Once the room settled, Cade took a steady breath, his gaze resting on each of his companions. “Now that we’ve determined your Nen types, it’s time to talk about developing your Hatsu.” His voice held a firm edge, and the three vice leaders leaned in, giving him their full attention.

They all sat down around Cade, who took the center. He then launched into a lecture, outlining the process of cultivating a Hatsu and explaining the time, focus, and patience it would demand. The lesson continued for a solid hour, Cade’s words deliberate, ensuring they understood the importance of aligning their Hatsu with their natural strengths and unique Nen types.

As he wrapped up, Cade’s tone shifted to a warning. “And one more thing—don’t waste time trying to replicate other Nen users’ techniques, and don’t try to master categories outside your own. These are my honest thoughts. But if you still choose to pursue other types, I’d be curious to see what you accomplish.” A faint, dark chuckle followed, sending a shiver through each of them.

With that, Cade straightened, his expression becoming somber. “I’ve got some news,” he began, catching their attention fully. “I’ll be leaving soon to explore the world beyond. While I'm away, continue your training. Share what you’ve learned with promising new recruits at the club and those who are ready here.”

Ezra, Vigil, and Martin were silent, absorbing his words. Cade continued, “When the time is right, I’ll reach out to you. If any of you still want to follow me, then come, and I’ll show you what lies beyond this town—the vastness of the world as I know it.”

He looked between them, his eyes resolute. “While I’m gone, try to work together. If a disagreement ever arises, I’m leaving you a tool to settle it.” Cade pulled a coin from his pocket, handing it to Ezra. It was a custom-made gold coin, one side etched with the image of a Rubik’s cube, the other bearing an intricately detailed snake. “Flip it, and let the result guide you.”

He paused, letting his words sink in before adding, “This club is in your hands now. Also, look after the orphanage in my absence ."

"Don’t disappoint me.”

The weight of his words settled on the three, and Cade opened his arms, inviting them into an embrace. They exchanged a look, each one processing the moment’s gravity, then stepped forward as one to meet his embrace.

They had known this day would come. Cade was more than a leader to them; he was a mentor, and in some ways, a father figure. Ezra blinked quickly, his eyes misting, trying to contain the deep swell of emotion.

For a while, they just remained in the embrace knowing they were about to be apart from each other for a long time.

The next day.

Cade stepped into the orphanage he knew like the back of his hand. Though he hadn’t visited often since taking over the martial club three months prior, he had never lost touch with the place. The orphanage had transformed in subtle but meaningful ways. The once rusty, cracked floor tiles had been replaced with polished ones, gleaming faintly in the morning light that streamed through brand-new tinted windows. The interior held familiar echoes, though Cade had invested in a few upgrades: newer furniture, a modest color TV, and a touch of comfort for the children.

The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

He pushed open the door, testing it for the creak that had once marked his arrival. It swung smoothly, and he gave a satisfied nod. A portion of the club’s funds had gone toward repairing the little details of the orphanage, giving it a small but important lift.

Cade glanced toward the laundry area, where Sister Yuno was working, flanked by Lucy sisters, busy with their chores. He greeted them, requesting they follow him upstairs. They exchanged a look, curious, and trailed behind him. The others gathered in the sitting room, instinctively turning off the TV as they took their places on the couches, eyes fixed on Cade, waiting.

Sister Yuno watched him closely, concern flickering across her face. She’d noticed his recent absence, the strange ways he’d changed, and the mysterious funds he seemed to acquire. A quiet worry had nagged at her—where had all this come from, and what had Cade gotten involved with? Yet she had remained silent, holding back her questions, choosing instead to focus on the well-being of the orphanage. Today, though, a weight seemed to hang in the air, and she waited for Cade to speak.

“I’m leaving the orphanage to explore the world,” Cade said, straightforwardly and without hesitation. He always cut straight to the point, preferring directness. He didn’t waste time on pleasantries or soften his words.

A sigh of relief escaped Sister Yuno. All the children would eventually grow up and leave the orphanage, and she was simply grateful that he hadn’t gotten into any dangerous entanglements.

“If anyone has questions, ask them now,” Cade offered, relaxing into his seat and gesturing for the room to speak.

“Hey! You still haven’t taught me anything, you meanie!” Shaw piped up, arms crossed.

“Take care of yourself, big brother!” the Yuno sisters said, wishing him well.

Little John and Brody, the youngest ones, barely acknowledged Cade, but he wasn’t bothered. He had never been the kind to draw children’s admiration or friendship, and he was at peace with that. He ruffled their hair affectionately, teasing them for good measure, before turning to the older Yuno sisters.

“Thank you both,” he said, his voice softening. “You’re good girls. Focus on your studies, and I’ll make sure there’s a bright future ahead for you.”

Then he looked at Shaw, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. “How about this—when you turn ten, I’ll personally train you to be the best at anything you choose.”

Shaw’s face lit up, his eyes widening with joy. “Deal!” he exclaimed.

Finally, Cade turned to Sister Yuno, pulling out a small envelope. “Here. A million Jenny,” he said, handing it to her. She accepted it with a hesitant look, her eyes wet with emotion. “You’re not going to ask where the money came from, or why I’ve changed so quickly?”

Her lip quivered as she wiped away a tear, and reached out to gently cradle Cade’s face. Without a word, she drew him into a close embrace, her voice barely a whisper, meant only for him. “Do all children grow up so fast?”

Cade closed his eyes, savoring the quiet moment. He let her words settle deep within him, a fleeting sense of warmth before he stepped out into the world beyond.