1 Riku Hirota
MUTANT
They were individuals endowed with extraordinary abilities, inheriting a unique gene from their ancestors. In essence, their purpose revolved around eradicating the monsters that roamed this world.
Unlike today, the special gene had not even been discovered a decade ago. In a bid to avert dungeon breaches, the government resorted to employing heavy firearms and fire tanks. Initially, these assaults displayed a degree of efficacy against the monsters, managing to inflict damage. However, certain creatures like the Giant Centipede and the Magma Dragon remained impervious to such attacks.
Several months later, American scientists made a breakthrough by unraveling the method to transfer the monster's gene into a particular human host. Coinciding with this revelation was the identification of an enigmatic energy residing within the monster's gene, subsequently christened as Mana.
Upon integrating this gene into the human body, individuals would acquire superhuman capabilities, commonly referred to as "Mutants." Through this process, they would emulate not only the external traits of the monsters but also replicate their remarkable abilities.
However, after a span of a few years, scientists ceased the practice of administering the monster's genes, prompted by the occurrences of certain human bodies succumbing to the monsters' influence. These afflicted individuals sought to eradicate humanity, triggering a grave situation.
This account encapsulates the essence of the significant event, coined as the "Genes Era."
As of May 30, 2030, the world has been gradually stabilizing due to the combined endeavors of American scientists and the selfless sacrifices made by Mutants in their battle against the monstrous adversaries.
Glancing at his wristwatch, he remarked, "I need to get back to class by 2 p.m. I'm really excited to awaken my ability," declared a man with an unassuming countenance. He possessed ebony hair, deep black eyes, and a regular physique.
His name was Riku Hirota, a blend of Japanese and Latina heritage as his father hailed from Japan and his mother from Latina origins.
With the discontinuation of providing monster genes, scientists explored an alternative method to activate the genes in the offspring of Mutants. In essence, they harnessed the mana uncovered within the monsters' bodies, harnessing its potential to enhance the genetic makeup of these individuals.
Upon attaining a specific threshold of mana within their bodies, an ordinary individual could undergo a transformation into a Mutant. This metamorphosis enabled them to engage monsters within dungeons, thereby assuming an active role in combating these creatures.
At the age of twenty-one, Riku was a university student enrolled in a foundational program. Despite his attendance, he harbored disdain for his chosen course—a business major he had opted for despite lacking any prior knowledge of the subject matter.
The reason behind this decision was his father's directive to follow in his footsteps, positioning Riku to eventually inherit his father's thriving business.
He clicked his tongue in frustration, vividly recalling his father's countenance. "Tch! Why couldn't they have allowed me to pursue my dream of battling within the dungeon?"
His curiosity was piqued by the very nature of these occurrences. He yearned to comprehend the underlying reason for the constant emergence of monsters in their world. This pursuit of answers served as the primary motivation driving his desire to become a Mutant.
In his family lineage, his father bore the genes of dire wolves, while his mother carried the genes of colossal crow-like creatures. This belief led him to be resolute that upon awakening his ability, he would emerge as a more potent Mutant, regardless of the gene he inherited. The rarity of the dire wolves and crow's genes further underscored their significance in the realm of unique genetic traits.
"Once my abilities surface, I'll join the Mutant's Association and embark on my expedition within the dungeon," he whispered to himself while strolling down the corridor.
"Hey, Riku! I heard you're about to unlock your powers," a voice chimed from behind him.
Riku gradually turned his head, revealing a man with curly red hair, sun-kissed skin, and the aura of a varsity player. His height outstripped that of Riku by a considerable seven inches.
This man was none other than Toru Izumi, a cherished friend of Riku's. Toru had been a driving force, motivating Riku to pursue his path as a Mutant. Their shared quest was fueled by a mutual desire to unravel the enigmatic secrets concealed within their world.
Riku nodded in acknowledgment. "Yeah, I'll activate it soon," he responded, then inquired, "And you? Have you unlocked your ability?"
Toru's smile took on a mischievous quality. "Oh, I've got something you'd never expect," he replied with evident glee, his excitement palpable as he awaited Riku's reaction.
Intrigued, Riku approached him with a quizzical expression. "Seriously? What type of genes did you unlock, Toru?" he inquired, eager to learn about Toru's newfound abilities.
"I inherited my father's genes, and they happen to be Minotaur's genes," Toru revealed, lightly rubbing the underside of his nose with his index finger.
Riku blinked in astonishment, fully aware of the capabilities associated with the Minotaur. This monster boasted a robust physique and formidable physical strength, capable of wreaking havoc and even demolishing a four-story building.
However, the prevailing question lingered: how did Riku possess knowledge about the Minotaur's abilities? The answer was straightforward – Riku had harbored the intention of becoming a Mutant for a considerable period. This prompted him to embark on in-depth research concerning the dungeons and the myriad monsters that inhabited there.
Riku's underlying motivation was to uncover the rationale behind the sudden emergence of dungeons and the accompanying monsters in their world. What was his role in this perplexing phenomenon? This enigma even baffled the government, leaving Riku pondering whether they concealed the truth. He lacked concrete evidence, but his determination to pursue his investigation persisted.
"Wow, Toru! You've gained quite an impressive ability. I hope I'll be fortunate enough to acquire something similar," Riku praised him with genuine admiration.
"Don't stress, Riku. Given your parents' unique genes, there's a good chance you'll get something valuable," Toru reassured, then expressed his anticipation. "I'm genuinely looking forward to witnessing your ability, Riku."
"Thanks, I'll message you tonight once I unlock it," Riku responded, before whispering a request to Toru. "Could you demonstrate your ability for me?"
"Heh! You want me to get arrested? You must realize that using our abilities in a public space like this is a grave offense," Toru cautioned, highlighting the potential consequences.
Riku scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Hehe, my bad. I'm just really curious to witness the transformations in your physique," he admitted with a chuckle.
"Before you come up with another daring plan, let's head back to class," Toru advised, steering them toward the classroom.
As they conversed while strolling down the corridor, Toru added, "But seriously, Riku, I'm genuinely looking forward to discovering your newfound ability."
Riku nodded, a confident smile on his face. "No worries, I'll definitely message you once I've unlocked mine."
__
Ring!
The sound of the bell reverberated through the entire hall, signaling the end of the break. After a few moments, Toru and Riku rose from their seats and made their way to the parking area.
"Toru, let's rendezvous here tomorrow," Riku suggested in a hushed tone, observing as Toru hopped into a sleek red Lamborghini.
The sight of Toru driving a luxurious car indicated his association with a well-off family.
"Absolutely, Riku," Toru replied with a grin and a nod, then shifted his gaze toward the vacant seat beside him. "Wait, where's your car? If you don't have one, I can give you a lift."
"No, but thanks, Toru. My butler took it from me."
Hum... Hum... Hum...
And all of a sudden, a new model car approached them, and it was not making any disturbing sound.
"Riku... D-Don't tell me are you riding to that Tesla?" Toru stuttered.
Riku nodded his head at him with a blank expression. "Yeah... There's a problem?"
Toru shook his head and smiled at him. "Nothing. See you tomorrow."
Both of them left...
_
"Master Riku, we've reached the estate, and your father is awaiting your presence," a man of substantial build dressed in a formal suit informed.
Riku's father, Akio Hirota, along with his mother, Bianca Hirota, were prominent figures.
"What did he say?" Riku inquired, his voice tinged with weariness.
"It's the same message, Master Riku. Your father remains opposed to the idea of awakening your genes. He trusts you to manage the family business instead," the man conveyed.
"Let's put that aside. I'm determined to proceed with the awakening," Riku asserted.
The butler swung open the gleaming golden door, revealing a corridor flanked by two rows of maids, all standing in anticipation of Riku's entrance.
WELCOME BACK MASTER RIKU!
"Thank you all," Riku acknowledged with a subtle nod in response to the synchronized greeting from the maids. His gaze then shifted to his father, positioned atop the stairs.
"I've made up my mind to proceed with the awakening, Father..."
Akio regarded him seriously, his tone matching his demeanor. "I gather I can't dissuade you, judging by your resolve," he spoke before descending the stairs. "Riku, enlighten me—what drives you to take this path?"
Advancing toward Akio, Riku's expression remained steadfast. "I yearn to uncover the truth behind these dungeons. Moreover, I'm convinced my mother is alive. There's a strong intuition guiding me," he replied resolutely, his words unflinching.
"Is there anything that might sway your decision? I can acquire a new car or even an island if that's what you desire. Just stay clear of the dungeon; that realm isn't suitable for us," Akio proposed, attempting to dissuade Riku.
Riku gently shook his head, his actions accompanied by a tender embrace. "I apologize, father, but my resolve is firm. I've already set my course. I'm determined to locate my mother and discover a means to eradicate all the dungeons in our world," he affirmed with conviction.
Though Akio remained silent, he harbored a hope that Riku would not acquire any powers, thereby channeling his energies into their family business.
"Master Riku, I regret the interruption. However, it's time to initiate the gene awakening process," the butler interjected.
Riku pivoted and stepped into the room, his father following suit. "Agreed, let's commence the awakening!" he declared with resolve.
