February 4, 2013 — Thursday, a cold morning in Chicago
Kai woke up early that morning, but unlike the other students, he wasn't excited. He put on his Oakwood High School uniform with the same indifference he wore every day, not caring about the elite school waiting for him. To him, Oakwood was just a place far enough from home that he could stay under the radar. A place where it would be easier than ever to disappear without raising suspicion and, at the same time, fulfill Cosmic's request: "Take a look at what's going on over there."
The Oakwood campus was imposing. A grand building with architecture that reminded him of Japanese anime schools from his past life—clearly exaggerated, with spacious courtyards, well-maintained gardens, and an atmosphere that exuded wealth and status. Upon entering, Kai's first impression was of a school where appearance mattered more than anything else. The way everyone behaved, talked, and even walked reflected the hierarchy system among the students. There was an athletic ranking displayed on each bulletin board throughout the school. The weight of status and influence was visible in every exchanged glance, and Kai could feel the pressure of the implicit competition in the air.
The main hall of Oakwood was too quiet for a place filled with students. The polished marble walls reflected the artificial light as if sunlight was never welcome there. Statues of athletic forms lined the side corridors, representing anonymous figures in combat poses, as if watching over the freshmen who dared pass by.
Kai moved with steady steps, eyes tired yet alert — the kind of awareness born from too many years surrounded by uncertainty.
A staff member was waiting for him near the reception. She wore a navy-blue uniform with golden details, standing rigid and with an impersonal expression.
"Are you Kai Grayson?"
He nodded.
The woman handed him a black envelope with the school's golden crest — an oak tree entwined with a blade and a book. The crest pulsed faintly, as if the metallic ink reacted to touch.
"This is your official admission packet. Required reading. Digital signature address is on the last page."
"Does it include the code of conduct too?" he asked, voice neutral.
"It does. Everything you need to know is there. Including what happens to those who ignore it."
Kai opened the envelope right there. Inside was a booklet bound in black plastic material, with silver letters seemingly engraved by laser.
WELCOME TO OAKWOOD HIGHSCHOOL ACADEMY
Virtus ex Disciplina — "Strength comes from discipline"
He began reading.
With each line, something inside him hardened — not out of fear, but because he recognized the type of system he was stepping into. An environment shaped by performance, rank, and ritualized combat. Strength disguised as merit. Discipline laced with surveillance.
"You will not be just another student. You will be evaluated, challenged, shaped."
Kai furrowed his brow slightly. He was used to cold environments. But here... there was a different aesthetic of control. It was almost like being inside a military experiment disguised as a high school.
"Total score determines your ranking position. Climbing the ranks is a privilege — and a target."
"Every choice has consequences."
He took a deep breath and kept reading. He remembered Cosmic saying Oakwood was "a battlefield disguised as a school." And now, reading about the exclusively physical clubs, the point-based duels, instructors watching like predators... it all made sense.
He flipped to the next page.
Internal Division — Oakwood Highschool Academy
Academic Building: Four blocks (A to D), with classrooms assigned by grade and performance.
Physical Sector: Simulation arena, six gymnasiums, rings, testing field, Olympic pool.
Technical Labs: Tactical engineering and applied research.
Administration and Internal Council: Discipline, hearings, conduct records, and special interventions.
Everything was meticulously planned. Even the number of steps between the blocks was symmetrical. Kai imagined that if he kicked a wall, it might respond with a structural diagnostic report.
He flipped to the next section — and raised an eyebrow.
Official Ranking — Elite Panel
The top 100 students at Oakwood are listed quarterly on a digital panel in the central arena hall.
Only the top 50 receive an official identification number, used in exams, combat matches, and internal access to elite clubs.
Students ranked 1 to 10 receive special privileges, priority access to labs, and invitations from partner companies.
Fights to challenge ranking positions are allowed with authorization from a superior and formal registration.
Note: Unauthorized challenges will result in disciplinary penalties, including loss of position, scholarship revocation, or expulsion.
Kai tilted his head, analyzing the terms.
"They don't call it an arena for nothing. This isn't a school... it's a permanent social battleground."
There was something perversely efficient about that system. The school didn't need to punish anyone directly — it simply handed them the tools to destroy each other with elegance.
The silence of the reception was broken by firm footsteps.
A tall student, wearing a perfectly fitted blazer and a red armband on his left arm, walked past him. His badge read: Christopher Reed — Rank #4. The look he gave Kai wasn't one of curiosity — it was calculation. A quick glance that said, "You don't look dangerous, but you don't look normal either."
Kai returned the same kind of look — but his had something more. A layer that said, "I don't want your spot. But don't underestimate me."
Christopher stopped a few steps away, turned to the staff woman.
"The new student is reading the protocol by himself. That's not common."
She shrugged.
"He arrived early. The others usually just ask if the uniform can be altered."
Christopher observed Kai a few seconds longer. Then he gave a brief nod — the kind that filed something away for future use — and continued down the left corridor.
Kai closed the document, the last words still echoing like a twisted mantra:
Strength without discipline is just noise.
Discipline without merit is just submission.
He let out a subtle sigh and thought,
"This place is going to be a drag. But that's fine. The more predictable the chaos, the easier it'll be to stay out of it."
Kai took out his phone and accessed the link written inside the envelope.
[Confirm reading and acceptance of terms?]
Kai clicked "yes".
The system responded with a soft glow on the screen:
[Signature registered. Welcome to Oakwood.
Student Kai Grayson – Merit Scholarship – 1st Year High School. Room 52A.]
The staff member gestured toward the hallway, indicating the floor and direction of the first-year classrooms in Block A.
"Since some students are away competing for the school, the ranking evaluations have been postponed until the end of the month, by order of the majority shareholder, Mr. Radcliffe."
"Understood."
"Good luck," she said — without emotion.
Kai walked toward the hall, his eyes scanning the details, the signs, the whispers of other newly arrived students. Some seemed excited. Others already tense. As he passed through the corridors, he noticed the hushed voices and glances of students. Some were curiously observing the athletic rankings, others murmuring about ranks. Meanwhile, everyone ignored his presence — which was exactly what he wanted.
Because even in a school built on strength, the most dangerous student… is often the one who isn't trying to win.
He wasn't there to impress anyone. Just to stay distant and aware — as Cosmic had suggested.
The hierarchy at the school was clear: rich and influential students, whose parents financially supported the school, stood above the rest. And like in any such system, those at the top were practically untouchable. If one of them messed up — lied or got involved in an incident — everyone simply looked the other way. Kai wasn't surprised. He'd seen this before, just on a smaller scale.
On his first day, he was just another student uninterested in conversation. When someone approached him to ask something, Kai gave short, dry answers — enough to avoid seeming hostile, but also to avoid starting any real interaction. He watched the other students, their behaviors, and how they positioned themselves in that social microcosm. He saw bullying happen in the shadows — not just disguised as jokes, shoves, or disdainful glances, but something deeper. Still, before doing anything, he wanted to understand how things worked there.
During the break, he wandered around Block A but didn't go far — it was easy to get lost. He stopped at one of the cafeterias and sat alone in a corner, far from social interaction and conversation groups. The picture was clear: wealth, power, and the constant struggle for status.
Kai allowed himself a brief, ironic smirk. He was there to carry out a task, nothing more. There was nothing that attracted him. Nothing that interested him.
The school wasn't about learning or growth. It was about who you knew, how much money your parents had, and how you behaved within that bubble.
"Thank God Mark didn't come here..." he thought.
Later that same day...
Twin Brothers' Room — 7:40 p.m.
The twins' room was quiet, save for the faint hum of the TV in the background and the occasional noise of Mark fiddling with something. Kai was sprawled out on his bed, face buried in a pillow, pretending to rest before another long day of school.
Mark sat at his computer, likely checking social media.
"I miss having you around at school," Mark suddenly said, eyes still on the screen.
Kai didn't respond right away. He slowly lifted his head from the pillow and glanced sideways at his brother.
"Oh, how touching… I bet you miss me saving your sorry butt from trouble," Kai replied with a dry smile, his face still half-buried in the pillow.
Mark chuckled, leaning back in his chair, looking more relaxed.
"How's the new school?" Kai asked calmly a moment later.
Mark looked over at him.
"I know you went there thinking about the future or whatever, but I miss having someone to mess around with. It's not the same without you. But… I made a new friend — William. He's not… I don't know… not exactly normal like the rest, but he's cool."
Kai tried to hide a smile.
"William, huh? Great. Another unconventional sidekick for Mark Grayson's growing collection." He sat up in bed and stretched. "So what's this William guy like? The type to keep you from becoming another zombie wandering the halls?"
Mark laughed and gestured vaguely, as if trying to describe an instant connection.
"He's kinda weird, but in a good way. Doesn't act like he's better than everyone. He's got these crazy takes on the school and the people there... and we laughed a lot about it. Best thing is, he doesn't care what others think."
Kai watched him, still looking unimpressed on the outside, but inwardly relieved that Mark had found someone. He leaned back against the bedframe.
"Sounds like you finally found someone as annoying as you, huh?" Kai muttered with a sideways smirk. "Good job."
Mark laughed and tossed a pillow at him.
"Come on, man."
Kai returned the look, still unreadable, though the mood lightened.
"Just don't go pulling the two-girls-at-once stunt again," Kai teased.
Mark looked like he was about to retort, but instead grabbed the other pillow on his bed and hurled it at Kai.
"Is bugging me your favorite hobby or what?" Mark grumbled.
Kai leaned back, smiling genuinely this time. Mark fell quiet for a moment.
Kai sighed deeply, letting the conversation rest. He didn't care much about Mark's social life, but his voice always made things feel a little less… distant.
The silence was broken by Kai tossing both pillows back at Mark's face.
"Hey, just because I changed schools doesn't mean I'm not around, got it? If you need me, I'll be there. But don't drag me into some teenage drama, alright?"
"I know. Thanks, bro," Mark said with a grin and a nod.
The atmosphere relaxed. Mark wandered toward the window, looking out. After a while, he turned to Kai, curious again.
"So… what's your new school like?"
Kai sighed, clearly not eager to talk about it, but knowing Mark genuinely cared.
"It's just a place full of people pretending to be better than they are. But… it's fine," he replied with a shrug.
Mark sat back down, studying his brother as if he finally understood that Kai was doing the bare minimum — just enough to get by.
"Alright. Just don't forget about me, okay?"
Kai looked at him for a moment and gave a faint smile.
"Don't worry. You're like one of those annoying commercials with jingles that get stuck in your head."
Mark laughed and grabbed his phone.
"Becky and July messaged me. They made a group chat for us. They want to meet up with us and Derick sometime after school," Mark said.
"Alright, just let me know the day. If I've got nothing else, I'll come. Send me the address after." Kai replied.
"Dude, you're in the group chat. Check your phone. Stop being so antisocial," Mark said as he laid down, adjusting the pillows.
Kai stayed quiet for a moment, just staring at the ceiling. Eventually, he let out a breath.
They always pull me into this. I guess I've gotten used to having them around.
And just like that, they were ready to face another day of school.
By the end of the first week, Kai hadn't made a single friend — exactly as he wanted. The school, with all its strange rules and polished hierarchy, was just as expected… maybe even slightly better. The flexible schedule gave students a certain level of freedom between classes, which left Kai with plenty of time alone — perfect for training. Practicing with the Six Eyes and the void had become part of his daily routine.
He knew that by staying quiet and detached, he gained more room to move as he pleased.
Kai was beginning to understand Oakwood's ecosystem. Anyone trying to stand out the wrong way paid a heavy price. He had already seen how some students manipulated others to maintain status, and the thought of getting involved with any of them was repulsive..
That first week was just a test — an adjustment period. And just as he'd predicted, he'd already learned enough. From here on out, it was just a matter of time.
On the other hand, Mark had made a real connection — and was growing closer to his new friend. William Clockwell, one of his classmates at Reginald Vel Johnson High School, had a quiet yet grounded presence. He and Mark had hit it off quickly, bonding over how hard it was to fit in.
With his parted light brown hair and loose waves, William didn't mind flying under the radar. His easygoing nature brought something new to Mark's routine.
Mark seemed lighter now. His conversations flowed more naturally. It wasn't easy, but with William around, he started to feel like he might actually belong. And maybe… that wasn't such a bad thing.
Peaceful days for Mark... not so much for Kai.
The Breaking Point
February 20th, 2013 — Wednesday Morning — Cold Skies Over Oakwood
The morning had started quietly. As usual, Kai arrived early at school — a habit he'd developed to avoid the crowd. This time, Nolan had insisted on flying him there. Once inside, Kai settled into his classroom, head down on the desk, trying to rest before classes began.
The building felt unusually still. Yet even in the quiet, his thoughts lingered.
There was something about Oakwood that always tugged at the back of his mind — a polished institution where money disguised cruelty, and status gave permission for the strong to prey on the weak.
While Kai rested, pretending to doze off, the sound of laughter began to rise. Five students — all part of the school's elite — had circled around a quieter boy near the front. It wasn't hard to tell what was happening. The way they leaned in, mocked, and smirked… it was always the same pattern.
Again... every damn time. This place is crawling with the same kind of trash.
Kai's eyes remained closed, but his attention sharpened.
"If you do what we told you and carry that package, we'll back off," one of the boys said, voice oily with false kindness.
"I already told you no, Brandon," the target replied, his voice trembling.
The name struck a nerve. Brandon Thornton — the usual ringleader.
Moments later, the insults turned physical. Brandon shoved the boy hard enough to send him crashing to the floor, then began hitting him, laughing as if it were a game. The others didn't hesitate. They added their own weak punches and insults while the rest of the class looked away — or worse, giggled.
The victim, cornered and overwhelmed, whispered a barely audible, "Help."
That was enough.
Something twisted inside Kai — a knot of memory, rage, and contempt. He'd seen this kind of scene play out before. In other lives. In other places. And he had stayed silent too many times.
But not this time.
Mark's not here. I don't need to hold back. No one here knows me. And no one will tell Nolan.
Maybe it was the anger.
Maybe it was the isolation.
Maybe it was the ghosts of choices he hadn't made.
But something inside him moved.
Kai stood up. Not rushed. Not dramatic. Just quiet — deliberate. He kept his hands in his pockets, his eyes fixed on the group.
The room froze.
"Can't you see I'm trying to sleep?" Kai said flatly. His voice wasn't raised, but it sliced through the tension like a blade. "You really need to beat someone up just to feel alive?"
Brandon turned to face him, a cocky smirk spreading across his face.
"You serious, freak? Who the hell are you? You wanna die or something?"
Kai didn't flinch. He looked around at the group — cold, uninterested.
"Die? Cute. Which one of you clowns is gonna do it?"
The boys hesitated, caught off guard by his tone. Then they moved in — confident, surrounding him like a pack. But Kai didn't move. He didn't even change his stance.
He didn't need to.
The first boy lunged. Kai pivoted, caught him by the collar, and tossed him to the side like luggage. He crashed hard, dazed.
The second tried to grab his arm. Kai slipped under, twisted, and drove an elbow into the boy's ribs — sharp and precise. He dropped instantly, gasping for air.
Three remained.
One threw a punch. Kai ducked, swept his leg around, and sent him sprawling backward with a single push. The fourth moved more carefully — too slowly. Kai spun low, knocking his feet out from under him. His head hit the floor with a dull thud.
The last one charged from behind.
Kai caught him mid-motion, twisted into a hold, and slammed him down.
It all lasted less than fifteen seconds.
None of the boys were seriously hurt — just bruised, breathless, and humiliated. They lay scattered across the room, stunned.
Kai stood in the middle, calm as ever.
He turned toward Brandon, who had fallen to his knees.
"This is what you call a fight?" Kai said, voice dipped in quiet disdain.
Then he bent down, gently helping the bullied student up.
A girl in the third seat of the front row stood without a word and assisted the boy out toward the infirmary.
Kai walked back to his chair. He didn't look at the others.
"You know, every day someone wakes up weak... and someone else wakes up strong. One gets beaten. The other does the beating."
He leaned back and rested his head again.
"But one day, you might wake up and someone stronger than you will be there."
Silence.
Pure silence.
The bullies slowly stood up, their faces pale with shame and rage. Not a single word came from their mouths as they shuffled out of the room.
Kai didn't care.
He wasn't trying to be a hero. This wasn't about justice.
It was just something that had to be done.
The class eventually returned to its usual rhythm, but something had changed. The air was different — a quiet, unspoken respect lingered. It wasn't admiration. It wasn't fear.
It was acknowledgment.
Kai didn't seek attention. But for once...
This had been satisfying. It felt right.
He had acted on instinct — not duty, not pressure — and it brought him peace.
And that was enough.
Despite the occasional whisper, the rest of the day passed without incident.
February 21, 2013 — Thursday Morning — Oakwood
Kai arrived at school as if it were just another day. He wasn't anxious or nervous, but his mind was fixed on something that hadn't stopped bothering him since the incident the day before. Violence itself wasn't new to him — not in this world, not in the last — but the atmosphere at this school, the way things were tolerated and swept under the rug, made everything feel... wrong. Twisted. Like something was deeply out of place.
He didn't yet know how to act on it, but he was sure of one thing: he wouldn't just sit back anymore. He would move forward — for Cosmic's request, and for his own decision to step in the day before.
Classes moved on as usual. Still, the sensation of being watched lingered. Whispers hovered around him, but he ignored them. It was predictable — the new kid, the one who interfered where he shouldn't have, now under scrutiny.
That's when the boy from the previous day approached. He looked uncertain, like someone still trying to make sense of everything — and a bit more cautious now.
"You're Kai, right?" the boy asked with a nervous smile.
Kai nodded, not even trying to hide the bored look on his face. He was used to these kinds of interactions — the ones that rarely led anywhere.
"My name's Samuel. Thanks for yesterday... but I think it might've made things worse for you."
Kai tilted his head slightly, showing just enough interest to keep the conversation from dying.
"Don't worry about it. I'm good," he replied.
Samuel glanced around the classroom, lowering his voice.
"You're new here, but there's a hierarchy. Those guys? They're near the bottom — only tolerated because of Thorton's money."
Kai didn't react. He just watched him with a neutral gaze, processing.
Samuel hesitated, then added, "Word is... Thorton… people are saying he went to ask a second-year guy for help — someone named Dimitry. That guy doesn't mess around... There was this kid last year — he was nice, used to stand up for people. But because of them... he—"
Kai already knew where this was going. He raised a hand slightly, cutting Samuel off with a relaxed tone but gently.
"Thanks. But don't talk to me anymore. You'll just bring trouble on yourself."
Samuel nodded, grateful that Kai didn't seem fazed by the whole thing.
From the way he spoke, Kai could piece it together… That kid likely took his own life.
I can understand why, but if you think about it, it doesn't make sense.
Even in his past life — when everything felt meaningless, when he loathed the world and existence itself — the idea of taking his own life had never been something he accepted. It just didn't compute. There are many implications.
Classes continued. Kai blended in, observing, measuring — acting only if necessary, keeping his distance.
Then, after the break, a teacher he barely recognized entered the classroom.
"Kai? Come with me, please."
He stood up immediately. The teacher's tone felt off, more serious than usual.
"Yes, sir."
They walked in silence until they reached a side door leading to the rooftop. That was odd, but Kai didn't question it. Curiosity pushed him forward.
The teacher held the door open and gestured toward the terrace.
"Go on," he said, eyes distant.
Kai stepped outside — and before he could turn back—
"Sorry, kid."
The door slammed shut behind him.
Click.
Locked.
As the teacher's footsteps faded, seven upperclassmen stepped into view, forming a wide semicircle. In the back, arms crossed, stood Thorton — a smug grin spread across his face.
Kai remained still, eyes scanning them one by one, assessing.
So much for staying out of it. This school... this rot... it disgusts me. I've been holding back. I didn't want attention. But this...
Thorton's smirk grew as one of the boys stepped forward.
"So you're the guy who thinks he can fix things around here. Thought you could beat people up and just walk away, huh?"
Kai kept his face calm, turning his head slightly as the wind swept across the rooftop.
"I don't know what this is supposed to be... but it sure looks like you've all got a problem with me," he said, a touch of irony in his voice.
Thorton gave a subtle nod. The group started moving in — slowly.
Still, Kai didn't move. The tension was rising, but he wanted to understand the real motive behind this.
"You'll learn quick," Thorton said. "There are rules in this school. Break them, and you pay the price."
Before Kai could answer, another student stepped forward from behind the rooftop stairwell — taller, stronger, and clearly the one everyone else respected. His presence changed the air. The others stiffened the moment he showed up.
"Here's what's going to happen," the new boy said, tossing a backpack onto the ground. "We beat the crap out of you. Then you'll run a little errand for us — take that bag to Granville Avenue. Do that, and we'll let yesterday slide."
There was something familiar about the request. Kai recalled Brandon's words from the day before — almost the same deal.
He stared calmly at the boy. Dark brown hair. Muscular. Confident.
"You must be Dimitry," Kai said, voice still level.
The boy gave a small, disdainful nod.
"When Brandon told me he got wrecked, I thought, 'Must've been Cassie.' But no — she's off representing the school. So imagine my surprise when I find out it was you. A nobody. Start begging, kid. Maybe we'll leave something unbroken."
Something inside Kai cracked. Maybe it was the Void energy, simmering from all his restraint. Maybe it was the thought of the boy who'd been destroyed by these games. Or maybe… just maybe, it was the thrill. That intoxicating spark he hadn't felt in a long time.
His eyes narrowed.
"Am I supposed to be scared?" Kai's gaze dropped to the bag, then returned to Dimitry, voice calm and cold. "I don't care about your revenge games. I really don't. But now… I'm curious."
Silence filled the terrace. Thorton shifted uncomfortably at Kai's unexpected composure.
"You don't have a choice," Thorton snapped. "You'll regret not knowing your place."
Kai didn't reply.
He simply waited.
The first attacker rushed him without warning.
In a flash, Kai dodged, grabbed the boy's arm, twisted it behind his back, and slammed him into the wall. The sound of the impact echoed across the rooftop, but Kai didn't care. He was already pissed.
A second came in. But Kai's strength was overwhelming — he blocked his fist effortlessly and drove his own into the guy's stomach. The blow knocked the wind out of him. A swift kick to the knee sent him tumbling sideways.
Kai didn't stop.
His movements were fluid, efficient, almost mechanical — like he was letting out something buried.
The third tried to flank him — Kai spun and cracked an elbow into his ribs, followed by a clean punch to the face. Down.
The fourth tried to rush him. Kai swept his leg, sending him crashing onto his back with a painful thud.
The others? Gone in seconds. A flurry of hits — blocked, countered, dropped.
Then came the last one.
Dimitry.
He was different. There was power behind his movements. More force. More confidence.
He's not normal...
Kai observed him carefully. Stronger than average. Fast. Controlled.
A metahuman...
The term surfaced from memories of his past life — people with unnatural gifts.
Even so, Dimitry wasn't close to a Viltrumite. Not even a developing one.
As their fight intensified, Kai felt the Void pulsing inside him — but he didn't tap into it.
He didn't need to.
He read Dimitry's moves, dodged each attack with precision, the older boy was trying his best to land a hit. His the frustration growing with each failed attempt — and Kai could feel it. That frustration was delicious.
"Interesting," Kai said calmly. "Guess I can use a little more strength with you. It's such a pain holding back all the time. But you? You're different."
Dimitry's eyes widened. Kai was dodging every blow, grinning like it was a game.
"This doesn't make sense," Dimitry muttered.
With rage in his voice, he charged, trying to intimidate Kai with threats.
"You'll learn your place! I'll take you down — and then I'll find out where your family lives!"
Kai didn't budge.
Dimitry swung hard.
Kai tilted his head just enough for it to miss.
"You really pissed me off now," he murmured.
Then — a flash.
A punch to the chin.
Dimitry hit the ground with a thunderous impact.
He tried to get up, dazed, only to find Kai already standing before him
Kai landed a brutal punch to his gut, causing him to double over, gasping for air. He stumbled back.
Kai moved forward, step by step.
In a final act of rage and desperation, Dimitry lunged again.
Kai ended it with a single blow, the punch hit like a truck — dropping Dimitry collapsed, unconscious.
All around him, the others were sprawled out — either unconscious or in too much pain to stand.
"I think I might've used too much force," Kai muttered.
The rooftop went silent. No one dared to speak after what they had just witnessed.
That same feeling from the classroom returned. In Kai's mind, he pondered what had just happened. Brandon had tried to force Samuel into delivering something — now Dimitry was trying the same with him.
Could this be what Cosmic meant when he asked me to investigate?
Kai walked over to where Dimitry had collapsed, crouched down, and lifted his upper body by the collar.
"Hey. Wake up," Kai said, getting no response.
He frowned. "Hey, Sleeping Beauty." He slapped Dimitry lightly. "Now's not the time for a nap."
Dimitry jolted awake, trying to crawl away. But Kai pinned him effortlessly to the ground.
That's when it hit Dimitry — he had messed with someone he should never have provoked. But who was this new kid?
With everyone else groaning in pain around them, Kai stared coldly at Dimitry, who was still struggling to recover. Without a word, Kai punched him in the gut while he was still down.
"That one's for all the others you bullied."
The blow was terrifying. The force made Dimitry vomit up what little water he'd had.
Kai let him go, waiting to see if he'd stand. He didn't.
Kai leaned closer, his icy gaze boring into him, making Dimitry shudder.
"You're not that tough, are you? People like you… only understand this kind of language," Kai said with a sarcastic grin. "Now… tell me, what's in the bag?"
Dimitry hesitated. His breathing was ragged. He knew he was completely outmatched. With fear in his eyes, he began to speak.
"There's stuff inside. We make money and gain influence in the school. There's an organization. They make us use the nerds to deliver packages in exchange for 'protection'... We take their money and keep pressuring them until they give in. Then we leave them alone. That's how it works."
Kai took a step back. His blue eyes glowing from the intensity of his feelings. Disgust was written all over his face.
So that's what Cosmic meant. They force others into committing crimes for them.
His voice was sharp, filled with anger.
"So by 'protection,' you mean 'stop bullying them'? This school is sick." He looked around at the boys groaning in pain, then glared back at Dimitry. "And the teachers? No one does anything?"
Dimitry looked tense but responded reluctantly.
"We give a cut of the money to the people above us. They handle it with the teachers. If one of them tries to do anything, they get pushed out."
Kai took a deep breath, staring at Dimitry with growing fury. He leaned in closer, his eyes now glowing intensely.
"Who's behind this?"
"I don't know," Dimitry blurted quickly.
Kai had no patience for vague answers. He was too close to something bigger to back off now.
None of these people knew Mark. They had nothing to do with anyone he cared about. It was just more of the same filth he'd seen in his past life — maybe even worse.
What they thought of him didn't matter. Someone had to do something in this school.
In one swift motion, Kai grabbed Dimitry's right hand — and broke one of his fingers. Dimitry screamed in pain.
"I don't know! I don't know! I swear, I don't know!" he shouted, his voice trembling.
"I just get the orders! This school is huge. When someone needs something, the info comes from the top. I don't know who's really in charge!"
Kai stared, unblinking.
"I'll explain how things are going to work from now on. You'll report to me. No more forcing deliveries, no more intimidation. And when someone above you asks questions, arrange a meeting with me." Kai said.
Silence settled over the rooftop, broken only by the wind slicing through the air above.
Kai sighed, still wearing that cold, angry expression. He stared at Dimitry for a few seconds—and without warning... broke another one of his fingers. Dimitry let out a desperate scream, only to be interrupted by Kai.
"I didn't hear confirmation that you understood," Kai said, his blue eyes locked onto Dimitry's with chilling focus.
Dimitry, writhing in pain... felt something he hadn't in a long time. Fear.
He finally nodded. It was clear now—this new kid was dangerous. More dangerous than the people above him.
"Yes, yes! I'll report everything to you! I'll do whatever you say!" Dimitry shouted.
Kai stepped back, pausing for a moment. He glanced at the other boys, who were watching him in stunned silence. Then he calmed himself and gave a satisfied smile.
"Great. But I didn't hear confirmation from the rest of you," he said as his eyes swept over the fallen boys.
Immediately, a chorus of jumbled "Yes" echoed from the ground.
Kai smiled faintly, but it wasn't a friendly smile. He looked down at them, scattered and broken.
"You'll tell me everything going on here, until I tear down every layer of trash stacked inside this school... Remember today, and remember who you should really be afraid of."
Silence returned once more.
Kai turned and walked toward the door, hands in his pockets like nothing had happened.
When he reached the door, he pulled out one hand and forced the rooftop lock. The metallic snap of bending steel echoed into the sky.
"Oops. Guess I broke it by accident," Kai said sarcastically as he walked off the rooftop.
He knew he'd just set things straight. In that moment, it was clear—the school's hierarchy was about to shift.
A voice from the rooftop, faint and shaky, but unable to hide the surprise: "He broke the steel lock with his hand?"
Kai didn't turn back. He just kept walking toward his classroom.
Down the hallway, he passed the teacher who had escorted him earlier. The teacher stared, surprised to see Kai walking calmly with no injuries, not even a scratch.
The teacher continued on, visibly puzzled by the lack of any signs of a fight.
Kai didn't stop. He simply said, as if it were the most normal thing in the world:
"Some kids got into a fight up there. They'll need to go to the infirmary," he said, his voice soft, almost disinterested.
The teacher watched him for a second, trying to make sense of the situation, but before he could say anything else, Kai was already headed back to class.
"I'll call the infirmary staff to check on them," the teacher replied, still confused, turning and walking off.
Kai entered the classroom with no problems. The class went on, almost monotonously, as if nothing had happened. The students kept working. No one knew what had taken place on the rooftop.
When class finally ended, Kai didn't waste time. He pulled out his phone and called Cosmic.
The phone rang a few times before Cosmic answered, his calm, direct voice as usual.
"Kai? What do you need?" Cosmic asked.
Kai sighed lightly before speaking.
"I want to meet."
Cosmic, always unreadable, didn't sound surprised. He just responded plainly:
"Where are you? I'll come to you."
Kai glanced around, analyzing the empty hallway.
"At school. There's a tall building nearby—I'll meet you on the roof. That okay?"
On his end, Cosmic had a feeling things were about to get more complicated, but he simply agreed.
"I'm coming. I'll be there soon."
A few minutes later...
Kai flew up to the rooftop and positioned himself, waiting patiently for about ten minutes. The city below was calm, but Kai kept his senses sharp. Finally, he saw Cosmic approaching in the sky, his figure standing out against the blue.
Cosmic landed beside him with a curious look.
"So…?" Cosmic asked, his voice as calm as ever, though now tinged with a hint of anticipation.
Kai looked at him, his tone serious.
"I found out some things about this school. Things that are deeply wrong."
Cosmic watched him closely, clearly interested.
"There's a hierarchy here. Someone up top is forcing students with no criminal background to commit crimes—trafficking, transporting illegal goods. And it's all hidden behind a network I don't know the full extent of yet," Kai said, his face serious.
Cosmic furrowed his brow, his curiosity growing.
"And do you know who they are?"
Kai shrugged, still calm.
"Not yet. But I'll find out eventually."
Cosmic looked at him, thinking something over.
"How did you figure all this out in two weeks? I knew I was right to ask you to come here."
Kai let out a short, humorless laugh.
"Let's just say I kicked the hornet's nest... Eventually, some of the stingers found their way to me."
Cosmic went quiet for a second, before asking, visibly concerned:
"That's not like you. So they told you everything?"
Kai stared at Cosmic, his tone sharper now.
"Not at first. But they pissed me off. They worked hard to do that. After a few broken fingers... they started talking."
Cosmic raised his brows, clearly surprised.
"That's not your usual approach..."
Kai sighed, gaze drifting.
"Cosmic... They weren't just kids. They acted like animals. Beating on the weak. Forcing innocent students to break the law in exchange for not ruining their lives. One of the victims last year took their own life because of it. And one of them was a meta-human, physically enhanced. As far as I can tell, even he's not high up the chain—so there's a lot more behind this."
Cosmic nodded, taking in everything, though he was clearly troubled by the way Kai was handling the situation.
"I get it. Just make sure it's not the Void affecting your thoughts. Don't forget to rest sometimes."
Kai replied with a serious look, but remained calm.
"I know. Thanks for caring... But there's something I learned in my past life: sometimes, kindness isn't enough. Every kindness must have a line. And they crossed it."
Cosmic looked at him, his expression more neutral now.
"So what will you do next?"
Kai stayed silent for a moment, eyes locked on the horizon.
"I scared those punks enough that they won't show their faces again. I've made up my mind... I'm going to tear down this school's entire hierarchy until someone from the top finally shows themselves."
Cosmic stayed quiet, analyzing Kai's words. He knew his friend well—and knew that behind his calm and disinterested mask was a mind burdened by triggers when it came to protecting the innocent.
"I see. That line you mentioned earlier… Aren't you afraid you might cross it yourself?"
Kai turned to face Cosmic, his eyes now steady and firm.
"Cosmic... what's the point of kindness when the world insists on cruelty? Sometimes you can be the hero and the good guy. Other times, you can be the guy who saves people. But you can't be both at once. Here, I chose to be the one who saves those who deserve it."
Cosmic paused for a moment, considering Kai's answer.
"You've got your way of thinking. So… are you going to reveal your powers now?" he asked calmly.
Kai looked at him and shook his head. Then, from atop the building, he turned his gaze toward the school.
"No. I'll stay in the shadows, only revealing myself as needed." After a brief pause, he remembered something and added, with a softer smile as he glanced back at Cosmic, "That hair-color-changing ring would be pretty handy right now."
Cosmic smiled, understanding the situation.
"I'll try talking to Cecil again. Maybe he's come up with something."
The two of them stood there in silence for a moment, watching the city below. But they both knew that somehow, the course of things was about to shift. Kai was ready to stir up the hornet's nest again—and this time, to make them show themselves.
February 21, 2013 — Night — GDA, Briefing Room
Cosmic entered the room, giving a slight nod to Cecil and Donald, who were discussing some reports.
"Cecil, Donald," he said, his voice calm but filled with intent.
Cecil looked up from the paperwork and offered a faint smile.
"What brings you here tonight, Cosmic? Anything I can help with?"
Cosmic paused for a moment before answering, not revealing anything immediately.
"Cecil… about the Blue-Eyed Kid."
Cecil's attention sharpened, his brow furrowing.
"You're finally going to tell me who he is?"
Cosmic stayed quiet, simply watching Cecil for a moment. Cecil realized he wasn't going to get a direct answer and sighed.
"I figured. So what is it?"
Cosmic took a deep breath before continuing.
"Do you remember the request I made about an item that changes hair color—something like my bracelet?"
Cecil thought for a second, his expression growing serious.
"Yeah, I remember. I told you it wasn't simple. Expensive too."
Cosmic met his eyes, his tone heavier now.
"The boy's going to need it more than ever. He's investigating something that could help innocent students. But he's getting tangled with people who could cause real trouble."
Cecil raised an eyebrow, suddenly more interested but still skeptical.
"So now there's a secret mission even the GDA doesn't know about?"
Still calm, Cosmic hesitated for a second before speaking again.
"It's about Oakwood Academy."
Cecil let out a long sigh, visibly tired.
"We didn't find anything major the last time we looked into that place. One of the young team members even studies there. We deal with real threats here. Small stuff like drug rings and school bullies—let the police handle it. And besides, why won't he reveal himself? Isn't he a hero? He should just show up and introduce himself."
Cosmic looked at him thoughtfully.
"Funny… he said something about that. He said he chose not to be a hero this time."
Cecil stared at him, genuinely confused now.
"What do you mean?"
Cosmic's voice remained calm, but there was a weight to it—like he was still processing Kai's words himself.
"He said he could be the guy who saves innocent people… or he could be a hero. But not both."
Silence hung in the room. Cecil looked off into the distance, the words digging deeper than expected. A memory resurfaced—something his old mentor had once told him, long ago...
"You can be the good guy, or you can be the one who saves the world. But not both..." he muttered to himself, barely audible.
He rubbed his forehead, exhaling deeply, clearly worn down by everything.
"Donald," he called, turning to his assistant. "Have them bring the ring Cosmic asked for."
Donald, ever sharp, glanced over with a hint of hesitation.
"Sir? Are you sure? He said he's not going to be a hero."
Cecil nodded without skipping a beat.
"Yeah. That's what he said. But it doesn't mean he isn't doing the right thing."
Donald left to carry out the order. The tension lingered in the air as Cosmic and Cecil looked at one another for a few moments longer.
A decision was being made. And now, Cosmic was even more conflicted by Kai's words. What meaning did they hold—for humans capable of swaying even someone like Cecil?
Minutes later, Donald returned, handing a ring to Cosmic.
"I thought you weren't going to give it to him," Donald said, puzzled. "After saying the school issue was trivial. What changed your mind?"
Cecil looked at Cosmic, his brow relaxed. A faint, ironic smile formed.
"I don't know what kind of training you gave that kid, Cosmic… but it seems he's on the right path. I wish Atlas had that kind of clarity."
He turned to Cosmic.
"Consider this my vote of confidence—in both you and the boy. Let's see how things unfold from here."
Cosmic nodded. Then, with a small smile, he said, "Thank you."
Friday, February 22nd, 2013 — Grayson Residence — Oakwood Academy
Kai woke up early, as usual — 5:20 a.m. His school was 10 miles away, and he always preferred leaving with plenty of time to avoid raising any suspicion at home. But to his surprise, when he came downstairs to the kitchen, Debbie was already awake.
"Good morning, sweetheart," Debbie said with a gentle smile as she prepared coffee.
Kai looked at her, still half-asleep, and replied while stretching.
"Morning. You're up early. Something wrong?"
Still smiling as she stirred the coffee, Debbie explained.
"We haven't had much time to talk lately. I got up early just to check on you. I made your coffee — no sugar — and scrambled eggs."
Kai, still not fully enthusiastic, gave a small smile.
"Thanks." He sat down to eat, his gaze drifting off for a moment.
Debbie sat beside him, using the moment to start a conversation.
"So… how's the new school? Made any friends yet?"
Kai went silent for a few seconds, thinking about the boys he had faced on the rooftop — the ones who now claimed to obey him. He didn't want to lie, but he didn't want to worry her either.
"Yeah… you could say that," he answered, not too convincingly, but trying to sound reassuring.
Debbie, curious, pushed a little more.
"What do you mean, 'you could say that'? So you did make a friend?"
Kai recalled how many there were on the rooftop, glanced to the side, raised an eyebrow, and gave a faint smirk.
"Actually… I made nine friends."
Debbie laughed, clearly surprised.
"Beating Mark at that? Didn't see that one coming."
Kai shrugged. It was good to be home, talking casually with his mom.
"Part of my strategy," he said playfully.
Debbie leaned in, her tone becoming more teasing.
"So everything's fine at the new school… That's great. I was honestly worried you'd turn into a robot without Mark around — no social interaction at all."
Kai gave her a tired look and played along, feigning offense.
"Ouch. That one stung."
They both smiled.
Then Debbie, with a sweet expression, asked:
"Want me to drive you today? Or are you embarrassed to show up with your mom?"
Already used to her teasing, Kai didn't hesitate.
"Not at all. It'll be great to go with you… mom."
Debbie smiled.
"Good. I left a note for your dad to fly Mark to school today. The other day he was complaining that he only ever flies you."
Kai laughed and rubbed his forehead.
"Dad's flown me twice in the last two weeks — and only because the school's far. Mark studies nearby and still complains… Classic."
Debbie chuckled and looked at him for a few seconds with visible affection. Then, her expression softened.
"Kai, you've always kept to yourself. You don't talk much, always been more mature than your age, always looking after Mark. Sometimes it feels like you're my age and just trying not to be a burden. I just want you to know… no matter how old you are, I'll always be here if you need me, okay?"
Kai looked at her, a genuine smile on his face, and answered calmly.
"Of course. I'll be here for you too."
Debbie raised an eyebrow and smiled mischievously.
"You say you'll always be there for me, but Janet told me you fixed a huge problem at her office. Never seen you solve anything for me."
Kai grinned sideways.
"That's because in your case, you're not staring at a laptop for hours with a pitiful look on your face while trying to make hot chocolate for a bunch of screaming teenagers."
Debbie covered her mouth, laughing at his reply.
"So that's what happened… I'm kidding. I'm proud of you. I don't know where you learned to do all this stuff, but I'll be asking for your help if I ever need it."
Kai nodded with a soft smile.
Debbie gently ran a hand through his hair, falling silent for a moment as if recalling something.
"You know… I had a dream you used the wrong shampoo again and came running in a panic saying your hair turned white… Feels like it was just yesterday. Now you're fifteen."
Kai smiled and nodded, joking.
"Don't be surprised if I mess up again one of these days."
Debbie laughed.
"And now your hair's getting long, huh? You've got that boyband look going on with those bangs in your eyes. Not going to cut it like Mark anymore?"
Kai laughed, answering with ease — though a hint of irony laced his tone.
"Nothing a bit of gel can't fix." He thought to himself that he'd been balancing between cutting his hair or using that money to buy more dye — to hide the white that kept showing up after pushing too hard during Void training.
Eventually, Debbie drove Kai to school. As he got out of the car, they exchanged a quick hug.
"Good luck, sweetheart," she said with a warm smile.
Kai returned a discreet one.
"See you later, mom."
This kind of closeness… he'd never had anything like it with his family in his past life. It felt comforting. The world seemed a little less empty.
She watched as he entered the school. And Kai? The smile faded the moment he saw the building again — full of corruption and rot.
Let's hope they don't ruin my good mood today.
Without knowing that the universe was ready to go against him.
Kai walked into class and sat down. He wasn't in a hurry to make friends. He simply observed the other students with a tired, distant look.
When break came, he got up and headed for the exit. There, standing by the door, was Jacob — one of the boys he'd faced on the rooftop the day before. Jacob approached him hesitantly, but with a calmer expression.
"Kai," Jacob said, holding the door for him. "Just wanted to let you know… we stopped the activities, like you asked. We got rid of the backpack from yesterday. No one's attacking anyone. Dimitry's in his classroom. No one's noticed anything yet. Might take a while before anyone even reacts."
Kai gave him a serious, weary look. He had no patience for small talk.
"What do you want?" Kai asked in a monotone voice.
Jacob shifted uncomfortably but kept going.
"I just… wanted to report. We're doing as you said. You're the boss now." He handed Kai a coffee cup from one of the school's cafeteria booths.
Kai raised an eyebrow and gestured with his hand.
"Boss?" He looked at the coffee and sighed before continuing. "We need another name. Anything but that. 'Boss' is embarrassing."
Jacob nodded quickly, clearly nervous, but pressed on.
"Well… it's just that here in school, there's a hierarchy. You either stand out somehow, or you've got no status. The school's basically split between those with power — like the donors or the athletes — and the rest… well, the rest. People with influence get protection. That's how it works."
Kai looked at him more attentively now.
"I've noticed. And what's the deal with the trafficking and the backpacks? How did that even start?"
Jacob hesitated, then finally spoke.
"I know it happens in other schools too, not just here. But this school's too big to control everything. And the staff turn a blind eye to anyone with power. People form groups, cliques… and those who stand out — like Dimitry — get everything. He's practically a star in here. Nobody messes with him because he's one of the top fighters. He's got a scholarship and a bunch of sponsorships. He's basically untouchable. That's why Brandon paid us to hit you yesterday."
Kai listened silently, absorbing each detail. No wonder he's good at fighting. His physical ability is clearly above human levels.
"And the backpack?" Kai asked, his tone calm but eyes sharp. "Where'd it come from? What's Dimitry's connection to it?"
Jacob stepped closer, lowering his voice.
"Sometimes… a guy from outside comes to drop stuff off. The backpack. The job. This started long before I got to high school. It's been going on for a while. But Dimitry's not the only one. There are others involved too."
Kai didn't flinch, but his tone grew firmer.
"Then from now on, tell Dimitry that not only will he stop doing these deliveries and attacks, he'll stop others from attacking innocent students too. I won't change the whole school… but this is a start."
Jacob nodded quickly, head bowed.
Kai gave him a teasing smile.
"And the money Brandon paid you guys to attack me? Since I'm the victim here, you can tell Dimitry to hand it over."
He said it with a cynical tone, expecting a reaction.
But Jacob, visibly too nervous to argue, simply replied:
"I'll ask Dimitry to give you the thousand dollars."
Kai raised an eyebrow, trying to hide his surprise — but he couldn't completely mask it. He took the coffee from Jacob's hand and waved him off.
"A thousand bucks? To attack me? What's wrong with these people?" Kai muttered, walking away, trying to process what he'd just learned.
He couldn't believe they'd pay that much for a beating. Who the hell are these idiots? he thought, still trying to grasp the scale of the game they were playing.
He walked through the hallway, coffee in hand, the noise of students chatting blending with his thoughts. Some were talking about someone named Kiana Vance Hayes — a student athlete who had just returned from an overseas martial arts championship. But Kai's disinterest was too strong to go chasing any details.
When he reached the classroom door, the loud chatter inside made him slow his steps. A group of eight students was gathered around a table in the far corner of the room, and the noise only got louder as he approached.
He tried not to care… but he'd have to walk right past them to get to his seat.
With a low sigh, Kai moved toward the table. As he passed by the crowd, he caught snippets of conversation.
"How was the tournament?"
"Ah, it was easy. I came in first place."
"No way! I didn't even know you were in our class! You've been absent because of the championship?"
Great… the room just got louder. Giant school, and this ends up happening in my class, Kai thought with a weary sigh.
As he passed the group, a boy rushed toward the door and accidentally bumped into one of the girls standing near him. She stumbled — right into Kai. He reflexively caught her to stop her from falling. But his coffee spilled — all over the table… and onto the new girl seated nearby.
She slammed her hand on the desk.
"Oh, come on! Can't even hold a damn coffee? You ruined my uniform!" she snapped.
Kai kept a neutral expression, ignoring her attitude. He backed off slightly, his internal reaction simmering quietly.
He was about to apologize — but the girl, unaware, kept ranting.
"And that other idiot's always bumping into people. Then wonders why he gets bullied…"
The word "bullied" cut through Kai like a blade. Something inside him stirred. He looked at her more carefully: almost white hair, icy gray-blue eyes, athletic build — exuding superiority.
Just another spoiled brat who lives for looks, likes, and social status… and thinks bullying is normal.
Unwanted memories from Kai's past life surfaced. She seemed like someone who only cared about image — not people.
She kept talking… but Kai had stopped listening.
With a cold, steady voice — no need to raise it — he spoke.
"Monster."
The room fell silent.
The girl froze, stunned. The classroom, once filled with chatter and laughter, went dead quiet.
Kai walked away and sat down, leaning back in his chair and closing his eyes — ignoring the growing tension his single word had caused.
There it is. His good mood had been completely ruined.
From a distance, he could hear the whispers.
"Don't mind him. He's always like that — never talks to anyone."
"Yeah, the other day he beat up some kids in class."
The girl he'd called out — still fuming — glared at him, trying to understand why he had said that.
The atmosphere grew tense, whispers still circulating… until the teacher walked in.
Kiana stood up right away, still visibly frustrated.
"Teacher, I need to go to the bathroom to clean my uniform," she said.
When the teacher saw who it was, she gave a wide smile.
"Of course, Kiana! Take all the time you need!"
As Kiana walked out, the murmurs continued… but the teacher paid them no mind. To her, everything seemed perfectly normal.
Class finally ended, and as the bell rang to dismiss the students, Kai grabbed his backpack and made his way toward the school gate. On his way out, his phone buzzed. He answered, already recognizing the familiar voice on the other end.
"Kai? I've got something for you."
"Something for me?" Kai replied, his tone calm and unhurried.
"Yeah, I'll bring it to you by the school gate."
"Alright, I'll wait here," Kai answered before the call ended.
He leaned casually against the wall near the gate, arms crossed, waiting. The street was relatively quiet, with only a few students walking by. That's when Kiana appeared, flanked by two of her friends. They spotted Kai standing alone, and one of the girls scoffed loud enough for everyone nearby to hear.
"He's probably just waiting for a chance to ambush you again. Must be jealousy."
Kai didn't even bother turning his head or acknowledging the comment. He simply stayed still, eyes forward, as if they didn't exist. But Kiana, clearly unsatisfied with his silence, stepped toward him with a challenging glare.
"I heard you beat up some other guys today. You spill coffee on people, act rude… Now you're trying to stir up drama and make me look bad?" she said, hands on her hips, posture proud. "If you want attention so badly, challenge me to a ranked duel. If you really think you're that good."
Kai slowly turned his head toward her, expression blank and eyes heavy with indifference. His voice was as quiet and cold as ever, carrying no emotion.
"Do you know who Nicolaus Copernicus is?"
Kiana furrowed her brow in confusion. "What does that have to do with anything?" she asked, visibly annoyed.
Kai exhaled slowly.
"He's the one who taught us that the world revolves around the Sun... and not around you. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm waiting for someone."
And with that, he turned away and calmly crossed the street, leaving Kiana stunned and speechless. Her friends, who had been watching quietly, burst into laughter, only fueling her growing irritation. But she had nothing to say.
Kai walked away slowly, not the least bit bothered. He didn't even glance back.
About twenty minutes passed before a car finally pulled up near him. The passenger door opened, and Cosmic stepped out in his human disguise.
"Sorry I'm late," he said, approaching Kai. "I was helping some families get food baskets."
Kai gave him a faint smile, his hands tucked into his pockets.
"Makes it hard to complain."
The tension of earlier moments disappeared completely as both smiled like none of it had happened.
Cosmic pulled a small black ring from his pocket and handed it over.
"You got it?" Kai asked, taking the ring and inspecting it carefully. His tone softened with gratitude. "This is going to help a lot. I wanted to start training again and test the Red Void… but I was holding back just to avoid bleaching my hair again."
Cosmic nodded, understanding in his eyes.
"I've got a lot to take care of today, so I'll head out. Let me know if you need anything."
Kai adjusted the ring on his finger and nodded.
"Sure. Thanks again."
As Cosmic turned to leave, he called back over his shoulder.
"To configure it, remove the ring and press the top. The internal lights will show the hair color first, then the eye color. To activate it, wear the ring and turn it to the right. To deactivate, just turn it left or take it off."
Kai examined the ring more closely, genuinely impressed.
"Better than I expected."
Just then, a car horn honked. It was the same car Cosmic had arrived in. A beautiful woman sat in the driver's seat, waving at them.
"Hey, let's go! We still have to eat before heading back."
Kai raised an eyebrow and smirked.
"Is that the one you asked me about last time?"
Cosmic chuckled and nodded as he walked toward the car.
"Yeah. That's her."
Kai watched him get in, smiling to himself, quietly wondering what else the day might bring.
He turned and walked away from the school, heading toward the outskirts of the city. Eventually, he arrived at a quiet, secluded spot far from any curious eyes. It was the perfect place to train without interruptions—where he could finally test something he had been preparing for.
The school, with all its hierarchies and drama, had faded into the background. His real focus now was the Red Void—and whether he could wield it without turning his hair white again.
With the ring secured on his finger, he focused. Raising his hand, he extended it forward and concentrated. A few seconds later, a crimson sphere began to take shape. He poured energy into it, trying to expand or repel it like he had seen in his past life… but something went wrong. The sphere unraveled instantly, as if his will couldn't sustain it.
Kai exhaled deeply, trying to calm himself and analyze what was missing. He changed his strategy. Activating Mugen, he created an energy barrier around himself. Then, using Blue, he propelled himself forward, moving faster than before as the energy surged in pulses through his body. That one worked. Blue always did.
But the Red Void kept slipping through his fingers.
Frustration mounted. Again and again, he tried to force it into being. Again and again, it failed. His hands trembled from the strain, and his body began to ache. Each attempt felt weaker than the last.
Eventually, he collapsed onto the ground, breathing heavily, completely drained. He muttered to himself:
"This thing just doesn't work…"
He lay there for a while, the sky above fading into dusk. Pulling out his phone, he opened the front camera. One glance at the screen confirmed it—his hair was completely white again, just like every other time he pushed the Void too far.
Why do I even try?
He sighed, more annoyed at himself than anything else, and stayed there a bit longer.
"It's already six... Time to head home," he murmured, frustration thick in his voice.
Kai stood slowly, his muscles sore and heavy.
"Guess it's time to test this," he thought, eyeing the ring on his hand.
With a flick of his fingers, he activated it. As expected, the color of his hair shifted back to its original tone—flawless camouflage. He stared at the result for a moment, then smiled, satisfied.
"Finally…" he whispered as he began the long walk home.
The day was ending. The failures and frustrations would continue tomorrow—but for now, at least the ring worked. And that was a good start.
Interlude – The World Doesn't Revolve Around You
Base de Treinamento da GDA — 18h15
Meanwhile, somewhere else…
Training was in full swing at the GDA facility. The young team was relentlessly destroying targets and running simulation drills to sharpen their skills. Vortex (Viktor) fired concentrated bursts of wind with precise aim, taking down distant targets with ease. Reflex (Jenny) moved quickly, switching places with her 5 copies, taking down all the targets almost simultaneously. Atlas (Andrey) advanced like a juggernaut, smashing through every obstacle with raw force. Ghost Girl (Becky) trailed behind, trying her best to keep up with the group's pace.
Off to the side, Silver (Kiana) was training alone—and unlike her usual composed self, she attacked with uncharacteristic fury. Her blows were wild and forceful, fueled more by emotion than technique. She wasn't calculating or precise. She was angry.
There was a storm behind every strike—rage boiling beneath the surface. Her fists slammed into the dummies with enough force to shatter them, and the look in her eyes was enough to make anyone think twice about approaching.
Vortex noticed. He paused mid-attack to watch her, eyebrows raised. He was used to her being sharp, controlled—never reckless like this.
"Hey, Silver," he called out casually as he blasted through another target. "You're tearing through everything today… Think you could break my heart next?"
No response.
No snarky comeback. No sarcastic retort. Not even a glance.
Just another brutal strike against the next target, harder than the last.
Vortex and Atlas exchanged glances but didn't interrupt. Silver wasn't just distant—she was somewhere else entirely.
When the session wrapped up, Ghost Girl and Reflex approached her. Silver stood with her head bowed, fists clenched, tension radiating from her body.
"Something happened?" Ghost Girl asked gently, concern etched in her voice. She hadn't been around for a while, and clearly, something was off.
Silver glanced at them, and the rage in her eyes was impossible to miss. She was visibly on edge, more than either of them expected. She hesitated, but then snapped:
"I'm so pissed! No—furious! I went back to school today, and some nobody, a new guy, spilled coffee on me. Okay, I said something rude, but then he called me a monster!"
Ghost Girl raised an eyebrow, half-skeptical, half-amused.
"A boy said something to you and now you're spiraling?" she asked mostly to herself, a restrained smirk forming on her lips.
Reflex chuckled under her breath.
Silver's agitation only grew. Just remembering it seemed to make her blood boil again.
"That's not all! I confronted him later, and you know what he said? He told me the world doesn't revolve around me and walked away. Just like that. No shame, no manners. Can you believe it?"
She trembled with rage, fists clenched even tighter.
Ghost Girl and Reflex exchanged glances, both struggling not to laugh. The situation, which to them seemed minor, had clearly driven Silver up the wall.
"You know," Ghost Girl began with a calm smile, "back in middle school, I had this one guy who always got under my skin. We ended up being close friends."
Silver scowled, still fuming.
"That's not happening here," she declared, folding her arms. "This guy is a jerk. I wish he'd just vanish."
Reflex snorted, and both girls broke into laughter.
Silver, the normally unshakable one, was genuinely flustered over something so petty—it was both shocking and oddly endearing.
"I think you're just mad he didn't give you the attention you expected," Reflex teased with a playful grin.
Silver huffed, but her lips curled into a reluctant smile. The frustration hadn't vanished, but the edge had definitely dulled.
"I won't deny it," she muttered, her tone softer now. "He didn't even have the decency to talk to me properly. But that's not the point. He was just… rude. No basic respect."
Their conversation shifted into easy laughter as Silver slowly returned to herself. The heavy cloud of anger lifted, if only a little.
"Alright, fine," Silver sighed, shaking her head. "Maybe I did overreact. But still… he needs to be put in his place."
"Should we get back to training?" Ghost Girl asked, already turning toward the equipment.
"Yeah," Silver replied with a sly smirk. "But now that I've cooled down, I'm gonna break everything the right way."
The training resumed, but this time, the energy was lighter. The tension that had clouded Silver had dissipated. She returned to her usual precise form, though a trace of frustration still lingered in her strikes.