Chapter 5: Academy Under Attack!? L.O.V Appear!

Weeks had passed since the combat test. “Mr. Shimizu… or should I call you Voltage?” Principal Jako asked, his eyes fixed on the city skyline outside his office window. His tone was calm, but the weight behind his words pressed against the silence. “Just Voltage, Jako,” Tekashi replied, his fist tightening at his side. Jako finally turned, his gaze sharp. “The reason I summoned you here is because of Tartarus. The incident… how did it go?” Tekashi’s jaw clenched. “…Seventy-six escaped successfully. We managed to capture the rest, but the one we couldn’t bring back was…” His voice lowered, filled with dread. “…the leader of the League of Villains.” The office fell silent. Before Jako could respond, the academy walls trembled violently—BOOM! A massive explosion tore through the front gates, sending debris flying across the courtyard. Glass shattered in the halls, alarms blaring, students screaming and scrambling for cover. From the smoke and flames, dark silhouettes emerged—figures cloaked in malice. At the center stood a scarred man, grinning with cruel intent. His voice cut through the chaos: “Students of Hinode Academy… your sanctuary ends today.” In the dormitory, Rin lay motionless, exhausted from pushing herself too far during training. Sweat dampened her brow, faint sparks flickering across her skin as she slept, unaware of the chaos unfolding outside. Shadow stood at the window, his eyes narrowing as he surveyed the battlefield. But something in his gaze was different—calculated, unreadable. The smoke reflected in his irises, and a faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. “…Interesting,” he muttered under his breath. He glanced down at Rin, lying helpless. “You’ll thank me later… when all this is over.” The courtyard had become a battlefield. Smoke and dust filled the air as the Big Three—Hinode Academy’s strongest students—stood side by side, their cores blazing with power. Before them, three of the League of Villains operatives charged, each radiating deadly energy. Raizen, the Thunder Core wielder, crackled with electric fury. “Let’s finish this!” he shouted, launching a massive lightning strike at Kael, who hissed as the bolts sizzled in the air. Kael twisted and dodged with inhuman speed, releasing acidic venom into the courtyard to counterattack. The corrosive streams ate through pavement and metal alike, forcing Raizen to leap and strike midair, sending a thunderous shockwave that ripped through Kael’s projectiles. At the same time, Aika, glowing with the intensity of her Radiant Core, faced Selene. Selene moved like liquid shadow, summoning illusions that blurred her form and created phantom duplicates. Aika’s light beams sliced through the air, shattering the illusions one by one, but Selene grinned, forcing Aika to continuously adjust her aim. Sparks of light and ghostly shadows danced across the battlefield as their clash shook the nearby structures. Tetsuo, with his Gravity Core radiating a faint hum, faced Draven, the towering Stone Core wielder. Tetsuo manipulated gravity to make Draven stagger under immense weight, crushing sections of the courtyard beneath his feet. Draven roared, smashing the ground to create stone pillars and launching jagged rock projectiles. Tetsuo countered, warping gravity midair to redirect the debris back at Draven, each impact sending tremors through the academy grounds. The courtyard became chaos incarnate—students scattered, teachers shouted commands, and explosions of energy lit the sky. Then, from above, Shadow descended, his cloak swirling around him. The Big Three glanced at him, relief flashing briefly, unaware of the calculation behind his calm demeanor. Shadow’s gaze fixed on the center of the battlefield where Kuro, the scarred leader of L.O.V, stood, surveying the fight with a twisted grin. Shadow moved toward Kuro, his steps deliberate, almost casual. The sounds of battle faded slightly between them as he whispered: “Sup, Kuro… let’s fake fight for right now. I’m getting their trust… soon I turn their backs on them.” Kuro’s grin widened, amusement glinting in his eyes. “Ah… so the little shadow finally shows his colors. Let’s see how far you’re willing to play this game.” Their clash erupted in a blur of motion—fast, precise, almost like a dance. Energy flared and sparks flew with every strike, but to the onlookers, it appeared to be a furious duel between two enemies. Meanwhile, the Big Three continued their fight against Kael, Selene, and Draven. Raizen’s lightning arcs crackled through the battlefield, Aika’s beams cut through the illusions, and Tetsuo’s gravitational manipulations kept Draven off balance. With Shadow subtly aiding from a distance, the L.O.V operatives were gradually pushed back, unaware of the ulterior motives guiding his every move. Kuro’s voice broke through the chaos, barely audible. “You’re playing a dangerous game, Shadow.” “I know,” Shadow whispered back, his eyes cold. “But it’s a game I intend to win.” The courtyard burned around them, screams of students and villains mixing with the sound of clashing power. And in the midst of it all, the seed of betrayal silently took root—waiting for the perfect moment to bloom. Raizen, Aika, and Tetsuo exchanged a brief, unspoken glance—no words were needed. They had trained together long enough to anticipate each other’s moves. “Now,” Raizen growled, electricity crackling across his fists. Aika’s eyes flared, light blazing from her palms. “On my mark!” Tetsuo’s hands shimmered with gravitational energy, the ground beneath them subtly warping. “Let’s crush them.” With perfect synchronization, the three surged forward. Raizen shot a torrent of lightning at Kael, forcing him backward as the bolts ignited nearby debris. Kael hissed and retaliated, releasing a wave of corrosive venom, but the timing was perfect. Aika’s radiant beams intercepted the venom midair, vaporizing the toxins before they could reach Raizen, and blinding Selene in the process. Tetsuo then twisted the battlefield’s gravity around Draven, pinning the giant Stone Core villain to the ground while simultaneously hurling him into the path of Raizen’s lightning and Aika’s radiant strike. The combined assault sent Draven crashing into a shattered wall, a cloud of dust and rock erupting around him. Not wasting a second, the Big Three adjusted midair. Raizen leapt high, sending arcs of lightning across the courtyard in sweeping arcs. Aika followed, her beams splitting into multiple streams, striking at Selene’s illusions from every direction. Tetsuo manipulated gravity to slam the ground beneath Kael, creating shockwaves that rippled toward the other villains. The three villains struggled to maintain control. Kael’s venom hissed and spat in all directions, but lightning arcs carved through it. Selene’s illusions flickered and faltered under the relentless assault of combined light and force, her phantom forms dissolving one by one. Draven roared in fury as gravity slammed him into the courtyard, leaving him staggered and vulnerable. “Keep pushing!” Raizen shouted. Aika spun in a graceful arc, her light beams merging into a concentrated surge. “Together!” Tetsuo stomped, creating a miniature gravitational vortex, pulling all three villains together into the center of the courtyard. In a single, coordinated motion, the Big Three unleashed their ultimate combo: Raizen’s lightning surged upward, striking the three gathered villains with piercing precision. Aika’s radiant core amplified the strike, sending blinding beams through the lightning, scorching the courtyard and temporarily blinding their enemies. Tetsuo’s gravity compressed the energy around them, increasing the impact and forcing the three villains to the ground. The explosion of combined energy rocked the academy, sending a massive shockwave across the battlefield. Smoke and dust filled the air, debris raining down. When it cleared, Kael, Selene, and Draven were battered and struggling to rise, each breathing heavily, scorched and bruised. The Big Three stood side by side, bruised but unbroken, their cores still blazing. Raizen’s electricity sizzled, Aika’s light glimmered fiercely, and Tetsuo’s gravitational field shimmered subtly, ready for the next move. From above, Shadow’s cloak fluttered in the smoke as he landed silently. His eyes flicked to Kuro, then back to the battlefield. Every strike the Big Three had made, every move they executed—it had all been observed. Shadow smirked faintly, a whisper escaping his lips. “Perfect… just as planned.” And somewhere, deep in the chaos, the seed of betrayal began to grow, unseen by anyone, waiting for the moment to turn the tide. Above the battlefield, smoke swirling around him, Shadow landed silently in front of Kuro, the scarred leader of L.O.V. The air between them seemed to crackle, charged with an unspoken understanding. Kuro’s grin widened, his eyes narrowing. “So, the little shadow finally shows himself. Come to join the fun?” Shadow tilted his head, the faintest smirk tugging at his lips. “Sup, Kuro… let’s fake fight for right now. I’m getting their trust… soon I turn their backs on them.” Kuro chuckled, the sound dark and dangerous. “Ah… I wondered how long it would take you to decide. Very well. Let’s see what you’ve got… for now.” The two clashed immediately, their movements a blur. Shadow’s strikes were precise, calculated, barely touching Kuro, while Kuro responded with controlled force, testing Shadow’s defenses. To the outside observer, it was a furious duel, sparks and energy flashing with every strike. “You’re holding back,” Kuro said under his breath, dodging a strike. “Of course,” Shadow replied, eyes cold. “Can’t reveal everything too early. We wouldn’t want the academy to suspect, would we?” Every block, every swing, every flash of energy was choreographed to look real but accomplish nothing, keeping the illusion of a full battle going. Around them, the Big Three and the rest of the students continued fighting the L.O.V, unaware that Shadow was already plotting the next move in his plan. Kuro’s grin widened ever so slightly. “Interesting… I think this will be fun. Keep it up, Shadow. Let’s see how long you can maintain the act.” Shadow’s smirk deepened, just enough to hint at his hidden intentions. “Don’t worry… I’m counting on it.” As their “battle” raged, Shadow subtly observed the Big Three, the students, and the chaos around him, taking mental notes and planning his next step. Every move was measured, every strike designed to gain trust—until the perfect moment to betray them arrived. Shadow and Kuro circled each other, their movements fluid, almost predatory. Sparks and faint energy trails followed each of Shadow’s strikes, but every blow was carefully calculated to avoid serious contact. Kuro lunged, swinging a jagged blade of dark energy toward Shadow, and Shadow dodged with effortless grace, letting the attack graze harmlessly past. “You’re holding back,” Kuro said again, his grin sharp. “I can feel it. You’re pretending.” “Maybe I am,” Shadow replied coolly, stepping lightly to the side. “Maybe I’m just… testing you.” With a sudden burst, Shadow dashed forward, launching a series of rapid strikes. Kuro parried each one, his movements fluid, almost like a dance, countering without causing real damage. To anyone watching from afar, it looked like a deadly duel between two top-tier fighters. Shadow’s eyes flicked toward the Big Three, who were still battling Kael, Selene, and Draven. Every strike he threw was timed to draw Kuro’s attention outward, subtly keeping the villain occupied while the Big Three fought at full strength. “You think you can fool me?” Kuro said, his voice low, almost amused. “I can tell your movements. You’re not trying to defeat me… yet you’re keeping me engaged.” “That’s the point,” Shadow whispered, his gaze steady. “I need to earn their trust first. Can’t turn them all at once.” Kuro chuckled darkly, launching a sweeping strike that threw debris and sparks around Shadow. Shadow rolled, dodging effortlessly, then retaliated with a flick of his wrists, sending a controlled pulse of energy that grazed Kuro’s side—but it was all an illusion, carefully choreographed to look real. “Interesting,” Kuro said, studying him closely. “You’re playing a dangerous game… and I think you’ll enjoy it.” “Yes,” Shadow admitted softly, almost to himself. “I will.” The two continued their duel, shadows and sparks dancing around them. To anyone watching, it was the clash of titans. But in reality, every move, every strike, every near-miss was part of Shadow’s plan—to build credibility, bide his time, and prepare for the perfect moment to betray both the heroes and Kuro when it would serve him best. Even in the midst of the chaos, a faint smirk tugged at Shadow’s lips. The battle was only beginning, and the real game had only just started. Shadow and Kuro circled each other, sparks of energy dancing around them. Every strike Shadow threw was precise, controlled, and calculated to maintain the illusion of a battle. Kuro’s grin was sharp, his dark energy blade flashing through the smoke and debris. Then, in the midst of a pause, Shadow’s gaze hardened. His eyes glinted coldly, unreadable, as he stepped just close enough for Kuro to hear, his voice low but filled with lethal intent. “You already know I’m all with you and the L.O.V,” Shadow said, letting the words hang like a knife in the air. “But letting you know now… I will be the one to destroy this Age of Heroes… and make sure I take control of all cores… and be the ultimate core user.” Kuro’s grin widened, almost impressed, though a flicker of caution passed through his eyes. “Bold words… very bold. You truly intend to shape the world yourself, then?” Shadow’s smirk deepened. “Not just intend… I will. Everyone underestimates me… and that’s exactly how I’ll win.” The energy around them seemed to surge, the tension thick enough to feel in the bones of everyone on the battlefield. To the students and Big Three watching from afar, it still looked like a fierce duel—but only Shadow knew the truth. Every step, every strike after this point would serve his ultimate plan: build trust with Kuro and the L.O.V, manipulate the battlefield, and wait for the perfect moment to rise above everyone—to become the ultimate core user, unrivaled and unstoppable. Kuro’s dark laughter echoed through the courtyard. “Then show me, Shadow. Show me the future you want to carve.” Shadow’s cloak fluttered as he moved, each step deliberate, each strike choreographed—not to win, but to position himself for the day he would finally seize everything. Shadow’s eyes glinted coldly as he leaned slightly closer, his voice barely audible over the chaos but sharp and cutting. “Oh… and there’s one person I’ll make sure to take out first,” he said, letting the words linger. “When our plan to destroy all of Japan begins… her name is Rin Shimizu.” Kuro’s grin widened, a dark spark of amusement in his eyes. He let out a low, sinister laugh that echoed across the courtyard. “Well, that’s… interesting,” Kuro said, pacing slightly as he watched Shadow. “Master should be very afraid, then. Because I’m guessing her father is Tekashi Shimizu… or as he’s better known—Voltage. The one who sent Master to Tartarus…” Shadow’s eyes narrowed, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. His voice was low, smooth, and deliberately controlled, each word measured to provoke yet conceal his true intent. “Two against one, huh?” Shadow murmured, tilting his head slightly. “Sounds tempting… but let’s not forget who’s really pulling the strings here. I’ll handle Rin my way… and you… well, you focus on spreading chaos while I make sure everything falls perfectly into place.” He paused, letting the words sink in, his gaze flicking briefly to the Big Three in the distance. “You see, Kuro… it’s not about brute force. It’s about control. Timing. And when the moment comes, everyone—including Rin, the Big Three, and even you—will be pieces in my game.” Kuro’s grin widened, the excitement in his eyes matching Shadow’s calm menace. “I like it… clever, Shadow. You really are something else. I can’t wait to see how far you’ll go.” Shadow’s smirk deepened, almost imperceptibly, as he stepped back slightly, letting the chaos of the battlefield mask the calculating thoughts behind his eyes. Every strike, every movement, every whispered word was part of the plan—to gain trust, manipulate events, and prepare for the moment when he would finally seize ultimate power. And in the midst of it all, Shadow’s mind was already racing ahead, envisioning the downfall of the heroes, the destruction of Japan, and the rise of a new era where he would be the ultimate core user. His laughter grew louder, more manic, reverberating through the battlefield. “I must say, I’m… intrigued. I honestly want us both to fight her. How about that? A little… two against one. Just imagine the chaos we’ll unleash.” Shadow’s smirk didn’t falter, but his eyes sharpened. The words had been carefully chosen, ensuring Kuro fully bought into the idea while he silently calculated every possible outcome. The tension thickened, the air around them seeming to hum with dark potential. Every student, every member of the Big Three, every L.O.V operative on the battlefield—none of them knew that Shadow’s true game had only just begun. Rin’s eyes fluttered open, the room spinning slightly from exhaustion. Her body ached faintly from the combat test, and bruises lined her arms and legs. For a moment, she just lay there, staring at the ceiling, utterly confused. “Where… where am I? What’s happening?” she whispered to herself. The faint sound of distant explosions and shouting drifted through the walls, but everything in her room seemed eerily still. The door creaked open, and her father, Tekashi, stepped in, his expression sharp and tense. “Rin… you’re awake.” His voice carried urgency, yet calm authority. Rin’s eyes widened. “Dad? What… what’s going on?” Tekashi moved closer, scanning her for injuries. “The academy’s under attack. The League of Villains hit the courtyard hard. The Big Three are holding them off, but it’s… chaotic out there. You need to be careful.” Rin sat up, her confusion giving way to determination. She clenched her fists, sparks flickering faintly in her eyes. “The Big Three? The villains… the attack… I get it. I can’t just stay here.” Tekashi’s eyes softened, but his tone remained firm. “Rin… I know you’re strong, but you need to control yourself. Watch your surroundings, and—” “I know, Dad,” Rin interrupted, rising to her feet. Her gaze hardened. “I won’t just sit back while everyone’s in danger.” Without another word, she ran to the window, pushed it open, and leapt into the courtyard, landing lightly amid the chaos. The screams, explosions, and flashes of energy surrounded her, but she moved with purpose, dodging debris and weaving between attacks. As she scanned the battlefield, her eyes caught movement above the fray. Shadow was engaged in a fast, precise duel with a dark figure—clearly Kuro. Rin’s gaze narrowed, sparks flaring brighter. “Shadow…” she muttered under her breath. Without hesitation, she leapt higher, using her momentum to reach the air above the battlefield. She moved toward him, ready to assist, her determination blazing. The fight below raged on, the Big Three holding their ground against Kael, Selene, and Draven. But now, with Rin joining from above, a new surge of energy entered the battle—a force capable of tipping the scales… if Shadow allowed it. Shadow’s eyes flicked up as Rin descended, sparks flickering faintly in her gaze. A slow, almost casual smirk spread across his face. “Well, look who decided to join the party,” Shadow said, his voice calm but carrying a hint of calculated gratitude. “I’m… thankful you’re here to… help.” Rin’s eyes narrowed, sparks igniting stronger as she took in his words and the intensity of the battle. “Don’t play games with me, Shadow. We need to stop him.” Shadow tilted his head, letting the faint smirk linger. “Of course… that’s exactly what we’ll do.” In perfect synchrony, they launched toward Kuro. Shadow moved with deceptive precision, testing Kuro’s defenses, while Rin struck with a combination of speed and raw power. Lightning sparks from Rin’s core clashed with Kuro’s dark energy, the impact sending shockwaves across the courtyard. Shadow stayed just close enough to coordinate subtly, guiding Rin’s attacks without revealing his true intentions. Every strike he threw seemed real, every dodge calculated—but beneath it all, he was measuring, manipulating, and gaining trust. Kuro’s dark grin widened. “Impressive… the little hero joins the fight. And yet… you still don’t realize how deep you’ve fallen into my game.” Rin growled, dodging a sweeping attack and retaliating with a burst of energy. “I don’t care about games! I’m stopping you, no matter what!” Shadow’s eyes softened almost imperceptibly, his voice smooth and calm. “Exactly. That’s why you’re perfect to be here… helping me.” The two moved in perfect coordination, striking, dodging, and weaving around Kuro’s attacks. To anyone watching, it looked like a seamless partnership, a deadly duo taking on a terrifying foe. But beneath the surface, Shadow’s plan continued to unfold, every strike designed to gain trust, every maneuver a step closer to the moment when he would reveal his true intentions. Rin and Shadow moved in perfect sync, closing the distance on Kuro. Sparks and bursts of energy lit up the courtyard as Rin’s strikes collided with Kuro’s dark blasts, sending shockwaves that shattered nearby debris. Shadow struck first, his movements fluid and precise. Each punch and kick was calculated to push Kuro back, opening him up for Rin to follow through. “Now, Rin!” he called, timing his attack perfectly. Rin leapt forward, her core flaring brightly. She unleashed a surge of concentrated energy, striking Kuro midair and forcing him to stagger. The force sent him skidding across the courtyard, sparks of his dark aura crackling around him as he regained his balance. Kuro smirked, circling them like a predator. “Not bad… but you’re still just one step behind.” Shadow moved to intercept Kuro’s next strike, creating an opening for Rin. With a swift combination of punches and kicks, Shadow pushed Kuro toward the edge of the battlefield. Rin followed immediately, landing a powerful uppercut that sent Kuro tumbling backward, barely catching himself before hitting the ground. Rin’s eyes blazed as she landed, her breathing steady but fierce. “We can do this, Shadow! Keep him off balance!” Shadow nodded once, fluidly launching into the next attack. Together, they created a seamless dance of offense and defense. Shadow feinted, drawing Kuro’s focus, while Rin’s attacks struck from angles Kuro hadn’t anticipated. Dark energy clashed with glowing sparks, the air around them shimmering with raw power. Kuro unleashed a sweeping blast of dark energy, forcing Rin to leap high into the air. Shadow stayed close, countering with a rapid flurry that kept Kuro occupied. Rin spun midair, sending a surge of concentrated energy down toward Kuro, connecting with the force of Shadow’s strikes to knock him backward again. The battlefield around them shook violently. Rubble flew, energy arcs lanced through the air, and the distant sounds of the Big Three still battling the other L.O.V members echoed across the courtyard. Rin landed gracefully, fists glowing, sparks trailing behind her. “He’s strong… but together, we’ve got this!” Shadow’s calm eyes met hers briefly. “Exactly. Stay focused—we control the pace now.” Kuro’s grin faltered slightly as he backed up, clearly impressed by their coordination but refusing to yield. “Hmph… clever. Two against one… I might actually enjoy this.” Rin’s stance hardened. “Then enjoy it while you can, because we’re not stopping until you are!” The clash continued, a blur of energy, strikes, and sparks. Rin and Shadow moved in perfect harmony, a seamless team pushing Kuro to his limits, the intensity of the fight reaching heights the courtyard had never seen before. Rin and Shadow exchanged a quick glance, no words needed—the timing was perfect. “Now, Rin!” Shadow called, launching himself forward with a blur of motion. His strikes were precise, rapid, each one testing Kuro’s defenses while simultaneously creating openings. Rin’s core flared brighter than ever, sparks trailing along her arms as she surged into the air. She mirrored Shadow’s movements, weaving around him and striking from angles Kuro hadn’t anticipated. Together, they executed their double combo: Shadow began with a series of blindingly fast strikes, his fists and feet moving in a rhythmic pattern, forcing Kuro to retreat. Each hit connected just enough to stagger him without revealing any openings for counterattacks. Rin, timing perfectly, followed immediately, channeling her energy into a concentrated burst. She delivered a spinning strike from above, her core’s sparks amplifying the impact. The combined force sent Kuro crashing backward into a pile of rubble, the ground cracking beneath him. Kuro scrambled to his feet, dark energy swirling around him, but the coordinated assault didn’t let up. Shadow feinted left, drawing Kuro’s attention, while Rin struck right, sending arcs of energy that sizzled through the air. “Keep him off balance!” Shadow shouted, leaping over Kuro’s counterattack and landing with a precision kick that pushed him toward the center of the courtyard. Rin’s eyes blazed as she launched her next strike—a concentrated beam of energy aimed to break through Kuro’s defenses. Shadow synchronized his movement, delivering a powerful punch that collided with her beam at the exact moment it hit Kuro. The result was a massive explosion of light and force, sending Kuro staggering, barely able to stay on his feet. The courtyard shook violently, dust and debris flying in all directions. Kuro wiped a trickle of blood from his mouth, his grin faltering for the first time. “Not bad… not bad at all,” he growled, dark aura flaring wildly. Rin landed lightly, fists still glowing with energy. “We’re just getting started!” she shouted, sparks trailing from her core. Shadow’s calm eyes met hers briefly. “Exactly. Let’s finish this combo before he even knows what hit him.” With perfect timing and trust, they surged forward again, their synchronized strikes blindingly fast, a storm of coordinated power designed to overwhelm Kuro completely. Rin and Shadow moved as one, their timing flawless. Every step, every strike, every burst of energy flowed in perfect harmony, leaving Kuro struggling to defend himself from two directions at once. Shadow feinted low, forcing Kuro to crouch, then spun upward with a powerful strike aimed at Kuro’s midsection. Simultaneously, Rin leapt high above him, core blazing, and sent a concentrated surge of energy downward, her attack amplified by Shadow’s precise timing. The attacks collided on Kuro at the exact same moment—Shadow’s strike blasting from below, Rin’s from above—creating a massive explosion of sparks, smoke, and shockwaves. The force hurled Kuro across the courtyard, his dark aura flickering wildly as he slammed into a shattered wall. The dust cleared, and Kuro struggled to rise, coughing, bruised, and visibly shaken for the first time. His dark energy flickered uncontrollably, his grin faltering as he realized the overwhelming precision and power of their coordinated assault. Rin landed lightly, fists glowing, sparks trailing from her arms. “You’re done, Kuro! There’s no way you can keep up with both of us!” she shouted, her voice steady and determined. Shadow stood beside her, calm and focused, energy still radiating from his core. “We’re not holding back,” he added, eyes locked on Kuro. Kuro’s dark laugh turned into a low, frustrated growl. He swung wildly, trying to regain control, but the combination of Shadow’s precision and Rin’s relentless energy kept him pinned, unable to retaliate effectively. With a final coordinated surge, Shadow struck from the left, sending Kuro stumbling, while Rin unleashed a concentrated blast from above, pinning him to the ground with a forceful impact. The courtyard shook violently from the combined power, sending dust and rubble flying in all directions. Kuro lay on the ground, dazed and struggling, dark aura flickering erratically. Rin’s chest heaved, sparks still crackling faintly from her core, while Shadow remained poised, calm, and ready for the next move. For the first time, Kuro realized he was genuinely on the defensive, caught in a coordinated assault that left him vulnerable. The double combo had reached its climax, and the battlefield fell silent for a brief moment—only the crackle of energy lingering, marking the devastating precision of their teamwork. Kuro lay on the ground, dazed and struggling from Rin and Shadow’s devastating double combo. Sparks and debris floated through the air as Rin landed lightly, breathing heavily but focused, her eyes still blazing with determination. Shadow stood beside her, calm, almost serene, as if nothing had happened. Then, in a split second, his eyes darkened, and his smirk widened—no longer subtle, but cold and cruel. “Thank you for all your… help, Rin,” he said softly, voice dripping with malice. “But now… you’re in my way.” Before Rin could react, Shadow lunged, faster than she could anticipate. His strike connected with her side, sending her hurtling through the air with terrifying force. She crashed into the academy’s wall, the impact splintering wood and stone, glass shattering as she tumbled inside. Rin groaned, pain radiating through her body as she slid across the floor, sparks flickering weakly in her eyes. “Shadow… why…?” she whispered, struggling to stand. Shadow hovered above the battlefield, eyes cold and calculating, his cloak fluttering in the wind. “You already know I’m all with Kuro and the L.O.V. But let me be clear… I will destroy this Age of Heroes, take every core for myself… and you, Rin Shimizu, are the first obstacle I need to remove.” Kuro, still recovering, looked up in surprise. “Hahaha… now that’s interesting. Looks like the little hero’s friend has… ambitions of his own.” Rin’s fists clenched, sparks igniting again, fury and disbelief fueling her power. “I trusted you… Shadow! How could you—” Rin’s eyes flared violently, her pupils transforming into jagged, diamond-like shapes, glinting with raw fury. Her teeth sharpened instinctively, a low growl vibrating in her chest. “I trusted… you… DAMMIT!” she screamed, the sound ripping through the courtyard like a thunderclap. Her fist slammed into the ground with unrelenting force, sending a massive fissure cracking through the stone beneath her. The impact reverberated across the battlefield. Students and villains alike froze mid-action, awestruck—and terrified—by the sudden eruption of power. Rin’s body began to hum with an overwhelming surge of energy. Lightning arced across her skin, crackling and pulsating with a brilliant, electric intensity. Her eyes deepened to a fiery red, glowing ominously as the raw power within her surged to the surface. Her nails elongated into sharp, claw-like tips, sparks jumping from them with every subtle movement. The air around her crackled and burned, a violent storm of energy that made the ground tremble. For a heartbeat, the world seemed to hold its breath. Even Shadow, hovering above the battlefield, felt the chill of fear brush against him. Rin had transformed—her fury, betrayal, and raw power combining into a force that could no longer be ignored. Shadow’s eyes gleamed, reflecting the lightning crackling around Rin. A slow, twisted grin spread across his face as he hovered above the battlefield, the chaos below barely registering in his mind. “Ah… now I understand,” he said, voice low and dripping with both awe and malice. “You’re not just an elemental… you have a beast core inside you as well.” His laughter cut through the air, sharp and insane, echoing across the courtyard. “This power… IT’S INCREDIBLE!” Shadow bellowed, throwing his arms wide as if to embrace the storm Rin had become. “RIN!” His voice rose to a thunderous roar, shaking the very air around them. “The Age of Heroes… WILL DIE! And so will you!” He paused, eyes narrowing as he studied her, almost reverently. “I will claim every major core—the Elemental Core, the Abstract Core, the Construct Core… and the Beast Core. Every last ounce of power will belong to me!” Shadow’s laughter twisted into something darker, more unhinged, as he raised his voice above the roar of the battlefield. “I will be the ULTIMATE Core User! Mark my words! The Age of Heroes is finished!” He let his words hang in the air for a heartbeat, his smirk widening. “You… all… have six months to prepare. After that… the League of Villains will descend, and Japan will burn! A new world will rise… a world built by us!” Rin’s body surged with energy, the lightning crackling around her growing wilder and brighter with every passing second. Suddenly, from her lower back, not one… not two… not three… but nine magnificent fox tails erupted, each glowing faintly with sparks of electric energy. They swished violently, radiating raw power that made the ground tremble beneath her. Her hair seemed to shimmer with energy as a pair of sleek, pointed fox ears pushed through atop her head, twitching with heightened awareness. Her eyes, already glowing red and jagged with fury, now burned with a feral intensity that seemed to pierce everything around her. The transformation radiated pure dominance—a blend of elemental fury and beastly power that left everyone watching frozen in awe and fear. Sparks danced along her tails, arcs of electricity leaping from tip to tip, and the air around her seemed to hum with an unstoppable energy. Rin’s stance widened, claws extended, her entire aura crackling with raw, unleashed force. The battlefield itself seemed to bend to her presence, the storm of her power demanding attention. Rin rose slowly, her nine fox tails swaying and flicking independently, each one crackling with raw energy. Her fox ears twitched, attuned to every sound and movement around her. Her gaze locked onto Shadow, eyes blazing a deep, molten red, her jagged diamond-shaped pupils glowing with unrestrained fury. In an instant, she lunged forward like a striking storm. Her fist collided with Shadow’s chest, sending him hurtling through the air, sparks and wind trailing behind them. Without hesitation, she dragged him with her, crashing into the courtyard below with earth-shattering force. The impact carved a massive crater into the stone, smoke and dust billowing around them. Rin didn’t pause. She unleashed a relentless flurry of punches, each strike fueled by pure rage and electricity, sparks flying with every blow. The force of her attacks sent shockwaves rippling across the battlefield, shaking the ground, toppling debris, and silencing nearby combatants. “How… could… you…!” she growled, each word escaping through gritted teeth, barely audible over the crackling storm of her power. Her claws raked through the air as her tails lashed violently, amplifying her speed and strength. Shadow staggered under the assault, his smirk flickering but never fully disappearing. “Impressive,” he muttered between blows, his voice calm despite the torrent of fury raining down on him. “I expected nothing less from you… Rin Shimizu.” Rin’s eyes narrowed further, lightning dancing across her body. Each strike landed harder, faster, and more precise, her elemental and beast cores harmonizing into a devastating storm of raw power. The crater beneath them deepened with each impact, sending shards of stone and earth flying outward. The world seemed to slow around them, the chaotic battlefield fading into the singular focus of Rin’s wrath. Every strike, every lash of her tails, every flash of her glowing red eyes carried the weight of betrayal, anger, and an unrelenting drive for justice. Just as Rin steadied herself, sparks crackling wildly from her claws and tails, a voice cut sharply through the chaos. “Enough!” Before Rin could react, Principal Jako appeared above the battlefield, descending with authority and a commanding presence that made even Shadow pause for a fraction of a second. His eyes glowed faintly, a powerful aura radiating from him that seemed to push back the very storm surrounding Rin. With a swift, precise motion, Jako extended his hand, and a shimmering wave of energy shot toward Rin. It wasn’t destructive—no, it was controlled, measured, and designed to subdue. The wave struck her chest, and a blinding flash of light enveloped her. Rin screamed, her nine tails lashing wildly, her body convulsing as the electricity pulsed through her. The jagged pupils in her eyes began to shrink, the fiery red glow dimming as her claws retracted and her fox ears slid back into place. Her tails vanished one by one, dissipating into sparks that fizzled harmlessly into the air. Within moments, the raw, beastly power that had consumed her melted away, leaving her kneeling on the ground, panting, bruised, and back in her human form. “Rin… it’s over—for now,” Jako said firmly, his voice echoing across the battlefield. He knelt slightly beside her, placing a protective hand on her shoulder. “You can’t fight like that unchecked. That power… it’s dangerous, not just to them, but to yourself.” Rin looked up at him, confusion and lingering fury still in her eyes. “P-Principle… I… I just…” Her voice faltered, the storm inside her fading but leaving a deep ache in its place. Jako nodded, his gaze scanning the battlefield as Shadow hovered above, a small smirk still curling on his lips. “I know… but you need to trust me. Take a breath. Regain control. The fight isn’t over—but you won’t face it like that again.” Rin swallowed, her body trembling but slowly regaining composure, the electricity in the air fading as she looked up at her father, the Big Three, and the chaos around her. The battlefield had paused, giving everyone a brief moment to reassess, but the war was far from over. Before anyone could react, Shadow’s eyes glinted with a dark, unnatural light. A swirling aura of shadows erupted from him, writhing like living smoke and stretching outward across the battlefield. The shadows snaked around the L.O.V members, wrapping them in a twisting, inky vortex that seemed to devour light itself. Kuro, Kael, Selene, and Draven struggled, their powers flaring in protest, but the shadows tightened, pulling them toward the center. “Let’s go,” Shadow murmured coldly, his voice barely audible over the crackle of energy. “Time to disappear.” In an instant, the shadows surged upward like a black maelstrom, swallowing the villains whole. The ground where they had stood shivered, stone cracking from the sudden pull of the dark energy. Then, as if the very air had been erased, Shadow and the entire L.O.V vanished—engulfed by the living shadows, leaving nothing but a faint echo of their laughter and the lingering smell of ozone. The battlefield fell silent. Even the Big Three paused, looking around, their powers still crackling but unsure where the enemy had gone. Dust and debris drifted through the air, but there was no sign of Shadow or the L.O.V. Rin, kneeling and still regaining her composure from Jako’s intervention, stared into the empty air, her nine fox tails long gone but her chest heaving with unresolved anger. “They… they’re gone,” she whispered, her voice trembling, a mix of relief and frustration. Jako’s eyes narrowed, scanning the area carefully. “For now,” he said, his tone sharp and authoritative. “But make no mistake… they’ve only retreated. Shadow has a plan, and it’s far from over. We need to prepare for the next strike.” The courtyard, scarred and shattered, was silent but tense. The heroes and students alike felt the weight of what had just happened—and the undeniable presence of a threat that could strike again at any moment. Rin sank to her knees, chest heaving, her fists still sparking faintly from the residual energy of her transformation. She blinked, staring at her hands as if seeing them for the first time. “…I… I have a… Beast Core?” she whispered, voice trembling. The revelation hit her like a lightning strike, sending shivers of awe and fear through her body. Everyone eye’s widened, Class 1-C in shock. Ren’s usual stoic expression faltered, a low whistle escaping his lips. “That… that changes everything. Two cores? No one in our history has ever been confirmed to wield more than one. And she’s been hiding it all this time?” Hana’s eyes were wide, shimmering with a mix of curiosity and worry. “But… wouldn’t having two cores make controlling them insanely difficult? I mean, she’s already powerful with just the one!” Chloe crossed her arms, brows furrowed, analyzing Rin with a newfound intensity. “It explains a lot… the speed, the reflexes, the way her attacks adapt mid-fight. But two cores? That’s unprecedented. She could be… unstoppable.” Leo, ever blunt, shook his head, still trying to process it. “I mean… I thought I’d seen everything when we fought alongside her, but this? This is next level. Two cores… that’s insane.” Yumi nodded slowly, still whispering in disbelief. “And if she can master both, imagine the amount of energy she can channel… the potential is… terrifying.” Even Renji, usually the calmest among them, clenched his fists, jaw tight. “So all this time, we’ve been standing next to someone who could’ve been holding back… by choice. That’s… a lot to take in.” Class 1-C exchanged uneasy glances, a mixture of awe, confusion, and a hint of intimidation settling over the group. For the first time, they weren’t just thinking about her strength—they were trying to comprehend what it meant to have two cores in one person, and what that might mean for the battles yet to come. Through the haze of smoke and scattered debris, a figure emerged, walking calmly toward the destruction. His steps were measured, unhurried, as if the chaos around him barely registered. He was dressed in a sleek black suit, perfectly tailored, contrasting sharply with the ruins around him. His silver hair shimmered in the flickering light, falling neatly past his shoulders, and his piercing eyes scanned the courtyard with a mixture of curiosity and mild amusement. “Well…” he said casually, voice smooth and composed, carrying a subtle edge of sarcasm. “Never thought the school I built would be getting destroyed this badly. Dang.” He paused in the center of the battlefield, taking in the cratered ground, shattered walls, and lingering sparks from Rin’s recent transformation. “Looks like things got… intense while I was away,” he added, a faint smirk curling his lips. Everyone in the school froze, staring at the newcomer in shock. Even Jako’s stern expression faltered slightly. Something about him radiated authority, power, and an unmistakable aura of control. The courtyard remained tense, everyone frozen as the silver-haired man walked calmly through the wreckage, his black suit immaculate despite the chaos around him. His eyes, sharp and calculating, scanned the battlefield with a faint smirk. Rin narrowed her eyes, still recovering from her transformation. “Who… are you?” she demanded, voice laced with caution. The man tilted his head slightly, a confident glint in his silver eyes. “Well, since you asked…” His voice was smooth, commanding attention. “I’m Shiro—the Number One Pro Hero.” Gasps echoed across the courtyard. Even the Big Three and Jako stiffened, exchanging quick, surprised glances. “The Number One Hero?” one student whispered, barely audible. “He’s… real?” Shiro gave a small, confident nod. “That’s right. And judging by this mess… it seems I arrived just in time to see the true scale of things.” He gestured lightly to the cratered ground and shattered walls. “Don’t worry—I’ll make sure this doesn’t get any worse.” Rin’s eyes flicked between him and the still-fading traces of Shadow’s and the L.O.V’s presence. She straightened, her voice firm. “Then… I guess you’re here to help?” Shiro’s smirk widened, but his eyes remained sharp. “That depends. Are you ready to see what a pro hero can really do?” The battlefield, still echoing with the aftermath of chaos, seemed to shift in anticipation. Everyone could feel it: Shiro wasn’t here for introductions or pleasantries—he was here to take control. Rin’s eyes widened slightly, her jagged diamond pupils reflecting the silver-haired man before her. Sparks from her residual Beast Core flickered faintly, but she remained still, taking in his aura. “Also, you’re coming with me, Rin Shimizu,” Shiro said smoothly, his gaze unwavering. “Your cores are… interesting.” Rin tilted her head slightly, processing his words, her voice quiet but steady. “Interesting…?” Shiro’s silver eyes glimmered with intrigue. “Yes. The combination of Elemental and Beast… rare. Exceptional. You have potential far beyond anyone else here.” He took a slow step forward, his black suit perfectly pristine amidst the ruins. “I intend to help you refine that power. To understand it fully.” Rin’s fists unclenched, sparks dancing faintly along her fingertips, her posture relaxed but alert. She didn’t resist, didn’t speak—she simply observed, her mind racing through what he had just said. “Shadow and the L.O.V are only the beginning,” Shiro continued, voice calm, almost analytical. “If left unchecked, your power could change everything. That’s why I need you with me. To guide you… and unlock your true potential.” Rin’s breathing remained steady, her nine tails long gone but the storm inside her core still simmering. She looked up at him, her eyes reflecting both curiosity and determination. Shiro extended a single hand, the air around him vibrating with quiet authority. “Come with me. Learn to master your cores.” Rin’s gaze met his, unflinching. She didn’t nod, she didn’t speak—she simply stood, absorbing the weight of the moment. The courtyard was silent, every witness aware: this was a pivotal moment, and Rin Shimizu was ready to take the next step, whatever it may be. The smoke from the courtyard’s destruction hung heavy in the air, drifting lazily over shattered stone and scorched earth. Sparks still flickered faintly where Rin had unleashed her Beast Core, a reminder of the power that had just erupted. Rin stood quietly, her gaze locked on Shiro. The weight of what had happened—the betrayal, the awakening of her hidden power, and the looming threat of the L.O.V—weighed heavily, but for the first time, clarity and purpose burned in her eyes. Shiro’s silver hair shimmered in the fading light, his presence calm, commanding, and impossibly overwhelming. The students and teachers watched silently, knowing this was far from over. The battlefield had settled, but a storm of challenges, enemies, and revelations was only beginning to brew. “Rin Shimizu,” Shiro said, his voice low but carrying across the courtyard, “your journey is only starting. There is power within you—power that could shape the world. And I intend to see it fully realized.” Rin inhaled deeply, the residual electricity in her veins simmering, her newfound Beast Core pulsing faintly beneath the surface. Around her, the stunned students and Big Three exchanged glances, aware that what they had witnessed today had changed everything. The wind whispered through the broken courtyard, carrying the faint echo of Shadow’s earlier laughter, a reminder that the L.O.V had not vanished forever. The calm was temporary, fragile—but in that stillness, Rin felt the fire of determination solidify inside her. And so, as the sun dipped lower behind the ruins, the chapter closed on a battlefield both scarred and alive with potential. Shadows of betrayal, whispers of new power, and the promise of trials yet to come lingered in the air.