The morning sun, lazy and golden, seeped through the windows of the Golden Bloom Inn, painting the room in hues of amber and tranquility. It was as if Kin no Yama itself was drawing a breath, the fear that had clung to its streets for days finally beginning to dissipate.
Birds chirped a cheerful chorus from the balcony, their melodies mingling with the faint sounds of the innkeeper preparing breakfast downstairs. For the first time since arriving, Kin no Yama didn't feel like a gilded cage, suffocating under the weight of fear. It was… serene.
Haruki, however, was a storm brewing in this sea of calm.
"Ughhh… why is it morning already?" he groaned, burrowing deeper under the blanket, his hair a chaotic mess. "The sun's bullying me again…"
"Get up, you idiot."
Riiki stood framed in the doorway, already dressed, a steaming cup of tea in his hand. "Yuzuki said to meet her in ten minutes."
Haruki peeked out, his eyes narrowed. "Ten minutes? She didn't say ten minutes last night!"
"She did," Riiki said, his voice flat. "You were too busy snoring to hear it."
"I wasn't snoring," Haruki muttered, his cheeks flushing. "I was… breathing aggressively."
Before Riiki could retort, the door slid open further, revealing Yuzuki, her smile as bright as the morning sun. "Good morning, you two! Are you ready?"
Haruki jolted upright, scrambling to sit. "O-Oh! Yuzuki! Uh, yeah! Totally ready! Been awake for hours!"
Riiki sighed, taking a sip of his tea. "You were drooling five seconds ago."
Yuzuki giggled softly, her eyes dancing with amusement. "It's fine. Just make sure you don't keep the others waiting. We're meeting a new sensei today."
Haruki blinked, his brow furrowed. "Wait, new sensei? Since when?"
"Since Lord Tenrai requested him," Yuzuki replied, her tone turning serious. "He said you all need to improve before anything else happens. His name's Ryuken — he's one of the city's best martial and aura instructors."
Riiki raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Aura instructor, huh? Sounds interesting."
Haruki scratched his head, a flicker of apprehension in his eyes. "Sounds painful."
Training Ground – Kin no Yama Outer Field
The group gathered at the wide, open training field just below the golden mountain. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of metal and dust – a strange but familiar aroma in Kin no Yama. The entire city glimmered faintly below, the sunlight reflecting off the glass roofs like a thousand scattered diamonds.
Kyosuke was already there, arms crossed, his expression a mask of impatience. "Finally. You're late."
Haruki frowned, bristling at the accusation. "We're not late! The clock's wrong!"
"The clock is a sundial," Kyosuke said dryly, his gaze unwavering.
"Oh," Haruki muttered, deflating slightly. "Then the sun's wrong."
Furuha pinched the bridge of her nose, a sigh escaping her lips. "He's hopeless."
Misora giggled softly behind her hand, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "At least he's consistent."
Desmond stretched his arms, cracking his neck with a series of loud pops. "So, this Ryuken guy… where is he?"
A deep, calm voice echoed from behind them, sending a shiver down their spines.
"Right here."
They turned as one, their eyes widening. A tall man stood before them, his long, tied-back brown hair swaying gently in the breeze. His clothes were simple, functional, but edged with faint golden lines that hinted at hidden strength. His sharp green eyes, piercing and intense, carried a quiet strength that seemed to assess them with a single glance. Despite his calm expression, something about his presence made even Kyosuke straighten slightly, a flicker of respect in his eyes.
"I am Ryuken," he said, his voice resonating with authority. "Instructor of the Golden Vein Arts."
Haruki whispered to Riiki, his eyes wide with a mixture of awe and trepidation. "Golden Vein Arts? That sounds fancy."
"Shut up and listen," Riiki muttered, his attention fixed on Ryuken.
Ryuken crossed his arms behind his back, his gaze sweeping over them. "I've heard from Lord Tenrai about your encounter in the mine. It seems your teamwork — while enthusiastic — lacks coordination."
Furuha exhaled softly, acknowledging the truth in his words. "He's not wrong."
Haruki raised a hand weakly, attempting a defense. "Yeah, but in my defense, the ghost cheated."
Ryuken's eyebrow twitched, a hint of disapproval in his eyes. "Ghosts do not cheat. You simply lose focus."
Haruki's shoulders slumped, his bravado fading. "Harsh."
Ryuken continued calmly, his voice unwavering. "Today, I will test your synchronization, reaction time, and aura control. Those who rely too much on instinct will fail. Those who overthink will also fail."
Desmond grinned, a spark of excitement in his eyes. "So basically… don't fail."
Ryuken smirked faintly, a hint of challenge in his expression. "Exactly."
He turned to the open field, his movements fluid and graceful. "We begin."
The Training Trial
The first test was simple — or so they thought.
"Dodge," Ryuken said, his voice barely above a whisper.
A split second later, golden projectiles shot from the ground, erupting with surprising speed and force.
"Wait, what—!" Haruki yelped, ducking as a glowing shard barely missed his hair, leaving a singed scent in the air. "That's not simple!"
Kyosuke sliced one midair with perfect precision, his movements swift and deadly. "Eyes up. He's testing our movement pattern."
Furuha dashed between two shards, her flames erupting, cutting through another with a hiss of displaced air. "Stay together!"
Misora spun gracefully, deflecting a blast of energy with a shimmering barrier of light, her movements fluid and ethereal. "Focus on rhythm!"
Haruki, however, ran in the opposite direction, his eyes wide with panic. "My rhythm says survive!"
"Your rhythm's stupid!" Riiki shouted, yanking him back just before a shard grazed his arm.
Megumi typed rapidly on her device, creating an energy dome that shimmered with protective energy. "Everyone inside — regroup!"
Once the field calmed, Ryuken's voice echoed again, laced with a hint of disappointment. "Your defense is strong, but you lack harmony. You rely on reaction instead of connection."
Furuha frowned, her brow furrowed in thought. "Connection?"
He nodded, his gaze intense. "Your auras. Every one of you carries energy that reacts to others. Feel each other's rhythm. Move together — not alone."
Desmond cracked his knuckles, a determined glint in his eyes. "Alright. Round two?"
"Begin," Ryuken said simply, his eyes narrowing.
This time, they moved in sync, a newfound sense of unity flowing through them. Misora's barrier formed the front line, deflecting the projectiles with ease, while Kyosuke and Furuha handled offense, their attacks precise and deadly. Riiki supported with speed and distraction, creating openings for the others, and Haruki — surprisingly — adapted between defense and counter, his movements becoming more fluid and instinctive.
Ryuken watched silently, his expression unreadable. The energy around them flowed smoother now — not perfect, but alive, a symphony of motion and power.
When the final blast faded, Haruki collapsed to the ground, gasping for breath. "We… we did it… right?"
Ryuken nodded, a hint of approval in his voice. "Better."
Haruki raised a shaky thumb, a weak smile on his face. "Nice…"
Ryuken turned to the group, his voice softer now, but no less impactful. "Good. Remember — power without unity is meaningless. You'll face things that test your hearts before your weapons."
Misora smiled faintly, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you, Sensei."
"Rest for today," Ryuken said, his gaze lingering on each of them. "Lord Tenrai awaits you at noon."
At Golden Bloom Inn, their afternoon rest. Steam drifted from bowls of soup as everyone gathered at the inn's dining area. Laughter filled the air — rare, but comforting, a balm to their weary souls.
Desmond chewed loudly, his eyes closed in contentment. "Man, that training was brutal. I can't feel my legs."
Xavier nodded in agreement, rubbing his sore muscles. "Yeah, same. But worth it. Our formation improved a lot."
Nanako stirred her tea quietly, her gaze thoughtful. "Ryuken's really strict… but kind, in his own way."
Haruki grinned, his energy slowly returning. "He's cool. I like him. Still scary though."
Riiki rolled his eyes, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You like anyone who doesn't kill you."
"Exactly," Haruki replied proudly, puffing out his chest.
Misora leaned against the window, watching sunlight dance through her cup, her expression serene. "It's peaceful… almost strange."
Furuha exhaled, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "We needed it. After the mine, a day without danger feels unreal."
Kyosuke spoke from the corner, his voice calm and measured, a shadow of warning in his tone. "Don't get too comfortable. Peace never lasts long."
"Can you not ruin the mood for five minutes?" Haruki asked, his voice laced with exasperation.
"No," Kyosuke said flatly, his gaze unwavering.
The table burst into light laughter, the tension momentarily broken.
Lord Tenrai's Hall – Evening Meeting
Lord Tenrai greeted them warmly, his eyes twinkling with approval. "Ah, heroes of Hiloxy. You look stronger already."
Haruki rubbed his arm, wincing slightly. "Stronger? Maybe. Sore? Definitely."
Tenrai chuckled, his laughter echoing through the hall. "That means you're improving."
He gestured to the golden hologram, his expression turning serious. The mountain glowed slightly brighter now — faint, but noticeable, a testament to their efforts. "The Vein is stabilizing slowly. Your presence has strengthened the city's spirit."
Misora smiled, her heart filled with hope. "That's wonderful."
Tenrai nodded, his gaze sweeping over them. "Tonight, we'll hold the Festival of the Vein — a celebration to restore hope and unity. You are our honored guests."
"Festival?" Haruki's eyes lit up, his hunger for joy unquenchable. "Like, food and lights kind of festival?"
"Yes," Tenrai said, smiling. "Food, lights, and songs. After everything, Kin no Yama deserves joy."
Furuha crossed her arms, her expression thoughtful. "And what about tomorrow?"
"We plan our next step," Tenrai replied, his voice turning somber. "But tonight… rest. Let the people see the heroes who protect them."
Desmond grinned, his anticipation palpable. "Finally, something fun."
Lord Tenrai smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and announced, "Alright, everyone, you've earned your rest. The festival will commence at 6:30 PM sharp."
Haruki, unable to contain his excitement, grinned widely. "Hell yeah! Finally, a day of pure, unadulterated fun!"
Riiki, ever the pragmatist, gently slapped Haruki's shoulder, a playful warning in his eyes. "Lower your voice, dude. Some of us are trying to conserve our energy for the festivities."
Kyosuke, ever the leader, turned around and began walking away, his movements purposeful and efficient. "Alright, come on, let's not waste any time. We should be prepared and ready to enjoy the festival before it begins. Let's go."
After they arrived at the inn, a wave of camaraderie washed over them as they settled down, the weight of their responsibilities momentarily forgotten. Haruki, still buzzing with anticipation, grinned mischievously. "I can't believe it, the festival is finally upon us, and it's TODAY! Ha, I swear, the crowd will scream at me like I'm their long-lost idol. Haha!"
Furuha, ever the realist, rolled her eyes, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. "Nah, they'll probably scream because you're too ugly to be seen in public. Just kidding! Mostly." A ripple of laughter spread through the group, momentarily easing the tension that had been building. Kyosuke, however, remained stoic, his mind seemingly elsewhere.
Yuzuki, her voice soft and melodic, smiled gently, her gaze fixed on Haruki. "Is Haruki always this funny, or is he simply too restless to be quiet for even a moment?"
Misora, quick with a witty retort, chimed in, "Maybe it's a bit of both. He's either hilarious or hilariously annoying, depending on the day." Haruki, feigning offense, frowned playfully but couldn't suppress a smile. "Come on, you guys, show me some love! I'm just trying to spread a little joy and be friendly."
Xavier, unable to resist the urge to tease, playfully shoved Haruki's shoulder as he continued to laugh. "Hahaha, I swear, if you keep being a comedy guy like this, everyone will think you're a professional clown who escaped from the circus, hahaha!"
Furuha, clapping her hands together to regain everyone's attention, declared, "Alright, alright, settle down, you lot. I guess everyone will be having fun later after the festival, indulging in all the local delicacies and entertainment. But let's not forget why we're really here. We still need to focus on finding the Golden Vein and defeating the Soul Ghost as soon as possible, like Yoruto said last day. Once we accomplish that, the world will be safe and calm again. And, most importantly, as long as we finish our job, we can finally go back to our world, The Hiloxy."
A chorus of voices, filled with determination and a shared sense of purpose, echoed through the room. "Yeah!" They knew the task ahead was daunting, but the thought of returning home, to their families and friends, fueled their resolve. The festival was a welcome distraction, a chance to recharge and celebrate before diving back into the heart of the mission. They would savor the moment, but never lose sight of their ultimate goal: to protect this world and their own.
Night Festival of the Vein
The streets of Kin no Yama came alive under a sky of lanterns, their warm glow illuminating the city. Golden light shimmered across rooftops, and the mountain glowed like a sleeping giant beneath the stars, its presence a constant reminder of the power that flowed through their veins.
Music filled the air — drums, flutes, laughter — a symphony of joy that washed over the city. Stalls lined the roads, selling food that shimmered faintly with crystal dust, tempting aromas filling the air.
Haruki spun around in awe, his eyes wide with wonder. "Oh man, this is beautiful! Look at those glowing dumplings!"
Riiki raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You're going to eat until you explode."
"Worth it," Haruki said immediately, his stomach already rumbling.
Misora smiled softly, her heart swelling with emotion. "It's wonderful seeing everyone smiling again."
Nanako tugged gently at Yuzuki's sleeve, her eyes shining with gratitude. "You did it, Yuzuki. Your city's shining again."
Yuzuki's eyes glistened under the lantern light, her voice filled with emotion. "No… we did it. You all gave them hope again."
Furuha stood beside her, crossing her arms but smiling faintly, her tough exterior softening. "Don't get too emotional."
"Too late," Haruki said, pretending to wipe tears from his eyes. "I'm crying sparkles."
"Those are food crumbs," Riiki muttered, his lips twitching.
Haruki glared, his playful mood momentarily disrupted. "Shut up!"
The group laughed again, their voices blending with the warmth of the crowd, their bonds strengthening with each shared moment. Children ran past with golden ribbons, their laughter echoing through the streets, and couples danced beneath floating lanterns that reflected off the glass-like streets, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Kyosuke stood quietly at the edge of the plaza, arms folded, watching the glowing mountain, his expression unreadable. Misora approached gently, her presence a comforting warmth.
"You're not joining?" she asked, her voice soft.
He shook his head, his gaze fixed on the mountain. "I don't… do crowds."
She smiled knowingly, understanding his reserved nature. "Then at least enjoy the peace."
He glanced at her, his expression softening — just slightly, a hint of vulnerability in his eyes. "Maybe."
Meanwhile, Xavier and Dylan were caught in a heated debate over which stall had the best food, their voices rising above the music, while Desmond arm-wrestled with a local guard to loud cheers, his competitive spirit shining through.
The festival stretched late into the night, the energy of the crowd undiminished. The heroes of Hiloxy — once strangers in this world — were now celebrated, surrounded by laughter and golden light, their presence a beacon of hope.
After that, Lord Tenrai, a figure of authority and respect, ascended the stage, his presence immediately commanding attention. He began to address the eager crowd, his voice resonating with gratitude and admiration. "Alright, ladies and gentlemen," he announced, his words carefully chosen, "we are truly honored and deeply grateful to have the Heroes of Hiloxy grace our world and safeguard our cities. Without their unwavering courage and exceptional abilities, we would not have survived the recent trials so easily. Let us now welcome these extraordinary individuals onto the stage."
With a graceful and coordinated movement, Kyosuke, Furuha, and Misora made their way to the platform, their expressions a mixture of humility and determination. The crowd erupted in applause, their cheers echoing through the square.
Lord Tenrai gestured towards the trio, his voice filled with pride. "Allow me to introduce our esteemed group of Genius Heroes. First, we have Kyosuke, the Rank 1 Hero of Hiloxy, a master strategist and unparalleled warrior. Next, we have Furuha, the Rank 2 Hero of Hiloxy, whose intellect and resourcefulness have saved countless lives. And finally, we have Misora, the Rank 3 Hero of Hiloxy, whose unwavering spirit and healing abilities have mended both bodies and souls. But the story doesn't end here. We are also privileged to introduce another group of heroes who have joined forces to protect our world. Please welcome them to the stage."
A second wave of heroes, including Haruki, Riiki, Desmond, Nanako, Xavier, Dylan, and Megumi, ascended the stage, their faces beaming with excitement and a shared sense of purpose. Lord Tenrai turned his attention to the newcomers, his voice filled with warmth and appreciation. "These are our heroes," he declared, "each possessing unique skills and unwavering dedication. But I want to give special recognition to Haruki, our newest hero, who hails from another world. Just a few days ago, fate intervened, and he was drawn here, where he met his friends and his esteemed sensei, Yoruto. Together, they have embarked on a journey to protect us all. Let us offer them our prayers and send them our collective energy, so that they may succeed in their mission to save the world."
The crowd responded with thunderous applause and shouts of encouragement, their voices blending into a powerful wave of support that washed over the heroes on stage. "Yeah!" they roared, their enthusiasm palpable.
Haruki, overwhelmed by the outpouring of affection, leaned towards Riiki and whispered in his ear, "Waoh, this is... so unreal to me... It's too rare for me too. Feels like I'm their savior."
Xavier, overhearing the conversation, tilted his head in mock seriousness. "Not Xavier, is Saviour," he corrected playfully, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
Xavier blinked, momentarily confused, before nodding in understanding. "Oh, I thought you're calling me," he replied, a sheepish grin spreading across his face.
Riiki chuckled softly, appreciating the lighthearted banter that helped to ease the tension.
Lord Tenrai, raising his hands to quiet the crowd, spoke with renewed conviction. "We have chosen them! To save the world!"
The crowd, united in their hope and belief, echoed his words with unwavering determination. "Save the world!" they chanted, their voices resonating with a shared desire for peace and security. The stage was set, the heroes were ready, and the fate of the world hung in the balance.
"Safe the world, Haruki. This is your new life and new world now, I mean Hiloxy is your new world." Said Riiki.
"I'll get use to it. I will be the best hero ever" said Haruki.
Later that night, Haruki sat on the steps outside the inn, staring up at the glowing mountain, his thoughts swirling in his mind. The music had faded into distant echoes, leaving only the soft hum of night, a lullaby that soothed his weary soul.
Yuzuki joined him, holding two cups of warm tea, her presence a comforting silence. She handed one over, her eyes meeting his. "Here."
He smiled, gratitude warming his heart. "Thanks."
For a while, they sat in silence — comfortable, calm, their bond deepening with each shared moment.
"The Golden Vein looks stronger tonight," Haruki said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. "Like it's breathing again. But, still weak...."
Yuzuki nodded, her gaze fixed on the mountain. "It always shines brightest when people are happy. My brother used to say the mountain listens to laughter."
Haruki smiled faintly, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "Then it must be smiling tonight."
She looked at him, her eyes soft and filled with compassion. "Thank you, Haruki. For everything."
He rubbed his neck awkwardly, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Hey, don't thank me, I don't think I done that much. I just make things explode and trip over stuff."
She laughed quietly, her voice like a gentle melody. "Maybe. But you also make people smile."
He blinked, caught off guard, his heart skipping a beat. "…That's a weird compliment."
"It's true," Yuzuki said, her voice unwavering. "Sometimes, hope needs laughter to stay alive."
Haruki looked down at the tea, a small smile forming on his lips. "Then I'll… keep being the funny guy, I guess."
Yuzuki chuckled, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Please do."
The mountain glowed softly in the distance, golden veins pulsing gently like a heartbeat, its presence a constant reassurance.
Inside the inn, the others slept peacefully — their laughter from earlier still lingering in the air, a testament to the joy they had brought to Kin no Yama.
For the first time since arriving in this world, everything felt right, a sense of belonging washing over them.
And though no shadow stirred, no whisper called their names — far beyond the golden horizon, something unseen watched quietly, its presence a chilling premonition.
A ripple in the dark — faint, patient, and waiting, its intentions unknown.
But for now…
The heroes of Hiloxy rested beneath the light of the Golden Vein, their dreams filled with hope and laughter, unaware of the darkness that lurked on the horizon.