Iguro complained frustratedly, "Ugh, Luck, you had to use your innate abilities!" His arms had gone numb from Luck's sudden intervention, and irritation coursed through his veins. "Did I ask for a switch?" Luck retorted, exasperation etched in his tone.
Iguro sneered, "You created the robes, didn't you?"
Luck shrugged nonchalantly. "Where are you going, anyway?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.
Iguro smiled mysteriously, a mix of emotions swirling within him. "To a friend's place," he replied, warmth spreading through his chest.
________
Mr. Kaito welcomed Iguro warmly, his eyes sparkling with delight. "You barely come to visit nowadays," he said, as he gestured for Iguro to sit.
As Iguro sat, Mr. Kaito offered him a seat and took a sip of coffee, gazing out at students practicing battles against themselves. Iguro's heart swelled with gratitude at the familiar sight, and he felt a deep sense of appreciation for this man who had supported him through thick and thin.
This was the only person who truly cared for him in this world, Iguro thought, where others looked at him with contempt, Mr. Kaito showed empathy and understanding. A lump formed in Iguro's throat as he recalled the countless times Mr. Kaito had been there for him.
"Old man, I'm leaving the city, but I couldn't leave without seeing your wrinkled face again," Iguro said warmly, trying to lighten the mood.
Mr. Kaito chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "You brat and your sharp tongue," he teased, his voice filled with affection.
Noticing Iguro's robes, Mr. Kaito's gaze lingered, drawn to the stars in motion. "Quite a heavenly treasure you've got!" he exclaimed.
Luck emerged from Iguro's hair, mildly annoyed. "It's not a heavenly treasure, old man," he corrected.
The other three miniature forms followed, eyeing Mr. Kaito with curiosity. "Why did you take care of Iguro when he was useless?" Haven asked.
"What made you show empathy to such a pathetic creature?" Dark inquired.
"Did you plan for him to serve as your driver or something?" Lucid added.
Iguro intervened, embarrassed, feeling his face flush. "Guys, stop!"
The four were suddenly sucked back into Iguro's chest.
Mr. Kaito laughed heartily. "Quite a bunch you have there!" he said, shaking his head in amusement.
Iguro explained his encounter with Tamashi, comfortably omitting his suicidal intentions. Mr. Kaito listened intently, his expression changing from amusement to seriousness.
"I was worried when you didn't come over," Mr. Kaito said, his brow furrowed. "But it seems you've found a way to cope."
"True strength comes from within," Mr. Kaito advised, his voice filled with conviction. "You should never rely solely on those within you," He walked to the window, heaving a sigh. "Whoo, your story had me on a roller-coaster of emotions," he said, chuckling.
Iguro chuckled nervously, feeling a mix of emotions: relief, gratitude, and a hint of sadness. Abruptly, Mr. Kaito's expression changed. "It finally emerged?" he asked.
Iguro was surprised, but he nodded.
Feeling guilty for leaving, Iguro was taken aback by Luck's telepathic message. "A gift from all of us," Luck said warmly.
Stardust enveloped the room, forming a transparent orb that rapidly absorbed energy.
"A Space Orb," Mr. Kaito breathed.
Luck smiled as the orb flew into Mr. Kaito's hands.
With a wave, Iguro departed, leaving the school premises.
As they walked away, Dark asked, "Where are we headed now?"
"I'll find a new city and start fresh," Iguro replied.
Dark suggested finding a peaceful place to cultivate. "Your body is too weak," he said condescendingly.
Iguro defended himself, but Dark countered, "Normal fist techniques are available. You didn't try hard enough."
Iguro reflected on his past inaction, realizing Dark had a point. A pang of regret hit him. As he reached the city gates, Iguro realized his crucial mistake: he had no money.
Luck reprimanded him lightly. "You idiot, you're wearing your source of income."
With a grin, Iguro's countenance changed, alerting the guards. Over ten guards surrounded him, swords drawn.
"Peons," Luck sneered.
Stardust enveloped Iguro's form
"Who wants secret treasures?!" Luck exclaimed.
The guards hesitated, their eyes fixed on Iguro's transformed appearance.
"Idiot," Luck muttered, "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"
Iguro's grin widened within his sea of consciousness. "Maybe a little."
The guards charged, but Iguro effortlessly deflected their attacks.
"Pathetic," Luck sneered. "These guards are no match for me."
Iguro chuckled. "Let's just have some fun." With a flick of his wrist, Iguro sent the guards flying.
As the dust settled, Iguro strolled through the city gates, whistling.