What does it mean to be truly blessed? Some people might say it’s about being famous, living the dream, or just cruising through life without any major disasters. But me? I think being blessed is about having a purpose—something so cool it actually makes you want to get out of bed in the morning. And the best part? Having the ability to actually do something about it. Now that’s what gets me excited.
So, yeah, I’m the title guy; God’s Champion. Haru Tadashima. Not to brag, but I’m an Arknight, destined for greatness, here to do the impossible and save this amazing world I live in while you watch from home.
I can almost hear you asking, “What in the world is an Arknight?” Good question! Let me give you the lowdown.
About a thousand years ago, things got really weird. These creepy, alien monsters called Breachers decided to drop in uninvited. And when I say creepy, I mean "nightmare fuel" levels of creepy. Each one was different, with its own weird powers, and they were pretty smart, too. They crawled out of this portal we call The Breach, somewhere deep underground (location still TBD). These Breachers had one goal: take over our world and make us all their unwilling roommates.
Wherever they went, things went from bad to worse. Crops would die, the land would rot, and people would get sick. But their worst trick? They had this super gross way of making more of themselves. Yep like your favourite goblin slaying show; they’d force themselves on anything female—human, animal, you name it—and their kids? Let’s just say they didn’t win any beauty contests. The ones that came from animals were as dumb as a bag of rocks, but the ones born from humans—Commons, Elves, and Vampires—they were smart, powerful, and had access to some serious mystical mojo.
Just when it looked like we were about to be wiped out, a deity showed up with a plan. Enter the Arknights—warriors with divine power, ready to take on the Breachers and send them packing. We started fighting back, pushing those ugly critters to the edges of our world.
But the Breachers? They’re stubborn. They’ve been getting smarter and trickier with each generation. But don’t worry—we’re getting better, too. Every new generation of Arknights learns a little more, fights a little harder, and gets us closer to finding The Breach and shutting it down for good.
Meanwhile, life goes on. New kingdoms rise, cultures change, religions pop up, and technology gets cooler. Empires come and go, people make amazing discoveries, but one thing stays the same: the never-ending showdown between the Arknights and the Breachers. It’s a wild ride, and one day, one side’s gonna win. But until then, buckle up, because things are about to get interesting.
Alright, now that I've wrapped up my epic exposition dump, it's time for a little change of plan. We're moving from my charming first-person perspective to the third person. Why, you ask? Well, our dear author is feeling a bit too lazy to dive deep into my complex psyche in first person. So, he's opting for the easier route, telling my story like one of those famous wizarding world books. Don't worry, though! I'll still pop in now and then to crack a joke, lighten the mood, or drop some quick exposition—because, let's face it, the author loves a good shortcut.
Got all that?
Goodb…
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"You're way too strong! What have you been eating to get that big, mate?" Haru quipped as he narrowly dodged a massive punch. Standing at about 5’8” with short, black hair with a braided ponytail, light brown skin, and piercing cat-like black eyes, Haru was the picture of youthful athleticism.
At just 18, his body was built for function over form—lean, fit, and ready for action. He wore a sleeveless white shitagi, gold & black shichibu pants, and matching fingerless combat gloves. Strapped to his back were two cross-sheathed katanas, both adorned with black handles highlighted in gold. If you saw him, you'd think he was trying to be a superhero—and you’d be right. With one katana already drawn in his right hand, he faced his opponent head-on.
The Breacher in front of him was a bizarre sight—a creature born of nightmares. Its body was covered in black fur, with a head that resembled a tapir but sported massive tusks and eyes wild like a bear on a bender. Its enormous belly was round and fat, yet the rest of its frame was built like a powerlifter, resembling a gorilla on steroids. Standing over 10 feet tall, it was an intimidating beast, with small flames flickering from the top of its scalp down to the back of its Y-shaped tail.
They were deep in the woods, where the Breacher—clearly lacking in brainpower—had attempted to kidnap a little girl to use as a breeding partner. Haru had intercepted it just in time, evident by the creature's missing left hand. It had tried to flee, but Haru chased it into the forest, leaving it no choice but to fight back.
The Breacher let out a groaning roar, a sound somewhere between a lion and a pig, as it squared off against Haru. Haru gripped his sword tightly, focusing on the monstrous foe before him. The Breacher inhaled sharply, and in the blink of an eye, flames spewed from its snout like a flamethrower, scorching everything in their path. But Haru was quick, darting and spinning through the branches like an acrobat, dodging the relentless flames.
"So, you can breathe fire, huh?" Haru muttered, keeping his eyes locked on the beast.
The Breacher’s fiery breath scorched the trees, turning the forest into a smoldering inferno, but Haru wasn’t about to let some oversized barbecue ruin his day. With every dodge, he inched closer, his mind racing for the right moment to strike. The creature was big and mean, but Haru knew it was also slow—a big, dumb tank with more bark than bite.
As the Breacher sucked in air for another round of fire-breathing fun, Haru decided it was showtime. He leaped into the air, twisting like an acrobat to avoid the flames that shot up from the creature’s snout. Landing on a branch above the beast, he couldn’t resist throwing in a quick, “Is that all you’ve got? I’ve seen birthday candles with more heat!”
Without missing a beat, Haru launched himself off the branch, diving straight toward the Breacher’s back. His katana flashed as he slashed down, aiming for the sweet spot between its shoulder blades. The blade bit deep, and the creature let out a roar that could’ve made a rock concert sound like a lullaby. Black ichor oozed from the wound, sizzling as it hit the ground, but Haru knew this fight was far from over.
The Breacher, furious and in pain, swung its massive Y-shaped tail toward Haru, flames flaring up along its back like it was auditioning for a job as a fireworks display. Haru barely had time to think before he flipped backward, narrowly avoiding the tail’s fiery strike. He landed in a crouch, eyes locked on the beast, and couldn’t help but grin. “Nice try, but I’m more of a ‘no fire’ kind of guy.”
The Breacher, now even more ticked off, charged at Haru with surprising speed, tusks aimed right at him. Haru waited until the last possible second, then sidestepped the charge, slicing his katana across the creature’s flank as it barreled past. Another ear-splitting roar echoed through the woods as the Breacher skidded to a halt, glaring at Haru with murder in its eyes.
“Persistent, aren’t you?” Haru muttered, tightening his grip on his katana. He could feel the adrenaline pumping through his veins, but he knew that if he was going to finish this, he needed to calm his mind. With a deep breath, he focused inward, feeling the wind around him shift, almost as if it was responding to his will. The forest seemed to hold its breath as Haru’s movements slowed, then suddenly, everything clicked.
The Breacher, bleeding and enraged, lunged at Haru again, but this time Haru was different—his mind clear, his body light as a feather. He sprinted forward, closing the distance in a heartbeat. Just as the Breacher lunged, Haru dropped low, the wind swirling around him, guiding his movements with a speed and grace that seemed almost otherworldly.
His katana slashed upward as he slid beneath the creature, cutting through its exposed belly like a hot knife through butter. The creature howled in agony, stumbling as its massive legs buckled under it. Haru rolled to his feet, moving with an effortless fluidity, already positioning himself for the final blow.
The Breacher, now on its last legs, tried to turn, but Haru was already there, standing at its head, calm and steady. He inhaled deeply, feeling the wind at his back, then exhaled as he drove his katana into the base of the creature’s skull. The blade sank in smoothly, ending the Breacher’s suffering with one swift, effortless strike.
The forest fell silent, the only sound the quiet rustle of leaves as the wind settled. Haru stood over the fallen beast, his breath steady, his katana still glistening with black ichor. “Well,” he said with a slight smirk, “guess that’s what happens when you mess with someone who’s been eating their greens.”
As the Breacher’s life ebbed away, the flames along its back flickered out, leaving behind only the stillness of the woods. Haru wiped the sweat from his brow, sheathing his katana as he took a moment to appreciate the quiet.
“Alright, no more big bad monsters for today, okay?” he called out to the trees, half expecting another one to jump out just for kicks. But the woods remained peaceful, the danger passed.
Haru’s thoughts turned to the little girl, who was still safely hidden behind a nearby tree, her eyes wide with both fear and amazement. Haru approached her, offering a gentle smile as he extended his hand.
“Let’s get you home,” he said softly, his voice calm and reassuring. The girl hesitated only a moment before taking his hand, and together they started the walk back through the forest, leaving the defeated Breacher behind.
As they disappeared into the trees, the world around them slowly returned to normal, the sounds of birds and rustling leaves filling the air. But the memory of the battle lingered, a reminder of the ever-present dangers—and the heroes who stood ready to face them with a quip and a katana.
//////////////
As Haru and the little girl made their way through the village, he couldn’t help but take in the picturesque surroundings. The village was nestled into the rolling hills, with charming stone houses that seemed to grow naturally out of the landscape. The walls of the houses were whitewashed, gleaming softly in the golden light of the setting sun, while the roofs, covered in deep red tiles, sloped gracefully downward. Narrow cobblestone streets wound through the village, bordered by vibrant flower boxes overflowing with bright blossoms. Wooden shutters, painted in shades of blue and green, added a splash of color to the pristine walls. The scent of fresh bread and spices filled the air, carried by a gentle breeze that rustled the leaves of olive and cypress trees scattered throughout the village. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a peaceful haven far removed from the dangers of the world.
As they walked, villagers began to notice them, and soon the quiet streets were bustling with life. People emerged from their homes, drawn by the sight of the little girl and her rescuer. Murmurs of surprise quickly turned to expressions of gratitude, and before long, villagers were approaching Haru, offering him thanks, smiles, and even small gifts—a loaf of bread here, a bunch of grapes there. Haru tried to wave off the gifts as politely as possible, knowing he couldn’t carry much, but he was touched by their kindness nonetheless.
The little girl, who had been quietly holding Haru’s hand, looked up at him with wide, curious eyes. “Mister, are you really a hero?” she asked, her voice filled with innocent wonder.
Haru chuckled, glancing down at her. “Hero? That’s a bit of a stretch. I’m just a guy with a couple of swords and decent reflexes. But hey, if you want to call me a hero, I won’t argue with you.”
She giggled, tightening her grip on his hand. “Thank you for saving me,” she said earnestly.
“Anytime, kiddo,” Haru replied with a grin. “But maybe stick closer to the village next time. The woods have some pretty strange characters hanging around.”
As they approached the village elder’s house, a modest yet welcoming home with a wide wooden porch, nearly the entire village had gathered to witness the return of the child and meet the man who had saved her. The elder, a wise-looking man with a long, silver beard and warm, knowing eyes, stepped down from his porch to greet them.
The elder’s expression softened with gratitude as he approached Haru. “You’ve done us a great service, young man,” he said, his voice full of sincerity. “This child is precious to us all.”
Haru scratched the back of his head, a bit bashful under the elder’s praise. “Just doing what anyone would’ve done, really.”
The elder chuckled, clearly amused by Haru’s modesty. “Perhaps, but you’ve brought hope to our village, and for that, we are all in your debt.”
As the villagers murmured their agreement, the little girl suddenly hugged Haru’s leg, catching him off guard. “You’re my hero!” she declared, her voice brimming with conviction.
Haru blinked in surprise, then laughed warmly. “Alright, you win. I’m your hero.” He ruffled her hair affectionately before turning back to the elder. “By the way, I’m actually an Arknight in training. Could you tell me how much farther it is to the City of Flanagan?”
The elder, still smiling, studied Haru with a thoughtful gaze. “Ah, an Arknight in training, I see. Not too far, just a few days’ journey on foot. But tell me, why go to Flanagan? Why not head straight to Bulistan, the capital? Isn’t that where the academy is?”
Haru nodded, a slight smirk on his face. “Yeah, that’s the plan eventually. But I’ve got some unfinished business to take care of before I head to the academy. Can’t just rush into greatness, you know? There are a few things I need to tie up first.”
The elder raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Haru’s response. “Ah, I see. Well, if that’s the case, may I offer some help? My son, Jiro, knows the roads to Flanagan and beyond very well. He could guide you and ensure you get there safely.”
Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.
Haru looked around as the elder called out, and soon a young man stepped forward from the crowd. Jiro was a few years younger than Haru, perhaps 16, with a lean build and a confident demeanor. His dark hair was tied back in a simple ponytail, and he wore sturdy, travel-ready clothes that suggested he was no stranger to the road.
“Jiro, this is Haru,” the elder introduced them. “He’s an Arknight in training. I’d like you to guide him to Flanagan.”
Jiro bowed slightly to Haru, a friendly grin on his face. “An Arknight in training, huh? That’s pretty cool. I’ve always wanted to meet one. Looks like today’s my lucky day.”
Haru chuckled, extending his hand for a shake. “Don’t get too excited—I’m still in training, after all. But I could use a guide, and it sounds like you’re the right guy for the job.”
Jiro shook Haru’s hand firmly. “You bet. I know the best routes, and if any more Breachers show up, we’ll take care of them together.”
“Perfect,” Haru said, turning back to the elder. “Thank you for the offer, Elder. I’ll make sure your son gets back safe and sound.”
The elder nodded, his eyes filled with pride and gratitude. “May the winds guide you on your journey, Haru. And Jiro, keep our guest safe.”
As the villagers slowly dispersed, returning to their daily lives, Haru and Jiro began making preparations for their journey. The little girl waved goodbye, her eyes still filled with admiration for her newfound hero.
“Ready to hit the road, Jiro?” Haru asked, slinging his pack over his shoulder.
“Let’s do it,” Jiro replied with a grin.
//////////////
In the Kalkan Federation, it was a common sight to see large raptors pulling carriages along the well-worn roads. These creatures, known for their speed and agility, were nothing like the small, wild raptors Haru had encountered in other parts of the world. These were majestic beasts, standing tall with sleek, muscular bodies covered in shimmering feathers of deep green and gold. Their eyes were sharp, a bright amber color that seemed to catch every detail of their surroundings, and their powerful legs ended in formidable claws that dug into the earth with each step. The raptors had long, graceful necks and sturdy beaks that looked like they could crack open the hardest of nuts. Despite their imposing appearance, these raptors were surprisingly gentle, responding to their handler's commands with a quiet intelligence that suggested years of careful training.
Up front, two of these raptors were harnessed to the carriage, their heads held high as they trotted along the road with an easy, rhythmic gait. The carriage itself was a marvel of craftsmanship, its wooden frame intricately carved with designs that reflected the natural beauty of the land. The wheels were reinforced with metal, and the seats were cushioned with soft, embroidered fabrics that provided both comfort and elegance. The roof of the carriage was adorned with delicate metalwork, forming patterns that caught the sunlight as it filtered through the trees.
As Haru sat inside, enjoying the assortment of foods the villagers had given him—ripe fruits, fresh bread, and savory cheeses—he couldn’t help but be fascinated by the raptors and the unique design of the carriage. He leaned forward, watching the raptors with keen interest as they moved gracefully down the road.
“These raptors are amazing,” Haru remarked between bites. “I’ve seen raptors before, but they’re usually no bigger than chickens and not nearly as friendly. How do you guys manage to tame them like this?”
Jiro, who was sitting across from him, chuckled at the question. “It’s definitely a Kalkan specialty. The raptors here are a bit of a breed apart—larger, stronger, and with a temperament that, with the right training, makes them perfect for this kind of work. It’s all about how you raise them from hatchlings. We start training them early, bonding with them and teaching them commands. It takes years to get them to this level, but once they’re fully trained, they’re loyal and incredibly reliable.”
Haru nodded, still watching the raptors in awe. “I guess that explains why I haven’t seen anything like this anywhere else. In other places, they’re wild and nearly impossible to train. But these guys seem almost… noble.”
“They are,” Jiro agreed, a note of pride in his voice. “The raptors are a big part of our culture here. They’ve been with us for generations, and over time, we’ve learned how to work with them, not just as beasts of burden, but as partners. It’s a relationship built on respect and trust.”
Haru glanced out of the carriage window, taking in the stunning landscape that surrounded them. The rolling hills were dotted with olive and cypress trees, their leaves shimmering in the sunlight. Fields of vibrant wildflowers stretched out in every direction, creating a patchwork of colors that seemed to go on forever. In the distance, the mountains rose up, their peaks capped with snow, standing tall against the clear blue sky. The air was fresh and carried the faint scent of herbs and wildflowers, making the journey feel almost dreamlike.
“This place is really something else,” Haru said, half to himself. “I’ve traveled a lot, but there’s something about the Kalkan Federation that feels… different. Peaceful, but with an undercurrent of strength.”
Jiro smiled, looking out at the landscape alongside Haru. “That’s the spirit of Kalkan. We value our traditions, our connection to the land, and our strength as a people. But we also know how to live in harmony with nature. The raptors are just one example of that. We don’t force them to work for us—we work with them, and in return, they become an essential part of our lives.”
Haru nodded thoughtfully, taking another bite of the sweet, juicy fruit in his hand. “It’s a good way to live. I can see why people here are so proud.”
As the carriage continued down the road, the two of them settled into a comfortable rhythm of conversation, talking about everything from the intricacies of raptor training to the history of the Kalkan Federation. All the while, Haru kept one eye on the raptors up front, their graceful movements and quiet power a constant source of fascination.
The sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting a warm, golden light over the landscape. Haru leaned back in his seat, feeling content and more than a little grateful for this unexpected journey. The road ahead was still long, but with the company of Jiro and the friendly raptors, he found himself looking forward to whatever came next.
//////////////
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft orange glow over the landscape, Haru and Jiro found a suitable spot to set up camp for the night. The raptors were tethered nearby, contentedly pecking at some feed as the two young men worked together to build a small fire. The evening air was cool and crisp, and the flickering flames provided a welcome warmth as they crackled in the quiet night.
Jiro had taken charge of preparing dinner, and soon the delicious aroma of roasted meat, seasoned with a blend of spices, wafted through the air. He served up a dish of tender lamb kebabs, accompanied by a rich, creamy yogurt dip and a side of grilled vegetables. The flavors were vibrant and satisfying, the perfect meal after a long day of travel.
Haru took a bite and let out a low whistle of appreciation. “Wow, Jiro, this is amazing. You really know your way around a campfire. I’d say you’re a better cook than some of the chefs back home.”
Jiro grinned, clearly pleased with the compliment. “Glad you like it. My father taught me how to cook on the road. We spend a lot of time travelling, so I’ve had plenty of practice.”
As they continued eating, Jiro’s curiosity got the better of him. “So, Haru, why are you headed to Flanagan? You mentioned some unfinished business, but what’s the story?”
Haru took a moment to savor another bite before answering. “I’m going to meet my younger brother. It’s been a while since I’ve seen him, and he’s called for me.”
Jiro’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Your brother? Is he here in Kalkan?”
Haru shook his head. “No, just like me, he’s from the Zaurelias Empire. But he’s also an Arknight in training, just like I am.”
Jiro looked even more surprised. “Two Arknights in the same family? That’s pretty rare. Do you come from an Arknight dynasty or something?”
Haru scoffed, a bit annoyed at the question. “Hardly. I’m part of the Tadashima household.” He paused, noticing the shock on Jiro’s face. Before Jiro could say anything, Haru sighed and nodded. “Yes, that Tadashima family. And yes, Reikou the Sun Arknight is my father.”
Jiro nearly dropped his plate. “Reikou the Sun Arknight? You’re his son? That’s incredible! But… wait, you said you’re the exile of the Tadashima family?”
Haru nodded, his expression a mix of resignation and frustration. “Yeah, something like that. I haven’t seen my broth-, half brother since we were kids, so I’m not even sure why he wants to meet now.”
Jiro, still reeling from the revelation, asked cautiously, “Is your brother… Luis?”
Haru rolled his eyes. “Yes, Luis. The famous one with all the potential.”
Jiro froze, his thoughts racing. “Wait, you’re older than Luis? But Luis is famous as being the first son of Reikou, the one with all that potential…”
Haru cut him off with a weary sigh. “Yeah, I know. But, newsflash—even the Great Sun Arknight has secrets. And I’m one of them. So, if you don’t mind, can we change the subject?”
Jiro blinked, trying to process everything he’d just learned. “Uh, sure. Sorry, I didn’t mean to pry.”
Haru waved off the apology, giving Jiro a small smile. “It’s fine. I just don’t want to dwell on it. We’ve got a long journey ahead, and I’d rather focus on what’s coming next.”
Jiro nodded, still a little stunned by the revelations but sensing Haru’s discomfort. “Alright. Well, if you ever want to talk about it, I’m here. But for now, how about we finish off this meal and get some rest? We’ll need our energy for tomorrow.”
“Sounds like a plan,” Haru agreed, grateful for the change in topic.
As the fire crackled softly in the night, casting warm, flickering light over their campsite, Jiro couldn’t help but let his curiosity get the better of him once more. “Haru,” he began, his tone thoughtful, “I’ve never been to the Zaurelias Empire, but I’ve heard a lot about it. It’s known as the world’s strongest kingdom. What’s it really like?”
Haru took a moment to consider his response, staring into the flames as he gathered his thoughts. “It’s just as beautiful as Kalkan, in its own way,” he started, his voice calm. “Significantly bigger, with stunning yet different architecture compared to what I’ve seen here so far. The cities are grand, with towering buildings and intricate designs that reflect the empire’s history and power.”
Jiro nodded, intrigued but sensing there was more to it. “But…?”
Haru sighed, leaning back on his hands as he looked up at the starry sky. “But it’s far less peaceful. In the empire, all that really matters is how much power you have. The strong rule, and the weak are either ignored or mistreated. It’s a place where might makes right, and the strongest get everything. You could call it capitalistic, elitist, even a dictatorship—it all fits. It’s tough to live there if you don’t have power, and even tougher if you try to change your place in the world.”
Jiro furrowed his brow, clearly troubled by the description. “That sounds… harsh. I’ve heard rumors, but I didn’t realize it was that bad.”
Haru nodded. “It is. The common sentiment is that if they could, they’d take over the world without a second thought. The empire’s rulers believe in their own superiority, and they’re not shy about showing it. They’re the only kingdom that still practices slavery, and they’re not afraid to embrace it. To them, it’s just another way to maintain control.”
Jiro shook his head, disbelief and dismay in his eyes. “That’s hard to imagine. Here in Kalkan, we value balance and respect for all living things. What you’re describing… it’s like a whole different world.”
“It is,” Haru agreed. “It’s a place where you learn quickly that if you’re not strong, you’re nothing. That’s one of the reasons I’m out here, training to be an Arknight. I don’t want to just survive in that world—I want to change it, or at least find a way to live by my own rules.”
Jiro looked at Haru with a newfound respect. “That’s a tough road to walk. But I can see why you’re determined. It must have taken a lot of strength to come this far, especially with everything you’ve had to deal with back home.”
Haru gave a small, rueful smile. “Strength, stubbornness—maybe a bit of both. But enough about that. The night’s too peaceful to dwell on the dark side of the world.”
Jiro nodded, sensing that Haru wanted to move on from the topic. “Fair enough. Let’s focus on the journey ahead. Who knows what we’ll encounter tomorrow?”
Haru smiled, grateful for the change of subject. “Exactly. We’ve got a lot of road to cover, and I’m sure it won’t be boring.”
As they finished their meal and settled in for the night, the conversation turned to lighter topics—adventures yet to come, stories of past travels, and the simple joys of life on the road. The dark thoughts of the past faded into the background, leaving only the warmth of the fire and the companionship of two travellers sharing a quiet moment under the stars.
//////////////
As Haru drifted off to sleep by the campfire, the warmth of the flames gradually faded, and he found himself in a vast, white dimensional space. The air was still, and Haru felt as if he were floating, weightless, like a ghost in this ethereal place. The endless expanse of white seemed to stretch out in every direction, enveloping him in a serene, almost divine silence. A soft smile tugged at his lips as he instinctively dropped to one knee in submission, knowing exactly who was about to appear.
But before he could fully lower his head, a familiar, gentle voice echoed from behind him, “I’d prefer if you worshipped standing, Haru.”
Startled, Haru quickly stood and turned around. There, approaching him with a calm, reassuring presence, was Yohei. A man in his late twenties or even early thirties—was unchanged, exuding an air of timelessness. Yohei’s features were striking, with a strong, angular jawline and high cheekbones that gave his face a regal, dignified look. His skin was a rich, darker olive tone, warm and smooth, reflecting an ageless vitality. His hair, pure white, cascaded in soft waves down to his shoulders, a stark contrast to his darker complexion. His eyes, a deep, intense violet, sparkled with wisdom and compassion, drawing Haru in with their depth. There was something about Yohei’s gaze that always made Haru feel seen—truly seen—as if Yohei could peer into the very essence of his soul.
Yohei’s presence radiated a warmth that immediately put Haru at ease. He wore flowing robes of white, layered with subtle shades of cream and silver, which draped elegantly over his broad shoulders and tall, lean frame. The robes seemed almost ethereal, catching the light in a way that made them shimmer softly with every movement.
Yohei smiled as he approached Haru, his expression kind and encouraging. “You’re doing well, Haru. The Origin and I are both proud of your development so far. But remember, as you head to the Academy, it’s crucial that you represent us well. Stand on righteousness, no matter what happens.”
Haru nodded, absorbing Yohei’s words. Yet, there was a heaviness in his heart, a lingering uncertainty about the reunion with his brother. “I understand, but I still don’t know how I’m going to feel when I finally meet Luis again.”
Yohei’s expression softened further, and he stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on Haru’s shoulder. His touch was firm yet gentle, grounding Haru in this dreamlike space. “Let Seisaku be your guide,” he advised, his voice steady and soothing. “Remember, unlike the other Arknights who draw their strength from their humanity, you carry the spirit of God within you. Trust in that power. Trust in yourself.”
Haru felt a wave of comfort wash over him, and his earlier apprehensions began to melt away. He looked into Yohei’s violet eyes, feeling the weight of his words. “Thank you, Yohei. I’ll do my best,” Haru replied, his voice filled with determination.
Yohei’s lips curled into a warm, approving smile. Then, without a word, he pulled Haru into a gentle embrace. The contact was brief, but it carried an overwhelming sense of love and protection. As Yohei stepped back, he placed a tender kiss on Haru’s forehead, a gesture that felt both paternal and sacred.
“I love you, Haru,” Yohei whispered, his voice full of sincerity. With these final words, the white space around them began to dissolve, and Yohei’s comforting presence slowly faded into the ether, leaving Haru with a sense of peace and renewed purpose.
When Haru’s eyes fluttered open, he found himself in the carriage, the rhythmic movement of the raptors lulling him into full wakefulness. Sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over the plush interior. Jiro’s voice broke through the quiet morning, pulling Haru fully into the present. “You slept in for a while. I tried waking you, but you were out cold. So, I carried you onto the carriage. We’ll be at the city in less than an hour.”
Haru blinked away the remnants of his dream, still feeling the lingering warmth of Yohei’s presence. He sat up, glancing out at the passing landscape, his heart beating faster with anticipation. The hills and fields rolled by, the vibrant colours of the Kalkan countryside bathed in the golden light of dawn. Despite the beauty around him, his thoughts were consumed by the upcoming reunion with his brother. It had been so long since he last saw Luis, and the weight of their shared past hung heavy in his mind.
But Haru knew he wasn’t alone. He had Yohei’s guidance, Seisaku’s spirit, and a newfound sense of determination. The grand reunion awaited, and with it, the next chapter of his journey—a chapter he was finally ready to face.