SOUL-SEEKER || (On Hiatus)

(Chapter 14) Experienced Seniors.

As the radiant sun gracefully descended beneath the distant horizon, casting its warm hues upon the world, the distinct sound of approaching footsteps resonated, gradually growing louder with each passing moment. In the heart of Tokyo, tucked away in a secluded enclave, a vast training field sprawled, concealed from the bustling city by a protective barrier, a hidden sanctuary for those seeking mastery and solitude in their pursuits. Three students of the academy set foot onto the field, tired from climbing the long path.

LCS: Why'd master ask to see us at this place..?!
ART: Have some patience. It probably is something important.
SLN: Master Kaito always has something exciting in plan!

Before them stretched a vast expanse, a field strewn with the remnants of conflict, meticulously designed to replicate the grim reality of a battlefield. Kaito, with an air of determination, positioned himself atop one of the shattered pillars that now served as a perch, his presence commanding attention. Beside him, two individuals, previously unknown to the onlookers, shared in the anticipation of what lay ahead.

MOR: So these are our juniors?! They look so strong!
VLT: Try not to scare them, Mori.
MOR: Cheer up, Violet! This is cause for celebration!

Mori, filled with excitement, quickly approaches the group of students and envelops them in a warm and enthusiastic group hug. With a playful and affectionate spirit, he affectionately tousles Lucas' hair, his fingers brushing through it with a gentle touch. Then, his curiosity piqued, he carefully cups Lucas' face in his hands, inspecting it closely as if searching for any distinctive and remarkable features.

VLT: Don't make me repeat myself!

A sudden and refreshing breeze, carrying the delightful scent of blooming flowers, playfully brushed past the quartet. However, it seemed this playful zephyr had a mischievous intent as it wrapped itself around Mori, gently coaxing him downward. With a swift and graceful movement, Violet stepped closer to Mori, her elegant fingers reaching out to take hold of his hair, encouraging him to lower his head in a respectful gesture.

ART: Master Kaito...
KTO: Right! Dear students, these are your second-year seniors! I would've liked for a third-year to be here as well but they're both outside Japan.
VLT: Call me Violet, and this is Mori.
ART & SLN: Nice to meet you!
LCS: Wait, I recognize him... you're that one famous football player that got arrested!

As a wave of embarrassment washes over Mori, his once proud posture falters, causing his head to droop in a moment of shame. Caught in the act of losing face, Violet, with a mischievous glint in her eyes, can't resist breaking into a sly and knowing smirk, her lips curling with amusement at Mori's unexpected humility.

KTO: These two will prepare the three of you for the upcoming hunter skirmish!
MOR: I'll be training the disrespectful kid and the girl!
VLT: That leaves the gloomy teen to me.
KTO: Hope you all get along!
ART: Wait master! I don't think this is a go-

In a blink of an eye, Kaito vanishes from sight, his presence elusive and enigmatic. Just as Arthur attempts to utter his words, a sudden and dramatic interruption occurs. The very earth beneath them seems to awaken, sending forth serpentine roots that surge forth from the ground, reaching out with a surprising and sinister swiftness. These roots, like the grasping hands of some vengeful titan, seize Arthur firmly, flinging him unceremoniously against a jumble of debris. Lucas, alarmed and ready to rush to Arthur's aid, cries out in concern. However, his impulsive move is swiftly halted as Mori, displaying a remarkable burst of agility, darts forward, positioning himself determinedly between Lucas and the chaotic scene unfolding before them.