March 2039.
Two months had passed since the Echo of a Lost Friend.The training field vibrated with energy.Blows, shouts, and impacts echoed like thunder in the morning air.Ryan, Ryu, Ethan, Kane, and Dante trained side by side.Sweat, breath, and power—it summarized an entire year of evolution.
"Wow… today marks the end of the hero season," Dante said, wiping his face with a towel, panting.Ethan smiled lightly."An incredible year… especially after that Draft."
Ryu snorted, crossing his arms."Incredible because you won it and became the number one pick, right?"Kane chuckled softly, arms crossed."Hopefully at least you're competing for 'Rookie of the Year.'""True," Dante said, stretching his body. "Today's the Hero Awards."Ryu frowned. "Hero what?"Ryan, breathing heavily after a final strike, replied:"It's a festival where heroes are awarded for their achievements and growth over the whole year.""Exactly," Dante confirmed, adjusting his uniform.Ethan raised an eyebrow. "And what are the categories?"
A calm voice spoke from behind them:"Hero of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Most Improved Hero, Most Popular Hero…And the five rookies who will be named as future candidates for Hero No. 1."
Everyone turned. Kelvin Nox approached, imposing as always, wearing his gray overcoat and with a calm gaze.
"You already know what this means, boys," he said, adjusting his gloves.
Before anyone could respond, a cheerful voice echoed:"It means today is the most important day of your lives!"
It was Lorien Valtier, wearing a royal blue suit and golden tie. His smile lit up the field."Today you will be recognized for everything you've done. For your training, your missions, your battles.Be proud, heroes. Wear your ceremonial outfits!"
Kelvin crossed his arms, sighing. "You really love interrupting people, huh, Lorien?"Lorien winked. "Relax, Kelvin. Today you and Darius will be officially recognized as Heroes No. 1."Kelvin arched an eyebrow. "And who are the others?"Lorien only smiled. "A secret."
The Festival
Hours later, the heroes were in their rooms, preparing.Ryan looked at himself in the mirror.
He wore a dark blue cloak with silver details, flowing down to his knees with majesty.The inverted diamond emblem, glowing electric blue in the center of his chest, reflected the power of the Reversum, his primordial energy.Underneath, he wore a light, navy-blue armor, fitted to his body, reinforced with metallic lines.His belt, gloves, and boots matched the palette, blending elegance and strength.His blue eyes reflected the emblem's glow—a living symbol of power and purpose.
He took a deep breath."…I'm ready."
HeroCity, Capital Center
Jets streaked across the sky, leaving colorful trails forming the Hero Association symbol.Millions of people filled the streets.Holographic screens broadcasted the event live worldwide.
The host, in a white suit with a microphone in hand, raised his voice:"Welcome everyone to the Hero Awards!Today we celebrate those who carry the future of humanity in their fists and hearts!"
The crowd erupted in applause and cheers.Fans dressed as legends filled the stands: Inavy Stormbreak, Ray Stormbreak, Kelvin Nox, Darius Flamesoul…
Backstage, Ryan adjusted his cloak in front of the mirror when he heard a voice:
"Whoa… cool outfit, Ryan!" Ryu said, entering with Ethan.
Ryu wore a black tactical suit with purple details, a cape with a golden phoenix emblem, and a sword on his back.Ethan, meanwhile, wore a black uniform with red lines, a crimson inner cape, and the legendary Blade of Chaos at his side.
"You both look flawless too," Ryan replied with a small smile.Ryu laughed. "Man, you look like a legendary hero."Ethan added, "Or the protagonist about to face the final boss."
They laughed, the mood light before the most important moment of their lives.
The Stage
The host raised a golden envelope."Last year, we witnessed young heroes proving the worth of the New Golden Generation!And today… let's meet the new Rookie of the Year!"
The giant screens showed battle scenes: Ryu, Kane, Ethan, Abby, Annie, Eliara… and Ryan Valeborn.
When Ryan's image appeared, the stadium shook.Cheers, applause, live broadcasts—HeroCity trembled.
"And it's only fair," continued the host, "that last year's winner announces their successor!Welcome… Dante Valtier!"
Dante appeared on stage with his ceremonial katana and a shy smile."Good morning, HeroCity!"The crowd went wild. A fan shouted:"He's as handsome as his father, uiii!"Dante laughed, embarrassed. "Hahaha… thank you, everyone."
He opened the envelope carefully."And the Rookie of the Year goes to…"
Time seemed to slow.The crowd held its breath."Ryan Valeborn!"
The stadium erupted with cheers, lights, and fireworks.Influencers on live streams shouted:"I CALLED IT, CHAT! HE'S DIFFERENT!"
Ryan walked to the stage.His eyes shone, his heart raced.He received the trophy from Dante and took a deep breath in front of the microphone.
Backstage, Ryu whispered to Ethan:"I bet he's gonna cry.""Hundred credits he will," Ethan replied, smiling.
The Speech
Ryan faced the audience.Millions of eyes on him.Then he spoke:
"Ufff… how can I even express myself?First of all… I want to thank everyone.All the citizens of HeroCity, and every person, everywhere in the world, watching me right now.Truly… thank you.
Receiving this award… still feels like a dream.Because, honestly… a few years ago, no one believed I could get here.Not even I did.
I was just a normal boy.No gifts. No power.A 'without aura.'And hearing that every day… it hurts.It hurts a lot.But still, I kept going.Even humiliated. Even ridiculed.I kept trying.
I always told myself:'Even if I wasn't born a genius…Even if I have to try twice as hard…Even if they say it's impossible…I will become a hero.'
But… what hurt the most wasn't falling.It was feeling like no one believed in me.
Then I met him.Inavy Stormbreak.He looked at me—not like a failure, but as someone with potential.And said something simple… but it changed everything:'I believe you can become a hero.'
The crowd began to get emotional.
From that moment on… I began to believe too.And today, in front of all of you…I want to say something to anyone who still dreams of becoming a hero.
Even if they laugh at you.Even if they say it's impossible.Even if the world seems to push you down…Keep believing.Because it's in that moment—when you believe, even without certainty—that a hero's true strength is born."
He raised his fist with the trophy."So, if someone tells you it's impossible… break your limits!And if you fall… stand up, stronger than before.Because if a 'without aura' like me could get here…then anyone can become a hero!"
The entire stadium erupted.People cried, families embraced.In the stands, Darius Valtier and Ryan's mother, Emily, smiled, emotional.Darius placed his hand on her shoulder."Your son… is destined to be a great hero."She nodded, tears in her eyes."I know."
And high on the stage, with lights and applause surrounding him, Ryan Valeborn smiled.Not as a boy.But as the new symbol of hope.
The host raised the microphone with a teasing smile:"What a ridiculous speech from young Ryan… but now let's move on to the Most Popular Hero candidates!"
On the giant screens appeared images of Ethan Stormbreak, Zen Kagetsune, Ryan Valeborn, Kane Jayson, Darius Valtier, and Ryu Nox.When the focus landed on Ryu, the female audience went wild, screaming like he was the protagonist of a shoujo anime.
"Well… apparently, this is the award that all the ladies love!" said the host."And the winner of Most Popular Hero goes to… Ryu Nox!"
Ryu confidently climbed the stage.The crowd roared, some fans fainting from excitement. He flipped his hair back and smiled charmingly.
"Ahhh, thank you all who voted for me!" he said, playing along with the applause."A huge hug to all the ladies here—yes, I saw you! Laughs.
"But hey… this award isn't just for my handsome face," he continued teasingly, "although, let's be honest, it helps a lot, right? Mischievous grin."It's for the charisma that runs in my blood! Maybe genetics, maybe magic… who knows! Laughs, teasing the audience.
"And seriously, don't worry: I'll keep saving the day and… well, making everyone happier just by being around!"The audience erupted with laughter and applause.
"So, to all who supported me… keep believing in the power of Ryu! With my talent, my beauty, and my unmatched charm, the future can only be epic!"
He dramatically raised the trophy."And if anyone doubts it… just show this award and say: 'Yes… he's as amazing as he looks.'"
Backstage, Kelvin Nox put his hand on his face, embarrassed."This kid is only like this because of you guys, idiots!"
Lorien and Darius laughed."This one's my boy!" Lorien shouted."He's got the Valtier touch, huh! My boy shines!" Darius added.
Lorien smiled teasingly:"Uh-oh, we're to blame for him having such a boring dad."Darius mocked:"Totally agree with you, Lorien. Your brother here is so boring."Kelvin snorted, furious:"Shut up, you two! And your son thinks you're an idiot, Lorien, and you too, Darius! Go screw yourselves!""Dante thinks I'm cool, right Dante?" Lorien teased."Well… 'cool' isn't exactly the word, but you're definitely a fun uncle," Dante replied.
The backstage audience of parents, children, and heroes exploded with laughter."See? Lorien, you're so lame," Kelvin joked, still laughing.
Most Improved Hero Award
The host regained the microphone:"What charisma, huh? Now let's move on to the Most Improved Hero award!"
Images of Zen, Ryan, Kane, Ethan, and Ryu appeared.The audience waited in silence.
"The hero who improved the most this year is… Ethan Stormbreak!"
Ethan stepped onto the stage with absolute poise, his aura reminiscent of his father, Inavy Stormbreak.Each step reverberated respect, every gesture exuded restrained strength.
He raised the microphone:"Good morning to all the citizens of HeroCity!Winning this award means a lot, not just for recognition, but for everything I've experienced to get here.This year hasn't been easy, and my evolution didn't come alone. It came from the support and teachings of great men who became legends.
"Yes, I'm talking about them: my father, Inavy, and my grandfather, Ray Stormbreak.But I want to make it clear: my evolution didn't come just from inheritance or power I was given.It came from hard work, determination to always learn more, daily effort to improve.
Ethan looked at his friends on stage and continued:"I also want to thank my brothers—not by blood, but by soul—Ryan and Ryu. In the darkest moments, you rekindled my flame. Getting here was only possible thanks to you.My gratitude goes to my mother, Rose Eldara, and my mentor, Darius, who always pushed me forward, even when it seemed impossible. And of course, Zen, who almost made me lose everything, but now teaches me that life is beautiful… and harsh at the same time."
Ethan took a deep breath, looking at Eliara Myne."And to those who supported me, thank you. And to those who doubted me… I AM STILL HERE!"
The audience erupted in applause, tears running down many faces.Rose, emotional, whispered to the sky:"Inavy, our son is a true hero, just like you."
Tribute to Inavy Stormbreak
The host returned to the stage, emotional:"Message delivered! Now, a very special moment. Welcome Lorien Valtier, President of the Hero Association."
Lorien stepped up in a blue suit and red tie."Good morning, everyone. Today is a special day, but before the main award, I want everyone to appreciate the Hero Association's new project."
A towering statue of Inavy Stormbreak was unveiled, surrounded by sculptures representing his courage and kindness."This will be constructed with the same material as the Blade of Chaos, a rare mineral from Nionderland.Applaud this man who gave his life to protect us! He used to say: 'There is no greater proof of love than giving your life for those you love.'"
The crowd was moved. Ethan and Ryan had tears in their eyes, and Lorien's expression was one of deep sorrow.
Kai Hayashe's Warning
Before the Hero of the Year announcement, applause mixed with murmurs.An overwhelming aura filled the stadium. Everyone fell to their knees, except Darius, Ryan, Ethan, Ryu, Lorien, and Kelvin.
Three figures appeared: Kai Hayashe, accompanied by Zarkon, Reiv, and Abyssion. Kai, with red hair and the Spear of Destiny, looked at Lorien with a dark smile.
"Kai…" Lorien muttered, biting his lip.
"Long time, old friend," Kai said, imposing.
Ryan activated the Reversum, his intense blue aura surrounding him."One more step and I'll end you," he said firmly.
Kai smirked, mocking:"You think you're ready, Reversum boy? Come and try!"
Reiv tried to advance, but Kai held him back:"Not yet, Reiv."
"What are you doing here, idiot?" Lorien roared.
Kai walked toward him, steps confident:"Is this how you treat a former hero? What a shame.I didn't come to fight today; I came to declare something."
Kai took the microphone from Lorien:"Humans… I, Kai—or Kairon, if you prefer—as Universal Emperor, declare war on humanity.But don't worry: you will have five years to become stronger. Otherwise… it's the end of everything."
With a gesture, he opened a portal and disappeared with his companions.The crowd panicked, millions trembling. Lorien breathed deeply, fury evident.
"This is just the beginning…" he whispered.
Five Years to Prepare
Hours after Kai Hayashe's appearance, HeroCity was in shock. News broadcasts went frantically:
"The last five years of our generation…"
"Could what happened 17/18 years ago repeat?"
"Who is Kai Hayashi, the new Kairon?"
The wind blew strongly, Ryan's hair whipping as he stared at the horizon.The city seemed restless. His friends approached, forming a firm line behind him.
"Hey man, you look deep in thought," Ryu broke the silence.
Ryan took a deep breath."Yes… we have five years to get stronger. If not… everything could end."
Kane, crossing his arms, frowned:"With that aura we felt… he's far stronger than the original Kairon."
Ethan added, his voice grave:"I felt it too… Kai seems on another level."
Annie, visibly scared, whispered:"So… it's the end of everything?"
Ryan slowly turned, meeting everyone's eyes. His expression was serious but full of unwavering determination."No… it's not the end." His voice echoed firmly."The end only comes for those who give up. Kai Hayashi may be stronger, may have powers we've never seen, but we're not just anyone."
He took a deep breath, remembering every battle, every training, every fall, every victory."We are the New Dawn Heroes. We train, we fall, we rise, and we grow together. Every fight, every tear, every challenge… prepared us for this moment."
Ryan raised his hand, pointing to the sky."Five years. Five years to become stronger. Five years to prove that courage, unity, and determination are greater than any power.No matter what he does, no matter how impossible it seems… we will resist. We will fight. And we will win."
He clenched his fist, the camera zooming in on his face, showing the gleam in his blue eyes."No matter the cost… we will win."
One by one, Ryu, Ethan, Kane, Dante, Annie, Abby, and Eliara approached, placing their hands over Ryan's. Silence fell for a moment, then all raised their fists together.
They were an unbreakable unity—a silent cry of war, hope, and determination.
Hant and the Return of Power
Meanwhile, in HeroCity's most secure prison, Hant was being monitored. But security was no match. Kai Hayashe destroyed the facility with ease, leaving wreckage and chaos in his wake.
Hant looked up, terrified, and saw Kai smiling."Long time, Hant."
Without his powers, Hant fell to his knees."What do you want from me now, Kai? I have nothing… I'm nothing. My powers were taken away because of that damn Ryan Valeborn."
Kai approached, imposing, with a cold smile."What if I told you there's a way to obtain powers stronger than anything you can imagine?"
Hant's eyes shone with hope."Tell me… what's the plan?"
Kai extended his hand with authority."Join me. In five years, we will conquer everything, and you will be my right hand, Hant."
Hant nodded without hesitation.Kai placed his hand on Hant's head, like a blessing. A staggering golden aura enveloped Hant's body. The void that Ryan had placed within him returned, now filled with the Universal Emperor's power.
His white hair gleamed, his golden eyes sparkled, and a new Hant emerged, more powerful and terrifying than ever. He looked at Kai, ready to depart."Ryan Valeborn… we will meet again."
With one last cold smile, Hant crossed the portal beside Kai.As the portal closed, Ryan and the New Dawn Heroes stood, staring at the horizon.
The challenge had been set. The world had five years to prepare… or fall.