Chapter 5: Chapter 5: First Steps
The morning sun filtered through the windows of the 8th Brigade's headquarters, casting a warm glow over the bustling activity within. Kazuki awoke to the sound of muffled voices and footsteps echoing down the hallway. Today was the day he would begin his official training with the brigade, and he could feel a mix of excitement and anxiety building within him.
As he got ready, Kazuki reflected on the events of the previous day. The fight against the Infernal had been intense, but it was the first time he had truly tested his powers in this new world. The system had integrated him into this reality, granting him a pyrokinetic identity and abilities. Yet, despite the unfamiliarity of his situation, the system's support and the background it provided gave him a sense of stability. Kazuki was determined to make the most of this opportunity.
He made his way to the training grounds, where Captain Obi and several other members of the brigade were waiting. The space was open, with various training equipment scattered around, from dummies and targets to sparring mats. Obi noticed Kazuki's approach and gave him a nod of acknowledgment.
"Morning, Kazuki," Obi greeted him. "I hope you're ready. Today, we're going to see what you can really do."
Kazuki nodded, trying to calm the nerves bubbling in his chest. "I'm ready, Captain."
Obi motioned for Kazuki to step forward. "We'll start with some basics—show us your flame control and the Kongōbaku technique you mentioned yesterday. After that, we'll move on to some sparring."
Kazuki took a deep breath and focused. He held out his hand, palm facing upward, and concentrated on the warmth within him—the energy that surged through his veins as a Third Generation. A small flame flickered to life above his palm, steadily growing as he fed it more power. The flames danced in the air, their orange glow reflecting in Kazuki's eyes.
The brigade members watched closely, some with impressed expressions, others with guarded curiosity. After a moment, Kazuki decided it was time to demonstrate Kongōbaku. He closed his fist, drawing the flames into a condensed sphere of fiery energy. The orb crackled with power, growing more intense as Kazuki focused his will on it.
With a swift motion, Kazuki hurled the sphere toward a distant target, a wooden dummy set up for training purposes. The sphere streaked through the air like a comet, impacting the dummy with a thunderous explosion. Flames erupted, engulfing the target and leaving it in charred ruins.
The onlookers murmured among themselves, clearly impressed by the display of power. Obi stepped forward, a thoughtful expression on his face. "That's some impressive firepower, Kazuki. Your control is solid, and Kongōbaku packs a punch."
Kazuki felt a small surge of pride at Obi's words, but he knew this was just the beginning. There was still much to learn and improve upon. "Thank you, Captain. I'm still refining my techniques, but I'm determined to get stronger."
Obi nodded approvingly. "That's the right attitude. Now, let's see how you handle yourself in close combat. You mentioned you've been trained in swordsmanship. Take up your Asauchi, and let's see what you can do."
Kazuki drew his Asauchi from its sheath, the weight of the sword familiar in his hands. The blade gleamed in the sunlight, a symbol of his connection to the power within him. He took a ready stance, focusing on the upcoming sparring match.
Obi called over one of the brigade members, Lieutenant Hinawa, who stepped forward with his usual calm demeanor. "Hinawa, you'll be sparring with Kazuki. Don't hold back, but remember, this is a training exercise."
Hinawa nodded and stepped onto the mat, drawing his own weapon—a standard military combat knife. The two combatants faced each other, the atmosphere charged with anticipation. Kazuki could feel the weight of the other brigade members' eyes on him, assessing his every move.
The sparring match began with a flurry of movement. Hinawa lunged forward, his knife aimed at Kazuki's midsection with the precision of a seasoned marksman. Kazuki sidestepped the attack with practiced ease, bringing his Asauchi up to parry the next strike. The clash of metal rang out across the training grounds as the two exchanged blows, each testing the other's reflexes and skill.
Kazuki quickly realized that Hinawa was no novice. His attacks were swift and precise, forcing Kazuki to stay on the defensive. But Kazuki had his own strengths. His training in Zanjutsu allowed him to counter Hinawa's strikes with fluid motions, redirecting the force of each blow and creating openings for his own attacks.
As the match progressed, Kazuki found himself slipping into a rhythm. His movements became more confident, his strikes more deliberate. He could feel the system's influence guiding him, enhancing his instincts and sharpening his reactions. The Asauchi in his hands felt like an extension of his will, responding to his every thought.
Finally, Kazuki saw an opening. With a swift step forward, he sidestepped Hinawa's downward slash and brought his Asauchi around in a sweeping arc. The flat of the blade struck Hinawa's side with enough force to unbalance him, but Hinawa quickly regained his footing, his expression remaining stoic.
Obi raised a hand, signaling the end of the match. "Enough," he called out, stepping between the two combatants. "Well done, both of you."
Kazuki sheathed his Asauchi, breathing heavily from the exertion. Despite the intensity of the match, he felt invigorated. The training had given him a taste of what he could achieve with his abilities, and it left him hungry for more.
Obi approached Kazuki, a slight smile on his face. "You've got talent, Kazuki. And more importantly, you've got the determination to hone it. With time and training, you could become a valuable member of this team."
Kazuki bowed his head respectfully. "Thank you, Captain. I'll do my best to meet your expectations."
Obi nodded, then turned to the rest of the brigade. "All right, that's enough for now. Everyone, get back to your duties. Kazuki, you'll continue your training later today. For now, take some time to familiarize yourself with the headquarters and get to know the rest of the team."
As the brigade members dispersed, Kazuki felt a sense of accomplishment. He had taken his first steps toward integrating with the 8th Brigade and proving his worth. The path ahead would be challenging, but with the system's guidance and his own determination, Kazuki knew he was ready to face whatever trials awaited him.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone