Kenzo: Never Back Down
Chapter: 1
The story begins with the destruction of Zephyros, the kingdom known as the "Winds of Lions." The once-peaceful land trembled under the wrath of Raijin, a fearsome adversary whose motives were as devastating as his powers.
"Soldiers, hide behind me," Raijin commanded his dark forces, his voice dripping with malice. "I will obliterate this wretched school and the entire kingdom of Zephyros!"
With a thunderous roar, explosions echoed throughout the land. The earth quaked as ceilings crumbled and the ground split open.
In the garden of the great academy, Nullish, the mighty hero and Kenzo's father, was teaching his students.
"Hmm..." Nullish muttered, his senses sharp. "Guards, who is responsible for this chaos?"
"We don't know, my lord," one guard replied, trembling. "We see no one outside."
Nullish frowned. "It must be him... Raijin." His tone grew grim. "He's too powerful, invisible even to the eyes of magic knights and ordinary people alike!"Hahaha!" Raijin's laughter pierced the air. "That's what you get for betraying me!"
The students watched in horror as their mentor fell. One brave student ran to warn Nullish's family, his heart pounding with fear.
"Raijin killed Master Nullish!" the student cried as he burst into Kenzo's home.
Kenzo's mother, her face pale but resolute, grabbed her child. "Take him and run! Protect him!"
"But-"
"Go!" she ordered, her voice firm.
The student obeyed, clutching the infant Kenzo as he fled. Behind him, Raijin arrived, his wrath unrelenting. Without hesitation, he struck down Kenzo's mother, leaving no mercy in his wake.
The student ran as fast as he could, but Raijin pursued him relentlessly. The chase led to a cliffside, where the river roared below. Cornered, the student made a desperate decision.The guards gasped in unison. "Raijin? Your brother?!"
"Yes," Nullish confirmed, his voice heavy with regret. "There's no time to explain. Everyone, hide now! He's here."
As the students scattered in fear, Raijin emerged from the shadows, his laughter echoing like thunder. "Hahaha! Your precious school, your kingdom, everything is falling apart! Stop me if you can, dear brother."
Nullish stepped forward, his expression steely. "What do you want, Raijin?"
"What do I want?" Raijin smirked before his expression twisted into rage. "How could I forget that you killed my wife!"
Nullish's eyes narrowed. "She was out of control. She would've destroyed us all, including you."
Raijin's face darkened. "And for that, you'll pay. I've become more than a mere mortal-I am the Super Demon Lord, Ultra!" He gestured toward Nullish. "Oh, and one more thing... You've been cursed. Your body will fail you without unnatural power."
Nullish lunged at Raijin, his blade gleaming in the chaos. But Raijin blocked it effortlessly and, with a swift counterattack, struck Nullish down. Blood stained the ground as Nullish's head fell from his body.Forgive me, young master," he whispered before throwing Kenzo into the river.
The infant floated away as Raijin caught up. "Where is the child?!" he demanded.
The student stood tall, defiant. "You'll never find him."
Enraged, Raijin killed the student and turned toward the river, only to be interrupted by a battered but alive Nullish.
"Brother!" Raijin roared. "You're still breathing?"
Nullish, bloodied but unyielding, replied, "Did you truly think I'd fall so easily?"
The two brothers clashed, their powers colliding in a battle that shook the heavens. Nullish, knowing he couldn't win, made a heartbreaking choice.
He touched the unconscious Kenzo and whispered, "I'm sorry, my son. I must take your magic to protect you and this kingdom. You must never give up."
Nullish unleashed the last of his strength, his pure aura clashing against Raijin's dark power. The battle ended in a massive explosion, leaving both brothers seemingly destroyed.In the aftermath, magic knights arrived, carrying Kenzo to safety. Unknown to them, Raijin's body was retrieved by a mysterious figure who declared, "I am the Super Demon Lord. No one touches him and lives."
Years passed, and Zephyros mourned the loss of its mighty hero and his family. The king, hiding the truth, declared Kenzo dead to protect him.
But Kenzo survived.
12 Years Later
In the forest, a boy sat by a fire, eating mushrooms, fish, and apples. His clothes were tattered, but his eyes burned with determination.
He climbed to the top of the abandoned kingdom's walls and jumped.
"Look at that boy!" a villager cried.
"He's going to fall!"But Kenzo landed on his feet, grinning. "I'm fine!"
A young prince caught him with a cloth. "You idiot! What are you doing?"
Kenzo smirked and ran off, shouting, "I am Kenzo! I will never give up!"
As he ran, a faint glow appeared on his index finger-a ring, pulsating with mysterious energy.
In next day
Evening in the Forest
The sun cast its last golden rays across the forest as Kenzo pushed himself to his limits.
"998, 999..." he muttered through gritted teeth, his arms trembling from exhaustion. Sweat dripped from his brow, but he refused to let his hands touch the ground.
As fatigue threatened to overtake him, a flash of memory struck.
"People like you are trash... trash... trash..."
Kenzo's eyes snapped open, his resolve reignited.
"No giving up!" he said firmly, forcing himself back up.
He rose to his feet, steadied his breathing, and began his journey out of the forest, determination etched into every step.
---
Zephyros Kingdom – The Palace
Outside the grand palace of the Zephyros Kingdom, a young girl stood nervously, her fingers lightly touching her chest as if trying to steady her heart.
"Where is Kenzo?" she whispered to herself, her eyes scanning the horizon.
Her name was Ayame Mizushima, princess of the Zephyros Kingdom and a member of the Mizushima clan, renowned for their water magic. At twelve years old, Ayame was not only skilled in water magic but was also training in healing arts.
A voice broke her thoughts.
"Princess Ayame, why are you out here?"
Ayame turned to see Sarina, a loyal servant who was more like an elder sister to her.
"Oh, Sarina! I'm waiting for Kenzo," Ayame replied with a faint smile.
Sarina raised an eyebrow. "Your choice, Princess," she said before walking toward the palace garden. She paused, however, and returned to Ayame's side.
"Princess, may I ask you something?"
"Of course," Ayame said gently.
"Why did Kenzo come home late last time? Do you think he'll be here after the king's injury?"
Ayame hesitated. "I think... this moment was unknown." Her words trailed off as the palace doors creaked open.
Her eyes widened. "Big Sister!"
---
Ayaka Mizushima Enters
Ayaka Mizushima, the eldest princess at nineteen, strode forward, her presence commanding. Like Ayame, she wielded water magic but carried herself with an air of superiority.
"Is this your daily routine, waiting around for trash?" Ayaka sneered.
"Don't call him trash!" Ayame snapped, her voice sharp with anger.
"Oh, you're mad? How touching," Ayaka mocked. "But have you forgotten? Kenzo is the reason Grandfather is bedridden."
Ayame tensed, her fists clenching. "Kenzo… this isn't his fault."
"Your choice, your responsibility," Ayaka said dismissively as she turned to leave.
---
Kenzo's Night in the Forest
As the stars began to glitter above, Kenzo sat by a small fire, roasting fish he had caught and preparing mushrooms he carefully identified as safe.
"Almost done," he murmured, turning the fish over the flames.
Once the meal was ready, he ate quietly, savoring the simple food. "Awesome," he said to himself with a small smile.
After extinguishing the fire, he began walking toward the palace. On the way, a fruit fell from a tree. Kenzo caught it mid-air, ate it quickly, and pressed on.
---
Inside the Palace
Ayame stood near the palace gates, her eyes fixed on the road.
"Please, Princess, come and eat something," Sarina urged gently.
"But…" Ayame hesitated.
"Please," Sarina insisted.
Reluctantly, Ayame followed her to the dining hall and sat at the table with her family.
"Princess, why do you always stand by the gate?" asked King Azyion Mizushima, the ruler of Zephyros Kingdom and Ayame's father.
"I'm waiting for Kenzo," she said simply.
The king sighed. Prince Rioz Mizushima, Ayame's arrogant brother, snickered.
"Why bother? He's probably somewhere worthless," Rioz said.
"Not a chance," Prince Ardyn Mizushima, another sibling, added with a smirk. "Kenzo's nothing but a magicless fool."
Ayaka laughed. The king, unbothered, continued eating until he noticed Ayame's expression.
Her anger was palpable. The table shook slightly.
"Hey, Ayano, it's dangerous," someone murmured, but Ayano Mizushima, Ayame's twin sister with ice magic, remained stoic, eating calmly.
"Enough, all of you!" Ayame shouted, silencing the room.
The palace gates swung open.
"I'm home," Kenzo announced, stepping inside.
Ayame's expression softened. "Oh, Kenzo…"
Rioz muttered under his breath, "Idiot's back."
"Come eat something," the king offered.
"Thanks, but I already ate," Kenzo replied, heading to his room.
Ayame watched him go, a hint of sadness in her eyes.
---
The Academy – The Next Day
The next morning, everyone flew toward the academy. Everyone except Kenzo, who walked alongside Ayame.
Rioz chuckled. "Still grounded, huh?"
Ayaka smirked. "At least he has Ayame to keep him company."
"Don't listen to them," Ayame said softly.
Kenzo nodded. "Thank you, Princess."
At the academy, their teacher announced the next day's adventure class—a chance to explore the forest.
As Kenzo sat on a bench, staring out the window, whispers filled the air.
"Trash," some boys muttered.
Kenzo clenched his fists. I'll show them, he thought.
"Kenzo!" a cheerful voice called.
Kenzo turned to see Yuto, his best friend.
"I'm so excited for tomorrow!" Yuto said brightly.
Kenzo smiled. "Me too."
---
Later That Night
As the moon rose high, Kenzo trained with Yuto in the woods. After a sparring session, Yuto patted Kenzo on the back.
"You're stronger than you think," Yuto said.
Kenzo smiled faintly. "I want to be a mighty hero… but can I?"
"You already are," Yuto replied.
Later, as Kenzo lay in bed, his glowing index finger caught the faint light.
Tomorrow is just the beginning, he thought before sleep claimed him.
Kenzo's dreams were a labyrinth of mystery. In this one, a glowing ring floated before him. Its aura was intense, pulsating with an otherworldly purple light.
"What is this?" he murmured, squinting to make out the strange object. He stepped closer, captivated by its brilliance, until something etched on the ring's surface caught his eye.
"Infernal Signet?" he read aloud, his voice trembling.
Before he could reach for it, a loud KNOCK KNOCK jolted him awake.
"Kenzo! Kenzo, are you still asleep?" a familiar voice called out.
Kenzo groggily got up, opened the door, and was met with Ayame's bright smile. His cheeks turned red instantly.
"Good morning, Kenzo!" she chirped.
"G-Good morning," he stammered, rubbing his eyes.
"Don't tell me you forgot," she said, narrowing her eyes. "Today's our adventure day in the forest!"
Kenzo's mind raced. Adventure day? Oh no... I forgot! Stupid, stupid, stupid!Outside, Ayame pulled out her broomstick.
"Hop on!" she said with a grin.
Kenzo hesitated but climbed on, gripping the handle tightly.
As they soared through the air, they arrived at the academy where their teacher, a strict but wise figure, awaited.
"Ah, Princess Ayame... and Kenzo," the teacher greeted, adjusting his expression when he saw Kenzo's disheveled appearance.
The other students couldn't suppress their laughter.
"Did you see him?" one boy whispered, giggling.
"Yes, he looks like he just rolled out of bed!" another added.
Kenzo's ears burned, but before he could retort, Yuto appeared.
"Hey, Kenzo!" Yuto called out, waving.
"Oh, Yuto!" Kenzo replied, relieved to see his friend.
The three of them gathered, Ayame holding a small map she'd received from the teacher.
"Let's stick together," she said confidently.
"Sure" Yuto replied, shooting a quick smile.In the dense forest, the trio set up camp with the other students.
"So, what's on your mind, Kenzo?" Yuto asked casually.
"I had a strange dream today," Kenzo admitted.
"A dream? What kind?" Yuto's curiosity piqued.
Before Kenzo could explain, Yuto interrupted with a smirk. "Let me guess-a cute girl with big, uh, you know..."
Kenzo groaned. "You woke up before anything happened, didn't you?"
"Yeah," Yuto laughed.
The teacher clapped his hands, bringing everyone's attention back.
"All right, everyone! Time to gather water for the camp. Kenzo, Yuto, you're up!"
"I'll come too," Ayame insisted.
The three of them ventured deeper into the forest, their surroundings growing eerily quiet.
"What's that sound?" Ayame whispered, glancing over her shoulder.
"Nothing," Kenzo said, trying to reassure her, though his gut told him otherwise.Ahead, shadows shifted in the trees. Figures emerged-tall, armored, and menacing.
"They're... Black Knights," Yuto muttered, his voice tinged with fear.
"Demon warriors," Ayame added, her hand instinctively reaching for her magic.
"Stay calm," Kenzo said, though his fists clenched.
From the shadows, another figure appeared. Unlike the Black Knights, his presence was suffocating, his aura overwhelming.
"It's him..." Ayame whispered, her voice barely audible. "The Super Demon Lord."
12 Years Ago
In the Demon Castle, Raijin, the Super Demon Lord Ultra, sat on his throne, his cold eyes scanning the room.
"Today marks the end of Zephyros' Kingdom," he declared.
"But why destroy it?" asked a subordinate.
"Because," Raijin said, rising from his throne, "my brother's son will be my end. I've seen the future. He will surpass me."
The room fell silent.And if you fail to kill him?" another Demon Lord asked.
"Then you will finish the job," Raijin replied, his voice cold.
"His magic, if it awakens, will be our doom."
Present Day
The Super Demon Lord watched from the shadows as Kenzo, Yuto, and Ayame confronted the Black Knights. His sharp eyes narrowed.
He has no Ether... so this is Nullish' son.
"Attack them," he commanded the knights.
The battle began. Ayame summoned a shimmering water shield, countering one knight's blade before landing a precise punch. Yuto unleashed his lightning magic, taking down another.
Kenzo held his ground, using sheer determination and physical prowess to fight.
"Interesting," the Super Demon Lord murmured. "But he truly has no magic."
Suddenly, the Black Knights vanished, replaced by a single point of darkness. The Super Demon Lord emerged, his presence suffocating."Children," he sneered. "Do you truly believe you can stand against me?"
"Super Demon Lord?!" Ayame gasped.
"I don't care who you are!" Kenzo shouted. "Magic or no magic, I'll defeat you!"
The Super Demon Lord laughed. "And what will a powerless boy like you do?"
Kenzo clenched his fists. "I don't need magic. I am Kenzo, and I never give up!"
The demon lord struck swiftly, immobilizing Yuto and Ayame. He turned to Kenzo, grabbing him by the neck and tossing him skyward.
Kenzo felt the air rush past him as he fell, his life flashing before his eyes. Is this the end?
Suddenly, the dream from earlier returned. The glowing ring appeared, cutting through the void of space and time. It flew toward him, its light intensifying.
As the ring neared, his index finger began to glow.
What is this...?
The ring slid onto his finger, its power surging through him.
Kenzo stared at his hand in awe. "What is this?"
His index finger glowed as if adorned by a spectral ring. Slowly, the light condensed, forming a tangible object—a ring, which floated gracefully toward his finger. It slipped onto his index finger, merging its energy with him.
He closed his eyes, feeling the rush of power coursing through his veins. A radiant purple aura from the ring flowed into his body, replacing his blood with a glowing, otherworldly energy. His veins illuminated faintly under his skin, the power surging through him like a raging storm.
When Kenzo opened his eyes, they glowed with an ethereal purple light. His pupils, now circular and radiant, brimmed with energy unlike anything he had ever felt.
"Infernal Signet," Kenzo whispered.
---
Meanwhile, Ayame and Yuto stood their ground against the towering figure of the Super Demon Lord. The demon's malevolent aura made the air thick with dread as he charged toward them.
"Water Magic: Water Balls!" Ayame shouted, summoning massive spheres of water and hurling them with all her might.
The demon effortlessly shattered her attacks, striding forward unscathed.
Yuto sprinted toward the demon, lightning crackling in his palm. He lunged with a ferocious strike, but the demon blocked it with ease, countering with a forceful blow that sent Yuto flying back toward Ayame.
"You bastards," the Super Demon Lord growled, his voice like a rumble of thunder. "Are you ready to die?"
Yuto clenched his fists, despair creeping into his thoughts. Die? No! I always swore there were two things I'd never do: die young or fall in love. God, if I die, at least grant me a kindhearted girl in heaven.
Ayame trembled beside him, her hands clasped tightly together. I can't die here... I won't. I want Kenzo to be my future husband.
The Super Demon Lord began conjuring an enormous, square-shaped attack, the sheer size of it blotting out the light around them. Yuto and Ayame closed their eyes, bracing for the end.
---
Far away, Kenzo felt a jolt in his chest. "What if I were in Yuto and Ayame's place?" he murmured.
The Infernal Signet on his finger pulsed with light. Suddenly, visions flooded his mind—flashes of Yuto and Ayame's peril.
"My ring... why is it glowing?" Kenzo asked, his voice trembling. He saw glimpses of their future, mere seconds ahead.
As the vision ended, he found himself teleported to their location.
Kenzo stood tall between the Super Demon Lord and his friends. "This is just like the vision... Which means it's time for revenge!"
The demon's eyes widened in shock. "What?! You—"
"Yeah, me." Kenzo interrupted, leaping into the air and delivering a powerful punch that sent the Super Demon Lord crashing into the distance.
Yuto gasped. I'm alive... because of him.
Ayame's heart raced. Kenzo... so cool. My king… Her cheeks flushed a bright pink.
Kenzo turned to them, his expression calm but resolute. "Are you guys alright?"
Ayame could barely contain herself. My king... my hero...
Kenzo turned back toward the distant demon and raised his glowing hand. "Infernal Signet, help me clean up this trash!"
The ring glowed brighter than ever, casting a blinding light across the battlefield.
The Super Demon Lord struggled to his feet, glaring at Kenzo. "This power... is this magic? No... it's something else." His gaze landed on Kenzo's hand. "The Infernal Signet... So, you're destined to be the Cursed Hero."
"What are you talking about?" Kenzo demanded.
Before he could get an answer, a girl appeared behind him—Lisa. She flung a cursed bottle at Kenzo, and dark energy engulfed him.
Yuto and Ayame shouted his name, but the Super Demon Lord stopped them with a chilling glare.
Kenzo screamed in agony as Lisa whispered in his ear, "Wait for me, handsome."
Lisa and the Super Demon Lord disappeared, leaving Yuto and Ayame to tend to Kenzo. They carried him back to the camp, desperate for help.
---
In the camp, whispers filled the air.
"Look at his face!" one boy sneered. "He's trash. That's why he's like this."
Ayame turned to them, her voice sharp. "Why do you hate Kenzo? Is it because he has no magic? Or because he doesn't talk to you? He may not have magic, but he never gives up! He trains harder than anyone. He even defeated the Super Demon Lord!"
The boys fell silent, shamefaced.
Yuto sighed. "Ayame, stop. It's not worth it."
"No, Yuto. Kenzo deserves better than this."
---
At the demon castle, Lisa blushed as thoughts of Kenzo filled her mind. "What's happening to me?" she whispered.
The Super Demon Lord smirked. "You're thinking about him, aren't you?"
Lisa's face turned scarlet. "N-No!"
The demon's expression turned serious. "That boy... the curse we placed on him was forged by five demon gods and fifty million demons. Only 0.001% of beings can survive it. Kenzo can... because of the Infernal Signet. That ring was made to capture and contain curses."
Lisa's heart pounded. Kenzo... what does this mean for you? For us?
---
Kenzo stirred in his bed. Ayame rushed to his side as he woke.
"Kenzo!" she cried, tears streaming down her face. She hugged him tightly. "I was so scared!"
Kenzo smiled weakly. "I'm alright... Thanks to you guys."
He stood slowly and walked to the kingdom's top floor. Staring at the horizon, he clenched his fist.
"I am Kenzo," he declared, "and I will not give up!"
He threw the Infernal Signet into the sky, jumping after it. The ring landed on his finger as a glowing path appeared before him.
SuperDemonLord: "Ready for whatever comes next."
Next day
Sunset Training
The golden hues of the setting sun painted the skies of Zephyros as Kenzo and Yuto trained in their usual spot atop a grassy hill. Kenzo, drenched in sweat, gritted his teeth, pushing himself through relentless push-ups, while Yuto focused on sit-ups nearby.
"I can't believe you defeated the Super Demon Lord," Yuto said, his tone a mix of awe and disbelief.
Kenzo, still counting his push-ups, shook his head. "No, I didn't defeat him."
Yuto sat up, frowning. "Don't kid around, Kenzo."
"I'm not."
Yuto's eyes narrowed. "You're hiding something from me. Tell me."
Kenzo sighed, finally stopping. "I got a ring… called the Infernal Signet."
"A ring?" Yuto's brows furrowed in confusion.
Kenzo nodded. "The ring gives me power. That's why I could beat the Super Demon Lord."
Yuto's jaw dropped, his voice filled with shock. "Infernal Signet…?!"
Kenzo's gaze darkened. "And I can feel some dark power… like a demon."
"What?!" Yuto exclaimed, his shock intensifying. "I think Lisa did something during the fight."
Kenzo frowned, slightly taken aback. "Lisa?"
Yuto nodded, his cheeks turning a faint shade of red. (Her… boobs were awesome, he thought to himself but quickly shook off the thought.)
Kenzo shrugged. "In the fight, the Super Demon Lord did talk about cursed powers and cursed heroes."
Yuto's expression turned grim. "That means Lisa gave you cursed power?"
Kenzo looked away. "I think so…"
They fell silent, the tension hanging in the air. Eventually, they grabbed their modest dinner: apples, fish, cursed mushrooms, and dirty water.
Yuto grinned, taking a bite of an apple. "Our dinner is awesome."
Kenzo smirked. "Yeah."
Yuto paused. "Did you tell anyone about the ring?"
Kenzo glanced at him. "Who?"
"Princess Ayame."
Kenzo shook his head. "No."
"But why not?"
"I don't want her to worry."
"Oh, okay then," Yuto said, standing up. "Bye, I'll go now."
"Okay."
The Palace and Ayame's Room
As evening turned to night, Kenzo returned to the palace, entered his room, and collapsed onto his bed, falling asleep almost immediately.
The next morning, in Ayame's room, the young princess was brimming with excitement. "Finally, this day has come," she exclaimed, her voice bright and cheerful. "Today is our last day at the Academy!"
Her maid, Sarina, smiled softly. "That's good news, Princess."
Ayame twirled around happily. "Yeah! After finishing at the Academy, we can become magic knights and complete hard missions or quests."
Sarina observed her quietly. (She's just like her grandmother, she thought.)
"Sarina, what happened?" Ayame asked, tilting her head.
Sarina shook her head. "No, nothing special."
"Okay, I'll go now. Bye, Sarina!" Ayame said, skipping toward the door.
Sarina smiled warmly. "Have a good day, Princess Ayame."
Sarina watched as Ayame walked away, her gaze shifting out the window to catch sight of Kenzo heading toward the Academy.
Academy Hall
The Academy hall buzzed with energy as students gathered for the last day.
(Oh my God, everyone looks nice except me…) Yuto thought miserably, running a hand through his messy, shoulder-length dark brown hair streaked with electric blue. His bright blue eyes faintly glowed as he adjusted his gray sleeveless tunic and black pants patterned with lightning.
"I'm so ugly," he muttered under his breath.
A girl's voice broke through his thoughts. "I think not."
Yuto turned around, startled, and saw a girl with long black hair tipped with purple. Her glowing violet eyes met his as her dark purple kimono-inspired outfit fluttered slightly in the breeze.
"Hello, I'm Kiyomi Takane," she said, smiling.
Yuto blinked. "You're… Yuto, right?"
"Yeah…"
From a distance, Ayame approached. "So, you introduced yourself?"
"Princess!" Kiyomi greeted, bowing slightly.
Ayame grinned. "Our Academy days are finally over."
Yuto nodded. "Yeah."
Kenzo and the Infernal Signet
Meanwhile, Kenzo stood in the Academy hall, suddenly clutching his index finger.
"Oh, my index finger!" he yelled, running toward the storeroom.
Inside, the Infernal Signet glowed brightly. Kenzo groaned in pain. "AHHHHH!" He struggled to control the overwhelming power, forcing it to subside before leaving the storeroom and acting normal.
A boy ran past him. "Go to the hall fast—there's a special announcement!"
"Okay," Kenzo said, following him.
In the hall, the teacher addressed the students. "Dear magic students, you have been promoted to magic knights. You deserve it. Kenzo, come to my office."
After the announcement, Yuto approached Kenzo. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah."
Yuto leaned closer, whispering, "Be careful, Kenzo—you're cursed."
Kenzo nodded silently.
Teacher's Office
Kenzo entered the office, bowing respectfully.
"Welcome, Kenzo. Sit here," the teacher said.
"Thank you, sir."
"You're a magic knight now. Can you handle it?"
"Yes, sir."
The teacher's gaze hardened. "One thing, Kenzo—without magic, can you still do anything?"
Kenzo stood tall. "Yes, sir."
Satisfied, the teacher nodded. "Then I trust you."
Kenzo left the office, his resolve stronger than ever.
Into the Forest
Later that day, Yuto and Kenzo sat in a quiet clearing.
"Why didn't I see you in the Academy?" Yuto asked.
Kenzo hesitated. "My cursed power was too strong."
Yuto pulled out a book.
Kenzo frowned. "What is this?"
"This book has all the information about the Infernal Signet," Yuto explained, flipping it open.
As Yuto read aloud, Kenzo's eyes widened. The power within the ring was immense… and dangerous.
The Elder's Summons
The following day, Kenzo, Yuto, Ayame, and Kiyomi stood before Elder Kaito.
"You know that every kingdom has a mighty hero. Unfortunately, ours does not," Kaito began.
Kenzo stepped forward. "Then I will become one!"
"Kenzo's kidding, sir," Yuto interjected.
Kaito continued. "Yesterday, Aetheria's mighty hero, Kaiden, requested our help. Their king has asked us to protect Princess Rose. She's only six years old. I'm assigning you this mission."
Excitement and determination filled the group.
(My first mission… With my powers, I won't give up!) Kenzo thought.
At Night
Kenzo lay wide awake in his bed, staring out the window. Tomorrow was a big day, and he could hardly contain his excitement.
"I can't sleep," he murmured to himself. "Tomorrow is the day I've been waiting for!"
Suddenly, a knock echoed from his window. Kenzo jumped up and walked over to see who it was.
Outside, Yuto stood with a grin on his face. "Kenzo, I can't sleep either. I'm too excited."
Kenzo raised an eyebrow. "Why are you here, though?"
Yuto shrugged. "I figured I'd join you. Mind if I come in?"
Kenzo smiled and opened the window. "Come on in."
The Next Morning
The first rays of sunlight spilled through the window, signaling the start of the long-awaited day. Kenzo jumped out of bed with enthusiasm, followed by Yuto.
"Finally, morning!" Kenzo cheered, stretching his arms. "The mission starts today."
Yuto nodded, his excitement mirroring Kenzo's. "Let's do this."
Scene shifts to Ayame's Room
Ayame sat up in bed, the sound of birds chirping outside her window rousing her from sleep.
"Finally, morning," she said, running a hand through her hair.
Sarina, her loyal attendant, entered with a smile. "Good morning, Princess Ayame."
"Good morning, Sarina," Ayame replied cheerfully.
Outside, Kiyomi Takane stood waiting.
Kiyomi called out loudly, "Princess, Princess!"
From a distance, Rioz walked toward her, but upon seeing Kiyomi, his demeanor changed. He blushed deeply.
"Hey, you trash…" Rioz began, but he quickly stopped, realizing his mistake. "Sorry, I didn't mean that. I'm Rioz Mizushima, Prince of Zephyros Kingdom."
Kiyomi gave him a cold glare. "Trash? What's your problem?"
"I apologize," Rioz quickly said. "I am Prince Rioz Mizushima, from Zephyros Kingdom."
Kiyomi's expression softened. "I'm Kiyomi Takane. Nice to meet you."
Back in Kenzo's Room
Yuto overheard the conversation from outside. His face twisted into a scowl. "Rioz… idiot."
He stormed outside to find Kiyomi, who was now standing with Rioz.
Yuto greeted Kiyomi, "Good morning, Kiyomi."
Kiyomi's face turned pink. "Good morning, Yu…to."
"Why are you here?" she asked, surprised.
Kenzo appeared behind them, grinning. "Because he's sitting here."
Ayame walked up to join them. "Seriously? He's staying here?"
Yuto nodded. "Yeah."
Kiyomi sighed. "Alright, first, we're going to Elder Kaito's palace."
Yuto nodded, eager to get started. "Let's go."
At Elder Kaito's Palace
After a long walk, they finally arrived at Elder Kaito's palace. Kenzo couldn't help but smile at the grand structure.
"Finally, we made it," Kenzo said with a sigh of relief.
Yuto grinned. "Yeah."
Kiyomi led them inside. "First, we'll head inside to meet Elder Kaito."
Ayame followed closely behind, nodding in agreement.
Inside the Palace
Elder Kaito greeted them with a warm smile. "So, you've arrived. I'm Elder Kaito. Welcome."
Yuto, Kenzo, Kiyomi, and Ayame all stood proudly before him. "Yes!" they said in unison.
Kaito smiled. "First, I'll give your group a name."
Kenzo blinked. "A group name?"
Yuto chuckled. "That's awesome."
Kaito paused for a moment. "How about 'Astral Union'?"
Kenzo and Ayame exchanged glances, both smiling. "It's perfect," Ayame said.
Kenzo nodded. "Yeah, 'Astral Union' is perfect."
Kaito nodded. "I'll also give you a broomstick to help you reach Aetheria Kingdom."
Outside, they saw a large broomstick waiting for them.
Kiyomi's eyes widened. "It's so big!"
Yuto nodded. "Yeah, it is."
The group climbed aboard the broomstick, ready to begin their journey.
On the Way to Aetheria Kingdom
As they soared through the sky, Ayame commented, "It's automatic, so we don't have to worry."
Kiyomi nodded. "Yeah, it's great."
Eight hours passed, and the broomstick gradually slowed down, bringing them to a stop. Everyone tumbled off, groaning.
Kenzo rubbed his head. "Ouch."
Ayame, Kiyomi, and Yuto all sighed in relief, tired from the long journey. "Finally, we're here," Ayame said.
"Yeah," Kiyomi agreed. "It was a long trip."
Yuto stretched and looked around. "It was worth it."
Suddenly, a voice echoed in the distance. "Astral Union, you've finally arrived."
Yuto's eyes widened. "Who's that?"
A woman stepped forward, smiling. "I'm Lyra. I'm 26 years old, and I'm the sister of the mighty hero of this kingdom."
Yuto looked her up and down, thinking to himself, Her figure is... impressive.
"Who are you, miss?" Yuto asked.
Kiyomi shot him a glare. "What are you staring at, Yuto?"
Yuto immediately snapped back to reality. "Nothing."
Lyra smiled at them. "Please follow me."
--
At the Mighty Hero's Office
After following Lyra to the mighty hero's office, they were greeted by Ike, the mighty hero.
"Welcome, 'Astral Union,'" Ike said with a grin. "I'm Ike kaiden, the mighty hero of this kingdom."
Kenzo's mind raced. This is the mighty hero?
Ayame introduced herself. "I'm Ayame Mizushima, Princess of Zephyros Kingdom."
Yuto stepped forward. "I'm Yuto. Never give up. Nice to meet you."
Kenzo smiled. "I'm Kenzo. Never give up. Nice to meet you."
Kiyomi bowed. "I'm Kiyomi Takane. It's a pleasure to meet you all."
Lyra looked at them with a curious expression. "Never give up? What clan is that?"
Yuto and Kenzo both smiled and said, "We made it ourselves."
---
At the King's Palace
A few hours later, they arrived at the king's palace. They entered the grand hall and were greeted by the king himself.
"Welcome, 'Astral Union,'" the king said with a warm smile. "I am King Alaric, the second king of this kingdom."
Yuto was surprised. "The second king?"
Lyra spoke up. "Yes. Our previous king passed away a few weeks ago, killed by the Xenons."
Kenzo frowned. "Xenons?"
The king nodded solemnly. "Yes, the Xenons are from another universe, called Novaera. They don't use magic, but they rely on a powerful technology called Scionix."
Yuto was intrigued. "What is Scionix?"
Lyra explained, "Scionix is a form of advanced technology that manipulates energy and matter, far beyond the capabilities of traditional magic. It allows users to create powerful artifacts and machines capable of extraordinary feats."
Kenzo nodded. "So, we can use Scionix too?"
The king answered, "Yes. But it's not as simple as using magic. It requires great skill and knowledge."
Yuto's eyes narrowed. "Are they more powerful than demons?"
The king shook his head. "No, but they are dangerous in their own way."
Ayame asked, "Why did the Xenons attack your kingdom?"
The king sighed. "Because our princess is a Cursed Hero."
Kenzo and Yuto exchanged looks of shock. "Cursed… Hero?" they asked in unison.
The king continued, "Long ago, the Xenons attacked Earth. Our gods intervened to stop them, but demons killed the gods. Afterward, they took the gods' magic and the demons' magic and created two rings. One is called the Infernal Signet."
Kenzo's ring began to glow, sensing the mention of the ring.
"Where is the other ring?" Yuto asked.
The king paused, his expression darkening. "The second ring is called the 'Onyx Hellring.' It is purely demonic in nature and contains immense dark power."
Scene changes to the hot spring.
Ayame: I feel nice. Where is Rose?
Kiyomi: She was sleeping.
Kiyomi: Princess Ayame, I want to ask you one question.
Ayame: Yeah, of course.
Kiyomi: Your... um, your chest is so big for someone your age.
Ayame (shocked): What?!
Kiyomi: Don't be angry, but I think yours is bigger than mine.
Ayame (touches her chest): Really?
Kiyomi (blushing): It's big...
Kiyomi also touches Ayame's chest.
Kiyomi: It is big. (thinking)
Ayame (blushing and thinking): What if Kenzo touches me... my chest?
Ayame (thinking about Kenzo): What if he...
Kenzo: Ayame, your chest is so big. Can we... get married and have many babies?
Ayame: Yes, of course.
They lay down on the bed.
Kiyomi: Princess Ayame! (loudly)
Ayame: Oh, Kiyomi.
One hour later
The doors open.
Kenzo and Yuto enter.
Ayame and Kiyomi are on the other side.
Yuto (thinking): Princess Ayame's chest is bigger.
They leave.
Servant: They were here your room.
They head to their rooms to sleep.But up in the sky, a UFO appears. Inside, a masked figure speaks.
Masked Figure: So, the cursed heroes and the Infernal Signet
are here.
The game begins now.
Hahahahahaha.
To be continued...