Chapter 26: Out Of Control.
As they began their experiments, trying to trigger Kazuya's ability again, they discussed various theories and strategies. Mousa suggested different mental exercises, while Junencouraged him to push his limits physically. Toma and Shota watched closely, offering insights and support.
From time and time, Mousa and Jun would bicker about which type of training would be the best.
"No, we should do this!" Mousa said.
"No! My idea is better! Old man!"
"I'm not old!, I'm only 36! And we are doing my style of training"
"No way!" Jun said.
They bickered on until, Shota intervened on them and decided that he and Toma will train Kazuya since they have abilities.
Jun and Mousa pouted, but they knew it was the right decision.
Hours passed as they worked together Kazuya focusing intensely on activating his ability. He tried different approaches, from meditative states to intense concentration during physical activity. The bandits' hideout buzzed with their efforts, each member contributing to the exploration of Kazuya's potential.
"I don't think it's working" Kazuya said.
"Nonsense! With our help, your ability will be manifested in no time!"
Kazuya had a hard time believing that.
"Kazuya, didn't you say your ability activated when you thought of something, what was it?"
When Toma said that, Kazuya felt a wave of emotions as he remembered what he thought about at that time.
Suddenly Kazuya felt a familiar sensation. The air around him seemed to thicken, and once again, everything began to move in slow motion. The bandits weren't affected in any way their movements were alright.
Jun's eyes widened in amazement. "Wow. You really are manipulating time."
Mousa let out a low whistle. "Damn, kid. You've got one hell of an ability."
But when they saw Kazuya, their excited expression turned into a worrying one.
Tears streamed down Kazuya's cheeks as he sobbed loudly.
Suddenly everything started to go out of control. Objects in the room began to tremble, vibrating with an unseen energy. Books toppled off shelves, furniture shifted, and the air crackled with electricity.
"Kazuya what's wrong!?" Toma said.
However, Kazuya did not respond. It was as if he had become mindless.
Right then and there, Jun rushed over to Kazuya's side. "Hey brat! What's up with you!? Snap out of it!"
It seemed Jun's words got to Kazuya, who stopped crying and looked at Jun with teary eyes.
Jun looked at Kazuya with a comforting smile. "Don't worry, I'm here." She then hugged Kazuya.
As Jun did that, the slow-motion effect faded and time resumed its normal pace.
"I'm sorry" Kazuya said while looking at the ground.
Mousa reassured him "No, we're the ones who should ask for forgiveness, we made you remember something tragic.... we were too hard on you."
"And anyways it was your first time trying to activate your ability. Since it isn't manifested yet. You have no way controlling the ability without using your emotions." Mousa said.
"But don't worry, it will only be a matter of time before you manifest it, we will teach you and you'll master your ability in no time."
But Kazuya's expression didn't change even the slightest, he was still disheartened.
"Hey, it's okay, Kazuya. We're here for you" Mousa said
Shota and Toma nodded in agreement.
Jun's gaze softening with empathy as she looked at Kazuya. "You're not alone in this. So stop being gloomy brat, if ya don't then Imma kick ya butt!"
Kazuya's expression shifted as Jun said that; he responded with a soft chuckle.
Mousa smiled as he saw that. "Awww, they look so cute together"
Toma and Shota chuckled. While Jun looked at Mousa with disgust.
Kazuya looked up at them, his eyes still brimming with tears but also filled with gratitude. He had never felt so supported before, and in that moment, he knew that he could rely on his newfound family to help him through anything.
"Thank you... "
They all looked at Kazuya who was smiling. "Thank you for making me feel better." He said.
The bandits looked at each before looking back at Kazuya with a bright smile.
"Your welcome!"