As consciousness slowly returned, a tidal wave of dread crashed upon my weary mind, the weight of the previous night's horrors settling heavily upon my shoulders. The memories flooded back with ruthless clarity, leaving me yearning for it all to be nothing more than a vivid nightmare.
"Are you awake?" a soft voice called out, cutting through the haze of my thoughts. I turned my gaze to the girl standing before me, her youthful appearance hinting at her tender age. There was an unfamiliar aura about her, but the concern in her eyes compelled me to trust, if only for a moment.
"Who are you?" I mustered the strength to inquire, my voice trembling with uncertainty.
She introduced herself, her name carrying an air of elegance as she replied, "My name is Aurora. And what about you?" Her question hung in the air, and for a moment, I hesitated, still grappling with the remnants of confusion before finally offering my name, "Yusuke."
Her next words struck me like a thunderbolt, the gravity of the situation hitting me like a physical blow as she revealed the fate of my village. "Your village was burnt," she began, her voice laced with sorrowful gravity. "But I was able to rescue one person." My heart sank, hope and fear warring within me. I hoped for the best, but feared the worst.
With a gentle gesture, she directed my gaze towards a figure lying in peaceful slumber. My heart skipped a beat as I recognized the face of my dear friend, Jeane. Overwhelmed with a torrent of emotions, tears streamed down my cheeks as I crawled towards her, my trembling hand reaching out to gently brush against her cheek.
POV:Aurora Hernandez
As I observed the young boy before me, my mind swirled with a mix of intrigue and concern. Last night, he had been a formidable and menacing figure, his presence exuding power far greater than that of an S-class demon. Yet now, he appeared innocent and vulnerable, seemingly unaware of the transformation he had undergone.
He looked at me, his eyes filled with tears, and spoke with a grateful heart, "I don't know who you are, but thank you."
Despite the uncertainty of my identity, he expressed gratitude for my presence, a glimmer of trust shining through the uncertainty.
he had the potential to become a formidable demon exorcist coupled with his ability.
I confronted him directly, posing a question that carried the weight of justice and vengeance. "Will you allow Lucas to escape after what he has done to your town?"
His anger flared at the mention of Lucas' name, and he responded with fierce determination, "I am willing to do anything if I can kill him."
Seeking guidance, he turned to me and asked, "How can I become stronger? Lucas possesses an otherworldly power that I must match."
With a solemn tone, I responded to him, "Lucas is a demon, and indeed a formidable one, but as a demon exorcist, we possess the power to bring him down. However, it requires years of rigorous training and enduring hardships. Are you willing to commit to this path, even if it means enduring great suffering?"
He spoke with unwavering determination, his voice resonating with resolve, "Yes, I am willing to embark on this path, no matter the suffering it may bring."
I then explained to him about demons and demon exorcists, unraveling the ancient knowledge and secrets of our world.
Responding with a voice filled with a mix of reassurance and determination, I said, "Follow me, and carry her."
POV:Yusuke Tanaka
As I stepped into the bustling heart of Tokyo, my eyes widened in awe and disbelief. Towering skyscrapers adorned the cityscape, stretching towards the heavens, their gleaming glass facades reflecting the vibrant energy that permeated the streets below. The hustle and bustle of hundreds of people filled the air, creating a symphony of hurried footsteps blending with the chorus of honking cars and distant chatter. It was a world unlike anything I had ever known.
Jeane's voice carried a mix of astonishment and determination as she softly uttered, "It's so beautiful."
Having just recovered from our recent ordeals, Jeane expressed her resolve to join me in becoming demon exorcists. Although I initially resisted, I eventually relented, realizing that she, too, had endured the horrors of that haunting nightmare.
With a warm smile that seemed to understand my awe and wonder, Aurora said, "Welcome to Tokyo."
As we ventured a mere 20 steps into the bustling streets of Tokyo, it became strikingly apparent that Aurora was a revered figure in this city. The crowd instantaneously recognized her, and a palpable wave of excitement and admiration swept through the people. They swarmed around her, eager to catch a glimpse or exchange a word with the renowned Demon Exorcist.Nevertheless, with her exceptional agility and finesse, Aurora gracefully navigated through the throng, ensuring Jeane and I remained safe, until we found ourselves standing before a grand edifice adorned with the bold inscription, "Demon Exorcist." It was an imposing place, signifying the source of power and training where my journey to become a formidable force against demons would begin.
With a solemn nod, Aurora addressed us, "That's all I can do for now. I've recommended both of you. It's up to you to train and become demon exorcists. When the time is right, we will meet again." With those resolute words, she turned and walked away.
As we stepped into the building, we were greeted by a bustling atmosphere filled with a diverse array of individuals, ranging from our age to more seasoned veterans. Patiently waiting in line for their assessments and orientations.Following Aurora's recommendations, the staff informed us that we would be assigned to a former demon exorcist for guidance and mentorship. The prospect of learning from someone with practical experience in battling demons filled me with both excitement and a tinge of nervousness
POV: Yusuke Tanaka
As I stepped into the humble hut nestled amidst the desolate snow of Antarctica, an overwhelming sense of isolation engulfed me. The elderly man before me appeared weathered by time, his worn-out features speaking volumes of a life filled with struggle and wisdom. Wrinkles etched deep lines on his face, marking the passing of countless years. His frail frame seemed incongruous with the knowledge and power he possessed. It was a mystery how he had managed to survive in this harsh, unforgiving environment, but his mere presence exuded an aura of resilience and inner strength.
The old man's voice resonated with a gravelly tone, as if it had weathered the passage of time along with his body. "Took you long enough," he uttered, his words carrying a mix of impatience and amusement. I could sense a hint of wisdom in his voice, as if he had been waiting for this moment to arrive, aware of the trials and tribulations that lay ahead. His words held a certain weight, as if they carried the echoes of countless lessons and experiences.
With a stern voice, he introduced himself as Akira and emphasized, "My name is Akira, get that into your heads."
"Quit wasting time there, and let's get started with your training," he urged us.
Our arduous training commenced, and on the very first day, we embarked on a grueling run of 100 miles, pushing ourselves to the absolute limit. Determined to excel, I pushed through with unwavering resolve, but the intensity of the training proved overwhelming. My legs gave out beneath me, leaving me unable to move, my body succumbing to exhaustion and pain. Frostbite began to gnaw at my extremities.
However, to my astonishment, Jeane seemed to complete the 100 miles effortlessly, showing no signs of fatigue. She looked as if she could continue running without breaking a sweat, leaving me in awe of her physical abilities.
Inside the humble hut, the scent of fish bones delicately hung in the air, suspended by a thread near the rustic roof, infusing the dwelling with a subtle, fishy aroma. A simple straw bed provided a place of rest, and the crackling fire at its center offered warmth and comfort amidst the wilderness.
As I reclined on the straw bed, my legs still throbbing from the day's intense training, Akira administered a special regenerative cell-enhancing drug. To my astonishment, the effects were swift and remarkable, the healing process unfolding before my very eyes in a matter of minutes. The pain ebbed away.
The drug that accelerated the healing of my legs held a fascinating origin - born from extensive experimentation on demons, harnessing their regenerative abilities for the benefit of humanity. This medical breakthrough proved to be a boon, allowing me to continue my training without the hindrance of my previous injuries.
As the dawn greeted us, we embarked on a rigorous training regimen that encompassed a diverse array of exercises. From intense weightlifting sessions to challenging bodyweight exercises, we pushed our bodies to the limit, forging our strength and endurance in the crucible of dedication.
Under Akira's expert tutelage, our training entered a grueling phase, pushing the boundaries of our physical and mental endurance. We honed our strength, agility, and swordsmanship.
Yet, the harsh winter weather posed a challenge. Each time I stepped outside, the bitter cold seemed to seep into my very bones, threatening to sap my will to continue.Frostbite became an unwelcome companion, a constant reminder of the unforgiving nature of our training. The only solace came from the regenerative medicine that saved me from the brink of peril.
As a week passed, the moment of reckoning arrived. Akira decided to test our progress with a formidable trial. Our task was to run an arduous 100-mile distance through the unforgiving cold, our breaths visible in the icy air. The snow whipped against our skin, and the wind howled with a biting ferocity.
As I labored through the distance, a full day's worth, I couldn't help but marvel at Jeane's feat . In a mere 10 hours, she had conquered the same treacherous path.
When I finally reached the end of my arduous journey, there she was, crouching modestly with snow perched atop her head, and a runny nose accentuating her flushed red face.
As my breaths steadied, I couldn't help but voice my concern, "Jeane, why did you wait for me outside? You could have sought shelter indoors."
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Her eyes softened with understanding, a gentle smile gracing her lips. "We embarked on this journey together, didn't we? I couldn't leave you behind," she replied, her voice holding the warmth of camaraderie. "We are a team, after all."
Before I could respond, Akira's voice beckoned us without any apparent urgency. As we gathered around him, he began to impart profound knowledge about demons, delving into the intricacies of their nature and characteristics.
With an air of gravity, Akira pressed on, his voice laced with solemnity, "The demons we encounter were once human beings, their current forms a result of absorbing demonic blood. Yet, we mustn't let pity cloud our judgment, for they have embraced the darkness and become formidable foes."
His words weighed heavily on my conscience, the realization settling in that these creatures, despite their tragic origins, were now entities of darkness, capable of wreaking havoc upon the world.
"In our pursuit of justice," Akira continued, "we mustn't forget the danger they pose. It is our duty to protect others from the malevolence they embody," His gaze bore into ours, emphasizing the weight of our responsibilities as demon exorcists.
Akira broke it down for us, his words carrying the weight of wisdom, "Demons possess a core, akin to a small sphere, which houses their life force and power. Destroying this core is the key to defeating them completely."
Jeane's question was crucial, seeking clarity on this vital matter, "But how can we discern the core's location?"
With a solemn expression, Akira responded, "In most cases, demons have their core situated where humans have their sternum, but some may have it in different locations. As you progress in your training, you'll develop the ability to sense the core's position and identify its distinct coloration."
Akira's explanation resonated with profound significance, "The core is the very source of their supernatural power, and it takes on distinct colors, signifying different types of demons."
Curiosity tugged at my mind, compelling me to ask, "Different types of demon?"
Affirming my question with a nod, Akira elucidated, "Indeed, there exists a multitude of demon types, each bearing its own set of unique characteristics and abilities."
Intrigued, I pressed for more understanding, "And how does the core's color relate to their strength?"
With a solemn gaze, Akira revealed, "The darkness that engulfs a demon's core is directly proportional to their strength; as it deepens, so does their power, posing a greater threat to those who dare confront them."
Akira's voice carried a weight of significance, "Among the known colors of demon cores, red is considered the darkest, an emblem of utmost danger and power."
In continuation, he provided crucial knowledge, "Demons bearing a red core are classified as S class threats, the most formidable adversaries that demand the combined strength of five S class Demon Exorcists to have any chance of eliminating them."
Expanding upon the gravity of the situation, he disclosed, "As per Aurora's reports, the demon known as Lucas, the very one who laid waste to your village, is confirmed to belong to the upper echelons of S class Demons."
With Lucas's name spoken, an indomitable surge of anger surged within me, igniting a fierce determination that coursed through my veins. He had become my singular purpose, the one I would relentlessly pursue, no matter the cost.
Akira shed further light on demon classification, revealing, "Demons are categorized into different classes, ranging from E class to S class, with E class being the lowest and often hunted by beginners in their early stages of demon slaying."
The intensity of Akira's unconventional training pushed both Jeane and me to our limits. While Jeane demonstrated remarkable progress, effortlessly handling the 100-kilogram wooden sword, I found myself struggling to even lift the massive burden. Frustration and disappointment gnawed at me as doubt crept into my mind, questioning my abilities and breeding a sense of inadequacy. Despite my best efforts, the weight remained an insurmountable obstacle, leaving me feeling disheartened.
As the days of relentless training unfolded, Jeane's progress surpassed all expectations. Her talent and dedication were undeniable, and in just one month, she had mastered the rigorous regimen. Though a twinge of envy lingered within me, I couldn't help but admire her accomplishments and feel a surge of pride for my friend.
With pride in his voice, Akira addressed Jeane directly, "Jeane, you have successfully completed my training, and you are now eligible to take the entrance exam next week. However, to further hone your skills, I have additional training in store for you."
The following day, Akira arrived with a D-class demon, securely bound by chains forged through meticulous demon research, rendering it immobile. He turned to Jeane and instructed her to deliver the final blow to the demon, an essential test of her readiness to become a demon exorcist.
Despite being tightly bound, the demon displayed relentless struggle, its desperate attempts to break free from the chains reflecting the inherent darkness that had consumed it.
With the sword bestowed upon her by Akira firmly in her grasp, Jeane approached the restless demon, her steps deliberate and measured, steeling herself for the imminent encounter.
The demon's voice pleaded with a tinge of remorse, "Please, forgive me. I vow not to harm humans. Spare me, I beg of you."
Though the demon's plea seemed genuine, I could see through its facade, recognizing the manipulation for what it was. However, I chose to keep my thoughts to myself, allowing Jeane to navigate her own emotions.
Despite her best efforts, Jeane visibly struggled, her face contorted in discomfort, and she faltered, dropping her sword as she uttered in a pained voice, "I can't... I can't bring myself to kill another living being."
Akira's expression remained stern, as if he had anticipated this outcome. He spoke with solemnity, "If you cannot bring yourself to eliminate a demon, you cannot become a demon exorcist." His words carried the weight of a harsh truth.
Beneath the night's tranquil embrace, the stars adorned the heavens with their ethereal glow, painting the cold snowy mountains with breathtaking beauty. The sight never failed to captivate me, drawing my gaze upward as if the celestial wonders held some hidden secret.
As I reveled in the mesmerizing beauty of the starlit night, my heart swelled with joy as Jeane emerged from the hut and settled beside me. In that moment, she outshone the celestial stars themselves, her presence radiating a charm that eclipsed even the most awe-inspiring cosmic wonders.
Though a tinge of sadness lingered in her eyes, I sensed a newfound determination taking root within her. It was as if she had reached a decisive moment, embarking on a path she had resolved to follow.
Turning to me, Jeane's voice carried a mix of playful reproach and genuine affection as she teased, "You've been keeping such a beautiful sight all to yourself, and I can't help but feel a little mad at you for that."
A soft smile tugged at my lips, basking in her playful banter and the warmth of our connection. Gazing towards the enchanting night sky, Jeane whispered in awe, "It's beautiful," her voice filled with a genuine appreciation for the celestial spectacle above.
In that moment, a rush of warmth engulfed me, a tender flame ignited by her presence, suffusing my being with a delightful sense of giddiness and affection. The night held an enchantment of its own, but in the company of Jeane, it felt even more magical.
Jeane's gaze met mine, revealing a mixture of uncertainty and longing as she expressed her concerns, her voice tinged with sadness and trembling with emotion. "If I succeed in slaying the demon and pass the entrance exam," she began, "we will be separated, won't we?"
Tears shimmered in her eyes, "I don't want us to be separated. You're the only one left for me." Her voice trembled.
Moved by her raw emotions, I reached out instinctively, my hand gently caressing her trembling shoulder, offering whatever solace I could. Yet, her tears flowed relentlessly and her sobs echoed through the night. Holding her close, I embraced her tightly, seeking to provide comfort and support amidst her pain.
Time seemed to lose its meaning as we remained entwined in each other's arms. Slowly, the storm of her emotions began to subside, and a newfound serenity settled upon her. The air around us seemed to still, leaving only the gentle rustle of the night breeze.
With a tremor of vulnerability, Jeane mustered, her words hanging in the air like the softest melody, "I love you." My cheeks flushed with a mixture of surprise and joy, as her declaration ignited a warmth in my heart that I had never known before.
In a voice quivering, Jeane pressed on, "If we become husband and wife," she said, her eyes filled with hope and earnestness, "our hearts will forever intertwine, and no force in this world or any other can ever separate us."
My mind swirled with disbelief and wonder, the reality of her love washing over me like a gentle wave. I couldn't help but pinch my cheek, half expecting to wake up from an enchanting dream. Yet, the vividness of the moment confirmed that this was no mere fantasy.
Jeane's tear-filled eyes, shimmering with hope and vulnerability, locked onto mine, her gaze an unwavering plea for an answer.
Emotions surged within me like a tempest, each one clamoring for attention. Love, fear, excitement, and overwhelming gratitude swirled together in a dance of chaos and beauty. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of emotions, one truth stood clear and unwavering – I couldn't fathom a life without her, her radiant presence having become an indelible part of my very existence.
Tears welled up in my eyes, mirroring the glistening trails adorning Jeane's cheeks. With a voice quivering, I spoke, my words carrying the weight of a thousand promises. "Yes," I whispered, my heart pounding with the intensity of my response. "Yes, I love you too, Jeane. With all my heart and soul, I'm yours."
In that fragile moment, the world around us faded into a blur, leaving only the two of us, suspended in a sacred space where time held no sway. And as we held each other close.