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

Jinsei's legs were heavy, each step dragging through the dirt paths that led back to Shinzai. Blood ran down his side from a gash he hadn't had time to mend, but he didn't care. The only thing that mattered now was getting back—proving he didn't betray his team.

The villain's words still echoed in his ears.

"One of my clones, wearing your face, has already poisoned their minds. You'll never make it back before the doubt takes root."

Jinsei clenched his fists tighter, teeth grinding. "Liar…"

But as the gates of Shinzai finally came into view in the distance—he skidded to a halt.

Two figures dropped down from the surrounding ridge, their presence igniting sparks in the air.

"There he is!" one of them growled.

Jinsei's eyes widened. He recognized them immediately—Izan Kuroda, a thunder wielder known for his aggression and pride, and Miharu Seiga, a crystal-wielding tactician with no tolerance for insubordination. Both were seasoned Third Wielders, just like Jinsei.

"Step away from the road," Miharu said sharply, forming razor-edged crystal daggers at her side. "By order of the Council, you are to be detained and questioned for the assault on your team."

Izan didn't wait. "Lies from traitors mean nothing."

Lightning cracked from his palm as he surged forward. Jinsei barely raised his blade in time to block.

Clang! Sparks flew.

Jinsei staggered back, eyes wild. "I was fighting a villain! That wasn't me—!"

Miharu launched a flurry of crystal shards. Jinsei rolled beneath them, sweat beading on his brow.

"They think I did it… everyone already thinks I turned."

Izan shouted as he struck again, "Prove you're still loyal—surrender!"

Jinsei's blade lit with blue Will energy as he spun away, sliding back into a ready stance. "I won't surrender… not until someone listens!"

He didn't want to hurt them. But he couldn't let them take him in—not like this. Not before he had a chance to tell Kael everything.

Miharu narrowed her eyes. "He's resisting. We take him down—now."

Jinsei gritted his teeth, heart pounding. "Then I'll have to get through you."

The air charged between them as Will clashed against Will—lightning, crystal, and wind meeting in an explosive collision.

All while, in Shinzai… doubt continued to grow.

Chapter 52: Branded Before the Truth