It was a rare, peaceful day. The tension of the recent attack by the Savages on Little Garden during the Garden Festa had dissipated, and for now, there was an unusual sense of calm. Three months had passed since the harrowing event, and the world seemed to be catching its breath.
The Little Garden; a massive aircraft carrier with a town built on top of it build by the Warslan Company; is docked by the port of the country Yamato. Either to resupply or to have a transfer of new citizens coming on board; the ship remained there for a period of time.
As so, there's a minivan car that goes down the ramp road docked to the Little Garden; this vehicle belonging to Hayato who is currently going off board the Little Garden and upon the soils of his home nation.
Hayato guided his car along the highway with a steady hand, his gaze focused on the road as the familiar scenery of Yamato rolled by. In the backseat, his little sister, Karen, and his friend/idol, Kirishima Sakura, relaxed in the quiet hum of the drive. They were on their way to Yamato, a tranquil town in the mountains, where Hayato hoped to reconnect with old friends and meet a government official from Little Garden's Yamato branch for business purposes.
Hayato glanced in the rearview mirror, watching Karen as she rested her head against the window, her eyes half-closed, enjoying the gentle ride while humming a bit.
"It's kind of a shame we couldn't bring Miharu-san and Vitaly-san with us," Karen said, breaking the silence. She turned to look at Hayato with a thoughtful smile. "It would've been nice for all of us to be here together, right?"
"True," Hayato agreed, a warmth in his voice as he thought about his wives. Miharu and Vitaly had been unable to join them on this trip, and he felt their absence keenly. "But they have their hands full right now."
Karen sighed, a hint of longing in her expression. "I know, I know. I just thought it would be fun… and besides, Alina-chan and Hayate-chan would've loved this road trip. We could have shown them around Yamato."
Sakura nodded, smiling gently at Karen's wistful tone. "They would have, but it's probably for the best they're not here cause they are already busy as it is— Vitaly has her work to think about, and Miharu got her hands full with Alina-chan and Hayate-chan too."
"that's right.." Karen giggled thinking back to her little niece and nephew that were attention seekers.
"let's bring them to Yamato next time we visit." Hayato said after chuckling.
This is a holiday trip for Karen who is allowed out of the hospital after being bedridden for so long, but for Sakura; this is somewhat of a free time for her to relax from being an idol.
As Hayato was focused on driving, he glances at Sakura who seems rather out of mind while she watches the view outside.
"you got something on your mind?" Hayato asks as Sakura glances back at him before to the window.
"yeah, somewhat." Sakura replied. "been a tough week for me in some point."
"I know, but don't let it hold you back." Hayato said with a smile. "you faced him and you confronted him. You should be proud of yourself."
"I guess so." Sakura replied.
Before their arrival to Yamato, Hayato had done some research on Sakura and found the location of her father to which she was brought to meet him. This all happened one week ago too.
flashback
at a local town somewhere in Rasiya Empire, a place that is only miles north east from Yamato.
After weeks of searching, Hayato had finally uncovered the information he needed. He'd handed Sakura a report that was both a gift and a curse: her father's location. He was living in an almost derelict part of town, tucked away in a run-down apartment building that looked more abandoned than inhabited. Sakura had spent days deciding whether she'd face him, but in the end, she couldn't ignore the chance to finally confront the man who had hurt her so deeply. And now, with Hayato by her side, she walked through the flickering, dimly lit hallway leading to the place where he lived.
"Are you ready?" Hayato asked, his hand resting gently on her shoulder. She could see the concern in his eyes, and the warmth of his support kept her grounded.
Sakura took a deep, shaky breath and nodded. "I have to do this. I need to know why."
They stopped in front of the scuffed, dented door that had once been painted green but now hung crookedly on its hinges. Taking one last breath, she knocked. Moments passed, and just as she was about to turn away, the door cracked open, revealing a man she barely recognized.
Her father.
He looked gaunt and weary, as though life had carved every failure into the lines of his face. A tattered shirt clung to his frame, his thinning hair unkempt, and he stared at her through bleary eyes, a mixture of surprise and confusion clouding his expression.
"S-Sakura…" he murmured, his voice hoarse. He took an unsteady step back, letting the door swing open wider, revealing the squalor inside the apartment. Crumpled newspaper clippings, empty bottles, and piles of unwashed clothes lay strewn across the small space. The air was thick with a stale, bitter smell that Sakura couldn't ignore. This was the man who had once been her father.
"Is this all you have left?" she asked, her voice trembling with a mixture of anger and heartbreak.
The man scratched his head, averting his eyes as if he couldn't bear to look at her. He sank back onto a stained, sagging couch, mumbling something under his breath. Hayato's hand remained steady on her shoulder, grounding her, and she felt a rush of courage surge through her.
"Why did you do it?" Sakura's voice came out cold and clear, each word cutting through the silence. "Why did you sell me to them?"
Her father flinched, reaching for a nearly empty bottle nearby. "I… I had no choice. The bills… after your mother left…" His words trailed off, his gaze dropping to the floor.
"Didn't you think about what would happen to me?" Her voice broke slightly, but she held her ground. "They took me, injected me with something that turned me into a… a variant. I watched children die in front of me. You sold me to a place that treated us like test subjects, Dad. And every single one of those children—my friends—are gone."
Her father's face twisted with something that looked like guilt, but it wasn't enough. He shook his head, hands trembling as he gripped the bottle. "You don't understand, Sakura. I didn't have any other way. I couldn't pay for your treatments. I… I thought it would help you."
"Help me?" Sakura laughed bitterly, but it quickly turned into a sob. "They promised me treatment, but they turned me into something else! I had no one to help me. They made me a weapon, and I watched my friends lose themselves one by one. And do you know what I kept thinking through it all?"
Her father looked at her, fear and shame mingling in his bloodshot eyes.
"I kept thinking you'd come back for me." Her words were barely a whisper. "I thought you'd realize what you'd done and come to get me. But you didn't."
Sakura's hands clenched at her sides, her knuckles white. "I was the last survivor, Dad. I was the last child left. And I realized, alone in that lab, that you were never coming. Do you know how that feels?"
He opened his mouth to speak, but Hayato took a step forward, his eyes flashing with barely restrained anger. "She needed you," he said, his tone cold and unforgiving. "And you left her to fend for herself in hell."
Her father looked away, his shoulders hunched as if he was trying to fold into himself. "I was… I was a mess, Sakura. After your mom left, I couldn't handle it. The drinking… it was the only thing that kept me from…" His voice cracked, but Sakura felt no sympathy.
"From what?" she challenged, her voice rising. "From facing the fact that you abandoned your daughter? That you sold her off like she was nothing?"
The silence hung thickly between them, heavy with all the words that had gone unsaid for years.
Sakura took a shaky breath, gathering the last of her strength. "I don't know what I expected to find here. Maybe a piece of the man I used to call my father. But looking at you now, I don't see him anymore. He's gone."
Her father slumped back, his eyes hollow as he met her gaze for the first time. There was something like understanding in his expression, but it was too late.
"You lost me the day you gave me up," Sakura whispered, her voice breaking under the weight of her pain. "You lost me forever."
Hayato stepped forward, wrapping an arm around her shoulders and guiding her toward the door. But just as they were about to leave, Sakura turned back one last time.
"I just want you to live with that," she said, her voice fierce, her eyes burning with the fire of years lost and memories shattered. "Every single day. Because that's what I've had to do."
With that, she turned and left, Hayato at her side, the door swinging shut behind them with a heavy finality.
Outside, Sakura stopped, the cool air filling her lungs as she closed her eyes, feeling a strange calm settle over her.
"Are you okay?" Hayato asked quietly.
She nodded, a bittersweet smile tugging at her lips as she looked up at him. "I am now."
He smiled back, his gaze warm and unwavering. "Good. Because you're not alone anymore, Sakura."
Sakura's eyes glistened as she met his gaze, a sense of peace washing over her at last. "Thank you, Hayato. For everything."
And with that, they walked away, leaving the ghosts of her past behind.
flashback
As the minivan car rounded a bend, Yamato came into view, framed by mist-laden mountains and the spread of dense, vibrant greenery. It was a place Hayato hadn't visited in years, a town of small shrines, stone pathways, and the soothing scent of cedar that brought him back to simpler times. For him, it held memories of youth and friendship, though now, his return held a weightier purpose.
Karen leaned forward slightly, peering at the town nestled in the valley below. "uwa~! The town is as pretty as I could've remembered~!"
"definitely." Hayato nodded as he turned a corner and went up a straight road that leads to the town's main entrance gate. "but first, let's go and meet our old friends." He then glances at Karen. "I'm sure they'd be surprised to meet you on your feet, Karen."
"yup~!" Karen smiles with excitement. The truth of her being able to walk because of Hayato's control over the virus in her body was turned with a lie with a new medicine created by Charlotte and Vitaly which resulted in her getting her ability to use her legs again.
The car finally pulled into Yamato, the cozy town welcoming them with its quiet charm. Hayato found a place to park near the center of town, and as he stepped out, he took a deep breath, feeling the calmness of the mountains settle over him.
Karen hopped out, stretching her arms and looking around with wide eyes. "It's even prettier up close~!" she said with awe. "I didn't realize how much I missed this place when I was little~."
Sakura stood beside her, taking in the view with a small smile. "It feels like a different world up here. Peaceful."
Hayato looked at his sister and Sakura, a sense of gratitude welling up within him.
"Let's go meet our old friends," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "After that, I'll meet with the official and see what's next for us."
The three of them set off together, the town of Yamato stretching before them, a place of solace and new beginnings.
In one area of the Town. There is a cemetery field placed by as Hayato and Karen walked amongst them before arriving to one that had the name Kisaragi written upon its engravings. This place holds the memorial for all the people who had died from the Savage Attack; that includes their parents as well.
The day was clear and tranquil as Hayato and Karen approached the family cemetery, the distant rustle of the trees the only sound breaking the quiet of the hillside. The weathered stones stood in rows, silent guardians of memories past. Sakura had offered them some privacy, lingering at the entrance to give the siblings a moment with their late parents.
With quiet reverence, they made their way to the graves of their mother and father. Karen carried a delicate bouquet of wildflowers in her hands, while Hayato held sticks of incense. The siblings knelt before the gravestones, bowing their heads as they whispered their prayers.
Karen's voice was soft but filled with a sadness that hadn't dulled over the years. She arranged the flowers on the grave carefully, smoothing the petals almost as if she were laying a comforting hand on her mother's shoulder. "Okaasan… Otousan… it's been so long since I could visit you. I wish… I wish you were here to see everything. So much has happened. I can walk now, Nii-san is a hero, and there's so much more that had happened afterwards" A tremor crept into her voice, and Hayato placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, but he said nothing, letting her words flow. "Things are good now," she continued, a fragile smile tugging at her lips. "Nii-san has a family now. You'd be proud of him, Okaasan. Otousan… he's a wonderful father." Her voice cracked, and she lifted a hand to cover her trembling lips, trying to regain composure. "His children, Alina-chan and Hayate-chan… they're so beautiful," she whispered, her eyes bright with unshed tears. "Alina-chan is a bundle of energy and Hayate-chan looks just like Nii-san. I… wish you could meet them." Her voice grew thicker with each word, and a few tears slipped down her cheeks as she looked at the gravestone, imagining her parents smiling, watching over her with pride. "They would have adored you both. And I just… I wish you were here to see them, to hold them. They'll grow up strong, but… it feels unfair that they won't know the kind of warmth and love you always gave us."
Karen's words hung in the air, each one a plea, a wish, and a sorrow wrapped in fragile hope. Hayato felt his own heart tighten at her words, sharing the same ache, though he kept his gaze lowered, his own emotions simmering beneath a stoic exterior.
Hayato laid a hand on the cold, worn stone, tracing the characters etched in memory of his mother and father, the silence around them as profound as it was heavy. His gaze, steady and intense, reflected the weight of promises unspoken for too long.
After a long pause, Hayato drew a deep breath, feeling an ache in his chest as he prepared to speak. "Okaasan, Otousan…" His voice was low, raw with a mix of sorrow and resolve. "It's been a long time. I know… I know I haven't always been the son you might have imagined, and the path I've taken has been far from simple." His words wavered for a moment as he steadied himself, his grip on the gravestone tightening as if to anchor himself. "Life has taken me places I never thought I'd go. But I have a family now, just like Karen had told you" he murmured, voice softening as he thought of his wife and children. "Two beautiful children, Alina and Hayate, who have their whole lives ahead of them. They're precious, and I'm doing everything I can to give them a life of safety and happiness." He paused, his voice thick with emotion. "I only wish you could have met them. I wish you could see… see how much they've given me, how much purpose they've brought to my life." He gently caress the gravestones and patted it a few times. "Please, look after Karen, and look after my children. Watch over them, even if it's from afar. I'll take whatever price comes due… just keep them safe."
Karen leaned against her brother's shoulder, her soft, quiet tears finally falling freely as she clung to the only family she had left, the memories of the family they had lost woven between them like a delicate thread. The two stayed there for some time, their silent wishes merging with the incense smoke that rose toward the sky, carrying their love and longing to a place they hoped their parents could hear.
After visiting the grave of their parents, Hayato, Karen, and Sakura headed for their next destination that lay farther up the mountainside. The group plans to visit the Savage Killer's old dojo master. Kenzaki Ryusei.
Following the cemetery visit, the group had to take a roundabout path, as the dojo was nestled on the opposite slope of the mountain from the family cemetery, creating a triangular route. It was a winding, unpaved trail full of steep climbs and descents, but Hayato pushed forward with determined strides, memories of his training days with Ryusei resurfacing with each step.
About fifteen minutes later, the samurai residence-style building came into view, standing with a humble, quiet elegance against the backdrop of forested hills. The structure was as Hayato remembered—traditional and weathered with age, yet brimming with an air of resilience. It was here, under Ryusei's guidance, that the man had learned discipline, strength, and a way to channel his inner turmoil. The dojo itself stood beside the house, its old wooden beams a testament to years of dedication to the martial arts.
"wow, it looks…old.." Sakura commented in seeing the structure.
"and quite empty." Karen looks around and sees no one at all. "I wonder if Ryusei-san is out at the moment? Or just drinking like he always do?"
"maybe so." Hayato commented before he took a deep breath as they reached the entrance, his heart warming at the sight. Despite his mentor's somewhat eccentric personality, he held an immense respect and gratitude for the man. Ryusei had been more than a teacher; he was the one who'd helped the young man become the person he was today.
As they were about to enter the grounds, an unexpected voice rang out.
"Kisaragi Hayato! Have a match with me!" a voice called out as this startled Hayato and the others.
"who!?" Sakura cried out, surprised and alerted.
Hayato looked around before he looks up. About three meters above him, perched on the branch of a thick tree, was a young girl with a wide, confident grin. She wore a kendo uniform, her red hair fluttering like a flame in the gentle breeze, her wooden sword gripped tightly in one hand as she pointed it directly at him.
"a girl?" Hayato said before thinking on who the girl might be. 'since she's wearing a kendo uniform, she might be a student of Ryusei-san…'
The girl looked young, probably younger than Karen, and her stance and the sharp glint in her eye showed she was clearly well-versed in kendo, perhaps more serious about it than her age suggested.
"let's do this!" Without warning, she shifted her weight on the branch and leapt from the tree, her voice filled with challenge. But halfway through the jump, her confidence wavered. "Fuee!?" she cried, her expression turning from fierce to horrified as she realized the branch had cracked beneath her. She had put too much weight on it, and her landing quickly shifted into a full-on fall toward the ground below.
"It's dangerous!" Hayato shouted, his body tensing before moving swiftly to catch her. He dashed and quickly jumped to catch her before he went and landed his feet on the ground that has a long drag mark but he fell off balance and got his back to the dirt with the girl on top of him. "oof!"
"owie~" the girl held a hand to her head for a moment before she gasps in surprise to her current position on top of Hayato. Quickly scrambling off him, she dusted herself off, eyes blazing with determination. "You really have fallen out of practice if you couldn't catch me. How disappointing!"
Karen and Sakura exchanged amused glances as the girl, now steady, took a defensive stance with her wooden sword, as though her fall had been nothing more than a warm-up.
"Who exactly are you?" Hayato asked, eyebrows raised while he gets back up. The familiarity of her form, her grip on the sword, and her stance echoed a style he knew too well.
The girl huffed, pointing the tip of her bokken toward him. "I should be the one asking that. You've become nothing but a disappointment, Kisaragi Hayato! You used to train here all the time, but now, instead of dedicating yourself to your craft, you're distracted with… well, with women!"
Hayato blinked in surprise, her fierce glare sparking memories of his old master's teachings. "What? Wait, who are you and why did you just.." But before he could piece together the connection, she lunged forward, her bokken striking swiftly toward him.
Instinctively, Hayato dodged, his reflexes sharp, every step honed from years of practice. Karen and Sakura watched, both captivated and impressed by the girl's form.
"She's really skilled," Karen murmured, noticing the precision in the girl's strikes against her brother. "she's actually making my brother in defensive."
"She must be a new student at the dojo," Sakura replied. "if she's this good, she must've learned under the same person as Hayato."
Hayato continued to dodge, sidestepping her attacks with ease but also growing more puzzled with each swing. Her strikes weren't just similar to his master's style—they were almost identical.
"Who exactly are you?" he asked again, his voice steady as he caught her bokken mid-swing, halting her strike completely. With a slight twist of his hand, the wooden sword splintered, and the girl's eyes widened in disbelief. "answer me now."
"W-what?!" she stammered, staring down at the broken pieces of her weapon.
Hayato held her gaze, serious now. "I don't know who you are, but you don't just challenge someone out of nowhere. Now, tell me—why did you come at me like that?"
Before the girl could answer, a familiar voice called from nearby, deep and resonant, but tinged with the casual tone of someone who hadn't expected a duel scene unfolding at the entrance.
"What's all this?" The voice belonged to Kenzaki Ryusei, a tall, broad-shouldered man with scruffy, unshaven features and a worn but confident look in his eyes. He stood nearby while balancing shopping bags in both hands, clearly just returning from a trip to the market. A grin tugged at the corner of his mouth as he took in the scene: the young girl, her broken sword, and Hayato holding the splintered remains. "why does it seem like a duel just took place when I arrived?"
"Ryusei-san!" Hayato called out, relief evident in his voice.
But then, to his surprise, the girl turned as well, eyes lighting up with a mix of frustration and embarrassment. "Uncle!" she exclaimed, hurrying over to Ryusei.
"Uncle?" Hayato repeated in shock, glancing between the two of them. Ryusei chuckled, looking down at the girl with a casual, affectionate ruffle of her hair. "wait, is she?"
"This little fireball is my niece, Touka," he said, his voice tinged with pride. "She's been training here for a while now. But it looks like she's inherited more than just a few techniques—seems she's got a thing for challenging people, too." He raised an eyebrow at Touka, who blushed, the fierceness momentarily replaced by sheepishness. "just like her mother too."
Hayato shook his head, a laugh escaping him as he looked at the girl. "So that explains it… Touka, huh?"
Ryusei shrugged, glancing at Hayato. "She's wanted to test her skills against my best student for a while now, I think. Also welcome back, Hayato."
Hayato sighs a bit with a smile and nodded in greeting his teacher.
Touka's face turned defiant again, her embarrassment fading. "I'll train harder, Uncle, and next time, I won't lose so easily!"
"yes, I know. But that is for a later time." Ryusei said as he handed one of his shopping bags for Touka to take and he then patted his niece's head a few times with a free hand. "but for now, let's properly greet our visitors, alright?"
Afterwards, everyone entered the Dojo as it was just filled with the scent of wood and the textured feeling of a proper Yamatoese built home.
"never been in a Dojo before." Sakura said as she looks around the place and spots bamboo swords, scrolls with the written Kanji of Peace, Guts, and Spirit, along with one particular spot for an altar like place that has a long black sword that laid rested upon its very top. "the outside looks old but the inside is well kept."
"looks like this place is kept up nice and tidy since the last time I was here." Hayato said as Ryusei chuckles while placing away the shopping bags.
"yeah, after getting Touka to join the place. Things started to get more tidier before I knew it." Ryusei said as he started to make tea for the guests. "though, cleaning the place proves to be good exercise for her when she is not training."
"Uncle was just too lazy and it's un-hygienic to be training in a dirty dojo." Touka commented and Ryusei felt an emotional stab to his heart while Hayato chuckles awkwardly in response.
Everyone sat at the dojo's training floor as tea and crackers were served for everyone.
"Once again, it's good to see you again, Hayato." Ryusei said with a smile as he eyed his disciple's stature and form. "The last time I saw you, I sensed a potential that could grow like a flower and here you are bloomed."
"Thank you, Ryusei-san." Hayato nodded with a smile. "it was only with your teaching that I learned to properly grow myself."
"and you must be Karen-chan, right?" Ryusei asks seeing Hayato's little sister while smiling. "look at you now, you grew taller and you're even walking now! The trip to Little Garden must've really worked well for you if you're this healthy now!"
"yes." Karen smiles. "now that I'm all better, I can finally get to see the world even better!"
"I see." Ryusei chuckles before seeing Sakura. "so you are? Sorry, but I don't recognize you at first glance. Are you a friend of Hayato's?"
A faint sigh escaped the woman, though it was accompanied by an understanding smile. "Ah, I see. So even this place has some limits with media coverage, huh?" Her tone carried a hint of playful exasperation as she offered a slight bow. "My name is Kirishima Sakura. Just call me Sakura."
Ryusei tilted his head in thought. "Kirishima Sakura…?"
For a moment, the name hung in the air as Ryusei processed it. Then, as though a bolt of lightning struck him, his eyes widened, and his jaw dropped. At the same time, his niece, Touka, who had been quietly observing from the side, gasped loudly.
"EHHH?! Kirishima Sakura?! The idol?! The Kirishima Sakura?!" Ryusei exclaimed, his deep voice carrying an uncharacteristic pitch of disbelief.
Touka clutched her hands to her chest, her usually composed demeanor shattered as she squealed, "You're real?! I mean, of course, you're real, but you're really here?!"
Sakura blinked, taken aback by the sudden outburst. "Uh… yes, I'm real," she replied with an amused laugh. "Nice to meet you."
"I can't believe it!" Touka practically danced on the spot, her excitement bubbling over. "I'm such a huge fan! I have all your albums, posters, and even the limited-edition concert merchandise! Can I… can I please get your autograph? On all my merchandise!?"
"Autograph?" Ryusei interjected suddenly, his expression flipping from stunned to determined. "I need one too! Hold on, let me grab something to write on!"
As if powered by the same energy as a Hundred's Variable Stone, Ryusei darted toward the shrine's altar, rummaging through a drawer until he produced a blank piece of paper and a marker. "Got it!" he declared triumphantly, only to find Touka blocking his path, arms spread wide.
"Wait a minute!" Touka protested, her voice filled with indignation. "I asked first! I should get her autograph first!"
Ryusei shot her a flat look. "I'm older, so I have seniority. That means I get my autograph first!"
"You're being childish!" Touka huffed before she tries to get the paper from him.
"And you're being selfish!" Ryusei shot back, holding the paper out of her reach.
The scene quickly devolved into a comedic standoff, with Ryusei and Touka arguing like siblings rather than uncle and niece. Watching this unfold, Hayato could only rub the back of his head awkwardly, a sheepish smile creeping onto his face.
"Looks like Ryusei-san hasn't changed much," he muttered under his breath.
Karen, however, giggled unabashedly. "I'm just glad you didn't pick up this kind of behavior, Onii-chan," she teased, her eyes sparkling with mirth.
After a minute or two, Ryusei and Touka finally settled down, their autographs secured as they both stared at the signed papers in awe. Ryusei clutched his like a prized artifact, while Touka seemed ready to frame hers on the spot.
"Thank you so much!" Touka gushed, her earlier frustration completely forgotten.
"It's no problem," Sakura said, her voice warm as she flashed them both a dazzling smile. "I'm glad I could make you happy."
Ryusei cleared his throat, his expression turning serious once more. "Still, I have to admit I'm surprised. An idol like you, here of all places? I didn't expect that."
Sakura glanced at Hayato, who took the cue to explain. "Sakura's staying at Little Garden temporarily as part of her security detail," he said. "There have been some… incidents involving Savages and fan disruptions, so she's under our protection for now."
"Ah, I see," Ryusei said, nodding thoughtfully. "That makes sense. Still, it's an honor to meet someone as talented as you."
Sakura inclined her head gracefully. "Thank you, Ryusei-san. It's a pleasure to meet you too."
Turning his attention back to Hayato, Ryusei's gaze sharpened. "Now then, back to the matter at hand. You mentioned earlier that you've honed your skills further."
"I have," Hayato replied with confidence.
Ryusei's lips quirked into a knowing smile. "Words are easy, Hayato. Let's see if you can back them up." Rising to his full height, he walked to the altar, his movements deliberate. From its place of honor, he lifted a black longsword, its blade gleaming ominously in the fading sunlight.
"Follow me," Ryusei instructed, his tone leaving no room for argument. He led the group to the shrine's backyard, a wide open space bordered by tall trees. The air felt charged with anticipation as everyone gathered to watch what was about to unfold.
Hayato followed Ryusei with Karen, Sakura, and Touka trailing behind, each one quiet with anticipation. They moved through the dojo's back garden, coming to a clearing where a massive boulder sat, scarred with dozens of deep, jagged slashes—marks from previous attempts to cleave the rock in two.
Ryusei gestured to the boulder, folding his arms as he looked Hayato over. "I want you to give it a go, Hayato. Use the sword you usually rely on, that high-tech one you carry."
"is it to demonstrate something?" Hayato asks and Ryusei nodded.
"just watch and see after you did your turn." Ryusei replied.
Hayato nodded in understanding before he stepped forward as he prepared his weapon that appears when his Hundred gets activated. The Savage Killer started to focus as he wields his hi-tech katana with both hands before going into a stance. He was silent for a moment before he took a deep breath and then did a quick and powerful strike toward the boulder. The air whistled with the energy of his attack, a clean, formidable cut slicing into the rock, but the boulder remained intact, only bearing a fresh, deep gash along its side.
Ryusei chuckled, his gaze moving to Hayato. "A good effort. But that boulder's seen plenty of disciples try and fail to bring it down." He then stood in front of the boulder while grabbing hold of the Dojo's katana and then slowly unsheathing it to reveal it to be a pure black katana that was gleaming with an almost mythical aura. "Allow me to demonstrate what true mastery looks like."
Karen, Sakura, and Touka watched intently as Ryusei took his stance. He drew the blade in a single, fluid motion, then swiftly performed six precise, lightning-fast strikes in succession. Each slice carried an elegant, deadly force, a testament to the years of discipline behind every movement. As the sixth strike hit, the boulder stood silent for a beat before shattering into a hundred pieces, fragments scattering across the garden.
"That," Ryusei said as he sheathed the sword, "is Zaneizan. Six cuts in perfect harmony, each one amplifying the force of the others." He looked over to Hayato with a glint in his eye. "Now, it's your turn." He sheathed the katana back into its scabbard before throwing the weapon to his disciple who catches it. "use it and show me if you can master it." He then points to another boulder that was larger and marked with fewer slashes. "try it on that one."
Touka frowned from seeing this and stepped forward. "But Uncle! Isn't that sword meant to be wielded only by someone who's fully mastered our techniques? And… it was meant for me!"
Ryusei sighs and looks at Touka. "Touka, I understand. But Hayato here…" he looks at the Savage Killer who proceeded to draw the katana out of its scabbard and got into a stance. "He's the only disciple who's mastered each technique in his very soul. There's nothing left for him to learn."
"but I'm still!" Touka cried out before being shushed by Ryusei.
"just watch." Ryusei told her before everyone watched Hayato.
Hayato took a steady breath, gathering his focus. His mind replayed the technique, each precise strike Ryusei had performed, each movement carefully cataloged in his memory. With a calm exhale, he positioned himself, gripping the sword with both hands. A heartbeat later, he unleashed the Zaneizan technique, his body a blur of motion as he executed each strike.
At first nothing happened after Hayato delivered the strike, but the moment he sheathed the katana and made a loud clicking sound. The second boulder instantly turns into smithereens as it just gets obliterated.
Karen's hands flew to her mouth in surprise as she saw the boulder split apart. Sakura's eyes widened, captivated by Hayato's precision and power. And Touka—her mouth hung open in disbelief. Despite her training, despite her dedication, she had never managed to achieve what the young man had just done.
Ryusei smiled, proud satisfaction radiating from him as he looked at his disciple. "Perfectly executed. Hayato, you've become everything I hoped for in a student and more."
"thanks, Ryusei-san. But this sword feels somewhat.." Hayato slowly raises the weapon in his grasp and looks at the shine of its blade from the sunlight. "Heavy and mysterious…"
"you felt it too, huh?" Ryusei said as he received the weapon back from Hayato who sheathed it. "you see, this weapon has quite the unique history to it."
"unique history?" Hayato asks.
"this sword was forged by my older brother, Kenzaki Hokuto who is Touka's father." Ryusei said as he slowly draws the blade out and stares at his reflection in the blade. "it's made with normal steel from earth, but with the addition of a Variable Stone which was added into it as a source of a raw material."
"you mean that sword is like a Hundred's Weapon!?" Sakura asks surprised.
"It's similar to one, but not so much. You could consider it to be the Hundred Weapon's prototype but it's somewhat too heavy that not many people could wield it." Ryusei replied as he sheathes the blade back in. "however, if one got the right training and dedication; they can draw the sword and use it to even slice a Savage's tough exoskeleton like it's nothing but butter." He then did a quick draw stance that instantly created a long and wide cut mark on the ground that is nearly 3 feet long. "like so."
Karen and the others merely look amazed while Hayato seems to understand.
"now then, since we got all the pleasantries finished." Ryusei sighs a bit as he held the sheathed weapon to the side and looks at everyone with a smile. "Anyone up for some good old ramen?"
Everyone looks at him for a moment before to each other and then back to Ryusei.
"okay." They replied in unison.
The dojo's training hall had a comforting stillness, but it wasn't silent. From the direction of the kitchen came the clatter of pots, the sound of water boiling, and the lively chatter of three women working together to prepare dinner. The aromas of instant ramen and fresh vegetables began to drift into the hall, mingling with the faint scent of the dojo's well-worn wooden floors.
The dojo's modest kitchen was a flurry of activity. Karen stood at the counter, carefully slicing green onions and arranging them in neat piles. Sakura was at the stove, stirring a pot of boiling water as noodles swirled inside. Touka was rummaging through the pantry, pulling out various spices and ingredients with a determined expression.
"Do we have anything else to add to this?" Touka asked, holding up a small jar of dried seaweed.
"Seaweed's good," Karen said, glancing over her shoulder. "But don't overdo it. We want balance."
"I'm all for balance," Sakura added, "but we need something to give it a kick. Do we have chili oil?"
Touka held up a bottle triumphantly. "Got it!"
Sakura smiled. "Perfect. A little spice will elevate the flavor."
Karen giggled, watching the two work. "It's funny seeing you this excited over instant ramen, Sakura. I thought idols ate fancy meals all the time."
Sakura laughed, flipping her hair dramatically. "Oh, I do. But there's something comforting about simple food. Besides, cooking together makes it special."
Touka nodded, adding the seaweed to the bowls they had prepared. "It's kind of fun, isn't it? I don't usually get to cook with anyone else."
Karen smiled warmly. "That's what makes moments like this so nice. It's not about the food—it's about the company."
Sakura placed the pot on the table, steam rising as she divided the noodles into bowls. "Well, let's see if our masterpiece passes the taste test."
While they were cooking, Hayato and Ryusei were in the center hall of the dojo. Both sat cross-legged across from each other on tatami mats. A kettle of tea sat between them, wisps of steam curling lazily upward.
Ryusei poured tea into two small cups, offering one to Hayato before leaning back slightly, his expression thoughtful.
"Hayato," Ryusei began, his voice carrying the weight of nostalgia. "It's been, what, six years since you left here? This place has changed so much, but so have I."
Hayato smiled, taking a sip of the tea. "It's been a long time, hasn't it? But it feels like home hasn't changed at all. Everything is still so… grounded. Stable."
"that's for sure." Ryusei said while swirling the tea in his cup thoughtfully, "it's strange seeing this place so… full. For years, it was just me and Touka. Quiet days, routine training. And now you're back, bringing along Karen and…" He glanced toward the kitchen with a raised eyebrow. "An actual idol?"
Hayato chuckled. "Yeah, Sakura's presence tends to throw people off. She's not exactly what you'd expect in a dojo."
Ryusei snorted, setting his cup down. "That's putting it lightly. But I can see why you keep her around. She's good for morale, and Touka seems to adore her already."
Hayato nodded. "She has a way of connecting with people. It's one of the reasons she's so successful as an idol. But more than that, she's grounded. Genuine."
Ryusei leaned back, folding his arms. "And what about you, Hayato? How's life treating you?"
Hayato chuckled, setting his tea down. "Where do I even start?" He leaned back slightly, his expression thoughtful. "Well, I've earned the title of Little Garden's strongest Slayer. That came with its challenges, but it also gave me opportunities to make a real difference. We've managed to turn the tide against the Savages in ways I never thought possible."
Ryusei raised an eyebrow, impressed. "You're not just holding your own out there—you're leading the charge."
"It's been a team effort," Hayato said modestly. "But… I won't lie. There are moments I'm proud of. Like the time we coordinated a full-scale defense and wiped out a Savage nest. That was a turning point for all of us."
"And I hear you've been busy outside of the battlefield too," Ryusei teased, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Two wives and two kids, huh? You're making the rest of us look bad."
Hayato's face turned a light shade of pink, but he laughed, pulling out his phone. "I'm guessing Karen told you about that. Here." He swiped through a few photos before handing the phone to Ryusei.
The older man leaned in, his eyes widening as he examined the screen. The photo showed Hayato with two beautiful women—Vitaly, poised and elegant, and Miharu, radiant and kind. Both had their arms around Hayato, smiling warmly. In front of them were two children: Alina, her mother' spitting image, and Hayate, who already carried his father's confident demeanor.
"Damn," Ryusei muttered, sitting back with a low whistle. "Your wives are stunning. Absolutely stunning. And your kids—man, they're adorable." He handed the phone back, shaking his head. "You've got the whole package, don't you? Beautiful family, successful career. Makes a guy jealous."
Hayato chuckled nervously. "It's not as perfect as it looks, trust me. But I wouldn't trade it for anything."
"I bet," Ryusei said with a grin. "Still… meeting those two in person would be something. Especially Vitaly. She's got this air about her—regal, commanding."
"Not happening," Hayato cut in firmly, his expression deadpan. "I'm not introducing you to my wives, Ryusei-san. I know how you are."
Ryusei laughed, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Fine, fine. You've got me there."
The moment of reflection was interrupted by a burst of laughter from the kitchen.
"Not that much salt, Touka!" Sakura exclaimed, her voice teasing.
"But ramen needs flavor!" Touka shot back, her tone defensive but playful.
"Too much flavor will ruin it," Karen interjected gently. "Here, let me measure it out."
Ryusei chuckled, glancing toward the kitchen. "Sounds like they're having fun. Touka doesn't usually get this lively with strangers. Sakura must have some kind of magic."
"She's good with people," Hayato agreed, smiling as he listened to the banter. "Karen's the same way. She's always been able to bring out the best in others, even when she's being quiet."
Ryusei nodded, then leaned forward, his expression growing more serious. "Hayato, I need to talk to you about Touka."
Hayato tilted his head, his smile fading slightly. "What about her?"
"She wants to fight," Ryusei said simply. "And not just in sparring matches. She's been talking about joining the battle against the Savages."
Hayato's brows furrowed. "Touka? But she's still so young."
"She's determined," Ryusei said, his tone firm. "She's got the skill and the drive. But what she doesn't have is experience. I've taught her everything I know, but I'm not a Slayer nor can I even fight anymore, Hayato. I can't prepare her for what she'll face out there. That's why I'm asking you to take her to Little Garden. Train her. Show her what it means to be a Slayer."
Hayato hesitated, his mind racing. He thought of Touka's bright smile and the way she had laughed with Karen and Sakura just moments ago. Could he really take her into a world so dangerous?
"Why now?" he asked finally. "Why is this coming up now?"
Ryusei sighed, leaning back. "Because I've been offered a position with the Imperial Army. They want me to train their recruits in swordsmanship. It's a good deal for an old fighter like me and if I take it, I won't be here much. Touka needs someone who can guide her, and you're the only one I trust to do that."
Hayato considered this, his gaze thoughtful. Finally, he nodded. "I'll do it. I'll take her to Little Garden and teach her everything I know. You have my word."
Ryusei's face lit up with relief and gratitude. "Thank you, Hayato. You don't know how much this means to me." He then chuckles. "I can finally get to see all the ladies that the imperial army might have to offer."
'something tells me that was your main motive…' Hayato thought after sighing.
"oh, right. I almost forgot." Ryusei reaches to his back pocket and takes out a folded piece of paper that he handed to Hayato. "I was supposed to give you this if I get to meet you again."
"what's this?" Hayato asks as he takes and slowly unfolds the paper.
"when I was coming back from my shopping, I ran into an old friend of mine from the old days." Ryusei replied as Hayato unfolded the paper and finds it to be an entry pass with a signature from an official of the government. "if whenever you come back to Yamato, you need to go and visit Sasagawa of the Yamato Imperial Army in the Yamato Branch office."
"Sasagawa?" Hayato repeated, testing the name. "Who is he?"
Ryusei leaned back slightly, his expression contemplative. "He was a close friend of Touka father's and mine back in the old days. We fought side by side during the early Savage incursions. After the war, he joined the Imperial Army and worked his way up the ranks. Now, he's one of the few people in the military who's still fighting to uncover the truth about the Savages. He has information that could be invaluable to you and Little Garden."
Hayato's fingers tightened slightly on the paper. "What kind of information?"
"Details about the origins of the Savages, possible weaknesses, and some of the... questionable experiments the army's been conducting to combat them," Ryusei explained, his voice lowering. "He's been walking a fine line, trying to expose the truth without putting himself in danger. When he heard you were in Yamato, he asked me to arrange a meeting."
Hayato's gaze hardened. "And you trust him?"
"With my life," Ryusei said without hesitation. "Sasagawa isn't just a soldier. He's a man of principles, one of the few left in the army. He's been trying to reach out to people he can trust, people who can make a difference. That's you, Hayato."
Hayato folded the paper again, tucking it carefully into the inner pocket of his jacket. "Where can I find him?"
Ryusei nodded, satisfied. "He's stationed at a military outpost in Yamato for the next few days. The pass will get you through the checkpoints and into the secure area. Once you meet him, listen carefully to what he has to say. He might share things that even Little Garden doesn't know."
Hayato inclined his head, his expression resolute. "I'll go. If there's even a chance this information could help us fight the Savages, it's worth it."
Ryusei placed a hand on his shoulder, his grip firm. "You've always been someone who shoulders the weight of the world, Hayato. But remember, you're not alone. Use what you learn wisely, and come back safely."
Hayato nodded, his voice steady. "I will."
Their conversation was then interrupted by Sakura's voice from the kitchen. "the ramen is done!" afterwards, the kitchen door is slide to the side as the girls came out carrying the ramen bowls with them.
"Perfect timing." Ryusei said as the girls sat the ramen down on the table for them. "Let's eat."
"yeah." Hayato nods as he received his bowl from Karen.
About two hours later. after the meal, the group sat together in the dojo's main hall. The room felt cozy despite its spaciousness. The air was filled with quiet satisfaction from their shared meal, but Hayato's mind lingered on Ryusei's earlier request. The man currently watching Touka having a talk with Karen and Sakura about some topics near the dojo's side door..
"might as well ask her now." Hayato whispered before he went to Touka who saw him coming.
"what is it?" Touka asks, seeing him.
"got a moment for a private talk?" Hayato asks and he gave a look to Karen and Sakura who took a second to realize that it is an important talk and that they should give them some privacy, which they did in a minute.
"what is it about?" Touka asks as she slowly sits down near the door with Hayato.
"it's about your desire to fight." Hayato stated. "Touka, you want to fight against the Savages, don't you?"
"as much as anything I wish for." Touka replied quickly. "those aliens destroyed countless cities in our world and made so many lost their lives! I would do anything to fight them!" she then raises and clenches her fists tight. "for my father! My mother! For everyone! I'll cut them all down with my uncle's sword techniques!"
"You've been working hard here with Ryusei," Hayato began, choosing his words carefully. "But there's only so much you can learn in this dojo. If you're serious about wanting to fight the Savages, you'll need more advanced training. And that's something I can provide—if you're willing to come with me to Little Garden."
For a moment, Touka stared at him, her expression unreadable. Then, her eyes widened as realization dawned. "You mean… you'd take me as your student? Train me to be a Slayer?"
Hayato nodded. "If that's what you want, yes. But this isn't a decision to take lightly, Touka. Being a Slayer isn't just about fighting. It's about protecting others, even at the cost of your own life. It's dangerous, and it will push you to your limits. Are you ready for that?"
Touka's gaze was steady, her voice firm. "I've been ready for a long time, Hayato. I've dreamed of this since I was a little girl, watching my father fight to protect others. I want to do the same."
Hayato studied Touka's face, searching for any hint of hesitation. But all he saw was determination. He nodded again, his decision solidified. "Alright, then. I'll take you with me to Little Garden. We'll start your training as soon as we get there."
Touka's face lit up with excitement, and she bowed deeply. "Thank you, Hayato! I won't let you down."
"Don't thank me yet," Hayato said, his tone serious but kind. "The real work is just beginning." He then takes out his variable stone and instantly wields his hi-tech katana blade that materializes from red sparkles. "now, let's test if you can take me on when I'm holding back."
"alright!" Touka agreed instantly as she went to grab a sword for the test.
"be sure to not overdo it." Ryusei called out as he is watching tv while eating some snacks.
That's a wrap!
Bye bye