeth blush for a bit. Raising an eyebrow in curiosity when she only began to act all nervous but Ethan was just dumb founded.
Elizabeth excused herself to take a shower leaving Ethan cleaning up the dojo. "[Putting the mopper down] if you are looking for a fight! I suggest we finish it here please," a feminine figure with long black hair dressed in short skirt and black tights with a blue hoody emerged from the shadows, taking off her shoes, "Despite not remembering your past [taking her stance] your senses are still as sharp as ever"
Tying his belt "who are you?" he asked, "and what did you mean by 'wolf hunters'," he insisted, yet she walked towards the centre of the dojo "I'm a geisha, that's all you need to know."
"Geisha? What's—" Ethan was then cut short with a round kick to the face and was sent spinning to the right side, yet he only spit out blood and wiped his cheek and responded the same both aiming to hurt each other.
The fight commenced with Ethan still in the defensive, his opponent not giving him a chance to revolt when he lost ground by getting wiped by a low spin kick landing on his back "with such weak eyes, how are you even still alive?" spinning backup running towards her "weak eyes huh!?"
Intercepting her hits, he immediately froze his fist a few inches from her face, "you may call me weak, but I have a policy of not hitting girls."
The remark annoyed his adversary and she responded with a barrage of fists living Ethan lying on the ground. Ethan slowly standing up his eyes caught his opponent by surprise she saw the silver eyes of a wolf about to pounce. He was finally on the offensive slowly overwhelming her to the point she lost her footing finding herself at the end of Ethan's fist once again.
Elizabeth was shocked to finding them in crucial poses and asked what was happening? yet the mysterious girl stood up and walked away while Ethan's expression was filled with concern. Elizabeth ran fast to look how he was doing yet he brushed it off and smiled to reassure her and just went along with the charade and told her to get home safely walking for the boy's locker room.
Taking a shower, he recalled the words he was told during their duel, "it's only a matter of time before everything you know is gone, so get ready for a little game of tag." His anger felt like an inferno punching the wall hard enough to destroy a tile. Coming out of the shower, he found Elizabeth waiting outside the dojo door as he asked why, yet she only looked worried about him as he only shook his head telling her get ready for tomorrow as they walked together.
A wise man once said, "Fate isn't what is, but what we want it to be." Yet capable, he felt much weaker than anything he can comprehend to the point he thought of what the girl told him before he was suddenly brought back by Katelin's call.
"Ethan, are you okay?" whispered Katelin, "you aren't…acting like yourself at all," he looked at his plate feeling very distraught. Making a fake smile, he proceeded to eat his dinner.
After dinner their mother came in shouting in joy, "Friday night! you know what that means!?" Taking a couple of DVDs, "it's movie night!" the kids all looked cheerful when she realized Ethan was not in the living room. Without delay Katelin ran upstairs to call him, only to find him in the lotus position in deep meditation. She then stopped and look at him in annoyance knowing full well that her brother is capable of knowing when someone is near, but she then felt a sense of serenity breathing out slowly.
She began moving closer thinking to herself, "Ethan, despite being foster siblings…would we be much more than we are now?" but before she could get even closer, Ethan took in his final breath and opened his eyes finding Katelin just a few inches from his face.
Snapping back to reality, Ethan was caught off guard by Katelin's proximity. His instinctive reaction caused him to push himself back, hitting his head on the bed. Holding his head in pain, he questioned her intentions, still trying to comprehend what had just happened.
Katelin, recovering from her momentary lapse, quickly regained her composure and put on a tough facade. She reminded Ethan about the ongoing movie night, urging him to join the family downstairs. Closing the door behind her, she couldn't help but feel a mix of embarrassment and frustration; desperately trying to suppress her earlier thoughts and the fleeting opportunity that had slipped away.
He sat there, still deep in contemplation, until he heard Katelin's voice again. "Ethan, are you alright?" Her voice cut through the silence, and he turned to see her standing near the doorway, concern etched on her face.
Meanwhile, Ethan remained oblivious to the inner turmoil Katelin was experiencing. He took a few moments to collect himself before making his way to the living room. Finding his twins siblings already asleep, he smiled and quietly settled down beside them, embracing the warmth and comfort of family.
Ethan sighed softly, trying to collect himself. "I'm fine, Katelin," he replied, his voice tinged with weariness. "Just lost in my own thoughts I guess."
She took a step closer, her annoyance giving way to genuine worry. "You're not acting like yourself. Is something bothering you?"
He glanced down at his plate, his appetite now gone. "I don't know, Katelin. I feel... I feel weaker than I should be. Like I'm missing something, but I can't quite put my finger on it."
Katelin's expression softened, and she took a seat beside him. "You've always been so strong, Ethan. Maybe it's okay to have moments of…vulnerability. It doesn't make you any less capable."
Ethan looked at her, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Thank you, sis. I… needed to hear that."
They sat there in silence for a while, the weight of their unspoken thoughts hanging in the air. Eventually,
Katelin stood up, putting on her tough girl act once more. "Well, come on. Movie night is still movie night, and we can't let it go to waste."
Leaving the room, Ethan couldn't help but smile at her resilience. He realized that she, too, had her own inner battles and secrets. Maybe they were more similar than he had thought.
Taking a deep breath, Ethan stood up and followed Katelin back to the living room. He found a spot on the floor near his sleeping siblings and settled down, allowing himself to be present in the moment.
As the movie played on, Ethan let go of his worries, at least for the time being and focused on the soft rhythm of his siblings' breathing, the warmth of their presence, and the comfort of knowing that, in this moment, they were all together.
Back at the temple, the council felt uneasy thinking the heir has already perished and time is short for the clan to bear such a liability, but then the grand elder silenced the room as he then responded with what they agreed earlier and nothing less, thus whatever he says will not be contradicted otherwise.
"What do you mean by such a response? Yoshiko's son is dead with no proof of existence," pointing at the shadow sword, "and to make matters worse he's a half breed of all things a disgrace to the clan of—" in rage the grand elder stamped the wooden ground so hard that even the guards kneeled in respect. The speaker sat in fear, yet he only responded in three words, "until— he returns," all members stood up and bowed in respect.
After the meeting, the grand elder was then greeted with Yoshiko's sister, "lady Aiko? what brings you here? you rarely come to our meetings." She looked at him with hope, "just one thing that's all," walking along the hall near the training area, "is it true that you've found the location of my nephew?" looking at her with a face of relief, he nodded his head with assurance, yet he also gave her a glance that tells her to keep it in check not to tip off the traitor.
Aiko looked relieved knowing her nephew was alive and safe, but she was feeling powerless that she was not able to just take him back home where he belonged. The grand elder gave her a face of joy as he slowly walked back to the limousine when Aiko received a call that made her drop the phone in disbelief.
Back at Emerald city in the early morning, Ethan was practicing his forms inside the run-down gym but with much more intensity to the point his own joints began to pop with every strike that he was trying his best to ignore. Proceeding to the forms, he began to see another flashback of a man with a scar in his eye who appeared to be smiling right at him and for some reason he shed a tear and he stopped, thinking to himself why he cried over someone he clearly doesn't know.
After a few hours, he cleaned it up and left the building, yet the area the gym was located was in a shady part of the neighbourhood as he felt several individuals tailing him.
Closing the gym, he felt about seven of them all armed, yet he kept a level head not giving them the satisfaction of fear and slowly walked back. Feeling uncomfortable pretending to ignore the fact they are following him he got impatient, feeling a sense of urgency, Ethan decided to take a detour through narrow alleyways, hoping to lose his pursuers. With every turn he made, he listened carefully for any signs of movement behind him. He relied on his training, moving silently and swiftly, blending into the shadows.
"Alright, I know you guys are there? come out before I make you" taking a deep breath, the individuals came out leaping from the roof of the building, all drew their swords to strike. Finally, unable to bear the uncertainty any longer, Ethan abruptly turned around and confronted the strangers. "Who are you!? Why are you following me?" he demanded, his voice filled with a mixture of apprehension and determination.
Keeping their silence, Ethan only took a deep breath, everything in his gaze suddenly slowed down as if time temporary stopped, his silver glow evident and effortlessly dodged every single strike without fail and kept his distance taking an unusual stance. as his attackers realized it and attacked him but to Ethan in a flash all his attackers were at the ground in pain as slow claps were heard, "well-done young master, despite the loss of your identity— you still recall the teachings of the Ookami clan".
The group of individuals paused for a moment, exchanging glances with each other. Then, a tall woman stepped forward, her expression unreadable. "We mean you no harm," she spoke in a calm measured tone. "We've been sent to find you."
The woman sighed, as if weighing her words carefully. "I represent the Clan of Ookami. Your presence will soon be requested in Japan. There are matters of great importance that will require your attention."
"Japan?!" Ethan repeated, his voice tinged with disbelief. "Why now? And why should I trust you?"
The woman nodded, understanding Ethan's scepticism. "I understand your doubts, but you must believe me. You're in danger, we've been sent to protect you."
Ethan still on guard was surprised and asked who she was, but she suddenly appeared behind him with a tanto directed on his throat, barely dodging it. Ethan felt a small cut on his throat closing his eyes taking a short breath while his attacker lunged towards him, but this time, he grabbed her hand before the tanto could strike throwing it to the wall.
Once again, he asked who she was, breaking from his hold joining her team "who I am does not matter, but what does— is that you must be ready to what comes next. [sheathing her tanto] so make sure you're ready 'Kaze Hamato', you are our only hope"
In Ethan's mind he thought, "maybe what I was hearing was merely an illusion or maybe just the strain of stress," yet he was still put in a compromising position. She knew more about him and felt like an opportunity has come from his revelation.
Finally arriving home his mother told him to get a shower and take breakfast and headed upstairs. Taking a shower, he recalled the fight he had with the ninja however, he seemed to have realized that there were even more powerful assassins than he thought.
The time had arrived as he jumped off the window in total silence as he ran towards the gym as fast as he could. Upon arriving he took in a short breath as he felt nothing when a sudden shift in the air was felt and the individuals appeared in the shadows as one of them arrived at the centre of the circle.
Without hesitation, she took off a part of her mask and her eyes could be seen and Ethan only looked with curiosity as he asked why she came after him, "young master, the time has come for you to take destiny into your own hands and lead your pack," Ethan confused, "what do you mean by pack, and why do you call me young master, who am I really."