Nato7

The Awakening: Around 150 years ago, a mysterious event known as "The Rift" caused a dramatic shift in the world. This event opened portals from another dimension, bringing Essences—mysterious and powerful entities—into the world. These Essences granted some individuals extraordinary abilities and set in motion a global conflict.

Essence Warriors: These are people who possess the power of an Essence, which can take various forms depending on the individual’s soul and affinity. Some are born with their Essence powers from birth, while others awaken them later in life. These warriors are ranked according to their power level, and the rankings play a significant role in their status, training, and missions.

Essence Reborn

The soft hum of the evening wind carried the scent of grilled food from a nearby vendor. Riku walked beside Yumi, their fingers laced, as they quietly made their way home under the glowing lanterns of the neighborhood.

Their minds, however, were elsewhere.

"They're only five," Yumi said gently, breaking the silence first. "Accelerated programs. Special academies. Is it too much too soon?"

Riku looked ahead, calm but thoughtful. "Maybe. But we always knew they wouldn't be ordinary kids."

Yumi glanced up at him. "You think it's because of… the AI?"

"I know it is," Riku answered without hesitation. "That intellect, the way they perceive things—it's not just gifted. It's evolved. From Celestial Nexus, from me. But we can't shield them from who they are."

They reached the house. The lights inside glowed warmly. Laughter echoed from the living room—Yuki playing with the twins again.

"I don't want them to feel like weapons," Yumi whispered, standing still just outside the door. "I don't want them to grow up like I did. Always training. Always proving something."

Riku turned to face her fully, hands gently holding her arms. "They won't. Not with us. That's why we'll guide them."

Yumi's eyes shimmered. After a moment, she nodded.

Back at Northside Elementary, the Hayashis met with the principal and both teachers again. The room buzzed with quiet anticipation.

"We've thought it through," Riku said, arms crossed, his presence commanding as ever. "We'll accept your offer—but on our terms."

Principal Nomura leaned in. "We're listening."

"No change in school. They stay in this elementary. No special relocation. They grow up here, with kids their age," he began.

"They'll take the accelerated courses privately," Yumi added. "After school. Balanced with family time. No Essence exposure unless they choose it later."

"We'll fund whatever support they need," Riku finished. "Tutors, materials. We just don't want them to lose their childhood."

The staff nodded. Mr. Taigen smiled. "I think that's more than fair."

Principal Nomura extended her hand. "Then we'll make it happen."

Back home, Riku sat with both twins in the living room. Yumi brought in hot cocoa as snow lightly danced outside.

Kazumi held her sketchbook. Kazuki was building a ridiculously complex tower of magnetic tiles.

"You two are gonna be starting a special class," Riku said calmly, setting his cup down. "You're smart—crazy smart—and some people think you can help change the world."

Kazuki blinked. "Do we gotta save it already?"

"But you will go to a few extra classes, okay?" Riku added. "You'll still play. Still go to school with your friends."

Kazumi looked at him. "And still be home for family dinner?"

Riku tousled her hair. "Every night."

Kazuki grinned. "Cool. But if I solve the world's biggest puzzle, can I get a robot dog?"

Riku smirked. "We'll talk about it."

As laughter filled the house once more, one thing was certain—The next generation of Hayashis were rising. And the world had no idea what was coming.

Chapter 196: Chosen Paths