The announcement echoed through every news channel, every radio, and even online platforms. The first-ever A+ Rank Essence Warrior Tournament had been scheduled. The tournament promised the most intense battles of the century, pitting the best of the best against each other for a 5 million USD reward, alongside the honor of becoming the strongest Essence Warrior in the world.
Riku leaned back in his chair, the morning news broadcast illuminating his face as he stared at the screen. His mom, Sayuri, and his sister, Yuki, sat at the table with him, both clearly excited by the idea.
"Five million!" Yuki exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. "You could buy anything with that!"
Riku chuckled. "I don't really need the money. And it's going to bring even more fame. I don't want any more attention, especially not for something like this."
Sayuri leaned in, giving him a gentle nudge. "It could be fun, Riku. You've been working hard, and it's a good way to test your skills. Plus, you deserve some time to enjoy yourself."
Riku hesitated, glancing at Yuki, who was now pulling out a map of possible new cars, clearly picturing Riku's next purchase. "I don't know... the fame isn't what I want. It's just a tournament."
"But, it would be fun!" Yuki persisted. "And you can finally show how much you've grown!"
Riku grinned, shaking his head. "You two just want me to spend the money, don't you?"
Sayuri laughed. "Maybe just a little bit." She leaned back in her chair, smiling. "But seriously, Riku, you've been through so much. Maybe it's time you take a break and do something that could actually help you grow as a warrior. Who knows? You might surprise yourself."
Riku exhaled, rubbing his neck. "I don't really care about being the strongest. I'm already where I need to be."
But before he could finish, a knock on the door interrupted the moment. When Riku opened it, standing outside was none other than Toru Kurotaki with his usual cocky smirk.
"I heard the news," Toru said, crossing his arms. "About this tournament. How about it, Riku? Scared to compete with real men?"
Riku raised an eyebrow, not bothered by the challenge but amused. "Scared? You know me better than that, Toru. You're the one who should be worried about competing with me."
Toru chuckled, the challenge in his voice growing. "Then why not join? Afraid of showing the world you're not as good as you think you are?"
Yumi appeared behind Toru, pushing him forward lightly, her cheeks pink with embarrassment. "You know, Riku, it's just a chance to test your skills. I think you'd do great."
Riku shot her a small smile. "I've got nothing to prove. I already know where I stand."
But Toru wasn't about to give up. "Come on, Riku. If you're really not scared, show me. Or is the old you still lurking around in there—afraid of stepping up to the challenge?"
Riku's eyes narrowed slightly. Middle school. The memories of being looked down on, the taunts... the feeling of being underestimated.
"I don't need your reminders, Toru," Riku said, his voice quiet but firm. "You can keep talking all you want. I'm not interested in your games."
Toru laughed, brushing it off. "Whatever you say. Just don't come crying to me when you realize you should've joined."
Yumi sighed, then turned to Riku with a pleading look. "I really think you should do it, Riku. It's just for fun, right? You're already a strong warrior, and who knows? You might actually enjoy it."
Riku shook his head, still uncertain. "I don't—"
Then, his mother and sister, who had been quietly watching the exchange, spoke up once more. Sayuri looked at him with a soft smile. "You know, you've been working hard for a while now. I think a little competition would be a good change. And who knows? Maybe you'll meet someone you can learn from."
Yuki added, "And I'll finally have someone to cheer for in the stands! Please, big brother?"
Riku looked between them. They were all so hopeful, so determined to see him step up. They wanted him to have fun, to enjoy something for himself, for once.
With a sigh, Riku rolled his eyes but gave in. "Alright, alright. Fine. I'll do it. But I'm not doing this for the fame or money, got it?"
Yuki jumped up, clapping her hands. "Yes! Thank you, Riku!"
Toru and Yumi exchanged a look. Toru smirked. "I knew you'd come around. Don't disappoint me, Riku."
Riku gave him a teasing look. "Don't worry. I'll try not to make you cry too hard."
Toru smirked back, unfazed. "Just make sure you don't lose to anyone else. Or I'll really have to show you what a man looks like."
Riku laughed. "You're on."
As the conversation died down, Riku's thoughts drifted briefly to the tournament. This wasn't about proving himself or stepping into the spotlight. It was about testing his skills—no more, no less.
But deep inside, something else tugged at him. He hadn't competed in something like this before. It might just be fun.