In the brief exchange, Arashi gained valuable insights into Advin's vulnerabilities and fears, witnessing the shattering of his once unshakeable confidence, burdened by guilt as the host of Shibi Okami. Arashi felt a compelling desire to aid in rebuilding Advin's confidence, recognizing the urgent need for support.
It seemed almost incredulous to Arashi that Advin had undergone such profound change. Memories lingered of the resolute, defiant crybaby whom Arashi had previously found challenging. A mutual disdain existed between them, with Advin openly expressing his animosity, contrasting with Arashi's more reserved feelings.

"I despise your presence! Why don't you find your way back to where you came from?"

Arashi found himself without a home following a heated dispute with Frau, precluding any return to that residence. The whereabouts of Krad, his closest companion, remained a mystery. Simon Damen graciously extended shelter, allowing Arashi to take refuge under his roof. While others in Damen's household harbored no objections, Advin emerged as the sole exception.

Advin's words reverberated, "Your existence bothers Grandpa! He only cares about me! Why don't you just leave him be?"

Advin's envy flared each time his grandfather displayed affection towards Arashi. In the training sessions guided by Simon Damen, Advin persistently tagged along, injecting a disruptive element. Arashi vividly recalled a particular day when he had mastered a formidable sword technique. Eager to showcase his achievement, Advin's interference thwarted Arashi's attempt to impress his esteemed teacher.

"Sensei, see! I have mastered a new technique!" Arashi's excitement radiated through his words.

"Marvelous! Demonstrate it for me," Simon praised, rising to his feet.

"Grandpa, grandpa!" Advin once again inserted himself into the scene, impervious to Arashi's disapproving gaze.

"Observe, Grandpa. This is how you capture the essence of a sun." Advin presented his sketchbook, seeking approval. "What do you think?" he inquired.

Suppressing the urge to retaliate physically in his grandfather's presence, Arashi muttered curses under his breath.

Receiving accolades from his grandfather, Advin suddenly complained, "My head is pounding, Grandpa."

Arashi rolled his eyes at the melodrama, labeling Advin a 'drama queen.'  After Simon Sensei departed, Arashi couldn't help but reflect. Had Sensei lingered a bit longer, he surmised that Advin would have theatrically succumbed to a headache.
This disruptive interference wasn't an isolated incident; it had become a recurring pattern. Advin consistently exerted his utmost effort to undermine Arashi's precious training hours, creating a persistent source of frustration.

Advin, he's your brother," Simon had asserted, attempting to establish a familial connection.

"No! He's not my brother! I only have two brothers, Edward and Eric!" Advin vehemently rejected any notion of considering Arashi as a brother.

Arashi couldn't help but think, "Tsk, who would want to become your brother, anyway?"

That particular day left Arashi yearning for his own family, a sensation he hadn't experienced before. In retrospect, he realized he shouldn't have taken Advin's words to heart; after all, Advin was just a six-year-old child. The four-year age gap between them seemed more pronounced in moments like these.

Now transformed entirely, the once spoiled brat had vanished, leaving Arashi feeling a tinge of sadness for him.

Having reached the headquarters, Arashi made his way to room 7 – their designated space for relaxation during breaks. Upon entering, he discovered Shinya, Frau, Yuichiro, and Krad in attendance. To his surprise, Ferid was also present. The collective gaze of the group turned towards Arashi.

"Hey, Arashi," Ferid greeted. "Albert's waiting for you."

True to form, Ferid seemed to embody the title of "Albert's messenger."

"Let him know I haven't returned yet," Arashi declared, pulling a chair and settling into it.

"Very well," Ferid responded with a nonchalant shrug before gracefully exiting the room. Arashi, well aware of Ferid's easygoing nature, felt reassured that no complaints would be voiced against him.

""Albert has altered the policy again," Krad informed Arashi, the door closing behind Ferid.

"Again?" Arashi questioned.

Krad nodded in confirmation.

"According to the new policy, there will be no entrance exam starting next year," Yuichiro disclosed.

Arashi pondered the implications, holding his chin in contemplation. "So, anyone can join the organization. But why the sudden change?"

"You're clueless, Arashi," Frau teased with a smirk.

"Shut up," Arashi retorted.

"It's apparent. Albert aims to recruit his corrupt associates, tarnishing the organization's reputation," Frau explained.

"Are the other seven council members blind? I wonder why they can't see through Albert's nefarious plans," Shinya voiced his concerns.

"I don't trust any of them either. They're all corrupt. Tch, the council truly needs someone as honest as me," Frau declared, casually placing his hands behind his head.

"You, honest?" Arashi raised a skeptical brow.

"Absolutely." Frau remained unfazed by Arashi's doubt, embodying his unapologetic nature.

"Our reputation has already suffered," Krad lamented. "Yesterday, a police officer questioned me about why our organization defers every matter to them."

The organization's duty was to ensure the safety of civilians and address issues beyond the scope of regular law enforcement. Operating 24/7, they assisted people daily and occasionally extended their services to other nations. The C.E.O assigned tasks to members based on people's needs. In the two years since Albert had assumed the role of C.E.O., significant changes had unfolded. Meeting hours were rigidly set, and accessibility to Albert became limited. He occasionally refused assistance, departing from the organization's original purpose of relentless service.

""We can't stay silent like this," Yuichiro declared, his fists clenched.

"I have a plan," Shinya announced, rising from his seat. "Yuichiro, has Advin changed his mind?"

Yuichiro shook his head.

"Good for him," Frau remarked. "There's no place for him here."

"And who appointed you judge?" Arashi couldn't help but interject.

Frau smirked. "I'm Frau. If he joins this organization, I'll have him resign the next day."

"Like it's possible," Arashi rolled his eyes.

"It is possible," Frau stated confidently.

"Enough, you two," Shinya intervened. "Listen, we'll use Advin as a decoy."

"What do you mean?" The group turned their attention to Shinya.

Shinya elaborated on his plan, revealing its risks but emphasizing the potential to expose Albert's true intentions. No objections were raised; everyone seemed willing to act on the risky strategy.

"But," Yuichiro interjected.

"What is it?" Krad inquired.

"Let's not overlook the fact that Advin has firmly declined joining the organization," Yuichiro pointed out.

"Don't worry. He'll come around," Arashi asserted, directing his gaze at Frau.

"Oh?" Frau smirked. "Are you willing to bet on that?"

"Yes."

For some inexplicable reason, Arashi held a genuine belief in Advin's eventual decision.

The room fell into a contemplative silence as the group absorbed the implications of their impending plan. The weight of uncertainty lingered, leaving each member to reflect on the risks and potential revelations that lay ahead.

☆☆☆

"I rarely make such offers, but luck is on your side today," the mysterious boy stated, his tone betraying a calculated intent. He handed her his phone, and with trembling hands, she accepted it, an unsettling feeling taking hold of her.

Earlier, while on her way to a friend's house, Trish had crossed paths with this self-proclaimed serial killer, swiftly realizing he possessed extraordinary abilities. Confronted with an ability wielder, she, an ordinary person, found herself at a distinct disadvantage. The eerie stillness of the abandoned street provided an unsettling backdrop to their encounter.

"Who are you reaching out to in this emergency?" The boy's fist tightened in her hair. "Get them here in the next two minutes."

Two minutes—a seemingly impossible demand. Yet, Trish swiftly dialed a number, her mind racing. Her father, a cop, was out of town today. Though her parents were absent, she called Max, fully aware that he might not arrive in time to aid her. The desolation of the abandoned street intensified the gravity of the situation as Trish navigated the harrowing moments of uncertainty.

"Hello," the voice resonated through the phone.

"Hello, Max, Max, I'm—" Trish began, but the boy seized the phone, switching on the speaker.

"Trish, is that you?" Max's concerned voice inquired.

Trish was on the verge of responding when the boy signaled her to remain silent.

"Trish? Hello? Are you okay?"

"My name is Tomura Tsukiyama. I'm going to kill this girl," the ominous voice declared before abruptly hanging up.

"But you said that..." Trish stuttered, attempting to distance herself from him. He released his grip on her hair and forcefully shoved her to the ground. She tumbled, shaken by the sudden aggression.

"Why didn't you reach out to someone from Aurora Sentinels?" He sounded annoyed.

He had a point. Trish could have called them, but she hesitated, uncertain they would come to her aid.

"Aurora Sentinels? I... I don't have their contact," she stammered in response.

Before she could complete her sentence, he kicked her, sending her airborne. As she hovered, he seized her arm and forcefully slammed her into a nearby wall. A sharp cry of pain escaped her lips.

"You don't have their contact number, huh? Whom will you blame today? Your luck or the Sentinels?" he taunted, squeezing her face.

In that moment, it was undoubtedly her luck that seemed to have abandoned her.

"Blame the Sentinels," he declared, extracting a kunai from his pocket and positioning it menacingly close to Trish's neck. "They only intervene in cases of mass destruction. If I were to kill you and lay your body at their headquarters, they still wouldn't investigate. That's the Sentinels for you," he derided, withdrawing the kunai from her neck. "Anyway, time's up. Prepare to die."

Trish shut her eyes tightly, expecting the worst. Three excruciating seconds passed, yet nothing happened. Tentatively, she opened her eyes to find the kunai mere inches from her neck. Her gaze shifted to her rescuer's face. It was Advin who had intervened just in time.

Without hesitation, Advin delivered a powerful punch to the assailant's face, sending him crashing to the ground with a resounding thud.

"Who are you?" Advin questioned the boy, his attention then shifting to the girl beside him—a recent acquaintance, Max's girlfriend, with minor injuries that still demanded medical attention.

"So, someone has finally arrived. Hahah, girl, you really are lucky," the boy sneered, a smirk playing on his lips.

Advin summoned his clone beside him. "Bring her to the hospital," he instructed the clone, diverting his focus back to the adversary who attempted to interfere. Blocking his path, Advin confronted him. "I asked you something," he declared, forcefully striking his shoulder into the boy's chest, slamming him against the wall.
In retaliation, the boy landed a punch on Advin's face, gripping his arm tightly. With his free hand, Advin retaliated by delivering a punch to the boy's abdomen while struggling to free his trapped arm. Despite the groans of pain, the boy's grip remained unyielding. Their positions shifted, Advin now pressed against the wall. Seeking support, he attempted to pry open the boy's closed fist, simultaneously striking his knee repeatedly into the adversary's abdomen.

The boy's hand began to glow, and amidst the struggle, a distinct crack echoed—a sound that sent a wave of pain through Advin's arm. He let out a yell of agony, prompting the boy to release his grip. The pain radiated through Advin's entire arm, and he bit his lower lip in an attempt to endure it.

"Do you want to know who I am?" He moved a few paces away, a sinister air surrounding him. "My name is Tomura Tsukiyama. My life's purpose is to annihilate all innocent people." He turned to fix his gaze upon Advin.

"What for?" Advin questioned, rising despite the intense pain in his arm. At that moment, understanding the motive became more critical than his own suffering.

"Why?" Tomura tilted his head, his eyes chillingly cold. "There's no way someone like you could understand!" A blue orb materialized in his hand, and in an instant, he vanished. The next moment, he reappeared right behind Advin, launching a sudden attack. Helplessly, Advin fell face-first, the searing pain persisting. Struggling to rise, he was met with Tomura's foot on his back, crushing him. In the process, his hand also suffered under the force, eliciting a groan of pain.

"Why are you doing this?" Advin managed to articulate, despite the agony.

"It seems you're quite eager to learn my answer. Very well, I'll tell you. I'm avenging my sister."

"Sister?" The revelation left Advin perplexed, his mind racing to comprehend the motives behind the malevolent actions of his assailant.

"Yes." Tomura's pressure on Advin momentarily lessened, and Advin attempted to capitalize on the respite. However, his movement was swiftly thwarted as Tomura ruthlessly smashed his foot into Advin's back, intensifying the agony. Advin's mind raced, scrambling for any possible means of escaping the excruciating pain.

"My sister was killed a day before her 11th birthday," Tomura revealed, the weight of his story settling heavily upon Advin. "She used to play with her friend in a ground near our house and always returned home when the sun set. But that day, she never came back. The police couldn't find her. We reached out to Aurora Sentinels, but they claimed it wasn't within their purview and directed us to the police. The police, in turn, refused to assist us. No one listened. After a few agonizing days, we discovered her lifeless body in front of our house, in a horrendous state, as if she'd been preyed upon by some animal."

There was a momentary pause before Tomura continued, "Subsequently, the number of casualties escalated, and Aurora Sentinels realized that a human hunter was responsible for the atrocities."

The concept of a "human hunter" remained unfamiliar to Advin, leaving him with more questions than answers.

"Had Aurora Sentinels not rejected our plea, my sister would still be alive. Who do they think they are? Saving people only when large-scale destruction occurs doesn't make them heroes. What about the innocent lives lost in forgotten corners, preyed upon by some human hunter? They don't seem to care about those individuals. It's profoundly unjust. The pursuit of justice seems futile when walking the right path offers no solace. That's precisely why I've chosen this path," Tomura expressed with a deep-seated conviction, bitterness tainting his perspective on the concept of justice.

"You're wrong." Advin could feel the pulsating energy coursing through his body as Rayuga's admonishing words echoed in his mind. "If you have an ounce of shame left, never attempt to rise as a warrior again."  The weight of those words pressed down on him, and frustration surged within him. Clenching his fists in defiance, he couldn't shake off the profound impact of Rayuga's stern warning.

In that moment of inner turmoil, Arashi's counsel resonated within Advin's thoughts. "You need to break free from this figurative prison; otherwise, it could be your undoing." The urgency in Arashi's voice compelled Advin to confront the reality he had been avoiding. The inner vow that bound him needed to be shattered, and the walls of his self-imposed prison had to crumble if he were to survive.
Determined to break free from the shackles of his own limitations, Advin faced the daunting task ahead with a newfound resolve.

As Tomura raised his foot in a menacing gesture, Advin deftly sidestepped the impending blow. Swiftly regaining his footing, he launched himself at Tomura, only to have his attack deftly avoided by his adversary.

In the tense aftermath, Tomura spoke with a bitter edge, expressing his desire for the so-called heroes to experience the anguish he had endured. "I wish these so-called heroes lose their family too. Only then they'll be able to understand my pain," he declared.

Advin, standing resolute, responded, "I understand your pain."
However, Tomura vehemently denied his understanding, insisting, "No, you don't!"

Advin, choosing to reveal a painful truth, shared, "My family was murdered. My best friend was killed. They were innocent, yet not all innocents are always spared. Death is inevitable, after all." Despite his outward declaration, Advin grappled with internal turmoil, grappling with self-blame for their tragic deaths.

Tomura expressed his deep-seated resentment, blaming the Sentinels for the death of his sister. "My sister died because nobody came to rescue her. It was the fault of the Sentinels altogether. I won't forgive them." In response, he hurled a kunai toward Advin, who narrowly evaded the deadly projectile.

Dismissing Tomura's quest for revenge, Advin challenged the rationale, stating, "You call this revenge? I can't believe your stupidity." Unleashing a dark force, he directed it toward Tomura, striking him. "You're just killing innocent people. How do your actions truly affect the Aurora Sentinels? You told me that they don't care."

Tomura's eyes widened, caught off guard by Advin's poignant words.

Advin calmly inquired, "How many lives have you taken?"

A silence hung in the air as Tomura withheld a response.

Advin continued, unfazed, "I wager not a single one, am I correct?"

A hint of surprise flashed across Tomura's face. "How do you come to that conclusion?" he demanded.

"Just a hunch," Advin nonchalantly replied, a subtle shrug accompanying the words. "You lack the demeanor of a killer."

"What?" Tomura furrowed his brow, examining himself with newfound self-awareness.

"You briefly hesitated before committing to harm that girl."Advin pointed out matter-of-factly.

Angrily, Tomura retorted, "I didn't!" Swiftly, a formidable ball of energy was unleashed towards Advin. Responding swiftly, Advin conjured a shadow ball, the collision resulting in a spectacular explosion. As the smoke dissipated, Tomura had vanished without a trace. Advin couldn't help but scoff. The dull ache in his arm signaled the commencement of the healing process.

Advin strolled towards the hospital, pondering the enigma of the man he had encountered. The refusal of the Aurora Sentinels to assist him puzzled Advin; the man had veered down the wrong path. An innate urge to aid him lingered, but Advin found himself grappling with the uncertainty of how to do so, uncertain whether another encounter would transpire.

Upon arrival, Advin encountered Max, finding his clone conspicuously absent.

"How is that girl?" Advin inquired, the girl's name escaping him momentarily.

"Trish is fine. Her parents will be here in half an hour," Max informed. "Thank you, Zac. I've already expressed my gratitude to your clone, but..."

"Hold on," Advin interjected. "How did you deduce that it was my clone and not me?"

"The clone vanished right before my eyes. By the way, you possess supernatural powers? It's astounding!" Max grinned, expressing amazement at the revelation rather than posing a question.

"I see." Advin responded.

"I was overcome with fear when I received the call from that individual. In that moment of vulnerability, your timely arrival was my lifeline. If you hadn't been there for Trish... Anyways, thank you deeply," Max expressed his gratitude.

Advin dismissed the acknowledgment, saying, "Don't embarrass me. It was my duty... yeah... a duty." His gaze drifted to the sky. "I'm relieved that she's okay."

Their encounter had been a fortuitous one. Advin happened to be passing by when he heard her distressing shriek.

"Advin, may I pose a question?" Max inquired.

Advin turned to Max, curious. "What is it?"

"Um... it's about Darrin." Max hesitated briefly before asking, "How did your friend meet his end?"

Advin recounted the grim news, "He met his demise at the hands of Rayuga, my adversary."

Max's eyes widened in response, "Did you witness him die?"

Advin, gripped by silence, couldn't bring himself to respond.

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked. I actually encountered Darrin a year ago, so..."

This revelation surprised Advin, prompting him to inquire, "Where?"

"In a quaint restaurant. He had come to gift me a portrait sketch," Max elucidated.

Recognition dawned on Advin. "You're that young man... Oh, I failed to notice at all. What's wrong with my memory?"

Max chuckled, "Haha, it's completely fine. Well, I still have that sketch. You truly are an exceptional artist."

"Me? How do you know that I..."

"Darrin told me," Max informed.

"Advin reflected, "Ah, yes. During that time, we engaged in a truth or dare game."

"Game?" he inquired.

Advin affirmed with a nod. A flashback unfolded in his thoughts, reminiscing a moment when he played truth or dare with friends.

"Truth or dare?" Ria posed the question.

"Let me ponder," Advin rested his chin on his hand.

"Hurry up, Zac. Mom keeps calling, and we're running out of time," Mimi urged.
They had all gathered at Ria's place for her birthday celebration. Mimi, with her driver waiting, was feeling the pressure to leave soon.

"Come on, Mimi, savor the moment. I'll drop you home later," Advin reassured, leaning back with hands behind his head.

""Mr. Zac, do you happen to own a car?" Derrin inquired, a smile gracing his face.

Advin shook his head, replying, "No."

"Any chance you have a bike?" Derrin continued his friendly interrogation.

"No. But why the curiosity?" Advin questioned, feigning innocence.

Derrin pressed on, "How do you plan on getting Mimi home, then?"

"Walking is excellent for health," Advin retorted with a grin.

"Thank you, but I'd prefer going with my driver," Mimi chimed in.

"Prefer going with your driver?" Advin teased playfully.

Blushing, she corrected herself, "Zac! I meant by car!"

Laughter echoed among them.

Ria fixed Advin with a stern gaze, asking, "If you don't mind, can we continue?"

Advin chuckled, replying, "Sure."

"So, which one do you prefer? Truth or Dare?" Ria inquired.

Advin confidently chose, "Dare."

"Alright, perform a mock suicide," she commanded.

"Advin, taken aback, questioned, "Wait, why? Did I steal ice cubes from your fridge?" Advin questioned.

"Shush, Zac, don't confess to that," Darrin cautioned with a playful tone, and laughter followed.

"Alright, I'll let it slide this time," Ria said, crossing her arms. "Now, express your love to a girl," she instructed.

"Good one, Ria. This could be the most challenging task for him," Darrin laughed.

"Not at all," Advin shrugged. "I love you, Darrin."

Ria and Mimi burst into laughter, while Darrin playfully punched Advin in the face.

""Do it, Advin, or else we'll broadcast it on the school's announcement system," Ria warned him.

"Really?" Advin rolled his eyes.

"Yes," Darrin smirked. "The announcement will go like this: Advin Damen has failed to confess his feelings for a particular girl. Mimi, Ria, let's pick a name to replace 'a particular girl.'"

"Why not?" Both of them chimed in unison.

"Very amusing," Advin remarked, although he was not finding it enjoyable.

"We know," Darrin grinned. "So, are you ready, Advin?"

"Yes," Advin replied, surprising Darrin. Clearly, he wasn't expecting a positive response.

"But only on one condition. Ria and Mimi won't accompany me," Advin declared.

"That's not fair!" Both of them exclaimed.

"Don't worry, ladies. I'll keep a watchful eye on him," Darrin assured, coming to Advin's rescue.

"But..." Ria began, and Advin intervened, saying, "It's settled."

"He's a bit shy," Darrin teased, laughing. "I'll share the girl's name with you. Trust me, ladies."

"I'm not shy," Advin lightly protested, earning laughter from the others.

"Alright," the girls conceded.

"Okay, everyone, goodbye," Mimi departed after a few minutes. They bid farewell to Ria and returned.

"Advin spoke as they strolled along the street, "Darrin."

"Yes," Darrin smiled, anticipating Advin's request.

"Help me."

"I don't know you," Darrin replied, placing his hands behind his neck.

"Darrin, please. You know I can't say that to any girl."

"Why are you taking it so seriously? It's just a game," Darrin stopped.

"Yeah, it's a game. But I don't want to play with the feelings of any girl."

"Oh ho!"

"What if the girl interprets my words seriously?"

"She won't."

"How can you be so sure?" Advin raised a brow.

"We'll explain it to her later."

"But she might get hurt."

Darrin laughed. "Stop it, Advin. You're only saying this because you don't want to do it."

"Oh, you know me quite well," Advin grinned.

Advin pleaded with Darrin for help. Darrin initially resisted, calling it cheating. Advin persisted, praising Darrin and finally convincing him. Darrin agreed, but on the condition that Advin would follow his instructions for the next 10 days, to which Advin agreed happily.
The flashback concluded with their agreement, and Advin found himself facing Max once again.

"Max deduced, "So, Darrin had asked you to draw that sketch."

Advin nodded.

Trish's parents arrived at the hospital and expressed concern about their daughter's condition. "Where is she?" Trish's mom inquired with evident worry.

"She's inside," Max reassured them.

Max received a call from his mom. "I'm coming, Mom," he said, hanging up. Max extended an invitation to Advin for dinner, and this time, Advin couldn't refuse.

Initially, they headed to the hostel where Advin made himself presentable before they embarked on the walk to Max's house.

"My family will be delighted to see you," Max expressed as he rang the doorbell.

The door opened, revealing Mimi. "Oh hi! You're Zac, aren't you?" she greeted Advin.

Wondering how she knew him, Advin greeted her with a smile.

Mimi stepped aside, allowing them to enter. They proceeded to the spacious lounge adorned with warm hues and comfortable furnishings, creating an inviting atmosphere.

"Mom! Max is back," Mimi called out, gesturing for Advin to take a seat on the plush couch.

After a short while, Max's mom made her appearance. A striking woman, her eyes and hair mirrored Max's. Despite being a newcomer, she didn't seem like a stranger to Advin.

Advin's mom handed him his school bag and remarked, "Aunt Mikoto will drop you off at school."

"No, I want to go with Dad!"

"Your dad has already left. Go, or you'll be late for school."
Defiantly, Advin threw his bag onto the street and ran inside.

In the midst of another flashback, Advin wondered why this particular memory surfaced now, experiencing a slight headache. Who was Aunt Mikoto?

"Zac," Max called his name.

"Oh, sorry." Advin stood up. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Aunt," he said with a smile.

"Likewise, son," Aunt Mikoto replied, fixing her gaze on Advin. "Max, take your friend to your room. He'd be comfortable there."

"I'm comfortable here," Advin blurted out. "I've come to meet you all. Otherwise, we see each other daily at school, right?" he said, glancing at Max. Advin was unexpectedly talkative today.

She smiled at his reply. "Mimi," she called, and Mimi promptly exited the room.

"As the introduction commenced, the question arose, "You're a hostelite?" A flood of memories surfaced, particularly the time spent reassuring Ria and Mimi's mothers that Advin was a trustworthy companion. It took nearly two hours to convince them that their daughters would be safe in his company, but afterward, there were no more restrictions on their hangouts.

Advin nodded, and Max's mom delved into a series of inquiries, ranging from his studies to family and habits. Mimi came to his rescue, offering a refreshing glass of juice.

"Once Max's mom departed, they proceeded to Max's room. It was spacious, impeccably neat, and everything was meticulously arranged. The room boasted a well-made bed with side tables, a neatly organized dressing table, a bookshelf showcasing Max's extensive book collection, and an essential study table. The framed photographs on the wall caught Advin's attention.

"May I take a look?" Advin asked, turning to Max.

"Sure," Max replied with a smile.

Advin's gaze wandered over the photographs, widening as it settled on a specific image. The child on the right bore a striking resemblance to Edward; undoubtedly, it was him. In the middle, another child stood proudly, signaling victory. 'Max,' Advin thought, realizing he stood beside Max. The significance eluded him, prompting a fruitless attempt to recall its meaning.

Noticing Advin's silence, Max approached. "What happened?" he inquired.

Advin shifted his gaze from the picture to Max. "Who are they?" he asked, pointing at the photo.

Max glanced at the photo. "My childhood friends," he replied in a subdued tone.
Advin was taken by surprise as the revelation unfolded, rendering his recollection blank. His past connection with Max had slipped from memory, lost in the recesses of forgetfulness.

"In Osaka, they were our next-door neighbors. We used to go to the same school too."

A profound stillness enveloped the two, anchoring them in a moment of silent revelation. Max's gaze lingered on a photograph, and then he turned his attention to Advin.

"Zac, you bear a striking resemblance to Advin. Look," Max pointed at the child captured in the photo.

Advin, observing Edward's disinterest in the photo shoot, remarked, "Edward doesn't seem interested in the photo at all." Glancing between the picture of Edward and Max, he surprised Max with his words, momentarily leaving him speechless.

"You... are... Advin?" Max stammered.

Advin nodded in affirmation.

"Oh goodness!" Max gasped, his hand instinctively covering his mouth in disbelief. "It feels unreal. Is this some sort of dream?"

It took Max a while to recover from the shock. "But," Advin spoke, a frown creasing his face, "I don't remember anything, Max. I have no recollection of the time we spent together."

"Oh!" Sadness clouded Max's expression. "Anyways, where have you been all this time?"

Advin found himself engulfed in confusion, uncertain of how much Max knew about him. Perhaps sensing Advin's bewilderment, Max began to share.

"Our families shared a close bond. Our parents were friends, and when news of that tragic incident reached us, it left us sleepless for countless nights. The grief was insufferable. My parents carried the weight of guilt for years, unable to save their neighbors and friends," Max lamented, his voice carrying the burden of the past.

Advin absorbed this revelation, replying, "I understand. That night was the darkest of my life. I insisted on accompanying my grandfather, who intended to confront Satori Ryuchi. He didn't want me to go, to protect me." As Advin spoke, old memories resurfaced, casting shadows on his mind.

Advin's mother directed him sternly, "Advin, go to your room."

Defying her command, he retorted, "I'll go with Grandpa."

His grandfather called out, "Advin, come here," but the defiant and moody child stood his ground, ignoring the summons.

Walking over, his grandfather affectionately ruffled Advin's hair, saying, "I have an important task, Advin. We'll go out tomorrow."

Advin vehemently protested being left behind, declaring, "No!" His defiance earned him a slap from his mother, and in that moment of anger, he hurled hurtful words, "I hate you, Mom!" before fleeing upstairs. Little did he know that those would be his last words to her.
In a fit of despair, Advin locked himself in his room using three boxes to reach the bolt. Leaning against the door, tears streamed down his face as he cried aloud. He anticipated his grandfather's arrival, but the expected comfort never came. After half an hour, a forceful banging on the door echoed. Refusing to open, Advin remained on his bed. The door, succumbing to the relentless assault, shattered into pieces, revealing towering men dressed in black.
Wide-eyed, Advin stared at the intruders, his world shattering along with the door.

""Come with us, boy," one of them approached Advin, gripping his arm so tightly that a shriek escaped his mouth in pain. "Mom! Dad!" he yelled as the man forcibly dragged him outside the room.

Downstairs, his skin peeled off due to the continuous rubbing against the stairs, blood oozing out and causing intense pain. Tears streamed down Advin's cheeks. As he reached the lower floor, all the pain seemed to fade away, replaced by a momentary suspension of his heart's beating. The sight of his family, their bodies soaked in blood, paralyzed him. Despite the tight grip of the man, Advin stopped struggling, casting a final glance at his family before being taken away.

When he next opened his eyes, he found himself in a dark room. Overwhelmed by grief, he couldn't stop crying. A man entered, urging him to be quiet, but the tears persisted. Though subjected to torture, Advin's only hope remained fixed on his grandfather; he believed that his grandfather was alive and would come to rescue him. Little did he know that he would be the one to bring about his grandfather's demise.

As anticipated, Simon arrived, swiftly incapacitating the assailant and rushing to Advin's side. Advin poured out his harrowing tale, and Simon, with reassuring words, pledged to rescue him. In the ensuing confrontation, Simon faced off bravely against Satori. Advin was confident that Simon wouldn't succumb. However, a sudden appearance of another assailant caught Advin off guard, and he was seized once again.

On the brink of death, a kunai poised to pierce his jugular, Advin was miraculously saved. It became painfully evident that if he hadn't been present, Simon would still be alive. His grandfather, making a sacrifice for him, took the decisive action. Overwhelmed with guilt, Advin couldn't forgive himself. Satori mercilessly severed Simon's head, presenting it to Advin in a flat dish. Emerging from the poignant flashback, Advin sighed deeply, and Max wore a look of pity, acknowledging the profound weight of Advin's tragic past.

Advin confided in Max, revealing, "Believed to be deceased, I remained abandoned, with no one coming to my rescue. Six years passed in the company of Satori Ryuichi, a period shrouded in a fog of forgetfulness. I deliberately shield myself from the memories of those years. The culmination was when I took his life, and in that moment, all my memories vanished into an abyss of loss."

Advin had acquired the ability to confront and defeat Satori, and this newfound strength was attributed to Okami. At that time, two of the eight seals had broken. However, utilizing Okami's power had inflicted severe damage to Advin's brain, resulting in the complete erasure of all his memories. Despite these struggles, Advin chose to keep this information from Max, avoiding the painful disclosure of his mental and emotional ordeal.

"On January 6, 2012, the world witnessed the arrival of Zac Damen, who found himself entangled in the intricate dance of deception orchestrated by Akira Daiki, Advin's maternal grandfather. A surreptitious rewriting of memories birthed a counterfeit existence—fake parents, siblings, and a facade of happiness. Amidst the charade, Akira Daiki stood as the solitary beacon of authenticity, Advin's true grandfather.
In the vibrant tapestry of this fabricated life, serendipity led Advin to Darrin, a kindred spirit, when Tokyo's school gates welcomed him. Darrin, a soul scarred by parental tragedy, became Advin's roommate and confidant in the sanctum of their shared space. Those six years, a montage of joy and camaraderie, etched indelible imprints on the canvas of Advin's existence.
However, the symphony of life took a dissonant turn on December 5, 2018, as Advin's dearest friend departed unexpectedly. Initially deemed an accident, the veils of deception lifted, revealing the orchestrator of this tragedy—Rayuga. Driven by the thirst for retribution, Advin confronted Rayuga, only to unravel a deeper truth—he was the progeny of Satori Ryuichi.

Intent on using the "death circle" technique for justice, everything changed when Rayuga disclosed the shocking truth about his manufactured memories. A cataclysmic clash of counterfeit memories and dormant truths triggered a torrential downpour within Advin's psyche, culminating in a debilitating nervous breakdown.
After pouring out the weight of his sorrowful past to Max, Advin sighed deeply. In that very moment, the door opened gently, and Mimi entered.
"Dinner's ready," she announced with a soft smile. Advin joined them for a meal, the warmth of shared stories lightening the somber air.
Post dinner, he strolled back to the dormitory, the echoes of laughter lingering, leaving behind a tapestry of cherished memories.

Upon entering his room, Advin delicately opened his laptop, greeted by the familiar glow of the screen. With a sense of nostalgia, he logged into his Online Battle Challenge account—a platform introduced to him by his maternal grandfather.

This social network site resembled Facebook in many aspects, allowing users to update statuses, upload pictures, follow others, and employ the option to block unwanted connections. However, what set it apart was the unique "Challenge" feature visible on each user's public profile. By selecting this option, a challenge request was sent, leaving the decision to accept or decline in the hands of the recipient. The intriguing part was the ability to arrange the battle specifics privately, discussing the place and time through direct messages.
As Advin explored his profile, a narrative unfolded before him. His full name, Zero, carried an enigmatic allure. The username, zero_x98, defined his digital identity in the expansive world of the Online Battle Challenge. Identified as a Dark Element User, his distinctive ability hinted at the potent forces he wielded in battles that surpassed the virtual confines.
In the domain of followers and connections, Advin held a significant presence with 10K followers, a testament to the community he had nurtured. His reciprocated interactions were reflected in the 2K accounts he chose to follow. The experience section chronicled his journey through 679 battles, achieving victory in 600 and facing defeat in 79. In this realm, the battles extended beyond the virtual, manifesting in reality and weaving each triumph and setback into Advin's authentic odyssey.

A year had passed since Advin last logged into his account. Noticing the number 50 above the challenge, he paused before delving into it, opting first to change his full name to Advin Damen.

In his fights, he had adhered to the practice of wearing a mask as instructed by Akira Daiki. However, today marked a departure from that routine as he uploaded a recent picture of himself, accompanied by the caption #HIFOLKS #IMBACK.

Following this, Advin made a significant decision—he unblocked Rayuga. To his surprise, he discovered that it was Darrin who had blocked Rayuga on that site. Unaware of this fact, Aunt Tokou had confided every detail about Advin to Darrin. Until his last breath, Darrin had earnestly tried to shield Advin's truth from him.

Advin regained consciousness a week after Darrin's tragic demise. His mother revealed that he had been in a coma for the entire week, leaving him with a profound sense of incompleteness.  Fate seemed to have snatched Advin's friend away through what appeared to be a tragic accident. However, little did he know, the narrative of Darrin's departure held complexities yet to be unveiled. The thin veil of the accident began to unravel, revealing a more intricate and nuanced story that would reshape Advin's understanding of the events that had transpired.

Upon checking his phone, Advin discovered a poignant message from Darrin, sent a week before his untimely death. The heartfelt words expressed gratitude for the profound impact Advin had on Darrin's life. The message conveyed that the time spent together was the best period of Darrin's life, and he harbored no regrets.

The postscript left Advin with a lingering sense of curiosity and concern as Darrin had asked for forgiveness, signing off with a sorrowful face and an apologetic tone. Advin grappled with the cryptic message left by Derrin, unable to decipher its meaning. Questions swirled in his mind—did Derrin possess a foreboding sense of his impending demise? The answers eluded him until a pivotal moment unfolded in the hospital.

A mysterious visitor, Taurch Osamu, arrived, prompting Advin's mother to grant him access, presuming him to be a friend. In a revelation that would alter the course of Advin's understanding, Taurch disclosed that Rayuga was the perpetrator behind Derrin's demise.

With newfound clarity, Advin left the hospital promptly, guided by Taurch to confront Rayuga. In a tense exchange, Rayuga unveiled the existence of a letter he had sent to Advin a week prior—an epistle Advin had been unaware of, but one that Derrin had read. The layers of the narrative began to unfold, each revelation adding intricate details to the complex tapestry of events.

According to Rayuga, the letter held ominous contents:

"Host of Shibi Okami, I'll avenge the death of my father. I'm consumed by the desire to kill, yet I can't decide. Will you assist me? Make a choice between your best friend or your family. Feel confused? I'll elucidate everything. Meet me tonight at 8:00 PM. Do not be late, for at 8:01 PM, one of them will assuredly meet their end. Attempt to thwart me if you can. The address is detailed below."

Derrin, facing this chilling ultimatum, made a haunting decision—he chose himself. The ominous words of the letter unveiled a dark and intricate dilemma that had entangled Advin's closest relationships in a web of tragic choices.

"Rayuga's accusatory words cut through Advin like a sharp blade. "This is entirely on you. Why did you allow your friend to meddle so deeply in your life? He provided the answer for you. I'd call that cheating," Rayuga sneered. "Or perhaps he wished for his own demise. Did you truly know your friend?"
In the aftermath, Advin pondered Derrin's actions. Derrin's involvement wasn't deceitful; it was a gesture to protect Advin from a harsh reality and potential harm. Derrin aimed to keep him from the clutches of Rayuga, sparing him the pain of facing the darkness within. Derrin, recognizing Advin's vulnerability, made a sacrificial move, aware that Advin stood defenseless against Rayuga's malice. This realization struck Advin only after a fierce clash with Rayuga, unveiling the profound cost of his friendship — an unwitting contribution to the loss of his best friend.

With a heavy sigh, Advin opted to disconnect from the online realm, his actions reflecting the burden of emotional turmoil he bore.

☆☆☆☆

In the concealed chambers of Blue Skull HQ, an organization known for its secretive and dark dealings, the atmosphere reeks of malevolence.

Ran Patrick, affiliated with organization, nonchalantly scrolled through her Online Battle Challenge account. In the dimly lit room where she sat, the subdued lighting intensified the glow emanating from computer screens.
Amidst the virtual landscape, an image captured her attention – a snapshot of Advin Damen, featuring dark brown hair and captivating emerald green eyes. The caption read: #HIFOLKS #IMBACK, encapsulating a sense of triumphant return.

Curiosity piqued, Ran clicked on the unfamiliar name, revealing a public profile. There, under the alias zero_x98, memories resurfaced with a jolt of realization. "Oh my goodness!" she exclaimed, a touch of excitement evident in her reaction. This was the individual she had once greatly admired, not just in the digital arena but in the real world.

The sudden exclamation drew the attention of everyone in the room. Among them, Ran's brother shot her a stern look, curiosity and perhaps a hint of disapproval etched on his face.

"What's bothering you?" Jessica inquired, her tone filled with exasperation.

"Zero has returned," Ran declared, her gaze shifting to her brother. A frown creased his brow upon hearing the news.

"Are you certain?" Jessica queried, arching a brow skeptically.

"Absolutely," Ran affirmed, approaching her. "Look, he's unmasked himself." She displayed the evidence for Jessica to see.

"He's even changed his name," Jessica informed Ran's brother, a mischievous smirk playing on her lips. "Your rival is making a comeback, Atsushi."

Atsushi simply shrugged, refocusing on his work. Ran exited the room, her eyes still locked onto the screen of her phone. "I wish I could meet him."

☆☆☆

It was Sunday, a day of leisure for Ayumi and her friends, prompting them to embark on a quest for a new dining experience. Engrossed in choosing the perfect restaurant, Dawn suddenly interjected, revealing that Lilly had celebrated her birthday the night before, an event they had missed.

"Who's Lilly?" Drew scoffed, rolling his eyes.

"They threw a party, but not just for us—for the whole class. Unfair, right?" Dawn pouted, recounting the missed invitation.

"Remember the quarrel you had with her two weeks ago?" Alice reminded, earning a narrowed gaze from Dawn.

"She initiated it. An apology and an invitation should've followed," Dawn retorted.

"Dan chimed in, "You initiated the fight. She didn't invite us because of that. If I weren't your brother, I'd be enjoying that party."

"Let's forget about it," Ayumi intervened. "We can plan our own celebration. Now, let's decide where to go today."

Their deliberation was interrupted by a beep, signaling a message from Yuichiro.

"Yes," Levin replied.

"Come to the HQ, at once."

The group reluctantly abandoned their restaurant plans, arriving at the HQ. Surprise rippled through Ayumi as she spotted Yuichiro standing with someone familiar.

"Meet your new teammate, Advin Damen."

The revelation left Ayumi and her friends in shock, their plans derailed by the unexpected addition to their team. The intrigue surrounding Advin Damen marked a new chapter in their adventures, introducing an element of mystery that would shape their future endeavors.

☆☆☆