The days following our conversation felt heavier than ever. Every training session, every step I took, constantly reminded me that there was no escaping my destiny. Those who pursued me were drawing closer, and I had to prepare to face them.
I didn't know how I was going to do it, but I knew that I had to control it. The power within me wasn't something to be destroyed—it was something that needed to be safeguarded and used wisely. For myself, for the world, and for those I loved.
That afternoon, as I walked home with Aoi, something felt different. The world around us, usually so ordinary, seemed filled with tension. The sounds of the city were louder, the pace of our footsteps quicker. It was as if something hung in the air, waiting to explode.
"Aoi, there's something I need to tell you," I began, feeling an unease settle deep in my chest.
Aoi looked at me, her expression full of concern. "What's wrong, Haruto? You look really tense."
I stopped for a moment and faced her. "Aoi... this world is more complicated than you think. There are things happening, and I have to involve you in this."
Aoi seemed confused, but she listened intently.
"There are powerful forces after me," I continued. "And I have to fight, not just for myself, but for this world. I can't do it alone."
Aoi fell silent for a moment, her eyes searching mine. Then, without hesitation, she took my hand in hers, gripping it tightly. "Haruto, whatever happens, I'll be here. I trust you."
I felt the warmth of her touch, and in that moment, despite the darkness looming around us, Aoi remained the one source of light in my life. I made a silent vow to myself that I would protect her, no matter what came our way.
As the days passed, I focused all my energy on my training, pushing myself to the limits. I couldn't afford to hold back. The enemies coming for me were no longer a distant threat; they were right at our doorstep.
And yet, even as I prepared for war, a part of me kept asking: would I be able to face these challenges and protect those I loved? Would I be strong enough to carry the weight of the responsibility that had been thrust upon me?
I couldn't answer that yet. But one thing was clear: the road ahead would be long and treacherous, and there would be no turning back once the battle began.