Nato7

The story picks up six years after Kael Renji, the hero who defeated the infamous Kurojin Tsukiro, secured peace in the world. Now 24, Kael is a symbol of hope and power, having built a thriving city where new Wielders can train and grow. However, this peaceful world is far from perfect. A new generation of young Wielders is emerging, born from the previous heroes and their legacy, but the challenges they face are unlike anything before.

Renzo, an 11-year-old prodigy, is Kael's apprentice, skipping primary school to become a 1st Wielder, and is ready to face the intense trials of their new system of Wielders. The next generation—composed of the children of Kael, Hana, Ryuu, Tetsu, and the others—is inheriting their parents' power and skills, but with new threats looming, they must adapt to a world that demands not just strength but wisdom.

The world has evolved since the Fracture, with new, unpredictable dangers arising. A new system for the Wielders is in place, one that tests them on a deeper level, requiring not only raw power but a mastery of complex, elemental Wills. The trials ahead are brutal, and the children of the past heroes must face not just battles, but their own inner struggles, as the weight of their parents' legacies pushes them to their limits.

As Kael leads this new generation into an era of challenges, they will have to confront dark forces, both external and internal. From monstrous beasts to internal betrayals, these young Wielders must fight for their place in a world where the line between hero and villain has become more blurred than ever. And while Kael watches over them as their leader, he must also grapple with

Shadowborn: Legacy of the Next Will

Renzo stood atop the grand podium, a golden shimmer of Willlight cascading down like rain. The arena had quieted now—no more shouting crowds, no more clashing powers—only the steady hum of history being written.

A medal was draped over his neck, glowing faintly with stored Will energy. It wasn't just a trophy—it was a key. A symbol. The mark of a warrior ready for the next level.

But as the announcer's voice echoed one last time, Renzo's eyes weren't on the audience.They were on Kael.

In the upper stands, Kael stood with Maiya on his shoulder, Ayato in one arm, and Jinsei beside him, fists clenched with pride.

But of recognition—as if to say: You've stepped into the world now. You're ready.

Later that evening, the sky over the capital city blazed with fireworks. The champions were paraded through the streets in a float of light and wind, with Reika Mizuno standing beside Renzo, the runner-up yet honored equally.

Reika crossed her arms and leaned closer. "Enjoy this now. I'm beating you next year."

Renzo smirked. "Looking forward to it."

Back at Kael's home, the air was calmer. Warm. Safe.

Kael leaned on the balcony, gazing up at the stars. Renzo walked out, still wearing the medal.

"You did good," Kael said without turning.

"Thanks," Renzo replied. He stepped beside his teacher, the medal glinting faintly. "I didn't think I'd make it all the way. Not after everything… not after the Rift."

Kael chuckled. "You didn't survive the Rift just to fall in a tournament."

He looked at Renzo then—more serious.

"But now the world knows your name. That comes with attention. Not all of it good."

Renzo nodded slowly. "Yeah. I felt it. Some of those other fighters… they weren't just trying to win. They were testing me. Watching me."

"You're not wrong. Some of them were scouts. Some were spies. And some… might be enemies in disguise."

Kael turned to face him fully now.

"This is only the beginning, Renzo. The Trials test strength. But what comes next… tests your soul."

Renzo clenched his fists. "I'm ready."

"No. You're becoming ready. That's the difference."

In the shadows beyond the city, far from the light of celebration, cloaked figures watched from a mountain ridge. A scrying orb flickered in the hands of one.

"He's awakened," one of them said.

"So young," another muttered. "And yet…"

They all turned, vanishing into darkness.

And now… the world was watching.

Chapter 46: Eyes of the World