A year had passed since The Bloody Night. Though the events of that harrowing evening still lingered in the back of everyone's minds, life had moved forward. Mt. Raya was a distant memory, but its lessons were deeply etched into the hearts of those who survived.
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Scene 1: First Day of School
The school grounds were bustling with energy as students returned for a new academic year. Among the throng of fresh faces were Hayato and Yuki, walking side by side. Hayato's bright amber eyes darted around nervously, while Yuki walked with a calm confidence, her long dark hair tied neatly into a ponytail.
"Relax, Hayato," Yuki said gently, noticing his tense shoulders. "You're going to do great here. Just... try not to break anything on your first day."
Hayato chuckled nervously, running a hand through his messy hair. "Easier said than done. What if someone picks a fight with me? What if—"
Yuki placed a reassuring hand on his arm, stopping him mid-sentence. "You're not the same scared boy from a year ago. You've learned control. Remember what Grandfather always says: 'Strength isn't in your fists, but in your discipline.' If you keep that in mind, you'll be fine."
Hayato nodded, her words calming the storm of doubt in his mind. "Thanks, Yuki. I don't know what I'd do without you and Master Ho Dieng."
Yuki smirked playfully. "Well, you'd probably still be growling at strangers. But hey, we've come a long way, haven't we?"
Hayato's lips curled into a small smile. "Yeah. We have."
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Scene 2: Training with Ho Dieng (During one year time skip)-- one day
The tranquil courtyard behind Ho Dieng's dojo had become a second home to Remond and Hayato (The name is given by Ho Dieng as that werewolf kid was not able to recall his real name). The area was surrounded by bamboo trees, their rustling leaves a soothing backdrop to the intensity of their training.
Remond wiped sweat from his brow, panting heavily. His stance was shaky, but his resolve was firm. Across from him, Hayato crouched low, his claws partially extended, eyes gleaming with determination.
"Again," Ho Dieng commanded from the sidelines. Despite his age, his voice carried an authority that neither boy dared to question.
Remond lunged forward, throwing a swift punch aimed at Hayato's torso. Hayato sidestepped with supernatural agility, countering with a low sweep kick. Remond barely dodged, rolling to the side and springing up to deliver a spinning backfist.
The two exchanged blows in a fluid, almost dance-like rhythm, their movements honed through months of rigorous training.
"Control your energy, Remond!" Ho Dieng barked. "You're leaking power with every punch. Focus it!"
Remond clenched his fists, drawing upon the kinetic energy stored in his body. As Hayato charged at him, claws gleaming, Remond sidestepped and released a controlled burst of power through his palm, sending Hayato skidding back across the courtyard.
"Better," Ho Dieng said, nodding approvingly. "But you're still too predictable. Hayato, your instincts are sharp, but you must think beyond your opponent's next move. Anticipate!"
The two boys exchanged a quick glance, their competitive spirits ignited. They charged at each other again, pushing themselves harder under Ho Dieng's watchful eye.
Later that day, as they rested under the shade of the bamboo trees, Ho Dieng approached them with a calm yet serious demeanor.
"It's time I teach you about Hatsu," he said, sitting cross-legged before them.
Remond raised an eyebrow. "Hatsu? What's that?"
Ho Dieng smiled faintly. "It's the manifestation of one's inner energy, one's aura. Everyone has it, but only a few can harness it. It can enhance your abilities, complement your strengths, and even define your path as a warrior."
"Pay attention," he said. "There are six types of Hatsu, each representing a different way to harness your aura. Understanding these will guide you to discover your own path."
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1. Enhancement
Ho Dieng pointed to the first symbol—a fist.
"This type focuses on strengthening physical and mental attributes. Enhancers excel in combat, fortifying their bodies to withstand attacks or deliver devastating blows."
He gestured to Remond. "You, for example, might lean toward enhancement, given your kinetic energy absorption. This type could amplify your stored power, making your attacks even more formidable."
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2. Emission
The second symbol was a wave-like pattern.
"Emitters can project their aura outward, creating ranged attacks or effects. It's useful for striking opponents from a distance or affecting large areas."
Hayato raised an eyebrow. "Like shooting energy beams?"
Ho Dieng smiled faintly. "Something like that. But control is key. Without focus, emission-based abilities become erratic."
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3. Manipulation
The third symbol resembled a chain.
"Manipulators shape and control their aura to affect objects or beings. This could involve creating threads, controlling weapons, or even influencing the movements of others."
Remond leaned forward. "So, they're like puppet masters?"
"Precisely," Ho Dieng replied. "But mastery of this type requires creativity and precision."
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4. Conjuration
The fourth symbol was a cube.
"Conjurers can create objects out of their aura. These objects can range from weapons to barriers, depending on the user's imagination and focus."
Hayato looked intrigued. "Can these objects be permanent?"
Ho Dieng shook his head. "No. They exist as long as the conjurer's aura sustains them. However, a skilled conjurer can make their creations nearly indistinguishable from reality."
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5. Transmutation
The fifth symbol was a flame.
"Transmuters alter the properties of their aura to mimic substances like fire, electricity, or even rubber. It's a versatile type, limited only by your creativity."
Remond grinned. "Sounds like something Sid would love. He's always tinkering with ideas."
Ho Dieng chuckled. "Perhaps. Transmutation often suits those with unpredictable or imaginative natures." He extended his hand, and a faint glow surrounded his palm, forming into an ethereal flame. "This is my Hatsu, the Transmutation Hatsu."
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6. Specialization
The final symbol was a star.
"Specialists are unique. Their Hatsu does not fall into the other five categories but is instead entirely personal and often tied to their identity or experiences."
Hayato frowned. "So, it's rare?"
"Very," Ho Dieng confirmed. "Specialization cannot be taught—it emerges naturally in those who walk their own path. However, it can be the most powerful, as it defies conventional rules
The boys stared in awe, their curiosity piqued. "How do we learn it?" Hayato asked eagerly.
"Through patience, understanding, and control," Ho Dieng replied. "But be warned—mastery of Hatsu is not just about power. It's about balance. Now, let us begin."
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Scene 3: Reunion
Back in the present, Hayato and Yuki wandered through the crowded school halls, looking for their assigned classrooms. Hayato was doing his best to ignore the curious stares from other students.
"You'll get used to it," Yuki said with a smirk.
"Easy for you to say," Hayato muttered.
As they turned a corner, they spotted two familiar figures walking toward them—Remond and Sid.
"Well, well," Sid said, grinning widely as he saw them. "If it isn't the wolf boy!"
"Sid!" Yuki exclaimed, her face lighting up. "And Remond! It's been a while!" Coming close she punched Sid saying, "Wouldn't we agree that none of will talk about it in school? You piece of....."
Hayato couldn't help but smile as Sid get punched and Remond coming towards him, offering a fist bump. "Good to see you, Hayato. Looks like Master Ho Dieng's been keeping you busy."
"You have no idea," Hayato replied, bumping fists with him. "But it's good to be here. So this is what a school huh.... It will be an awesome experience I suppose?"
Sid leaned against the wall, eyeing Hayato with mock suspicion. "You're not going to turn into a wolf in the middle of class, are you?"
"Only if someone really annoys me," Hayato shot back, smirking.
Yuki rolled her eyes. "Don't encourage him, Sid."
Remond chuckled, the familiar camaraderie easing the tension of the first day. "Come on, let's get to class."
As they walked together, the weight of the past year felt lighter. The bonds forged in adversity had grown stronger, and the promise of new beginnings filled the air. Whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.