The Hayashi Clan had grown fast. News of their power and unity spread like wildfire. The clan town in Tokyo was now a bustling hub where warriors trained, strategized, and lived together.
Riku spent most of his time there — overseeing training, helping new members, and preparing for what the future might bring.
One quiet afternoon, while walking through the streets of the clan town, Riku bumped into Yumi Aoyama near the training grounds.
She smiled shyly, then asked, "Riku… what do you want to do about your legacy?"
Riku blinked. "The clan, right?"
"No, I mean… like you personally."
He raised an eyebrow. "Oh… you mean my family? Honestly, I don't know."
Yumi's cheeks suddenly flushed bright red.
Riku glanced at her and grinned. "Hey, are you feeling hot? Want me to get you a cold water bottle or maybe stop by the ice cream shop?"
"No, I'm fine," she said quickly, still blushing.
He tilted his head. "Then why are your cheeks so red?"
Yumi shifted uncomfortably and said, "I'm fine. Good day!"
Riku watched her walk away, puzzled, standing there like a question mark.
Suddenly, the AI inside his head chimed in, sounding amused:
AI: "You really can't understand signs, huh? She has a giant crush on you."
Riku blinked. "On me?"
AI: "Yes. And think about it — she only blushes around you. That's why she asked about your legacy."
Riku rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Huh… maybe I should pay more attention."
He shook his head with a small smile and headed toward the training grounds.
Legacy, family… and maybe something more.