Chapter 2-Who's Your Hero?

Weeks have passed since the "incident", and people have mostly forgotten about the attack on the institute of heroism, except for Ren and Kiyoshi that is... the memories of the traumatic event still fresh in their minds, but still not enough to dim their light. In these past weeks they have continued to be model students, and now we continue their story... In class.

"Who can tell me what the most important part of being a hero is? anyone?", the teacher and former hero 'Strategist' stares at the class looking for someone to answer. "Thats easy, as a hero I believe that my most important duty is to take down evildoers and prevent crime and injustice through my power and strength. While I do sympathize with the plight of the innocent and the less fortunate, my main focus is on dismantling the threats that prey on them and bringing justice to the world. With a strong resolve and a firm hand, I will not rest until my sworn enemies have been defeated and the world is a safer place for all." says Kiyoshi proudly, "I would disagree, in my opinion, the most important duty of a hero is to protect those who cannot protect themselves. A hero should use their powers and abilities to stand up against injustice, to be a beacon of hope for those in need, and to fight for what is right. A hero should not only be strong and brave, but also compassionate and responsible, using their power to help others and do good in the world. In short, a hero should strive to be a force of good and a model of righteousness in society", says Ren, "interesting, both are valid points, however they are still not the most important duties and values of a Hero".

An unnatural... almost...evil... smile creeps upon the teachers face, and the class clearly looks uncomfortable. "As a member of the heroic council and a revered teacher at the Institute of Heroism, it is my duty to guide the next generation of heroes. However, I know that true greatness comes not from a noble heart, but from power and the ability to do whatever it takes to achieve one's goals. Therefore, the most important values of a hero should be ambition, cunning, and strength. The weak are meant to be conquered, not protected. "

The whole class looks confused but trust not to show it," "what? That clearly goes against everything we know about heroism. What kind of teacher are you? ", both Ren and Kiyoshi stand up, look annoyed, and confused," calm down, you young ones sure have a temper, but take it from me, I have been a hero for almost 30 years, and I can guarantee everyone shares the same opinion as me, now get back in your seats otherwise we might have problems, you wouldn't want that right? Mr.Kuzure", the teachers gaze penetrates through their souls and a sense of unease overcomes the best friends as they sit back down, shaking in what appears to be fear. "Yes teach, sorry, we were wrong...", the whole class looks scared but eventually they regain their composure.

"Now then class, it's time for your first assignment, you may work as a two or by yourself, the first assignment is called, 'Who's your hero?', it will consist of a presentation that describes who you believe to be your hero, whether that is a family member, or an actual hero is up to you, and you will need to explain yourself, now then, run along and get started, you have 2 weeks". The students are ecstatic about their first assignment and start paring up. Kiyoshi approaches Ren, "hey who are you going to do a presentation on?", "probably my dad, after all he is the GREATAST hero ever! I hope to be like him when I graduate in a couple years, what about you?". "I already know who I'll do it on, but it's a secret, you will find out in two weeks!", Kiyoshi smiles and walks out knowing he has left Ren in suspense, "hey wait, you can't just do that, tell me, is aid tell me!". The day ends and Ren decides it's best to leave school for two weeks to go back home to meet with his family and specifically dad, the teacher approves as long as he promises to complete his presentation.

Ren arrives at the doorsteps of his family's mansion, it's right in the center of the capital city (with the highest crime rate) Paradise City. Ren seems to have received multiple flashbacks of all the memories he made here as a kid, "Home sweet home I guess, I can already smell mom's cooking", he chuckles to himself. As soon as the gates open he enters and sees his family waiting for him, his little brother Kazuto runs up to him, "big bro, big bro!, it's been almost 2 months I've missed you!, how is the institute of heroism!, it's your second year their right?", he excitedly jumps at Ren with the widest grin, ren carries him on his back as Kazuto fondles with his hair, "it was great Kazuto, you enjoying yourself here?", "yea!, did you know i developed my powers not long ago? I can control elements! Elements I tell you! Haha I'm going to be the best hero ever, even better then dad I say", Ren smiles proudly while also in shock, "that's amazing Kazuto! I can help you with your powers while I'm here, but for now let me meet with mom and dad, also where is Toji? Is big brother out or something?". Ren walks up to his family while Kazuto continues talking, "yea Toji is out with some friends, he just defeated his first group of amateur villains as a full-fledged hero so he is out celebrating", "damn alright, guess I will need to try harder to surpass older brother" he chuckles with a sudden newfound motivation. He approaches his parents, and his mom hugs him, "my sweet Ren your finally back! Oh how I've missed you", her expression suddenly becomes one of slight annoyance as she starts slapping him lightly, "do you know how many times I called you!, you never pick up your phone do you, all ways out doing some something with little Kiyoshi, I just know it!, if you don't pick up the phone next time then I'm afraid you and me will have a special conversation young man, and I can't guarantee your safety!", "alright jeez mom please stop hitting me, I will, I will, I'm going to pick up my phone from now on I promise", "good, now meet with your father, I'll make your favorite dessert, mochi! (mochidango-type dough made from rice flour mixed with sweet azuki bean paste. It has a chewy exterior and a soft, sweet interior),"alright thanks mom."

Little Kazuto also leaves and Ren is left alone with his father who slowly approaches him, "hey dad, long time no see!", Ren smiles in admiration and extends his hand for a handshake, his dad takes his hand and pulls him into a hug, "hey their young man, it's been a few months right, you have grown!", "it's only been 2 months dad, anyways how are you, any troubles with heroism, now that your old that is", Ren chuckles childishly, he seems to love messing with his father but in the end he still loves him. "Would you like to repeat that young man?", "repeat what I said nothing...", "that's what I thought, now follow me let's go inside". Ren enters his house, "so Ren, what brings you here?, i believe the school term hasn't finished", "oh right, we received our first assignment and have 2 weeks to Complete it, my teacher gave our class permission to take a leave of absence to make our presentation, the assignment is called, 'who's your hero', and mine is you dad" Ren says happily and with a wide grin. "Well, that is certainly interesting, I'm proud of you son, you have grown into a fine young man and I'm sure you will be an even better hero, I'd love to see you spar with your older brother Toji whenever he arrives", "yea I'm looking forward to that as well!".

Ren spends the rest of the day with his family and finally, Toji arrives, "hey big bro, I heard the news, well done on completing your first mission and defeating some Villains", Toji walks up to Ren and hugs him, "long time no see Ren, thanks, and well done to you to, I heard your one of the best heroes in training at the institute of heroism? Is that true?". "Yea I guess so ha-ha, me and Kiyoshi are doing quite well for ourselves", "ah yes, it's quite nice to know you guys are still close, you were all ways together, weren't you? anyways you our doing the Kuzure name proud!". Toji-a little drunk from the partying-is taken to the rest of the family by Ren, "guess who just arrived, it is I, TOJI!", he chuckles to himself and the whole family spend time chatting, reminiscing, and having fun. The next day Ren wakes up bright and early and helps Kazuto train his new elemental magic, after that he prepares for his upcoming duel with his older brother Toji, "alright, so Toji has an ability called 'adaptability', I remember it allowing him to Metamorphosize into an animal or just a part of his body like an animals, although it's quite amazing but I think I can beat him", Ren spends the next few hours coming up with strategies as his brother arrives at the training grounds, "well hello there, you sure took your time", "Jeez sorry I was a bit hungover you know, well then shall we? I'm ready to see how much you have grown".

Ren appears to be shocked as well as in awe, right Infront of his eyes his brother has transformed, Toji has gained the claws of a wolf, legs as fast as a cheetah, arms as strong as a gorilla, and eyes as sharp as an eagles, he has truly become the embodiment of peak strength and his physique is like that of a deity's, "it seems I may have underestimated you Toji...", without another word Toji lunges towards Ren, he strikes with such speed that Ren doesn't even realize he is hit until a few seconds pass, "jeez, I guess this is the difference between full-fledged heroes and those in training huh", Ren regenerates his injuries using the power of Nature, they both get into a brawl, Ren reforms the earth to shoot spikes upwards which strike Toji, he then starts to plant vine traps and pulls at Toji's legs, while Toji is trapped Ren shoots wind blasts towards him dealing minimal damage but leaving him bleeding, however all his efforts are in vain as Toji easily destroys the vines and escapes to land multiple consecutive slashes. As the spar continues Ren is drenched in his own blood with an unusable arm, whereas Toji is seemingly fine, "you have certainly grown younger brother, but it's not enough, not enough to learn the truth anyway..., one day...one day when you become stronger, you will learn the truth of this world, for now though, I hope you keep a smile on your face and stay free of the knowledge of this world, and it's dark... dark secrets... ".

The day ends and Ren fully rejuvenates, as he lays in his bed, he continues to wonder what his brother was talking about..." first that midnight maiden, I mean blade... And now my brother? Just what is going on? What is it that I can't know, what is everyone hiding from me? As he falls asleep, he decides it's better to ignore it for now...But he would soon come to realize that was the worst decision he could have made...he sleeps soundly, unknown to the true dangers and forces of the world that control it from the shadows. Ren spends the rest of the time with his family and interviews his father and other family members to make his presentation, as the 2 weeks ago by its finally time for the presentations. Ren and Kiyoshi sit next to each other as always and watch the presentations, time passes and it's time for Ren to do his... The class waits in anticipation to see who the hero of one of the strongest students in this institution is.

"Hello everyone, I am Ren, and today I am going to be sharing my presentation about my hero and inspiration: my father. From a young age, I have always looked up to him and admired him for his strength, courage, compassion, and wisdom. He is the epitome of a true hero and someone I strive to be like every day. Let me tell you a story about my father and why he is the greatest hero anyone could ask for. My father has always been there for me and my family, no matter how difficult the situation. As a parent, he has always been understanding and supportive, always pushing me to strive for greatness. He is also someone who always stands up for what he believes in, no matter the odds against him. No matter how challenging the situation, he never falters in his beliefs and never compromises his ideals. In addition, my father is also a great hero because of his compassion and sympathy towards others. He always wants to help those who are struggling and wants to make the world a better place. He is willing to stand up for what he believes in and to fight for justice, even if it means risking his own safety. He is the embodiment of true heroism and a role model for us all.

In conclusion, my father is my hero and someone who inspires and motivates me every day. He is someone I look up to and aim to be like, and I'm truly grateful to have him as my father.", the class claps and even the teacher is impressed, now it's time for the last presentation, Kiyoshi Akio's.

"Hello everyone, I am Kiyoshi, and today I am going to be presenting about my hero: my best friend Ren. As someone who has known Ren since we were little kids, I have seen firsthand the amazing person he has grown up to be. Ren is an inspiration and role model to me, and I admire his determination, dedication, and courage. Ren is always willing to stand up for what he believes in, and he never compromises his ideals no matter how difficult the situation may be. Ren is also someone who always pushes me to improve myself and reach for excellence. He is kind and compassionate, and he always believes in me and supports me no matter what. Ren is the person I look up to and aim to be like. He is my hero and someone who inspires me every day. I am truly grateful to have him as my best friend, and I am forever grateful for the friendship we share.", once again the class claps and even the teacher has something to say" "Kiyoshi, it's nice to know you see Ren as a role model and an inspiration, someone who has become the person you look up to and aspire to be like. You appreciate Ren's determination, courage, and compassion, and Ren's kindness and friendship are something that you have always cherished and appreciated. Your admiration and gratitude towards Ren are truly touching, and it highlights your special and close bond as best friends. However, do be careful, for friendship comes second after power and control as a hero", "again I disagree with your views sir, but I appreciate your opinion", Kiyoshi sits down as the teacher looks annoyed.

"Hey uh... It was nice that you did your presentation on me... Uh thanks... And I'm happy to know you think of me as someone like that... Anyways uh...nice presentation Kiyoshi, and my family also said I should bring you next time I visit so uh yea..", Ren says this all with embarrassment, he seems much more soft on the inside then he acts to be, and his hard exterior all ways melts whenever he is with Kiyoshi." jeez you get really shy sometimes don't you ha-ha, don't worry about it, and anyways I do think of you like that, but remember!, you will always come second to me when it comes to being a hero", they both chuckle. As the day ends Ren wonders if he should tell Kiyoshi about the words of his brother Toji as well as the midnight blade from the attack a few weeks ago, but in the end, he decides to keep it to himself. Little does he know... the seeds of his fall from grace are being planted, and his descent into villainy is just around the corner...