Kiyoshi's first friend

The cobbled streets echoed with the footsteps of Kiyoshi and the young beast-human companion, their presence a curious blend of worlds. The boy's ears, canine-like in appearance, twitched with every step.

Suddenly, a sharp pain struck him, and he turned swiftly, searching for the source. It was Sakura.

"Where are you off to?" Her voice carried both concern and anger. "This place isn't safe for a child like you. And you left me alone in that wretched bar filled with unsavory characters."

Kiyoshi's laughter bubbled up. "Are you implying you were worried about me?"

Sakura's face flushed crimson. "When did I ever say I was concerned about you?"

Amidst their banter, Sakura caught Kiyoshi's hair, halting his laughter. "Enough! Tell me where you're going."

"Alright, alright," Kiyoshi chuckled, "but let go of my hair. We're headed to AMO." He proceeded to fill her in on their destination.

Upon arriving at the towering A.M.O building, they were met with a grandeur that took their breath away. Its doors, reaching a staggering 25 feet in height and spanning ten feet in width, welcomed them to a world of potential.

Inside, a flurry of activity surrounded them. Adventurers bustled about, purpose radiating from every corner. Alongside, a massive board displayed the rankings, each name carrying a weight of prestige. Rayan Asmiya led the ranks, followed by Tagato Harlos and Nanime Elfior, names etched in history.

Yet, conspicuously absent were the rankings of elder noble families, soldiers, the royal household, and a clandestine cadre of adventurers.

A long queue awaited their turn for the test, the air electric with anticipation. An assertive voice from behind pierced through the ambiance, questioning their presence. Kiyoshi and Sakura, dressed humbly, stood out among the crowd.

Within the tests, achieving a rank above C was a rarity, and obtaining an A rank was akin to a miracle. The adventurers' journey was one of gradual ascent, each victory a step closer to mastery.

Yamu and Sumu, bearing crestfallen expressions, returned from their tests, disheartened by their E ranks. The boy behind them, brimming with confidence, offered Kiyoshi a proposition: "Let me go first. If Yamu and Sumu only got E ranks, you might not even make it to your test."

Kiyoshi, imbued with the resolve of a destined hero, accepted the challenge. "Alright, I'll bet that I'll secure a C or B rank."

The boy introduced himself as Kavato Ramiya, hailing from a distinguished family. Kiyoshi couldn't help but wonder why Kavato stood alone. "Is there a reason he's unguarded? Should I apologize? No, I must exude strength. I am destined to be a hero."

"Then, I am Kiyoshi Cari," he declared, "and we shall see."

After a long wait, the tests concluded, leaving Kiyoshi and Kavato on the steps of A.M.O, their spirits subdued.

Meanwhile, Sakura's B rank had garnered attention, leading to multiple gangs vying for her membership. Kiyoshi and Kavato, both having received E ranks, found themselves in a different situation.

Kavato, extending a hand of friendship, offered, "Hey, if you ever need help, don't hesitate to ask. I'm the younger one of the Ramiya family, and it often feels like they're trying to get rid of me."

Kiyoshi, genuinely moved, replied, "I don't see you that way at all. I have a feeling you're destined for greatness in this kingdom."

Kavato chuckled, dismissing the notion. "Hah, that's quite the improbable feeling."

As Kavato left, he turned back, a bright smile masking a deeper sadness. Kiyoshi reciprocated the gesture, recognizing the complexity behind Kavato's cheerful demeanor.