Chapter 77: The First EX-Rank

The paperwork had been finalized. Riku was officially an EX-Rank Essence Warrior—the first in decades. The Essence Council had approved his title after his victory over countless rogue beasts, the dangerous rift zones, and his unparalleled skill in battle. The paperwork was tedious, but it was done. And now, it was time for the world to know.

The next day, Riku stood before a grand podium, flanked by high-ranking officials, including Essence President Kensei Gojuro. The atmosphere was electric, the air thick with anticipation. A large crowd gathered, both on-site and watching the live broadcast. News had spread faster than anyone could've imagined, and soon, Riku's name was being shouted from every corner of the world.

Riku stood tall, his blue eyes sharp and calm. His demeanor had always been that of someone who carried a quiet confidence—he wasn't here for the fame, but his accomplishments spoke volumes. Beside him, Renji, Takumi, Reina, and the rest of his close friends stood in the crowd, eyes wide with awe and excitement. Renji's jaw dropped in shock as he watched the ceremony unfold. Takumi was clapping loudly, grinning from ear to ear, while Reina couldn't help but blush, her cheeks flushed with pride for Riku.

"I can't believe it... You actually did it!" Renji called out, his voice barely audible over the cheering. Takumi and Reina joined in, their cheers a mix of admiration and excitement.

Yumi, standing by Renji, had a wide smile on her face as she looked at Riku. Her eyes sparkled with joy, and a light blush crept across her face as she joined in the applause. She was so proud of him—she always had been, but now it was different. Riku had become something more than she ever imagined.

Meanwhile, Toru was seething with frustration. His hands were clenched into fists at his sides. "I'll become an EX-Rank too," he muttered under his breath, determination burning in his eyes. "I'm not letting Riku take all the glory." His competitive nature had been sparked once again. Toru couldn't stand the idea of Riku being in a class of his own.

The ceremony continued with speeches and accolades, but Riku, ever humble, said little, simply nodding as the world celebrated his achievement. He had never craved attention, but now that it was inevitable, he would carry it with grace. He wasn't here for the praise, only for the challenge.

As the ceremony wound down, the crowd's cheers grew louder. It was official—Riku was the first EX-Rank in decades.

Once the speeches concluded, and the celebration died down, Riku excused himself. He didn't want to remain in the spotlight for too long. With a swift glance at his friends, he silently leaped into the air. His essence flared as he activated his flight, soaring into the sky, leaving the crowd behind.

"Where's he going?" Takumi asked, watching as Riku disappeared into the horizon.

"Probably wants some peace and quiet," Reina answered, a gentle smile on her face. "He's always like that."

Yumi nodded in agreement, but deep down, she understood. Riku's need for space was part of who he was. Even now, as the world celebrated him, he still sought the solitude that only the sky could provide.

As Riku flew high above the city, the sounds of the crowd faded into the distance, but the excitement didn't stop. The next day, Riku's phone was flooded with messages and notifications. There were gifts—expensive ones—from people all around the world. His followers on social media had skyrocketed, and the attention he once avoided had now found him in full force.

Crowds followed him wherever he went. Every store he entered, every park he walked through, people began to recognize him. Fans, aspiring warriors, and even children gathered around, hoping to catch a glimpse of the new EX-Rank hero.

At first, Riku didn't mind. He was still adjusting to the shift in his life, but as the days went on, it became overwhelming. People gathered at his home, at his favorite café, and even in the streets. The attention was relentless.

He chuckled to himself, shaking his head. This is what happens when you save the world... I guess it's just part of the deal.

Despite the chaos around him, Riku remained grounded. The fame, the gifts, the crowds—it was all a distraction. And in the midst of it all, he couldn't help but long for the quiet, the peace that only a few people truly understood.

As the days passed, he continued training, continuing his duties as an EX-Rank warrior, and helping his friends train for their own advancements. Renji, Takumi, and Reina, now officially A-Rank warriors, had grown under his guidance. And as much as Riku had achieved, he still cared for those around him—his family, his friends, and the people he would continue to protect.

But there was one thing for sure: Riku's journey had only just begun.