This world was divided by gigantic glacier walls, whose peaks defied the sky at over two hundred thousand meters high, rising as impenetrable barriers that separated the existing races. No one was able to cross them; no one could destroy them. It was as if the world itself had decided to keep them apart from each other.
Right in the center of that hostile geography was the human race.
Humans were not ordinary creatures; they had been blessed with special abilities called gifts. Each person was born with a different one.
However, every rule has its breaking point. And in this story, the exception had a name.
In the great Kingdom of Valdris, an island surrounded by a thick forest, lived a boy named Nakamura Raiden. He was barely twelve years old, with untamable brown hair that always looked messy, and remarkably innocent eyes that conveyed deep kindness.
Raiden had been born without any gift. In a world where power was everything, his mere existence was considered an aberration. For this reason, among the alleys and squares of Valdris, he was known by a cruel moniker:
The Blasphemy of the World.
The sunset was beginning to dye the sky in reddish tones when Raiden walked at a slow pace down a densely crowded main street. The bustle of the people vanished suddenly when two noticeably older boys blocked his path, cornering him against the wall.
Look who showed up, declared the leader of the group, showing a smile full of malice. The boy without a gift.
That boy had a large and muscular complexion; his gift gave him the ability to deform his body until it became a perfect sphere, capable of bouncing at high speed. By his side, the second aggressor smiled smugly, able to increase the size of his left arm until it became gigantic.
Hahaha, how does it feel to be a simple mistake? asked the second one, taking a step forward.
Raiden, feeling a pang of anger in his chest, frowned and held his gaze.
And what does that matter to you?
The muscular boy's smile disappeared immediately, replaced by a grimace of irritation.
What did you say, scum?
You are just a damn mistake of the world, insisted the other boy, seeking to provoke him.
Losing his temper, Raiden advanced quickly and grabbed his shirt tightly.
I AM NOT A MISTAKE!
THUD!
A sharp, relentless punch struck Raiden's face, sending him violently to the ground. Pain throbbed in his cheek as the metallic taste of blood flooded his mouth.
Who do you think you are to touch us? growled the big boy, taking a few steps back as he activated his gift.
Suddenly, his body began shrinking and expanding until it molded into a huge human sphere of hardened consistency.
Do it now! the voice echoed from inside the floating mass.
The second boy firmly planted his feet on the ground, concentrated his energy, and expanded his left arm to triple its original size, delivering a tremendous blow to the sphere.
**BOOOOM!**
The sphere shot forward with devastating force, bouncing at high speed between the facades of the buildings.
Raiden, resting his palms on the ground, looked up with difficulty... only to see that imposing mass coming straight at him in a descending trajectory.
THUD!
The initial impact hit him squarely in the stomach, forcing him to spit out a mouthful of blood and saliva.
And then came another impact.
And another one.
The sphere continued striking his body over and over again, turning him into a human punching bag. Around him, people simply formed a circle, watching the beating with total apathy. No one lifted a finger; no one raised their voice. For the citizens of Valdris, a monster who lacked a gift did not deserve their help. He was, in the eyes of everyone, a mistake of the world.
Just die already, trash! shouted the big boy, gaining even greater momentum from above.
However, within that crowd stood a figure known throughout the island.
Look! It's him!
Kasai Hinokami!
The strongest prodigy on the whole island!
The atmosphere of the place changed drastically. The pressure in the air became so suffocating that those present found it hard to breathe. Kasai walked with firm steps; he had red hair, and his eyes reflected a cold intensity that was terrifying. The air surrounding his figure vibrated due to the imperceptible heat emanating from his body.
Kasai stopped, sweeping his angry gaze over the scene.
Stop.
A single word was enough for a freezing chill to run through the entire bodies of the two aggressors. The human sphere lost all its inertia and fell to the ground, immediately recovering its original shape.
W-We are very sorry, Kasai-san... stammered the leader, looking down.
Yeah... it's just that this bastard made us lose our patience... the second one excused, shrinking his giant arm out of pure fear instilled by the redhead's presence.
Kasai observed them with a grimace of profound contempt.
How pathetic you are.
The aggressors lowered their heads, unable to hold his gaze. Right after, Kasai turned his face toward the crowd that remained gathered.
And what are you looking at? Do you have nothing better to do?
The icy tone of his voice caused the crowd to scatter in a stampede, fleeing in terror in all directions.
Get out of here before the royal knights decide to come, Kasai muttered, turning around without showing any further interest.
In the middle of the deserted street, Raiden remained lying on the ground. The multiple wounds on his body dripped blood constantly, staining the ground. Despite the physical punishment, his tears did not flow from pain; they flowed from a bitter and hurtful helplessness.
The light of innocence in his eyes had disappeared completely. In its place, a dark abyss began to devour his mind. It was hate.
Hate towards those boys.
Hate towards people.
Hate towards destiny.
Hate towards the world.
Kasai's footsteps stopped just a few meters away. Turning slightly, he extended his right hand toward the boy lying on the ground.
Can you stand up?
Raiden lifted his face, surprised by the unexpected gesture. However, as he processed the gap that separated them, envy and wounded pride spoke for him. He looked away, ignoring the boy's hand.
I don't... need... anyone's help, he articulated through clenched teeth, leaning his trembling arms on the ground.
Making an effort, Raiden managed to stand up on his own, barely keeping on his feet. Kasai remained silent for a few seconds, studying his stubborn expression.
Suit yourself, he replied dryly.
Without adding a single word, the redhead resumed his walk and disappeared into the shadows of the buildings.
---
Several hours later, the scene shifted to the interior of a small, rustic wooden cabin hidden in the thick of the forest; an old man was applying medicinal ointments to Raiden's lacerations.
OUCH!! exclaimed the boy, cringing when the medicine made contact with his raw skin.
HAHAHAHA! the old man's hoarse laugh echoed loudly between the walls. Pain is excellent news, my boy! It means you are still alive.
The old man wore a loose black tunic reminiscent of a monk's robes. He possessed a prominent white beard that fell halfway down his chest, a deep scar traversing his left eye, and both hands permanently covered by thick, clean bandages.
Raiden lowered his gaze, staring at the wooden floor with drooping shoulders.
Grandpa...
What's with that face? inquired the old man, without stopping his treatments.
The boy clenched his fists on his thighs, feeling his throat close up.
Do you think... I really should have been born?
The grandfather stopped his movements for an instant, maintaining absolute silence.
Everyone in this damn place has a purpose, gifts that make them special except me, Raiden continued, as his shoulders began to tremble visibly. I feel... I feel as if the world itself has hated me since the moment I took my first breath.
The old man stopped bandaging him and observed him with an unwavering stare, adopting an imposing posture.
Tell me one thing, Raiden. If the world decided to grant you a gift at this very instant, what would you do with it?
Raiden jerked his head up, blinking in surprise at the sudden question.
Huh?
Answer, ordered the old man severely.
Raiden clenched his teeth so hard that his jaws hurt, letting his accumulated rage dictate his response.
I would beat them up... Every single one of those who mocked me.
The old man exhaled a long sigh, crossing his arms.
And are you completely sure that would make you happy?
Raiden kept a deathly silence. The question struck his conscience harder than the afternoon's punches. After a few moments of reflection, the tension in his shoulders lessened, and he slowly shook his head.
No... I don't think so.
Of course not, the grandfather nodded, softening the tone of his voice. Because despite all the mud they throw at you, you are still a deeply kind boy inside.
Raiden lowered his head again, frustrated.
Even though I hate them with all my being... I don't want to become them.
A subtle smile of satisfaction formed on the old man's lips. However, in the blink of an eye, the warmth of the room evaporated completely. The atmosphere inside the cabin became dense and heavy.
Tell me, Raiden, the old man began, looking him directly in the eyes. Do you want to be strong?
Raiden opened his eyes wide, absorbing the gravity emanating from his grandfather's figure.
W... what brings up that question so suddenly?
Just answer what I asked you. Without beating around the bush.
Silence flooded the space once again. Raiden clenched his fists so firmly that his knuckles turned white beneath the skin. He remembered the humiliation, the total helplessness of his fragility.
Yes... I do.
I DIDN'T HEAR YOU, IDIOT! shouted the old man with a thunderous voice that made the utensils in the cabin vibrate.
Raiden raised his head and, emptying all the air from his lungs, yelled with all the strength of his soul:
YES!! I WANT TO BE STRONG!!
The grandfather widened his smile, nodding with evident pride in his gaze.
Excellent. If that is what you want, I myself will take charge of forging your body and your spirit. I will make you strong, Raiden.
The brown-haired boy stood paralyzed in his spot, unable to believe what he was hearing.
But I'm warning you right now, the old man declared, pointing a bandaged finger at him. This path will be paved with pure pain. You are going to shed tears of blood. You will hate me with every fiber of your being for what I will put you through. There will even be nights where you will desperately wish to give up and die.
I don't care, responded Raiden without a shred of doubt. I'll endure anything.
Well said. Although to begin this journey, I have an unavoidable condition.
A condition? Raiden tilted his head.
In four years, a grand tournament will take place in the kingdom.
A tournament?
That's right. The absolute winner will obtain the divine right to marry the legitimate princess of Valdris...
Raiden's eyes almost popped out of their sockets, and his face was tinted with a mixture of horror and confusion.
M-MARRY?! Are you crazy?! I'm barely twelve years old!
Let me finish speaking, you piece of imbecile! the grandfather delivered a resounding smack to his head, interrupting him. After clearing his throat, he continued seriously: Marriage is only for the children of nobles and the rich who seek power. For the wretched and dispossessed like you, the royal tournament offers something far more valuable. It offers absolute freedom.
Raiden remained silent, listening with full attention as he rubbed his head.
This island is known as the first land of the world, but it is also a floating prison. No one is allowed to leave it without express authorization signed by the king. Only high-ranking knights have the right to cross the sea... with the exception of the tournament winner.
The grandfather took a step toward the door, pointing to the horizon through the window.
Participate in that tournament, gain your freedom, and leave this stupid island. Go outside, get to know the world... and get to know yourself.
I want you to get out of here and have A GREAT ADVENTURE!, Raiden.
Upon hearing those words, Raiden felt his heart begin to beat with unusual force. The concept of freedom, something that had never crossed his mind, was starting to blossom like a small bit of hope.
Right now you are a weak creature... but I swear to you by all that is sacred that I will make you stronger than anyone, promised the old man, softening his gaze. And once you hold that power in your hands... you will be the sole master of your destiny. You will decide what to do with your life.
The old man walked slowly toward the exit of the cabin, stopping at the threshold.
If at the end of these four years you decide to use your strength to consummate your revenge against this kingdom, it will be your choice and I won't oppose it. But if you decide to choose a different path... a path of freedom... I will support you with all my being until my last breath.
Raiden remained static for a few seconds, processing the weight of the promise. A slight but genuine smile began to form on his face, dispelling the darkness that had tormented him hours earlier.
A great adventure through the outside world, huh?... he muttered, looking up with a gleam of pure excitement in his brown eyes. To be honest... it doesn't sound bad at all.
The old man let out a small chuckle, throwing the door wide open.
Then move. Time is running.
A few minutes later, both delved into a secluded and rugged area of the forest. Scattered all over the place, stones of colossal magnitudes rose up.
The old man stopped in the center of the clearing and crossed his arms, looking at his grandson out of the corner of his eye.
The training is strictly divided into three essential phases.
He raised the index finger of his bandaged hand.
First phase: development of brute strength.
Right after, he raised his middle finger.
Second phase: conditioning of limit resistance.
Finally, he showed his third finger with a grimace laden with mystery.
And the last phase... I will only explain that one to you when you prove you have survived the first two.
Raiden swallowed hard, feeling that the atmosphere was becoming increasingly real and dangerous.
We will begin immediately with the first one, the grandfather announced, pointing with a nod of his head to a rocky mass of solid and immovable appearance that stood before them. Your only objective to pass this stage is to break that rock. Using solely and exclusively the strength of your bare fists.
Raiden opened his eyes wide, stepping back in disbelief.
WHAT?! That's physically impossible for an ordinary human being! My bones would break on the first attempt!
The old man exhaled a sigh of disappointment, shaking his head. Without uttering a word, he took a step forward and positioned himself firmly before the block of stone. He slightly bent his knees, retracted his right arm, and, with perfect technical fluidity, threw a direct punch toward the center of the structure.
BOOOOM!
The impact generated a deafening roar that reverberated throughout the forest. Before Raiden's astonished gaze, the colossal rock instantly shattered into hundreds of fragments that shot out like shrapnel. A brutal expansive shockwave swept through the clearing, shaking the treetops nearby and raising a dense curtain of dust.
Raiden stood completely paralyzed, his mouth open and his pupils dilated from the shock.
I-Impossible... He didn't use any elemental gift... he managed to articulate in a whisper.
The old man brushed the dust off his tunic with total composure, giving him a half-smile.
Now it's your turn, boy. Try it.
Raiden swallowed hard, shifting his attention to another of the gigantic rocks populating the clearing. He approached it at a slow pace, feeling the coldness of the stone. He took a safe distance, planted his feet on the ground, and closed his eyes for a second, visualizing the faces of everyone who had humiliated him.
Opening his eyes with renewed determination, he filled his lungs and advanced with a war cry that tore through the silence of the forest:
AAAAAAAHHH!!
THUD!
A piercing pain ran through every nerve ending in his hand, traveling up his arm straight to his brain.
AAAAAGH!! the cry of pain replaced his battle cry as he stumbled backward.
Looking at his hand, his knuckles were completely busted open, oozing threads of fresh blood that began to drip onto the dirt. The old man, observing the scene from behind, burst into a loud and vibrant laugh.
HAHAHAHA! I warned you, Raiden! I told you this path wouldn't be a bed of roses!
Raiden grabbed his injured wrist, clenching his teeth as his eyes visibly trembled from the intensity of the physical suffering. The temptation to falter was there, but looking at the stains of his own blood on the rock, something changed inside him. Weakness was no longer an option.
Gathering a willpower that not even he knew he possessed, he raised his bloody fist again, getting into a fighting stance once more in front of the immense block of stone.
A little bit of pain... isn't going to stop me... he declared with a broken voice, but with a look of pure fire.
And without wasting a single second more, he launched a second strike against the rock.