The sun rose over the Hayashi Clan village, casting golden light across the stone pathways and newly built houses. Birds chirped, and the distant sounds of Essence Warriors training echoed through the air.
In the center training yard, Riku stood with his arms crossed, watching Yuki — his 12-year-old little sister — bounce in place, fists clenched with determination.
"Alright, Yuki," he said. "Today you're going to fight."
Her eyes lit up. "A real fight?!"
"Kind of," he smirked. "You'll be sparring… with me."
She blinked, confused. "But you're—"
He raised a hand, and a clone of himself stepped forward. The clone's energy shimmered, much dimmer than usual.
"I've suppressed it to D-Rank level," Riku explained. "This clone is only as strong as the average beginner. Think of this like a stepping stone."
Yuki took a deep breath and nodded. "I'm ready."
"Good. Show me how much you've learned."
The clone darted forward first, throwing a slow but clean punch. Yuki dodged, sliding low before countering with a palm strike to the clone's side.
Riku nodded in approval. "Nice reflexes."
Yuki moved again, launching a series of punches and kicks. The clone blocked most, but one connected cleanly with its jaw.
"Good hit," Riku called out.
Yuki grinned, but the clone suddenly swept her legs, knocking her down.
"Ow—!" she winced.
"Don't celebrate early," Riku said calmly. "Read your opponent. Feel their rhythm. Rise up and adapt."
Yuki stood, fists back up.
This time, she waited, studying the clone. She timed her movements better, dodging the next strike and hitting it square in the chest with an Essence-infused palm.
The clone staggered.
"Finish it," Riku said.
Yuki spun with a kick — one of the techniques he taught her — and the clone dispersed into particles of fading light.
She stood there, panting… but smiling wide.
"I did it!"
"You did," Riku said proudly, walking up and ruffling her hair. "And with a second marking already, your growth is going to be crazy."
Yuki looked up at him, eyes shining. "Do you think I can be strong like you one day?"
He smiled. "No."
Her expression dropped.
"You'll be even stronger."
Her face lit up again, full of excitement.
"Now get some rest. You've earned it," he added.
As Yuki ran off, energized by her progress, Riku stood still for a moment, watching her with a calm expression.
"…The future's going to be just fine."