The neon glow of Neo-Tokyo flickered like a thousand distant stars, casting long shadows on the city's endless maze of streets and alleys. Kaito followed Luna through the crowded streets, her body swaying with confidence, her emerald eyes occasionally glinting with jealousy and anticipation. Despite the teasing rivalry, he couldn't deny her help had been invaluable—she'd led him closer to Aria's trail.
But even as they navigated the city's labyrinth, a strange feeling simmered beneath Kaito's skin — a restless energy that refused to be ignored. His mind replayed the moments of last night, Aria's curves, her flames, the sensations that had awakened something deep within him. He felt a strange surge, like a dormant ember ready to ignite.
They reached a quiet rooftop overlooking the cityscape. Luna stepped back, crossing her arms, her eyes studying him with a mixture of curiosity and challenge.
"So," she purred, "you're finally starting to show some fire. But I want to see if you've really got what it takes."
Kaito looked out over the glittering skyline, trying to ignore the flickering nervousness in his chest. "What do you mean?"
She smirked, leaning casually against the railing. "You've faced temptations, fought doubts, and a little bit of seduction. But now… I want to see if you can unlock a real power—something beyond muscles or charm."
He blinked. "A power? You mean like… magic?"
Luna nodded, a teasing smile on her lips. "Exactly. Every good hero has a secret—something that makes them stand out. And I think you're ready to discover yours."
Kaito hesitated. The system's messages had hinted at growth, but he'd never expected to unlock a truly unique ability. Still, he trusted Luna's instincts—if she believed in him, maybe she knew something he didn't.
"Alright," he said cautiously. "Show me."
Luna's emerald eyes shimmered with excitement. "Close your eyes. Focus on what you feel."
Kaito obeyed, shutting his eyes and taking a deep breath. The city's hum faded into the background, replaced by a strange, humming energy inside him—like a faint pulse, thrumming just beneath the surface of his consciousness.
"Good," Luna whispered. "Now, imagine a flame. Not just any fire, but a pure, intense flame—something that burns away doubt, fear, and hesitation."
Kaito visualized it: a small flickering flame, dancing fiercely in his mind's eye. He focused on the warmth, the power, the brightness—letting it grow, feeding it with his desire to protect, to succeed, to be more than just an average boy.
A sudden burst of heat coursed through him, causing him to shudder. Then, a wave of energy erupted from his chest—bright, fiery, and utterly overwhelming.
He gasped, stumbling backward. Luna's voice rang out, sharp and reassuring. "That's it! Keep going!"
The energy built up rapidly, swirling around him like a storm. His body felt lighter, more agile, as if a new strength was awakening inside him. Then, with a final surge, it exploded outward—an intense sphere of crimson fire that hovered just in front of him.
Kaito's eyes snapped open. The flames flickered brightly, illuminating the rooftop with a fierce glow. His clothes were singed slightly at the edges, but he felt no pain—only a crushing sense of power.
And yet, the fire was more than just a visual effect. It was a manifestation of his inner strength—an elemental force he could control.
Luna's eyes widened in genuine awe. "You did it," she whispered. "You unlocked your… *Inner Flame*."
Kaito stared at the flames, breathless. "What… what is this?"
She stepped closer, her expression a mixture of admiration and curiosity. "Your Inner Flame is a reflection of your true essence. It's a power rooted in your emotions—your passion, your will, your desire to protect. With it, you can unleash devastating attacks, burn away obstacles, and even inspire others."
He looked down at his hands, now crackling with residual heat. "So… I can control fire?"
Luna nodded. "Not just fire. It's a symbol of your strength—something uniquely yours. And because it's born from your feelings, it's incredibly versatile. Use it wisely."
Kaito felt an exhilarating rush of confidence. For the first time, he had a power that was genuinely his—something that didn't rely on seduction or physical prowess but was rooted in his core.
"Alright," he said, voice firm. "Show me how to control it."
Luna smiled mischievously. "First, ground yourself. Fire is wild—if you don't tame it, it'll consume everything. Imagine yourself as the source, the master of your inner flame."
He closed his eyes again, focusing on the sensation of heat, the flickering energy within him. He visualized the flames, empowering them with his will, shaping them into a steady, controlled blaze.
Gradually, the fiery sphere shrank, becoming a shimmering orb—a manageable, controlled flame dancing on his palm. He opened his eyes, surprised at his newfound control.
"Good," Luna praised. "You're a quick learner."
Kaito smiled — a genuine, proud smile. This power was a gift, a symbol of his growth, and a reminder that he was more than just a boy chasing after women or running from his fears. He was becoming a hero, one step at a time.
But beneath that pride, a flicker of uncertainty remained. He looked at Luna, who was watching him intently, a hint of something darker behind her playful expression.
"You're jealous," he said suddenly, breaking the silence.
She blinked, then chuckled softly. "Maybe I am. Maybe I want you all to myself."
He took a step closer, the fiery orb still crackling softly in his hand. "You're really different from Aria," he said, trying to understand her. "But I appreciate your help. You're… strong too."
Luna's eyes softened, but her smile remained teasing. "I just want to see you succeed. But don't think I'll make it easy for you."
He reached out, gently taking her hand. "I don't want easy. I want to grow, to become someone who can protect what's important… including the people who matter to me."
She looked at him for a long moment, then leaned in and pressed her lips softly to his cheek. "Good. Because I believe in you, Kaito. And I'll be watching—closer than ever."
As the night deepened, Kaito stood on the rooftop, the fiery orb still glowing softly in his palm. He felt the power within him, a symbol of his potential. And though the city around him pulsed with temptation and danger, he knew he was no longer just a naive boy—he was something more.
A hero in the making.
And his journey was just beginning.