Two months passed like the turning of a page. Every day after academy hours, Lloyd returned to the Uzugaya Temple — bruised, exhausted, but driven. Raiden’s harsh training, the endless forms, the wooden-sword duels, the meditation sessions under the cold night wind… all of it shaped Lloyd’s body and sharpened his mind.

  And tonight, as the moonlight spilled across the courtyard, Raiden stood across from him with his staff. Lloyd charged forward, striking with speed and precision. Raiden blocked, countered, forced him back. Lloyd slid, regained footing, and came in again with a tight, controlled swing— CLACK! Raiden’s staff caught the sword mid-strike. He raised an eyebrow. “Very good.”

  Lloyd stepped back, chest rising with steady breaths. Sweat rolled down his arms, but his eyes remained sharp. Raiden lowered his staff.

  “After months of training… you have improved more than I expected in such a short time. For a fourteen-year-old boy, your control, discipline, and instinct are exceptional.”

  Lloyd wiped sweat from his face. “But still nothing from the lightning.” Raiden nodded. “True. You have not unlocked your element yet. But your body—your muscles, your breathing, your energy—can now handle your mother’s lightning for a short period once it awakens.”

  Lloyd looked at his hands. “…Short period?”

  Raiden tapped his staff on the ground.

  “Your mother’s lightning was powerful. But your lightning, amplified by the golden power inside you… will be stronger still. Too strong for a young body without preparation.” He stepped closer. “You can use it only in bursts until you grow stronger. Otherwise it could damage you.”

  Lloyd nodded slowly, absorbing the truth. “Then I’ll keep training.” Raiden smirked. “Good. Training continues tomorrow. For now… rest.”

  ? Two Days Later — The Academy Exam Day The academy courtyard buzzed with energy. Students from every class level gathered to prepare for the next round of advancement exams. The top students from each division would be evaluated together. Lloyd adjusted his uniform and looked around as students grouped up. Hanzo waved from across the yard. “Lloyd! Over here!” But before he could join Hanzo, a shadow stepped in front of him.

  A boy his age — tall, confident, with sharp black eyes and a sword strapped across his back.

  “You’re the new student. Lloyd Uzugaya, right?”

  Lloyd blinked. “Yeah. You are?” The boy smirked. “Ren Katsuro. Top student of the academy.”

  Lloyd studied him quietly. The kid radiated confidence — but not arrogance. More like someone who already knew his strength and didn’t need to brag. Ren extended a hand.

  “I heard about your evaluation scores. Not bad for someone who started late.” Lloyd shook his hand. “Thanks.” Hanzo jogged over. “Careful, Lloyd. Ren here takes every exam like it’s life or death.” Ren smirked. “Excellence requires pressure.” Before Lloyd could reply—

  A soft voice spoke beside him.

  “You’re Lloyd… right?” Lloyd turned.

  A girl stood there, also their age — long black hair, sharp brown eyes, and a calm but determined presence. She wore the academy uniform with perfect precision.

  “I’m Alice Shinra,” she said with a gentle nod. “Nice to meet you.” Lloyd blinked, caught off guard. “Uh—yeah. You too.” Hanzo elbowed him lightly. “She’s top five. Stronger than she looks.”

  “You move like someone who’s trained for years,” “But you only joined months ago. Interesting.”

  Lloyd didn’t know how to respond. Something about her gaze felt… sharp. Like she could see through him. But there was warmth too — curiosity, Ren folded his arms. “Instructor Darius said the real exam will happen off-campus. We’re meeting him at the summit in the northern forest.” Hanzo whistled. “The mountain? That’s serious.” Alice nodded. “Only high-level tests take place there.” Lloyd felt a chill run along his spine. ? Hours later, the top ten students found themselves hiking through the dense northern forest. Leaves rustled underfoot, and the wind brushed through the treetops. The mountain loomed ahead, tall and silent.

  Ren walked with steady steps. Alice followed behind him. Hanzo and Lloyd walked at the rear.

  “This is crazy,” Hanzo muttered. “What kind of test is on a mountain?” Lloyd glanced up at the towering summit. “Something big.”

  Alice looked back at them. “Stay alert. Tests on the mountain aren’t just about swordsmanship.”

  “What then?” Hanzo asked. “Survival,” Alice said simply. Lloyd’s hand instinctively tightened on the strap of his wooden sword. Something about this place felt… heavy. Like the air itself was watching.? By evening, they reached the top. Mist rolled across the stone platform that overlooked the entire valley. The wind howled through the cliffs, making their uniforms flutter.

  And standing at the center of the plateau was Instructor Darius — cloak billowing, arms crossed, waiting. He didn’t speak. He didn’t move. He simply watched as they approached, his expression unreadable. Hanzo whispered, “Why does he look… angry?” Ren stepped forward, arms at his sides. “Instructor, we have arrived.” Darius slowly turned his head toward them. His eyes gleamed like steel. “Good,” he said. “Welcome, students… to your true exam.” The wind roared across the summit, carrying mist and the cold bite of altitude. The ten students stood in a half-circle around Instructor Darius, their breaths visible in the chill air.

  Darius planted his boots firmly on the stone platform, cloak snapping behind him like a banner of war. His expression was stern, unreadable — but there was something else in his eyes… something heavy. Experience. Warning. Reality. He took one step forward.

  “Top ten students,” he said, voice cutting through the wind like a blade, “you stand here today not just for a test… but for a lesson.”

  Ren stood tall. Alice listened quietly. Hanzo swallowed nervously. Lloyd kept his stance steady, though the weight of the moment pressed on him. Darius continued, pacing before them. “You believe sword training is enough. You believe sparring in a safe dojo prepares you for real battles.”

  He stopped and turned, eyes sharp. “You are wrong.” The students tensed. “Out there,” he said, pointing to the vast forest stretching below them, “you will learn to survive. You will learn what it means to stand in danger. To be hunted. To make choices under pressure. To face the unknown.” A few students shifted uneasily.

  Darius lifted a small wooden box and opened it, revealing a pile of colorful cloth strips — ribbons. “There are thirty ribbons hidden across the northern forest.”

  He held one up between his fingers. “Your mission is simple: Collect as many as you can.

  Protect them. Keep them until the exam ends.”

  The wind blew the ribbon like a flag. Darius let it fall. “Your ranking will be determined by how many ribbons you bring back. Only the top five with the highest number will advance to the elite training track.” Hanzo whispered under his breath, “Top five… so half of us fail.” Alice kept her eyes on the instructor. Ren remained calm.

  Lloyd simply nodded, accepting the challenge.

  Darius continued. “There are no rules beyond this: Do whatever it takes to secure your ribbons. Do whatever it takes to keep them. Use strategy. Avoid conflict… or start it. Hide… or hunt.” Some of the weaker students looked frightened. Darius’s gaze hardened. “You are not children anymore. You want to be knights? You want to join the legion? You want to protect this city someday?” His voice dropped to a cold, harsh tone. “Then show me you can survive outside a classroom.” Silence crushed down on the group. No one moved. No one spoke. Darius finally reached into his coat and pulled out a timer device. “This is your final warning.” He clicked it. A sharp beep echoed through the mountains. “You have ten minutes… to prepare.” Lloyd felt the wind swirl around him. Hanzo clenched his fists. Alice breathed slowly, steadying herself. Ren cracked his neck, already planning. Darius’ final words cut through the air like a death sentence: “After ten minutes… the test begins.” Lloyd stood before the weapon racks, the cold mountain wind brushing against the back of his neck. Ten minutes wasn’t much time — and the pressure of the coming trial pressed down on all of them like a weight. He reached out and brushed his fingers against a blade… then froze.

  “We’re using real swords?” The words slipped out in a low whisper, confusion tightening his chest. This wasn’t training anymore.

  This wasn’t wooden weapons or padded duels.

  These were sharpened steel blades — heavy, dangerous, lethal. Lloyd swallowed, staring at the row of weapons. “Is this really an exam…?”

  But there was no time to question it. He took a sword from the rack — heavier than the ones used in class, thick at the spine with a reinforced guard. It almost pulled his arm downward at first. He tested the weight, swung once.The blade hummed through the cold air. “…Yeah,” Lloyd muttered under his breath. “This one.”

  He strapped it across his back. Next, he picked up a compact dagger — light, easy to conceal — and slid it into a sheath at his waist. Then three small throwing knives. He tucked them neatly into slots across his belt. Behind him, Hanzo approached his own weapon rack. Hanzo grabbed a mid-length sword with a clean silver edge. “Something balanced,” he murmured. “Fast enough for offense… but strong enough to parry.” Then he took two throwing knives.

  “Just in case.” Alice moved with quiet confidence to the next rack. Her fingertips glided across each blade, assessing weight and shape with practiced precision. She selected a slender sword — fast, sharp, ideal for quick strikes.

  Then she chose a small set of throwing knives, slipping them into her belt before nodding to herself. Ren stepped to the final rack last, eyes sharp and calm. He reached only for a single sword — long, narrow, beautifully forged.

  He lifted it with a single hand, examining the gleaming edge. “That’s all I need,” he said softly.

  ? The students gathered at the center of the summit as instructors distributed gear.

  Each student wore reinforced training leather, padded shoulder guards, a strapped chest plate designed to protect vital points without restricting movement. The wind rattled the gear. Their weapons clinked softly as they moved into formation. Lloyd tightened the straps on his armor. Hanzo cracked his knuckles. Alice closed her eyes briefly, centering herself. Ren stared straight ahead, completely unfazed. In the distance, Instructor Darius clicked his timer. Five minutes left. The students lined up, ten shadows standing at the edge of the forest trail leading into the enormous wilderness below. Darius raised a hand. The forest below seemed to breathe — dark, enormous, alive. Lloyd inhaled slowly, steadying himself. This is it. Darius lowered his hand. The wind howled. “Begin.” The moment Darius’ command echoed across the summit, the students burst forward like arrows released from a bowstring. Boots pounded against earth, leaves scattered, and shouts filled the air as they launched themselves into the dense forest below. Hanzo sprinted toward the west trail. Ren moved north without hesitation. Alice slipped into the shadows of the eastern path, quiet and graceful. Lloyd stood still for one extra heartbeat, watching everyone scatter. “They’re all going in the same direction…” he murmured. He tightened his grip on his sword. “Then I’ll go a different way.”

  Instead of following any marked trail, Lloyd veered straight down the rocky slope, slipping between trees that the others had avoided because of the uneven terrain. It was riskier — but quieter. He needed an advantage.

  ? Time passed like drifting shadows. Lloyd moved through the towering pines and tangled undergrowth with purpose — eyes sharp, steps silent. He found the ribbons tied high in tree branches, under roots at the edges of cliffs hidden in hollow logs. Some were easy. Some nearly made him fall to his death. By midday, Lloyd wiped sweat from his forehead and glanced at the colored strips tied to his belt.

  Six ribbons. Not bad for moving alone.

  But the forest was draining. The exam wasn’t just about fighting or collecting — it was the constant awareness, the silence, the tension of being watched from every shadow.

  As the sun lowered, Lloyd climbed up into a thick tree whose branches formed a natural resting platform. He sat with one knee raised, back against the trunk. His breathing slowed. His heartbeat steadied. For a moment… peace.

  Then — Rustle. Lloyd’s eyes snapped open.

  Soft. Careful. Someone who knows how to move quietly. He slid his hand toward the hilt of his sword but didn’t draw it. He listened. More movement — footsteps brushing lightly against a patch of fallen leaves. Lloyd leaned slightly forward, looking down through the branches.

  A figure stepped into the clearing. Black hair. Brown eyes Light, silent steps. Alice. Her sword was drawn but lowered. She scanned the forest calmly, eyes sharp and attentive, unaware of Lloyd above her. Lloyd held his breath.

  Why is she here…? Did she follow my trail? No—she’s searching for ribbons… maybe opponents.

  He watched her for a moment. She looked different out here. Not the composed academy student — but something sharper. Focused. Naturally skilled. Her hair swayed gently as she turned, reflecting the faint rays of the sun behind the treetops. Lloyd’s chest tightened for a moment, a strange warmth forming beneath his ribs. He realized something. He didn’t want to fight her. He didn’t want to take her ribbons.

  Even though that was the whole point of the exam… Even though she was competition…

  Even though she had likely collected several by now… He whispered to himself, “…I won’t take hers.” Alice paused, head tilting slightly as if she heard something — but not enough to spot him in the leaves above. Lloyd remained silent as stone, hidden by shadow and branches.

  Alice exhaled softly, then turned and slipped deeper into the forest, leaving the clearing behind. Lloyd watched her go… and only after her footsteps faded did he finally breathe again.

  He leaned back against the trunk. Another hour passed. The sky had already swallowed the last traces of daylight, leaving the forest washed in deep blues and shadowed silver. Lloyd dropped down from the tree he’d been resting in, landing softly on the mossy ground. He exhaled. “It’s dark here…” he murmured, glancing up. The moon hung huge and bright, like a lantern over the silent woods. “Only light is the moon… it’s bright tonight.”

  He barely had time to finish the thought. A sharp rustle— A shadow burst toward him—

  Instinct flared. Lloyd’s hand snapped to his sword, steel flashing in the moonlight. CLANG!

  The sound echoed through the trees as blades collided. Lloyd’s eyes widened—he hadn’t sensed the approach at all. Standing in front of him, smirking with his sword locked against Lloyd’s, was Ren. “Caught you surprised,” Ren said, pushing forward, testing Lloyd’s footing. “I’ve been wanting to fight you, Lloyd Uzagaya.”

  Lloyd narrowed his eyes, sliding one foot back and breaking the lock with a swift twist of his wrist. “So you’ve been following me.” Ren rolled his shoulders. “I’m not here to chat. I’m here to take your ribbons.” The wind rustled the leaves, cutting a line of cold air between them.

  Lloyd raised his sword, the tip angled slightly down—his preferred stance. “Then come try it.”

  Ren’s grin sharpened. “Gladly.” He lunged.

  Moonlight flashed as steel met steel, sparks flickering across the dark forest floor. Ren attacked aggressively—fast, heavy swings meant to overwhelm. Lloyd parried each one, stepping lightly, reading Ren’s rhythm.

  Ren laughed as he pressed forward. “You’re holding back already?” Ren spun, blade cutting a crescent through the air aimed at Lloyd’s shoulder— Lloyd ducked, sliding low across the grass— He countered with a rising strike—

  CLASH! Both were pushed apart. Ren exhaled, eyes blazing. Lloyd tightened his grip. The air around them felt charged, tense, alive.

  The moon above illuminated the clearing as two silhouettes faced off— both driven by rivalry.

  The real fight was just beginning. Steel clashed again and again as Lloyd and Ren’s swords carved arcs through the moonlit clearing. Ren was pressing harder now—faster, sharper, reading Lloyd’s movements and countering just a little quicker. “Come on, Lloyd!” Ren shouted, swinging down with enough force to rattle Lloyd’s arm. “Is this all you got?” Lloyd gritted his teeth as he blocked, sliding back in the dirt.

  Ren was beating him—just barely, but enough to matter. He pushed forward for a counterstrike—

  THUNK. A small object rolled between their feet.

  “…What—” BOOOOOM—WHUMMM—

  A deep vibrating shockwave blasted outward. Both boys were thrown off their feet, crashing into opposite sides of the clearing. Lloyd hit the ground hard—vision shaking, ears ringing, muscles refusing to move for a moment.

  He struggled up to one knee, breathing hard. Across from him, Ren was doing the same, gripping his ribs. From the shadows of the trees, a voice crackled from a radio: “Target in sight. I repeat—I have eyes on Lloyd Uzagaya.”

  Another voice responded, colder: “Move in. Do not let him escape.” Two armed figures stepped into view—dark armor, visor helmets, rifles raised. Lloyd’s pulse spiked. Ren tried to stand. “What the hell—who are—” “FREEZE!” the soldiers shouted in unison. Lloyd didn’t hesitate.

  He ripped two throwing knives from his belt and hurled them. THWIP—THWIP— They embedded into both soldiers’ legs, dropping them instantly.

  REN!” Lloyd yelled, “GET OUT OF HERE—IT’S A TRAP!” Ren saw Lloyd’s face—saw the seriousness—and ran without arguing for once. More soldiers crashed through the trees, flashlights sweeping. Lloyd ran the opposite direction—cutting through the dark forest— He burst into a small clearing and saw someone just ahead. Alice. She turned sharply, surprised, hand already reaching for her sword. “You again? What, you trying to take my—” “No—no,” Lloyd gasped, waving a hand. “Alice, listen. You have to get out of here. There are soldiers—not friendly ones—they’re coming.” Alice squinted. “Lloyd, seriously? If this is a trick—” A crackle— A click— Electrical rubber-bullet rounds tore through the trees. Alice jumped back in shock—“What the—?!” Lloyd reacted instantly. He shoved her hard out of the line of fire.

  THWAP-THWAP-THWAP— The bullets slammed into Lloyd’s torso, shoulder, and leg—electric currents ripping through him. He dropped to one knee, teeth clenched in pain, muscles seizing. Alice stared, stunned. “Lloyd—!” He strained to look up at her, voice breaking:

  “RUN!” Lloyd’s body ached, electricity still buzzing under his skin from the rubber rounds. His vision was blurred—but he forced himself upright.

  Above him, a massive dark transport ship hovered between the treetops, its underside glowing with searchlights. More soldiers rappelled down on cables, rifles ready. He was surrounded. One soldier stepped forward. “Target Lloyd Uzagaya—detain—” Lloyd wiped blood from his lip and exhaled. “I don’t… have my sword anymore,” he muttered, glancing at his empty sheath. “That blast knocked it somewhere.” His hand tightened around the one thing he still had— His dagger. But this is enough.” At that moment— A faint spark snapped across his forearm. Then another. Then a third. Zzt… zsshhhh… Blue flickers crawled over his skin like nervous lightning, tiny arcs dancing across his whole body Not full activation. Not control. Just… a flare.

  His body wasn’t stronger— But his speed jumped. A small boost—barely more than a burst of adrenaline—but enough. A soldier raised his weapon. Lloyd vanished from his sight. He appeared behind him— CRACK! A dagger handle strike to the helmet. He spun, low, sliding under another volley of shots. Sparks drifted off his feet as he moved, each step leaving a faint blue arc on the grass. A soldier lunged—Lloyd sidestepped and slammed his shoulder into him.

  Another swung a baton—Lloyd ducked, twisted, and swept his legs. He wasn’t stronger.

  He wasn’t durable. But he was fast enough—just barely—to slip through them. And when the last soldier fell unconscious, Lloyd breathed heavily, the lightning still flickering weakly.

  He looked toward the forest path. “Alice…”

  He bolted. Lightning trailed behind him in small bursts—little arcs snapping through the darkness as he sprinted through branches and roots. Each step felt like borrowed power, like his body could fail at any second—but he kept pushing. Trees blurred by. He saw movement ahead— A figure running, breath fast, hair dark in the moonlight. “Alice!” The sparks faded.

  His speed dropped. The last flicker died off.

  Lloyd stumbled out of the bushes, catching up to her just as his lightning vanished completely.

  He grabbed his knee, panting, but forced a small smile. “Are you… okay?” Alice steadied her breathing, staring at Lloyd in disbelief. The moonlight washed over both of them, highlighting the sweat and dirt smeared across his face. Yes I’m ok.“Are you okay?” she asked, stepping closer. Lloyd forced himself upright. “I’ll manage… but we need to warn the instructor.”

  He glanced back toward the direction of the soldiers. The forest was quiet—too quiet—like the whole mountain was holding its breath.

  Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

  “Alice, listen. You have to go find him. Now.”

  She blinked. “What? No. What about you?”

  “I’ll lead them away.” Her eyebrows pulled together. “Lloyd, that’s insane. We don’t know who those soldiers are, what they want, what they’re using—” Lloyd clenched his fists. His voice cracked, not from fear, but from frustration. “Alice… just trust me.” “No. I’m not leaving you alone out here,” she said firmly. “I’m not running away while you face—whatever this is.” “Alice—” Lloyd’s voice suddenly sharpened, louder than he meant. “They’re after me!” She froze. He swallowed hard, electricity still faintly tingling under his skin. The words felt heavy—words he had never said out loud to anyone his age. “They’re hunting me,” he continued, voice low but urgent. “I have… powers. I wasn’t supposed to tell anyone. But right now—”

  His breath trembled. “My parents were killed when I was born.” Alice’s eyes widened.

  “The Overlord killed them because of me. Because of the power I have. The power that can defeat him.” He took a shaky step back.

  “That’s why those soldiers are here. They’re part of his military. They’re here to capture me.”

  Alice’s lips parted, stunned… but not in disbelief— in fear for him. “Lloyd… you—” He shook his head, cutting her off. “You have to get out of here and warn the instructor. If you stay with me, they’ll capture you too. I won’t let that happen.”

  She grabbed his sleeve. “I can’t just leave you.

  He met her eyes— “Alice… please,” he said quietly. “I am trying to protect you. She hesitated. Her hand trembled. But at last…

  she nodded. “Okay. I’ll find the instructor.”

  But her voice was soft, shaking.

  “Just—don’t die Lloyd managed a faint smirk. “I don’t plan on it.” Alice ran into the trees, disappearing into the forest. Lloyd listened to her footsteps fade… Then he turned toward the darkness where more soldiers were coming.

  He tightened his grip on his dagger. “Come on…” he whispered to himself. “If it’s me you want…” He stepped forward, lightning flickering faintly around his fingers. “…then I’ll give you something to chase.” Alice sprinted through the forest, branches whipping past her face, lungs burning. Every breath reminded her of Lloyd—of his shaking voice, of the lightning flickering around him, of the danger closing in. I have to find the instructor… I have to help him… Footsteps suddenly rushed from her left. Alice froze, dropping into a defensive stance—

  “Alice?!” She snapped her head up. Hanzo emerged from between the trees, sword drawn, eyes wide with confusion. “What is all this noise I’m hearing?” he demanded. “The whole forest is shaking. Explosions—shouts—what’s going on?” Alice grabbed his arm, breathless. “Hanzo—we have to get the instructor. Now.” He frowned. “Why? What happened?” She swallowed, heart pounding harder. “It’s because of Lloyd.” Hanzo stiffened instantly. “What about him? Did he get hurt? Did someone attack him?”

  Alice shook her head quickly, then nodded—then shook again. She couldn’t even form the right words. “It’s not what you think,” she said. “There are soldiers out here—real soldiers. Armed. They’re not part of the exam. They’re looking for him.” Hanzo’s expression darkened, sword lowering slightly. “Soldiers? In the academy’s mountain range? That doesn’t make sense.”

  “I know!” Alice snapped, voice cracking. “But they’re here—and they attacked us. Lloyd told me to run for help.” Hanzo blinked. “He told you to run?” Alice clenched her jaw. “Hanzo… Lloyd is their target. They’re after him specifically.”

  He stiffened. “But why would soldiers be after Lloyd? He’s just—” Alice cut him off. “He said they’re connected to the Overlord.” Hanzo’s face drained of color. “The Overlord…? That’s—Alice, that’s impossible.” Her voice trembled. “I saw it with my own eyes. They had weapons, gear, radios—real military. Lloyd pushed me out of the way to take rubber rounds meant for me.”Hanzo’s hand tightened around his sword.

  “Where is he now?” he asked quietly. Alice pointed back toward the deeper forest, her hand shaking. “Facing them alone. He said he’d lead them away so they wouldn’t hurt anyone else.”

  Hanzo’s eyes sharpened instantly—concern, fear, and anger mixing inside him. “Damn it, Lloyd…” He grabbed Alice’s wrist—not hurting her, but firm. “Let’s go. We’ll find the instructor. Now.” “Right,” Alice said, running alongside him.

  Hanzo and Alice ran through the forest until the trees opened to a clearing where a tall figure stood—

  the instructor, arms crossed, waiting for them with a stern face. He immediately noticed their panic. “Why are you two away from the exam zone?” he demanded. “And what is happening with all the noise out there?” Alice stepped forward, still catching her breath. “Instructor—there are soldiers in the forest. Real ones. They’re after Lloyd.” The instructor’s eyes widened with sudden seriousness.

  “Soldiers? Here? During an academy exam?”

  Hanzo nodded quickly. “We saw their gear—they’re not from the academy. They have weapons, communications units, everything. They’re chasing Lloyd right now.” The instructor’s jaw tightened. But Alice avoided explaining why. She kept Lloyd’s secret locked inside. “They’re after him,” she repeated, “but we don’t know the reason.”

  The instructor exhaled sharply. “Stay close. We’re going to locate Lloyd immediately. If armed forces have breached academy territory, this is an act of war.” He reached for the communicator on his wrist. “Emergency code—activate defensive protocol. We have intruders in the trial forest.” ? Meanwhile… Lloyd dashed through the dense forest, branches cutting his face, lungs burning. He didn’t know how long he had been running—minutes? Hours? But he knew one thing: I have to lead them away. As far as possible. His feet slid across the dirt as he changed direction—when suddenly— BOOOOM! A massive bolt of lightning slammed into the ground just a few meters in front of him.

  It was red—deep, violent, and crackling like pure rage. Lloyd skidded backward, eyes widened.

  The smoke cleared. And out of the scorched crater… a figure stepped forward. A boy—maybe seventeen. Three years older. Tall.

  Black hair. A black suit lined with crimson streaks. A face mask hiding the lower half of his face. His eyes glowed faintly red. And around his body danced arcs of red lightning like living serpents. He stood there with complete confidence—almost bored. Then he spoke, his voice calm but cutting: “Well, well… Lloyd Uzugaya. We finally meet.” Lloyd tightened his grip on his dagger. “Who… who are you?”

  The boy tilted his head slightly. “I honestly thought you’d be dead a long time ago. Guess the Overlord was wrong.” Lloyd’s stomach knotted. “What do you want?” he demanded.

  The kid chuckled behind his mask. “You don’t need to know that yet.” He took a single step forward— the ground crackled under his foot from the electricity. “How about you ask Raiden instead?” His eyes burned brighter. “Ring any bells, Lloyd?” Lloyd froze. His mind blanked.

  His heart skipped. His breath stopped in his chest. He… he knows grandfather?! The red-lightning user watched Lloyd’s reaction with amusement. “Oh. So he didn’t tell you everything after all.” Lloyd swallowed, unable to speak.

  But the truth was clear— This boy knew his grandfather, knew about Lloyd’s family…

  and maybe the truth behind the night his parents died. And he had come here for Lloyd—alone. The red-lightning boy’s eyes narrowed behind his mask. Then—he vanished. A violent crack of thunder split the air. Lloyd barely saw the blur before—WHAM! A fist, wrapped in blazing red lightning, smashed into his chest. Lloyd felt the world explode. Air ripped from his lungs. His ribs screamed. His body lifted off the ground—

  —and he was hurled backward like a ragdoll.

  He crashed into the dirt, sliding across the forest floor, choking for breath. “G—gah—!” Pain radiated through his chest like fire. The masked boy walked toward him slowly, each step crackling with red sparks. “Pathetic,” he said coldly. “And here I thought you would put up a challenge.” Lloyd tried to stand—his arms shaking—but collapsed back down. The boy stopped over him. “I’m not going to kill you yet,” he said calmly. “That would be too easy.”

  Red lightning flared violently around his hand, forming a concentrated sphere of destructive energy. “I’d rather see you break. Slowly.”

  He raised his arm—aiming the lightning blast directly at Lloyd’s head. “Say goodbye—”

  ZRAAAAAAAM! A blue slash of energy cut through the air— and struck the blast away.

  The explosion lit up the entire forest like a second sun. Standing between Lloyd and the assassin…was Raiden. His staff hummed with crackling blue lightning. His eyes were sharp—deadly. “You…” the red-lightning boy hissed. “Of course you’d interfere.” Raiden didn’t flinch. “This ends now.” The masked kid tilted his head, amused. “Oh, I’m not sticking around to fight you. Not yet at least.” He pointed at Lloyd.

  “We will meet again, Lloyd Uzugaya. Next time, you won’t walk away.” Then he fixed his glowing red eyes on Raiden. “And you, old man… I’m going to kill you. Soon.” Above them, engines roared. Multiple ships—dark, metallic, marked with the Overlord’s insignia—rose from behind the trees, cutting through the sky. The masked boy shot upward in a streak of red lightning, landing on one of the ships as it ascended.

  Within seconds… they were gone.

  The forest fell silent. Raiden knelt beside Lloyd.

  “Easy,” he murmured. “You’re alive. That’s what matters.” Lloyd clutched his chest, wincing. “Who… who was that…?” Raiden looked toward the sky where the ships vanished.

  His face was grim. “That,” he said quietly, “was a nightmare we hoped would never return.” The forest crackled faintly with leftover energy—gold, blue, and red sparks fading into the night.

  Lloyd pushed himself up, clutching his chest. The pain pulsed with every breath, but fear pushed harder. “Raiden…” he managed, voice rough. “W-What did you mean… a nightmare you hoped would never return?” Raiden didn’t answer at first. His gaze stayed locked on the sky where the ships had disappeared, as if expecting them to return any second.

  “We will discuss it,” he said finally, “when we get back to the temple.” Lloyd cut him off. “I told someone. About having powers.”

  Raiden slowly turned to him. Lloyd swallowed. “A girl from my class. It was—everything was happening so fast. I didn’t mean to. She didn’t believe me at first, but then when I—when the soldiers attacked—” He looked down, ashamed. “It just came out.” Raiden let out a slow breath.

  But he didn’t get angry. He didn’t yell. Instead, he put a hand on Lloyd’s shoulder.

  “Don’t worry about that right now.” Lloyd blinked. “But—” “We have bigger problems than one student knowing a fraction of the truth.” Raiden’s voice dropped to a grim whisper.

  “The appearance of that boy… changes everything.” Lloyd felt a chill run down his spine.

  “Who is he?” Raiden shook his head. “Not here.”

  “Meet me at the temple tonight,” Raiden said firmly. “We have much to talk about. Lloyd nodded weakly, still trembling. As they began moving toward the academy outpost, Lloyd glanced one last time at the scorched earth where the red lightning had struck.

  He didn’t know that boy. He didn’t know why he wanted him dead. He didn’t know the truth behind Raiden’s fear. But he knew one thing—

  Tonight, he’d finally learn what Raiden had been hiding. And whatever it was… It was something big enough that even Raiden Uzugaya was afraid of it. Lloyd moved quickly through the forest until the clearing opened again, where academy faculty and emergency units now searched the area. The moment Lloyd stepped out, the remaining students turned toward him—shocked, confused, whispering. Hanzo and Alice stood near the instructor, both looking tense.

  The instructor approached immediately.

  “Lloyd,” he said sharply, scanning him for injuries. “What happened? Are you hurt?”

  Lloyd winced, holding his chest. “Yeah… but I’ll be fine.” The instructor’s eyes narrowed. “Why were armed soldiers after you? That is a direct breach of academy territory. They called you by name—how did they know you?” Lloyd hesitated.

  He glanced at Alice. Then Hanzo. Both of them watched him closely— Alice with worry,

  Hanzo with confused concern. Lloyd swallowed.

  “I don’t know,” he lied slowly. “All I heard on their radios was, ‘we have a lock—Lloyd Uzugaya.’ That’s when I ran.” Alice’s eyes flickered with guilt. She knew the truth. Hanzo’s jaw tightened—he sensed something was being held back, but he didn’t push. The instructor stared long at Lloyd, then nodded grimly. “Very well. The exam is cancelled until further notice. All of you—return to the academy immediately. Security will escort you down the mountain.”

  The students murmured in confusion, but followed. Hanzo and Alice stayed closer to Lloyd than usual as they walked down the forest path toward the city lights below.

  ? Later… walking through the quiet streets

  Most of the students split off toward their dorms. Lloyd walked the long path toward the outskirts alone—except he wasn’t alone for long.

  “Lloyd!” Hanzo called. He jogged up beside him with Alice following. Alice crossed her arms. “You’re hurt, aren’t you?” Lloyd gave a weak smirk. Yeah but I’ll be fine. Hanzo frowned. “What happened back there? Soldiers? What kind of soldiers? Why would they come after you, Lloyd?” Lloyd slowed. He felt the weight of the night pressing against him—the lies, the fear, the secrets Raiden warned him to keep. He stopped walking. Hanzo and Alice stopped with him. Lloyd looked up at the two of them, exhaled shakily… and finally spoke. “They were after me… because I have power.” Hanzo blinked. “Power? Like… strength? Or martial arts?”

  Lloyd shook his head. “No. Real power. Element power.” Hanzo’s eyes widened. “Element— you mean like the old legends? The ancient users from the Forgotten Age?” Alice didn’t react—she already knew. Lloyd nodded. “I didn’t know until recently. But… I have it. And the soldiers were sent to capture me because of it.”

  Hanzo stared, shocked. Alice looked down, as if replaying the moment Lloyd shielded her from the bullets. “But why you?” Hanzo asked softly. “Why would they target a fourteen-year-old kid with element power? How did you even get it?”

  Lloyd looked away, his eyes heavy. “I’m not supposed to talk about everything yet. But… my parents were killed because of these powers. And the same people who killed them are still looking for me.” Hanzo didn’t speak. Alice didn’t breathe. Lloyd swallowed. “And now… they’ve found me again.” The street fell silent around them. Only the soft hum of distant lights and the cold nighttime air filled the space between the three students. For the first time since he met them… Lloyd wasn’t alone. Alice’s Home — Late Evening Alice sat at the edge of her bed, knees pulled close, staring at the faint glow of the streetlights through her curtains. Her heart was pounding again, the same way it had when Lloyd shielded her—when he threw himself in front of those shots without hesitation. She pressed a hand to her chest. Alice whispered “Why… why would he do that for me? He barely knows me.

  Her face flushed slightly as she remembered the way he pushed her behind him, the way his eyes sharpened—not with fear, but determination.

  “Why am I feeling like this?” She buried her face in her hands. “No… don’t tell me… I have feelings? For him?” She groaned, falling back on the bed. But no matter how much she tried to deny it, the thought wouldn’t leave her. Lloyd risk himself to protect her. And that meant something. The temple doors opened on their own as Lloyd stepped inside. The air was silent—too silent—until a soft crackle of thunder rolled through the hall. Raiden emerged from the shadows. “Welcome, Lloyd. I’m glad you came.”

  Lloyd bowed slightly, though his face was tight with worry. “I need answers… about that masked kid. About why they’re after me.” Raiden nodded slowly. “Then listen carefully. Because this truth will shake you.” A distant rumble echoed through the temple, almost like the sky itself bracing for revelation. Raiden placed a hand behind his back. “You were not the only child your mother had.” Lloyd froze. “What…?” Raiden continued.

  “Your mother had another son with your father before you. His name was…” Raiden’s eyes narrowed, filled with regret. “Kairo Uzugaya.”

  Lloyd’s heart dropped. “Kairo…?” Raiden nodded.“He was born with your mother’s lightning… just like you. But something changed. His lightning shifted—became red—a violent, unstable mutation. A side effect of tampering.”

  He sighed heavily, as if recounting a wound he wished he could forget. “Your father believed red lightning was a sign of corruption… negative energy. Evil. And when Kairo was just three years old…” Raiden’s voice darkened. “Your father tried to kill him.” Lloyd stumbled back, breath shaking.

  “No—no way my father—!” “It was fear, Lloyd. Cowardice disguised as logic. Your father couldn’t risk raising a child whose power leaned toward destruction.” “But Kairo didn’t die. The Overlord found him first.” Lloyd’s blood ran cold.

  “He was brainwashed. Fed lies… But worse—something happened we still don’t understand.”

  “The Overlord implanted a fragment of its own power into him. That is why his lightning is red. He is not naturally corrupted… he was altered.”

  Lloyd whispered, voice trembling: “So the masked kid… he’s my brother…?”

  Raiden nodded. “Yes. And there is more.”

  He stepped closer. “After losing Kairo… your mother gave birth to two more children.”

  Lloyd looked up sharply. “You… and your sister—Sayda Uzugaya.” Lloyd’s breath caught in his throat. “This is the truth of your bloodline. Lightning. Wind. And a brother twisted by the Overlord.” Raiden placed a hand on Lloyd’s shoulder. “And now that Kairo knows you exist… he will come for you again.” “All this time…” he whispered, voice cracking. “All this time I felt like I was alone. Like I didn’t have anyone. No family…” His eyes lifted, watery but burning with anger. “And you’re telling me… I had a brother and a sister this whole time?”

  Raiden lowered his head, guilt visible across his face. “That is the truth, Lloyd. A truth kept from you for reasons beyond simple secrecy.”

  Lloyd clenched his fists, lightning rolling across his knuckles. “If my father never gave up on his son… if he would’ve tried—just once—to find a cure, to reverse whatever the Overlord did to Kairo… none of this would’ve happened!”

  Raiden lifted a hand gently. “Your father was afraid. Not of Kairo, but of the darkness within him. He believed he had no choice.” “That’s not an excuse,” Lloyd snapped. “That’s cowardice.”

  A long silence passed between them before Lloyd’s breathing steadied. He swallowed hard.

  “…Where is Sayda? Raiden exhaled, as though he’d been waiting for that question. “She is safe. She lives with the other half of your family.”

  Lloyd blinked. “Other half?” Raiden moved toward the great mural on the temple wall—two dragons carved into stone, facing opposite directions. He traced his fingers along the left dragon. “Your family was divided long before you were born. Two branches, both powerful, but one always overshadowing the other.”

  He tapped the first dragon.

  “Your father’s branch of his family—dominant in with energy and power His hand shifted to the second dragon. “Your mother’s line—dominant in lightning. Sayda was entrusted to your mother’s brother, to be raised under that branch.”

  Lloyd stepped closer, confusion darkening his features. “Why was I never told this the first time I met you? You knew everything. You could’ve said something.” Raiden’s eyes softened with a heavy, remorseful glow. “Because fate had already chosen the path. Some truths harm more than they help when revealed too soon. You were never meant to learn this until you was ready. “But I had a right to know,” Lloyd muttered. “You do now,” Raiden replied quietly. “And there is something else. Sayda… she carries lightning like your mother. Pure lightning—unlike Kairo’s corrupted red form.” Lloyd’s head lowered as he processed it all.

  “A brother twisted into a weapon… a sister hidden away… and I’ve been walking around thinking I was alone.” Raiden placed a hand on Lloyd’s shoulder. “You were alone because destiny needed you to grow without influence from either branch. Your heart… had to develop without bias. That is what makes you different from them. That is what makes you the one who can decide how this family’s curse ends.” Lloyd didn’t speak, but the storm inside him did

  This was bigger than anything he imagined.

  Bigger than him. Yet somehow… it all led back to him. Raiden stepped back, studying Lloyd with an intensity that almost felt heavy.

  “You have to grow stronger,” he said firmly. “Physically. Mentally. Your power, your control, your resolve—they all have to rise together. What’s coming will not wait for you to be ready.”

  Lloyd swallowed, the memory of Kairo’s red lightning burning in his mind.

  “I know. I felt how weak I was. I couldn’t even protect myself… Raiden shook his head. “This isn’t about shame. It’s about preparation. Train your body. Harden your endurance. Sharpen your ability. You must be ready before your brother seeks you again.” Lloyd nodded slowly, determination building like a spark becoming a flame. Raiden added, “Return tomorrow night. We begin with what your parents left behind.”

  ? Sunlight filtered over the quiet street as Hanzo approached Lloyd’s house. He knocked loudly—three quick taps, then crossed his arms while waiting. A moment later the door opened. Lloyd stepped out, looking tired but trying to act normal. Hanzo raised an eyebrow.

  “Man, you look like you got hit by a truck.”

  Lloyd forced a small smile. Hanzo leaned against the doorframe. “They’re resuming the exams.” Lloyd blinked. “Already?” “Yeah,” Hanzo replied. “Three days from now. Instructor sent out the message this morning. Something about ‘making up for lost time’ and ‘evaluating field instincts.’” He sighed. “Honestly, after everything that happened? They should postpone it a month.” Lloyd looked toward the sky, thinking about the night before—the red lightning, the masked kid’s grin, Raiden’s truth, the weight of two siblings he never knew existed. Three days felt like nothing. But he forced a nod.

  “We’ll just have to deal with it.” Hanzo studied him for a moment. “You sure you’re okay?

  “I’m fine,” Lloyd said quietly. “Just tired.”

  Hanzo didn’t press further. He crossed his arms again and exhaled. “Well… exams or not, we stick together. If something happens again, this time we won’t let you face it alone.”

  Lloyd didn’t answer, but something in his chest tightened. Because he knew the truth He would have to face it alone. The academy grounds were buzzing that morning, but Lloyd barely heard any of it.

  His mind kept circling Raiden’s words from last night: Grow stronger. Prepare. Your brother will return. Hanzo walked beside him, talking about something—breakfast, students, rumors—but Lloyd didn’t catch half of it. His thoughts were too loud. Hanzo waved a hand in front of his face. “Dude. Hello? Earth to Lloyd. You look like you didn’t sleep.” Lloyd blinked. “Sorry. Just thinking.” ? Inside the Academy Training Hall The instructor stood waiting, arms crossed, presence strict and heavy. “Today,” he announced, “we begin one-on-one sparring. No holding back, no excuses. Your exam is in three days. I need to see where each of you stand.”

  Lloyd tried to steady his breathing. He couldn’t afford distractions. “First match,” the instructor called out. “Ren versus Lloyd.” Hanzo whispered, “Good luck, bro—you’re gonna need it.”

  Lloyd stepped forward, wooden training sword in hand. Ren smirked. “Try not to fall too fast.”

  Lloyd didn’t reply. ? Ren moved first—fast, sharp, disciplined. His strikes came like waves, one after another, pushing Lloyd back.

  Lloyd tried to focus, but his mind kept slipping.

  Ren’s blade hit his shoulder—hard. “Come on!” Ren shouted. “You’re way off today!”

  Lloyd growled and charged, frustration boiling.

  He swung wildly—anger instead of technique.

  Ren parried easily and struck again, knocking Lloyd down to one knee. Students whispered.

  “He’s completely off.” “Ren’s destroying him.”

  “What’s wrong with Lloyd?” Lloyd gripped his wooden sword tighter. He couldn’t lose like this.

  Ren came in for the finishing hit— And Lloyd raised his sword to block. At that moment—

  CRACK—!! A burst of lightning sparks erupted along Lloyd’s wooden blade, The impact shattered Ren’s training sword—split clean into three pieces. The entire hall froze.

  Ren stumbled back in shock, staring at his broken weapon. “What… was that?”

  Gasps rippled across the students. “D-Did you see that?” “Electricity?” “He’s a freak!”

  “What kind of monster does that?” Lloyd’s eyes widened. He hadn’t meant to do it—it just happened. Sparks still flickered weakly along his fingers before fading. The instructor’s gaze sharpened dangerously, trying to make sense of what he’d seen. Ren slowly lifted the largest fragment of his sword, shocked and angry.

  “What… did you just do?” Lloyd backed a step away, heart racing, throat tightening.

  This wasn’t supposed to happen. Not here. Lloyd didn’t wait for the instructor to say anything. He didn’t wait for Ren. He didn’t wait for the stares, the whispers, the fear. He turned and ran. He burst out of the training hall doors, his heart slamming against his chest.

  “No way… no way that just happened—” he gasped. His right hand was flickering, violent streaks of blue lightning running across his fingertips, crackling erratically like they were about to explode. He clenched his fist, but the light only pulsed harder. Stop… stop… stop!

  But the lightning refused to listen. ?

  Hanzo Calls Out Behind him, halfway down the hall, Hanzo shouted: “LLOYD! HEY—WAIT!”

  Lloyd flinched. He heard him. He sprinted faster.

  “LLOYD!” Hanzo’s voice echoed again, desperate and confused. Lloyd’s stomach twisted. He wanted to answer. To slow down.

  To explain. But fear drowned everything.

  One more spark danced across his palm—too bright, too unstable. “No… I can’t let anyone see me like this,” he muttered. ? He burst through the academy’s main doors and kept running through the courtyard, ignoring the students staring after him. Every step he took, lightning flickered around his arm—brief flashes, dangerous arcs snapping at the air. He didn’t dare stop. He could hurt someone.

  So he ran until the academy vanished behind him… until the city streets blurred…

  until he didn’t hear Hanzo calling anymore.

  ? His feet pounded the pavement. It’s all over, he thought. Every whisper he imagined hit harder than Ren’s strikes: “He’s a freak.”“Did you see that?” “What is he?” Lloyd gritted his teeth and pushed harder, lightning trailing behind him in faint streaks. He reached his house—empty, silent. He slammed the door behind him, locked it, and slid down against it. His breathing was heavy, shaking. Lightning still flickered across his hand—fast, unstable, like a storm trapped beneath his skin. Lloyd pressed his forehead against his arm. In the quiet heart of the Uzugaya temple, Raiden knelt before the ancient stone tablets—etched with generations of the family’s history. Each tablet held a carving… a face…an element bound to their bloodline. One tablet had remained dim since the day Lloyd was born.

  A young figure carved into the stone, unnamed, unawakened. Raiden rested a hand on it every night, wondering when the time would come.

  Tonight, it answered. A sudden blue glow burst from the carving, lighting up the entire chamber.

  Raiden’s eyes widened. “No… it’s happening now?” Lightning energy pulsed violently from the stone, flickering just like Lloyd’s unstable sparks.

  Raiden stood immediately. “He’s losing control.”

  With a sweep of his hand, he summoned a swirling vortex of electricity, stepping into it—

  and vanished. ? Lloyd sat against the wall, gripping his flickering hand with the other, teeth clenched as sparks snapped around his fingers.

  “Stop… please stop…” he whispered. The room flashed blue with each unstable pulse. Just when the electricity surged too violently—

  a thunderclap boomed inside the house.

  And Raiden appeared. He took one look at Lloyd’s trembling form and rushed to him.

  “You triggered it,” Raiden said, voice sharp with urgency. “Your power tried to awaken.”

  Lloyd’s eyes were wide with panic. “I can’t— I can’t stop it, it keeps coming—!” “I know. Hold still.” Raiden placed two fingers on Lloyd’s wrist.

  A surge of deep blue lighting flowed from Raiden into Lloyd’s arm. The wild lightning whipping around the boy’s hand recoiled, drawn inward.

  Raiden absorbed the unstable charge into his own body like pulling venom from a wound.

  Within seconds, the energy calmed. The sparks faded. Lloyd’s hand stopped shaking.

  His breathing slowed as the storm inside him quieted. Raiden exhaled heavily. “There. It’s contained… for now.” Lloyd stared at his now-steady hand, stunned. “…How did you do that?”

  “You weren’t controlling your lightning,” Raiden replied. “It was controlling you.”

  He knelt beside Lloyd, eyes serious. “What happened?” Lloyd swallowed hard, shame twisting in his chest. “I… I lost control during sparring. I was fighting one of my classmates, and I couldn’t focus. Then… the lightning just came out. It cut his sword in half. Everyone saw. They all know something’s wrong with me.”

  Raiden looked at him with understanding—not judgment. He whispered Lloyd. Your power is awakening.” Lloyd looked away, voice small. “…And now the whole academy thinks I’m a freak.” Raiden placed a firm hand on his shoulder.

  “They don’t understand because they can’t. But I do. This is only the beginning. Your body is finally responding to the power inside you—the lightning. If it wasn’t for that spar today, your awakening might have taken months.”

  Lloyd let out a shaky breath. “It felt like… like something inside me was breaking out.”

  Raiden nodded. “Because it is.” He stood.

  “Your training must advance. Starting tonight.”

  Lloyd looked up, startled. “Tonight?” Raiden’s gaze hardened with determination. “Yes. You can’t afford to wait anymore.”