Episode 13: Shadows in the Night

Talent Reborn – Season 2

Episode 13: Shadows in the Night

The wind howled through the empty streets as Haruto walked home, his mind heavy with Renji's warning. He had expected enemies, but the idea of other talent users tracking him sent a chill down his spine. He needed to be ready.

As he turned a corner, a sharp sensation pricked at the back of his neck—a feeling of being watched. He stopped, eyes scanning the dimly lit street. The alleyways were empty, yet something felt off. His heartbeat quickened.

A shadow moved.

Before he could react, a figure emerged from the darkness, standing beneath the flickering streetlight. A man in a long coat, face partially hidden beneath a hood. His posture was relaxed, but something about him radiated danger.

"You're Haruto Aizawa," the man said. It wasn't a question.

Haruto's muscles tensed. "Who's asking?"

The man chuckled, the sound low and amused. "Just someone who's been keeping an eye on you. You've been making quite a name for yourself, doctor."

Haruto took a cautious step back. "If you're looking for medical help, you're going about it the wrong way."

The man tilted his head. "Oh, I know what you can do. The question is, do you?"

In a blink, the man moved.

Haruto barely had time to dodge as a hand shot past his face. The air around him seemed to distort, a force pressing against his skin. He jumped back, heart pounding. This wasn't just a normal attack—there was something unnatural about it.

The man smiled. "Good reflexes. But let's see how much you've really learned."

Haruto clenched his fists. He was exhausted from training, but running wasn't an option. He had to fight.

Taking a deep breath, he focused. He couldn't afford a single mistake.

The man rushed forward. Haruto dodged the first strike, countering with a sharp punch to the ribs. It connected—but instead of staggering, the man twisted his body unnaturally, absorbing the blow.

Haruto's eyes widened. What was this guy?

A fist flew toward his face. He barely managed to block, but the impact sent him skidding backward. Pain flared through his arm. He needed a plan.

The man smirked. "Not bad. But not good enough."

Haruto exhaled sharply. This fight wasn't just about strength—it was about understanding. Reading his opponent. Finding weaknesses.

He steadied himself. "Let's try that again."

The man's smile widened. "Now we're talking."

Haruto surged forward, this time watching every movement closely. If he couldn't win with power, he'd have to win with strategy.

The battle was just beginning.

To be continued…