Hidden War Manga

Ten thousand years after the Great Heaven War, the Dao has changed—and so has the world. Sects rule nations, flying swords fill regulated skies, and Heavenly Trials descend the moment a cultivator understands too much. In this late-stage cultivation era, power is institutionalized, ambition is monitored, and even righteousness is a political stance rather than a cosmic truth. Born into an ancient sword clan that chose adaptation over isolation, a young cultivator enters a second-tier righteous sect where talent is refined and the greatest disciples are sent upward to a Tier One power. But in a world where the Dao is endless and Heaven corrects imbalance without mercy, insight is more dangerous than strength. The path to immortality is uncertain. The Dao does not care about good or evil. And Heaven is always watching. Make the heroine have white hair make her more serious and studious
Ten thousand years after the Great Heaven War, the Dao has changed—and so has the world. Sects rule nations, flying swords fill regulated skies, and Heavenly Trials descend the moment a cultivator understands too much. In this late-stage cultivation era, power is institutionalized, ambition is monitored, and even righteousness is a political stance rather than a cosmic truth. Born into an ancient sword clan that chose adaptation over isolation, a young cultivator enters a second-tier righteous sect where talent is refined and the greatest disciples are sent upward to a Tier One power. But in a world where the Dao is endless and Heaven corrects imbalance without mercy, insight is more dangerous than strength. The path to immortality is uncertain. The Dao does not care about good or evil. And Heaven is always watching. Make the heroine have white hair make her more serious and studious
Ten thousand years after the Great Heaven War, the Dao has changed—and so has the world. Sects rule nations, flying swords fill regulated skies, and Heavenly Trials descend the moment a cultivator understands too much. In this late-stage cultivation era, power is institutionalized, ambition is monitored, and even righteousness is a political stance rather than a cosmic truth. Born into an ancient sword clan that chose adaptation over isolation, a young cultivator enters a second-tier righteous sect where talent is refined and the greatest disciples are sent upward to a Tier One power. But in a world where the Dao is endless and Heaven corrects imbalance without mercy, insight is more dangerous than strength. The path to immortality is uncertain. The Dao does not care about good or evil. And Heaven is always watching.
Ten thousand years after the Great Heaven War, the Dao has changed—and so has the world. Sects rule nations, flying swords fill regulated skies, and Heavenly Trials descend the moment a cultivator understands too much. In this late-stage cultivation era, power is institutionalized, ambition is monitored, and even righteousness is a political stance rather than a cosmic truth. Born into an ancient sword clan that chose adaptation over isolation, a young cultivator enters a second-tier righteous sect where talent is refined and the greatest disciples are sent upward to a Tier One power. But in a world where the Dao is endless and Heaven corrects imbalance without mercy, insight is more dangerous than strength. The path to immortality is uncertain. The Dao does not care about good or evil. And Heaven is always watching.
Ten thousand years after the Great Heaven War, the Dao has changed—and so has the world. Sects rule nations, flying swords fill regulated skies, and Heavenly Trials descend the moment a cultivator understands too much. In this late-stage cultivation era, power is institutionalized, ambition is monitored, and even righteousness is a political stance rather than a cosmic truth. Born into an ancient sword clan that chose adaptation over isolation, a young cultivator enters a second-tier righteous sect where talent is refined and the greatest disciples are sent upward to a Tier One power. But in a world where the Dao is endless and Heaven corrects imbalance without mercy, insight is more dangerous than strength. The path to immortality is uncertain. The Dao does not care about good or evil. And Heaven is always watching.
Ten thousand years after the Great Heaven War, the Dao has changed—and so has the world. Sects rule nations, flying swords fill regulated skies, and Heavenly Trials descend the moment a cultivator understands too much. In this late-stage cultivation era, power is institutionalized, ambition is monitored, and even righteousness is a political stance rather than a cosmic truth. Born into an ancient sword clan that chose adaptation over isolation, a young cultivator enters a second-tier righteous sect where talent is refined and the greatest disciples are sent upward to a Tier One power. But in a world where the Dao is endless and Heaven corrects imbalance without mercy, insight is more dangerous than strength. The path to immortality is uncertain. The Dao does not care about good or evil. And Heaven is always watching.
Ten thousand years after the Great Heaven War, the Dao has changed—and so has the world. Sects rule nations, flying swords fill regulated skies, and Heavenly Trials descend the moment a cultivator understands too much. In this late-stage cultivation era, power is institutionalized, ambition is monitored, and even righteousness is a political stance rather than a cosmic truth. Born into an ancient sword clan that chose adaptation over isolation, a young cultivator enters a second-tier righteous sect where talent is refined and the greatest disciples are sent upward to a Tier One power. But in a world where the Dao is endless and Heaven corrects imbalance without mercy, insight is more dangerous than strength. The path to immortality is uncertain. The Dao does not care about good or evil. And Heaven is always watching.
Ten thousand years after the Great Heaven War, the Dao has changed—and so has the world. Sects rule nations, flying swords fill regulated skies, and Heavenly Trials descend the moment a cultivator understands too much. In this late-stage cultivation era, power is institutionalized, ambition is monitored, and even righteousness is a political stance rather than a cosmic truth. Born into an ancient sword clan that chose adaptation over isolation, a young cultivator enters a second-tier righteous sect where talent is refined and the greatest disciples are sent upward to a Tier One power. But in a world where the Dao is endless and Heaven corrects imbalance without mercy, insight is more dangerous than strength. The path to immortality is uncertain. The Dao does not care about good or evil. And Heaven is always watching. Make the heroine have white hair make her more serious and studious
Title: Revy’s Black Market Genre: Cyberpunk, Tech-Noir, Dystopian, Underground Economy Tone: Dark, intelligent, rebellious, futuristic Style: High-contrast black & white manga with neon cyberpunk accents, glitch effects, holographic UI overlays WORLD SETTING The story takes place in Vybz Land, a massive futuristic megacity where technology evolves daily, but access to innovation is controlled by powerful corporations and elites. In this world, early access equals power, and being late means being left behind forever. The city is filled with: Neon skyscrapers Surveillance drones Digital billboards Crowded lower districts where people struggle to keep up with the future Hidden beneath this system is an underground network known only as Revy’s Black Market (RBM). THE BLACK MARKET (RBM) RBM is not a physical place — it is a digital gateway. Access is earned, not sold. RBM offers: Early access to emerging technology Secret deals before public release Presales and limited drops AI tools, mobility tech, robotics, and Web3 platforms RBM doesn’t steal technology — it redistributes access and timing. MAIN CHARACTER — REVY Revy is the mysterious overseer of RBM. Appearance: Androgynous cyberpunk figure Long dark coat with glowing circuit patterns One eye enhanced with a digital interface Calm expression, always observing Personality: Highly intelligent Emotionally controlled Speaks in short, powerful lines Never explains everything Revy believes the future should reward curiosity, not wealth. STORY SUMMARY CHAPTER 1 — Access Denied A young citizen in Vybz Land watches others advance while he is left behind by expensive technology. He sees advertisements for innovation he cannot afford. On a dark alley wall, a glowing symbol appears: “The future isn’t sold. It’s accessed.” CHAPTER 2 — The Gate The symbol leads to RBM. A digital interface appears asking for identity verification. When access is granted, Revy appears as a hologram. Revy says: “You don’t buy the future. You arrive before it’s expensive.” CHAPTER 3 — Deals Are Power Users of RBM begin gaining advantages: Smarter tools Faster mobility Better opportunities Corporations notice something is wrong. Someone is disrupting their control. CHAPTER 4 — The Underground Rises RBM grows. More people gain access. The elite begin hunting the source. Revy watches from the shadows and says: “We don’t break systems. We expose their timing.” CORE THEMES Access vs privilege Technology as power Freedom through information The underground economy of the future FINAL MESSAGE RBM is not a store. It is a gateway. Tagline for final page: “Welcome to Revy’s Black Market — where the future is traded early.”
A young man name Ousugi Sakae looks out over a crowd of fascists (generic Imperial Eagle imagery) High, distant wide shot: protagonist small; world/crowd huge. Power imbalance. Telephoto compression Backlit silhouettes / blown-out sky Long, hard shadows at ground level: predators’ viewpoint. “Manga page with a grounded, paramilitary neo-noir style: realistic anatomy, weighty tactical gear (steel plates, cloth straps, gas masks, red-lensed goggles), late-1950s/’60s industrial city backdrop—concrete, rebar, rusted rail lines—night rain and fog, low-key lighting, desaturated blues/grays, cinematic 35mm framing, hard shadows, subtle film grain, crisp fine linework, dense hatching, high-contrast screentones, reserved facial expressions, somber atmosphere. Original characters only.”
Tassi Hangbé, la reine rossignol Sœur jumelle du roi Akaba, Tassi Hangbé, un peu oubliée par l’histoire, est la 5ème reine de la dynastie royale d’Abomey. Littéralement le nom hangbé signifie “la voix de la chanson” en langue fon d’Abomey. Depuis son enfance, celle qui n’était encore qu’une princesse du royaume avait pour passion la musique et chantait remarquablement bien. Avec ses belles chansons, elle égayait chaque soir les réunions entre son père et ses frères. L’histoire révèle même que les soirs où elle était absente, le roi et ses frères envoyaient des serviteurs l’appeler car ne pouvant se passer des douces mélodies de la princesse à qui le sobriquet ” hangbé ” fut donné. Cette appellation deviendra plus tard son nom officiel dans tout le royaume. La gouvernance de la reine Hangbé En 1708, alors que le roi Akaba meurt des suites d’une courte maladie pendant la guerre, sa sœur Tassi Hangbé présente à ses côtés décide de de garder le secret de sa mort pour ne pas démoraliser les troupes. Déguisée en son frère, elle prend le commandement de l’armée et mène les combats jusqu’à la victoire finale à Lissèzoun, où elle vainc le royaume de Wémè. À son retour à Abomey, le fils d’Akaba étant encore trop jeune pour régner, c’est Hangbé qui prend les rênes du royaume du Danxomè. Bien qu’aucune cérémonie officielle n’ait eu lieu, elle portait tous les symboles du pouvoir royal : les sandales sacrées (saloubata), le grand pagne décoré (avotita), la récade (mankpo). Reconnue et respectée comme souveraine, elle était toujours accompagnée du siège et du parasol royal. Elle recevait de tous le respect dû à son rang mais les réalités phallocratiques du royaume n’ont pas tardé à la rattraper. Le règne d’une femme dérangeait dans un contexte fortement dominé par les hommes. Au palais comme dans le reste du royaume, certains hommes manifestaient ouvertement leur indignation à l’idée de laisser une femme sur le trône de Houégbadja. Subissant complots et tensions familiales, qui lui coûtent notamment l’annulation de son mariage et la perte de deux fils, Hangbè finit par céder le pouvoir à son frère Dossou, intronisé en 1711 sous le nom d’Agadja. Malgré son règne très court, Tassi Hangbé reste une figure majeure de l’histoire du Danxomè. Proche de son peuple, attachée à la religion et aux arts, elle a surtout marqué son époque en mettant en valeur le rôle des femmes, notamment par la création du corps des Amazones, un héritage restructuré et renforcé par la suite plus tard par le roi Ghézo. Le combat féministe de la mère des amazones Selon Damien Mariano Agliti, guide à l’Office de tourisme de la région d’Abomey, « Tassi Hangbé a pris cette initiative pour donner une véritable place aux femmes au sein du royaume ». Son influence ne s’est pas arrêtée à ses quatre années de règne. Même après avoir quitté le trône, Nan Hangbé est restée une haute dignitaire respectée, intervenant activement dans les affaires du royaume — notamment lorsqu’elle s’opposa à son frère qui refusa de retourner le pouvoir au fils d’Akaba une fois celui-ci en âge de régner.Elle a aussi joué un rôle clé dans la reconnaissance des femmes dignitaires, appelées Tassi, facilement identifiables grâce à leurs pagnes souvent posés sur la tête. Aujourd’hui encore, à Abomey, une femme perpétue la tradition de la reine guerrière : elle occupe le trône de Tassi Hangbé, dirige les cultes annuels et veille sur les affaires de la collectivité Hangbé
**Panel 1** *Wide establishing shot of the pristine academy hallway—marble floors gleaming under crystal chandeliers, lockers lining walls that look like they belong in a palace rather than a school. Students in expensive uniforms part like the Red Sea. At the far end, a procession approaches: Furina, flanked by four perfectly groomed hangers-on, moves with the fluid arrogance of someone who owns the ground she walks on.* **Panel 2** *Close-up on Furina's face. Sunlight from tall windows catches the blue highlights in her hair and the diamond earrings that probably cost more than a car. Her eyes—sharp, theatrical, scanning the crowd with practiced disdain—suddenly lock onto something off-panel. The corner of her mouth twitches. Not a smile. A predator spotting prey.* **Panel 3** *Dramatic low angle from the protagonist's perspective (Riccardo, brown hair slightly messy, glasses catching the light, worn blazer clearly not from the same tailor as everyone else's). Furina's silhouette blocks the hallway light, her friends fanning out behind her like wings. The perspective makes her seem towering, inevitable.* **Panel 4** *Medium shot. Furina stops abruptly, one hand on her hip, the other adjusting her designer bag strap with deliberate casualness. Her friends giggle behind manicured hands, but Furina's attention is laser-focused. Her cheeks show the faintest hint of pink—barely visible, easily mistaken for the flush of excitement rather than what it really is.* **Panel 5** *Extreme close-up of Furina's lips. Glossy, curled into that cruel, performative smirk. The dialogue balloon drips with theatrical venom:* **"Well, well, well. Look who it is!"** **Panel 6** *Cut to her eyes—wide, almost too bright. The reflection in her pupils shows a tiny, distorted image of you. Her fingers, hidden behind her back in this shot, are clutching her phone so tight her knuckles are white. A small text bubble near her head, small and wavering, reveals her internal monologue (manga-style, grayed out):* *"He wore the blue shirt today... the one that matches his eyes..."* **Panel 7** *Wide shot of the confrontation. The hallway has gone quiet. Other students press against the walls, watching the ritual humiliation. Furina takes one step forward, invading personal space, her head tilted back to look down her nose at you despite the fact that you're taller. Her friends lean in, expecting the usual performance—the comments about your secondhand shoes, your patched bag, your "peasant" glasses.* **Panel 8** *Close-up on Furina's hand. It reaches out as if to flick your collar or snatch your glasses—her usual taunts—but freezes mid-air. The fingers tremble almost imperceptibly. She pulls back, crossing her arms instead, maintaining the fortress of her arrogance.*
Comic Title: The 5-Year Ping Theme: A story of high latency, hidden processes, and a final successful connection. Part 1: The Legacy Code (School Days) Visual: A split screen. On the left, Class 11, the boy looking at her across a classroom. On the right, The Last Day of School, the boy holding a letter, standing next to her empty chair. Caption: "The script was written years ago, but the environment was never stable enough to hit 'Run'." Dialogue (Boy's thoughts): “I waited for the perfect moment... but the perfect moment was a ghost.” Part 2: The Debugging Phase (College Years) Visual: Panels showing the chaos of 1st and 2nd year. Panel A: The crowded college bus with "Talkative Friends" as blurred background noise. Panel B (The Dare): The boy on the phone, sweating, asking her for "crush advice" while his friends laugh in the background. Panel C (The Fake Photo): The boy showing her a photo of a random girl on his phone. The girl looks interested, but the boy’s heart is shown as a "broken link" icon. Caption: "Sometimes, to protect the system, you have to run a decoy." Part 3: The 3rd Year Transition (The Near Miss) Theme: The broken logic of a missed opportunity. Visual 1: The golden hour light hitting the college main gate. The crowd of students is thinning out. The boy catches up to the girl just as she’s about to exit. Dialogue: * Boy: "Are you heading home right now?" Girl (turning with a smile): "Yeah, just leaving. Are you coming along?" Visual 2: A close-up of the boy’s face—a mix of conflict and regret. In the background, he sees his teammates or the work he has to finish, realizing he can't walk with her today. Dialogue: Boy: "I... I have to finish some work before I head out. I can’t join you today. You go ahead." Girl: "Oh, okay! Don't work too hard. See you!" Visual 3: A wide shot of the boy standing completely still by the gate as her figure shrinks into the distance. The long shadow of the college gate stretches toward him. Dialogue (The Internal Monologue): Boy (whispering): "Go home safely..." Caption: "A request was sent, but the path was blocked by circumstance. Status: 404 - Opportunity Not Found." Part 4: The Execution (The Night Call) Visual: A beautiful night scene. On one side of the page, the boy is walking under a single golden streetlight, phone to his ear. On the other side, the girl is tucked in her room, surrounded by books, smiling. Dialogue (1.5 hours in): * Girl: "So... be honest. Do you even talk to that crush of yours anymore?" Boy (Shaking, close-up on his face): "Actually... I'm talking to her right this second." Part 5: The "Loading" State Visual: A full-page spread. The girl’s face is a mix of shock and a deep, rising blush. Behind her, a faint, glowing "Loading... 99%" bar appears. Dialogue: Girl: "I... I can't process this much data at once." Boy: "I waited five years for the server to respond. I can wait a few more days for you." Final Visual: The boy looking up at the moon in the mountains (foreshadowing your Himachal trip). Closing Caption: "The connection is finally established. Status: Happy." Creative Elements to Include: Color Palette: Use cool blues and greys for the "missed" years, and shift into warm oranges and pinks for the phone call scene. The Symbol: Use the flower you mentioned (the one that bloomed 3 years ago) as a recurring symbol in the corners of the pages. The "God" Motif: In the background of the college scenes, you could have a small, subtle "halo" over the boy whenever she’s looking at him, showing how she admires him.
In a world where a few can bend probability through raw will, a quiet drifter named Kai Kurozawa discovers his gift isn’t luck—it’s a loaded weapon. Each choice twists the odds, but the universe charges interest. SERIES BIBLE (Concise) Power System — Will / Odds / Backlash • Dwellers: Rare individuals who can impose Tacks (micro‐edits to probability) via focused Will. • Odds: A visualized “grain” of reality; Dwellers sense vectors of likely outcomes as shimmering filaments. • Tacks: Intentional nudges (“make that rope snap,” “let the bus be 8 seconds late”). Each Tack accrues Fate Friction—stress that rebounds later as Backlash (nosebleeds → fractures → catastrophic karmic events). • Edges: Personal rituals or anchors (coin flips, mantras) that stabilize Will and reduce friction. • Zeroshift (mythic tier, late series): A liminal state where Odds are a silent ocean and Will is a blade—do not reveal yet. World • Haven District: Port-city sprawl; rusted rooftops, market alleys, flooded underpass murals. • Glassline Metro: Arteries of the city; reflective tunnels where odds feel “loud.” • The Quiet: A rumored zone where Odds stop moving—foreshadowing endgame forces. Factions • Municipal Risk Office (MRO): Bureau that tracks statistical anomalies; polite on paper, predatory in practice. • The Erased: Black-bag unit rumored to “remove” unstable Dwellers. Recurring Antagonists • Rael, “The Eraser”: Uncanny calm; his talent dampens other Dwellers’ Tacks in close range. He is the city’s whispered full stop. • Anti-Kai (Kairo Tsukami): Never named on-page yet. Thematic opposite of Kai—fixes outcomes by stealing other people’s Will. Themes • Choice vs. inevitability, the cost of power, anonymity in crowds, the math of mercy. VISUAL STYLE GUIDE (for art consistency) • Line: Clean, high-contrast inks; thin outline on faces, heavy shadows on urban geometry. • Tone: Filmic noir with sharp whites for the “Odds” filaments. • Odds Visualization: Fine hairline threads and moiré patterns drifting off objects; when Kai focuses, threads bloom like dandelion seeds frozen mid-gust. • SFX: Minimalist lettering, small caps with long em dashes for sustained sounds (e.g., VRRR—). • Panel Rhythm: Quiet micro-panels for intention → explode into wide panels for consequence. CAST (Core + Non-Dwellers — at least 5) Kai Kurozawa (17) • A drifter with a coin ritual. Soft voice, sharp eyes. Edge: Coin Flip. • Quirk: Counts his breaths when deciding; breath 7 is commitment. • Flaw: Terrified of being the cause. Mei Arakawa (19) — Journalism student, street photographer. Non-Dweller. • Brave to a fault; sees patterns in people. Keeps instant camera on wrist. Jun “Switch” Tanaka (18) — Electronics stall kid; builds things from city trash. Non-Dweller. • Grease smudges, perpetual grin, a tool roll like a scroll. Aya Mori (20) — Med student volunteering at a night clinic. Non-Dweller. • Steady hands; refuses to look away from ugly truths. Inspector Haruto Ishii (34) — MRO field officer. Non-Dweller. • Polite, dry, exhausted; catalogues “anomaly sites.” Koji Nakamura (52) — Market grocer. Non-Dweller. • Kind man, jokes in proverbs. (Mark as at risk in early arcs.) Daichi (12) — Rooftop runner, orphan. Non-Dweller. • Knows every shortcut; sells maps he draws by hand. Rael (??) — “The Eraser.” Dweller. • Neutral face; shoes make no sound. The city gets quiet when he arrives. HIDDEN SEEDS in Chapter One • Page 3: A passerby with a ring—three triangular prongs. Later revealed as an Erased marker. • Page 17: Black van reflection in puddle (MRO plate pattern: 131-21). • Page 28: Blank spot in Kai’s Odds vision (Rael’s signature dampening at distance). • Final Page: A second coin in gutter, heads scratched with a thin inverted cross (Anti-Kai sigil—unexplained). CHAPTER ONE: PAGE-BY-PAGE SCRIPT & STORYBOARD Length: 36 pages (tankōbon pacing). Goal: Introduce Kai, demonstrate low-tier Tack, show cost, hook with a moral pivot.
In a world where a few can bend probability through raw will, a quiet drifter named Kai Kurozawa discovers his gift isn’t luck—it’s a loaded weapon. Each choice twists the odds, but the universe charges interest. SERIES BIBLE (Concise) Power System — Will / Odds / Backlash • Dwellers: Rare individuals who can impose Tacks (micro‐edits to probability) via focused Will. • Odds: A visualized “grain” of reality; Dwellers sense vectors of likely outcomes as shimmering filaments. • Tacks: Intentional nudges (“make that rope snap,” “let the bus be 8 seconds late”). Each Tack accrues Fate Friction—stress that rebounds later as Backlash (nosebleeds → fractures → catastrophic karmic events). • Edges: Personal rituals or anchors (coin flips, mantras) that stabilize Will and reduce friction. • Zeroshift (mythic tier, late series): A liminal state where Odds are a silent ocean and Will is a blade—do not reveal yet. World • Haven District: Port-city sprawl; rusted rooftops, market alleys, flooded underpass murals. • Glassline Metro: Arteries of the city; reflective tunnels where odds feel “loud.” • The Quiet: A rumored zone where Odds stop moving—foreshadowing endgame forces. Factions • Municipal Risk Office (MRO): Bureau that tracks statistical anomalies; polite on paper, predatory in practice. • The Erased: Black-bag unit rumored to “remove” unstable Dwellers. Recurring Antagonists • Rael, “The Eraser”: Uncanny calm; his talent dampens other Dwellers’ Tacks in close range. He is the city’s whispered full stop. • Anti-Kai (Kairo Tsukami): Never named on-page yet. Thematic opposite of Kai—fixes outcomes by stealing other people’s Will. Themes • Choice vs. inevitability, the cost of power, anonymity in crowds, the math of mercy. VISUAL STYLE GUIDE (for art consistency) • Line: Clean, high-contrast inks; thin outline on faces, heavy shadows on urban geometry. • Tone: Filmic noir with sharp whites for the “Odds” filaments. • Odds Visualization: Fine hairline threads and moiré patterns drifting off objects; when Kai focuses, threads bloom like dandelion seeds frozen mid-gust. • SFX: Minimalist lettering, small caps with long em dashes for sustained sounds (e.g., VRRR—). • Panel Rhythm: Quiet micro-panels for intention → explode into wide panels for consequence. CAST (Core + Non-Dwellers — at least 5) Kai Kurozawa (17) • A drifter with a coin ritual. Soft voice, sharp eyes. Edge: Coin Flip. • Quirk: Counts his breaths when deciding; breath 7 is commitment. • Flaw: Terrified of being the cause. Mei Arakawa (19) — Journalism student, street photographer. Non-Dweller. • Brave to a fault; sees patterns in people. Keeps instant camera on wrist. Jun “Switch” Tanaka (18) — Electronics stall kid; builds things from city trash. Non-Dweller. • Grease smudges, perpetual grin, a tool roll like a scroll. Aya Mori (20) — Med student volunteering at a night clinic. Non-Dweller. • Steady hands; refuses to look away from ugly truths. Inspector Haruto Ishii (34) — MRO field officer. Non-Dweller. • Polite, dry, exhausted; catalogues “anomaly sites.” Koji Nakamura (52) — Market grocer. Non-Dweller. • Kind man, jokes in proverbs. (Mark as at risk in early arcs.) Daichi (12) — Rooftop runner, orphan. Non-Dweller. • Knows every shortcut; sells maps he draws by hand. Rael (??) — “The Eraser.” Dweller. • Neutral face; shoes make no sound. The city gets quiet when he arrives. HIDDEN SEEDS in Chapter One • Page 3: A passerby with a ring—three triangular prongs. Later revealed as an Erased marker. • Page 17: Black van reflection in puddle (MRO plate pattern: 131-21). • Page 28: Blank spot in Kai’s Odds vision (Rael’s signature dampening at distance). • Final Page: A second coin in gutter, heads scratched with a thin inverted cross (Anti-Kai sigil—unexplained). CHAPTER ONE: PAGE-BY-PAGE SCRIPT & STORYBOARD Length: 36 pages (tankōbon pacing). Goal: Introduce Kai, demonstrate low-tier Tack, show cost, hook with a moral pivot.
# **MANGA — CHAPTER 1: THE UNKNOWN CREST** **Chapter Length:** ~45–55 pages **Style:** Clean fantasy lineart • strong lighting contrast • cinematic paneling --- ## **PAGE 1 (OPENING SPLASH)** **Full-page splash** A quiet classroom bathed in warm morning light. Dust floats in the air. Caption (top corner): **“Ordinary days don’t announce their end.”** --- ## **PAGES 2–5 — THE TEN STUDENTS** **Page 2** * Panel 1: Ayane solving equations effortlessly, chalk flying. * Panel 2: Ren smirking at a chess app on his phone (phone hidden under desk). * Panel 3: Mika sketching a horned monster—its eyes seem *almost alive*. **Page 3** * Panel 1: Haru stretching lazily at the back. * Panel 2: Yui asleep, sunlight on her face. * Panel 3: Shin typing rapidly, code reflected in his glasses. **Page 4** * Panel 1: Emi flipping flashcards, focused. * Panel 2: Daichi holding a mechanical puzzle. * Panel 3: Daiki leaning over, correcting him—twin synergy. **Page 5** * Panel 1 (wide): Sora staring out the window at the sky. * Panel 2 (close-up): Kaito’s notebook—**blank page**, only his name written. * Panel 3: Kaito’s eyes, observant but unsure. Caption: *“Everyone shines. Except me.”* --- ## **PAGES 6–8 — THE SUMMONING** **Page 6** * Panel 1: Classroom lights flicker. * Panel 2: Students look around, confused. * Panel 3 (low angle): Faint glowing symbols under desks. **Page 7** * Panel 1: Magic circle fully forms across the floor. * Panel 2: Wind explodes—papers and desks lift. * Panel 3: Students screaming as light engulfs them. **Page 8** * Full black page. Small white text in center: **“….”** --- ## **PAGES 9–12 — ANOTHER WORLD** **Page 9** * Panel 1: Kaito’s eyes snap open. * Panel 2: Cold marble beneath his hand. **Page 10** * Double-page spread: **Grand Summoning Hall**—crystal pillars, floating chandeliers, glowing runes. **Page 11** * Panels of knights surrounding them, weapons raised. * Students huddle together, panicked. **Page 12** * Tall figure steps forward—robes flowing. * Close-up of calm, ancient eyes. Caption: **“Archmage Eldorion.”** --- ## **PAGES 13–16 — THE TRUTH** **Page 13** * Eldorion explaining with a magic projection of the world cracking. **Page 14** * Visual metaphors: * A brain overlaid with magic circuits. * Symbols for logic, memory, creativity, empathy. Page 15 Students’ reactions—fear, determination, disbelief. Page 16 * Kaito silent in the back. Thought bubble: *“Intelligence… then why me?”* --- PAGES 17–26 — CREST AWAKENING **Page 17** * Crest Chamber revealed—massive, glowing apparatus. Pages 18–22 * Montage panels: * Crests manifesting clearly. * Fire, wind, light, calculation-based magic. * Chamber stable… controlled. Page 23 * Kaito steps forward. * Eldorion watching closely. Page 24 * The device flickers. * Runes shatter. * Darkness bleeds into the chamber. Page 25 Full-page spread: Kaito’s crest forming—**shifting, glitching, absorbing light. Page 26 * Eldorion’s shocked expression. Text (bold): “An Unknown Crest…? PAGES 27–34 — CONSEQUENCES** Page 27 * Outside the capital—alarm bells ringing. Page 28 * Rift tears open. * Massive silhouette emerging. Page 29 RIFT BEAST reveal—jagged, unstable form. Pages 30–32 * Students on battlements. * Some activate crests instinctively. * Minor monsters repelled. Page 33 Kaito trembling. His crest pulses faintly. Page 34 Magic around him stabilizes—cracks sealing without explosion. Others don’t notice. PAGES 35–40 — THE CHOICE Page 35 Eldorion shouting retreat orders. Page 36 Students pulling back. Page 37 Kaito watching the beast roar. Page 38 Close-up: fist clenched. Page 39 * He steps forward alone. * Air distorts around him. Page 40 * Crest glowing softly—*not violently*. --- PAGE 41 (FINAL PAGE — CLIFFHANGER) Full-page close-up Kaito’s calm eyes reflecting the Rift Beast. Bold text at the bottom: “If I can stop it… then I will.” NEXT CHAPTER PREVIEW “The First Battle — When Magic Breaks Its Own Rules."
半分の君 Romaji: Hanbun no Kimi Meaning: “Half of You” At Hoshizora Academy, the Compatibility Program forces second year students to live together like married couples — cooking, cleaning, studying, sharing a dorm unit, and being graded on emotional sync. High scores mean scholarships. Low scores mean repeating the year. The program is infamous for creating bonds that feel too real and exposing feelings students try to hide. Ignatius Arimura enters the year hoping to stay invisible. He’s quiet, introverted, and still carrying the ache of a breakup he never healed from. Aoi Kisaragi was his first love — the girl who made him feel alive, and the girl who walked away from him without ever explaining why. Aoi hides her guilt behind her bright smile, convincing herself she’s moved on to Ren. Ignatius tells himself he likes Mina because it’s easier than admitting he still aches for Aoi. When the pairing announcement arrives, Aoi silently begs for Ren. Ignatius silently hopes for Mina. Both pray they won’t be paired with each other. But fate is cruel. Their names appear together with a compatibility score of 12%, the lowest in the program. The room goes silent. Aoi’s smile cracks. Ignatius’s heart sinks. Moving into the same dorm feels like reopening a wound neither of them survived. Their first days together are a disaster. Aoi’s loud music, Ignatius’s quiet routines, her clutter, his need for order — everything clashes. Their first evaluation ends in failure. But when Ignatius freezes during a public speaking assignment, Aoi steps in without hesitation, her voice steady, her hand brushing his as she takes over. For a moment, it feels like the version of them that used to exist. Their score rises to 18%, and Ignatius realizes with a painful twist that he never stopped caring. Seeing Mina and Ren working together so naturally only deepens the ache. Aoi watches Ren laugh with Mina in a way he never laughed with her. Ignatius watches Mina shine beside Ren and wonders if he ever had a chance. Both feel jealousy they refuse to acknowledge. That night, Aoi cries quietly in the bathroom, and Ignatius hears her through the door. He stands there, hand hovering over the handle, but he doesn’t know if he’s allowed to comfort her anymore. They eventually agree to a truce and create a “Compatibility Strategy Plan.” Cooking together leads to soft laughter. Communication drills turn into arguments that somehow end with them smiling. Late night study sessions blur into moments where they forget they’re supposed to be exes. They fall asleep on opposite ends of the couch, but each night they wake up a little closer. Their score jumps to 41%. Aoi wakes one morning with Ignatius’s jacket draped over her shoulders. She doesn’t ask why. He doesn’t tell her. And then comes the chapter that changes everything. One night, after a long study session, Aoi falls asleep at the table, her head resting on her arms. Ignatius tries to wake her, but she mumbles something soft and exhausted, and he can’t bring himself to shake her. He sits beside her, meaning to stay only a moment. But he’s tired too. He rests his head on his folded arms, inches from hers. The room is warm. The silence is gentle. Without meaning to, they drift off together. When they wake, the sun is rising. Aoi’s head is resting on Ignatius’s shoulder. His hand is loosely holding hers. Their breaths are slow and in sync, like they’ve been sleeping together for years. For a long moment, neither moves. Neither speaks. The world feels fragile, like one wrong word could shatter it. Aoi’s cheeks turn pink. Ignatius’s heart races. They pull away slowly, reluctantly, as if their bodies haven’t caught up to their minds. Their score jumps to 52% the next day, and the teachers quietly note that their emotional sync spiked overnight. Aoi begins noticing Ignatius again — the way he concentrates, the way he softens when he’s comfortable, the way he still remembers her favorite snacks. Ignatius begins noticing Aoi’s hidden fears — her loneliness behind her popularity, her pressure to be perfect, the way she tries so hard not to disappoint anyone. They move around each other like a married couple who never learned how to stop caring. They share toothbrush cups, laundry baskets, late night ramen, sleepy mornings, and quiet moments that feel too intimate for two people who claim they’re over each other. During the festival test, their booth becomes the most popular attraction. Aoi turns down a confession from another boy, her voice trembling. Ignatius gets flustered when Mina compliments him, and Aoi notices the way he blushes. Their score jumps to 63%. That night, Aoi quietly asks him if he ever hated her after the breakup. Ignatius can’t answer. He can’t lie. The silence between them is thick with everything they never said. Rumors spread that pairs might be reassigned. Aoi panics at the thought of losing her chance with Ren. Ignatius panics at the thought of losing Mina. But beneath those fears is something heavier: neither of them wants to be separated from each other. Aoi cries alone on the balcony, and Ignatius silently places a blanket over her shoulders. She doesn’t turn around, but she leans into the warmth. They stand there together, the distance between them shrinking in ways neither of them can deny. A storm knocks out the power one night, leaving them in darkness with no cameras, no expectations, no pretending. They talk honestly for the first time in months. Aoi admits she’s tired of being the strong one. Ignatius admits he’s tired of being the quiet one. They sit close, closer than they have since before the breakup, sharing warmth in the dark. Aoi falls asleep with her head on his shoulder again. Ignatius doesn’t move. Their emotional sync test the next morning hits 92%, the highest in the program. As Ren and Mina grow closer, Aoi and Ignatius realize their old crushes were fantasies — safe illusions they clung to because they were afraid of the real thing. The real connection is the one they’ve rebuilt: messy, painful, warm, and real. They act like a married couple — cooking together, arguing, laughing, sharing space, sharing silence — but they’re not lovers. Not yet. They’re something in between, something fragile and terrifying and impossible to name. When the reassignment list is posted, Aoi’s hands shake and K Ignatius’s heart pounds. They scan the list, terrified. Their names remain together. Not because of luck. Not because of the system. But because they earned it. Aoi turns to him, eyes shining with something fragile and hopeful, and whispers, “Ignatius … can we try again?” He takes her hand gently, like she might break, and says, “Yeah. This time… let’s not run.” They’re not lovers. Not yet. But they’re closer than they’ve ever been — a pair who lives like a married couple, fights like rivals, and holds each other like home.
Anime watercolor style illustration of melui walking through a sunflower field, wind blowing petals, warm tones, serene mood, gentle lighting
Style: Colored, mature realistic manga. Soft cinematic lighting. Warm indoor tones. Mood: Intimate, calm, slow tension. No exaggeration. ⸻ Panel 1 (Top – wide shot) Bus arriving in Utena. Cold outdoor tones (blue/grey). She stepping off the bus with a small bag. Caption: This time, I went to him. ⸻ Panel 2 Inside his apartment. Warm lighting (soft yellow/orange). Table with sushi boxes. They are sitting across from each other, relaxed. Caption: We had sushi at his place. ⸻ Panel 3 Living room. Dim lighting. Evening mood. She lying slightly on the couch. He sitting close beside her. No text. ⸻ Panel 4 (Close-up, emotional focus) Faces very close. Warm shadows. Soft skin tones. Almost a kiss — tension visible. Small caption (choose one): Option A: He was very close. Option B (more cinematic): Just a breath away. .
Blair is a young warrior in his mid 20s with a short beard and a short mustache. He has short brown hair and is 5'7. Lilith is the demon of lust, crimson skin with horns, demonic wings and sharp claws. Lilith is 6 ft tall, taller then Blair. The story starts with Blair infiltrating Lilith's castle. He makes his way to Lilith's throne room where he confronts her, sitting on her throne. Blair readies his sword, however Lilith is completely calm. She rises from her throne and walks towards him. She seduces him with her words, inviting him close to her, all he has to do is put down his sword. Blair puts down his sword, seduced by Lilith and makes his way to her. Lilith embraces Blair and the two kiss.
Blair is a young warrior in his mid 20s with a short beard and a short mustache. He has short brown hair and is 5'7. Lilith is the demon of lust, crimson skin with horns, demonic wings and sharp claws. Lilith is 6 ft tall, taller then Blair. The story starts with Blair infiltrating Lilith's castle. He makes his way to Lilith's throne room where he confronts her, sitting on her throne. Blair readies his sword, however Lilith is completely calm. She rises from her throne and walks towards him. She seduces him with her words, inviting him close to her, all he has to do is put down his sword. Blair puts down his sword, seduced by Lilith and makes his way to her. Lilith embraces Blair and the two kiss.
2. Feature I – Foundations of a Movement Manga scenes of Indigenous community meetings under trees or in community halls. Researchers and elders planning together, drawn with realistic proportions but manga expressions and motion lines. Soft infographic overlays showing TORs, workflow, and partnership webs. Warm, earthy tones.
A young woman born into an aristocratic family is gently talking with a humble farm worker. Despite the clear difference in their social status, she feels drawn to his sincerity and quiet strength. As they speak, warm sunlight falls over a vast field of blooming sunflowers, swaying softly in the summer breeze. Their conversation is calm and intimate, filled with unspoken feelings, as if the world around them has faded away, leaving only the two of them in that golden moment.
Style: Colored, mature realistic manga. Night atmosphere. Intimate, cinematic lighting. Panel 1 Still inside the white Kia Sorento. Quiet moment. Engine off. Night outside. Dialogue (him): “Would you like to be my girlfriend?” ⸻ Panel 2 (Close-up on you) Soft smile. Warm lighting. ⸻ Panel 3 You answer yes (subtle nod or smile). ⸻ Panel 4 (Exterior night shot) White Kia Sorento from outside. Silhouettes inside. Streetlight glow. Caption: That’s when it became real.
"Hungry Cat" Panel 1: Cat stares at empty food bowl. Panel 2: Cat meows loudly at sleeping owner in bed. Panel 3: Owner fills the food bowl, looking sleepy and annoyed. Panel 4: Cat ignores the food and sleeps in the empty box the cat food came in.
Style: Colored, mature realistic manga. Night atmosphere. Intimate, cinematic lighting. Mood: Soft tension → release. ⸻ Panel 1 (Wide, inside the car at night) Parked car. Dark outside. Soft street light coming through the window. They’re sitting close but not touching yet. Small caption: Later… he came to see me again. ⸻ Panel 2 (Closer shot) Inside the car. Serious eye contact. Hands resting close but not touching. Dialogue (him): “Can I kiss you?” ⸻ Panel 3 (No text) The kiss. Soft, slow, not dramatic. Warm light from outside hitting their faces. No caption. Let the image breathe. ⸻ Panel 4 (Quiet moment after) Foreheads almost touching. Calm. Slight smiles. Small caption (optional): And everything changed
🟣 SCENE 1 — HINGE: THE FIRST MESSAGE Date: 17 September 2025 | Night Prompt: Vertical webtoon panel. Ameen lying on his bed in a dark room, ceiling fan shadows moving slowly. Phone light illuminates his face, eyes focused, slightly amused smile forming. Cut to second panel: Ayesha sitting cross-legged on her bed, confident posture, glasses slightly slipping down her nose, smirk on her lips as she types. Minimal background, focus on faces and phone glow. Details: Pencil sketch lines on hands and face Soft warm watercolor lighting Chat bubbles floating like thoughts Dialogue (optional): Ayesha: “So… are you actually interesting?” Ameen (thought): “Oh. She’s trouble.”
On a quiet winter morning, Haru wakes up feeling strange. The blanket feels heavier, his hands look smaller, and his voice sounds softer. A gentle warmth spreads through his body, unfamiliar yet oddly comforting. Snowflakes drift outside the window, casting a soft glow into the room. Mio enters, calling his name with concern. Her eyes widen as she sees him — changed, quiet, confused. She doesn’t panic. Instead, she calmly says she’ll prepare clothes and guide him through this. Moments later, Haru stands in the bathroom, staring at his reflection. His body is different, but the warmth remains. Mio leaves a soft, neutral outfit outside the door — nothing flashy, just something safe and comforting. After the shower, Haru dresses slowly, adjusting to the new sensations. He walks into the kitchen where Mio waits with a warm meal. She smiles gently and says, “You’re okay… I’m here.” The snow continues to fall outside, but inside, everything feels still — like the beginning of something new.
screenshot of a anime boy who is 12-13 years old personality kind helpful and stubborn he with a smile on his face Spiky anime-style hair: hair color Warm caramel / light copper → soft, approachable, kind but still adventurous eyes color pick for Cakiro: Amber / golden brown eyes skin color Peachy / light apricot skin outfit Page 3 His eyes open halfway. Amber-golden, still unfocused. He squints at the ceiling, then shuts them again. “Five more minutes…” he mutters. The room remains quiet.
Manga japanese style, full color, poetic cinematic lighting, abandoned house interior, warm sunlight entering through broken windows. Three kids hiding behind old furniture making playful scary noises, while the other two are just entering the house, slightly scared at first, then everyone laughing when they realize it is a joke. Dramatic but playful mood, dusty air, soft light rays. Pascale, Simón, Luciano, Rafa and Martu present in scene. Preserve character identity strictly. No text, no speech bubbles, no watermark.
A day before Dorian and Eris were set to leave for the National School, Rosswood and Rosalia visited the orphanage to give their best wishes. The children were delighted, the air filled with laughter and anticipation. Over tea, Rosalia smiled warmly at the two. “Dorian, Eris, we are so proud of you. You have a bright future ahead at the National School.” Rosswood, however, carried a heavier expression. He gave Zenta a subtle signal. Understanding, Zenta stood and announced, “Rosswood and I need to step out for some grocery shopping. We’ll be back soon.” Jenet and Rosalia nodded knowingly, keeping the children unaware.
Black and white manga-style panel showing a dramatic falling perspective from a tall building. The view looks straight downward into a realistic cityscape with clearly defined rectangular buildings, straight streets, and proper urban grid layout. Strong radial speed lines and controlled motion blur converge toward the center to emphasize extreme height and vertigo, without distorting building shapes. No character body visible at all — no hands, no arms, no silhouette, no human anatomy. Only the falling perspective and the city below. Clean monochrome manga line art, high contrast, sharp city details, dynamic motion lines. Two small white speech bubbles near the top contain the text: “Huh?” and “This…” One large white speech bubble at the bottom contains bold manga-style lettering: “Aaaaaaa!!!! NOOOO!!!!!” Classic Japanese manga panel composition, black and white only, dramatic tension, clear perspective, controlled motion effects. Negative prompt: hands, arms, fingers, body parts, human silhouette, character anatomy, abstract city, distorted buildings, warped architecture, surreal shapes, painterly blur, soft focus, sketchy background
A young witch tries to hide from the Inquisition in a dark forest
Page 1-2: Preparing for Eid Scene: The girls are sitting in the living room, talking about Eid " Meg: "I am so excited for Eid, but I feel sad for people who don't have enough ".Jo: "Yes... some children might not get any gifts or food "?Beth: "Maybe we can do something small to help them "?Meg: "What if we make them happy with little presents or sweets ".Jo: "That sounds nice! We can plan it together "Mom: "Ilove your idea, girls. Eid is not just for receiving, it's also for giving Page 3-4: Planning Scene: The girls discuss what each will do "Meg: "I think I can bake some sweets and share them "?Jo: "I will make some simple toys for the children. What do you think "Beth: "I have old clothes that I don't use. I can give them too "Meg: "That's perfect! Everyone can do something ". Jo: "Yes, we will make a small gift for each child "Mom:"| will collect all your gifts, and we can go together to give them Page 5-6: Working Together .Scene: The girls are busy preparing their gifts and food "!Meg: " like baking sweets, it smells so good ". Jo: "Making toys is fun, but I hope they will like them "Beth: "'m folding the clothes nicely. I hope they feel warm "Meg: "'m so happy we are doing this together ". Jo: "Yes, working together makes it even more fun "Beth: "Seeing them happy will make our Eid even better Page 7-8: Distributing Gifts Scene: Outside, the family gives food and gifts to the children "Beth: "Look at their smiles! They are so happy "Meg: "I feel so good giving them sweets "Jo: "It's amazing to see their faces light up ".Mom: "The joy of giving is much bigger than receiving "Meg: "I didn't know helping others could feel this wonderful "!Jo: "Yes... this is the real spirit of Eid Page 9-10: Returning Home .Scene: The girls walk home, feeling proud and happy "!Jo: "This is the best Eid I have ever had "Meg: "I agree. It feels better than any big gift ".Beth: "I want to do this every year *Mom: "That is the true meaning of Eid, helping others "Meg: " will always remember this feeling of joy "!Jo: "Next year, we can do even more Page 11-12: Ending Scene: The family sits for Eid breakfast, happy and laughing "Beth: "We should always help those in need "Meg: "Yes, let's make it a family tradition ".Jo: "A part of every Eid will go to the poor from now on "Mom: "I am proud of you girls. Giving makes Eid brighter for everyone "Meg: " love our family's Eid plan Jo: "And Ilove seeing everyone smile
Haruto’s team reaches the Ice Castle. Kiyomi rejoins them. The caravans prepare for battle. Hikari, conflicted, waits alone, torn between loyalty and the warmth Haruto showed her. The final confrontation looms. Characters: Haruto, Yukari, Hideki, Kiyomi, Tsaritsa, Hikari, Hiroshi, Setsuna
Page 1 The stadium roars. A sea of voices crashes like waves—cheering, screaming, gasping. Scoreboard blinks: 2 - 2. High school finals. Last minute. The ball cuts through the air— Passed to Kisaki. Page 2 Eyes lock onto him. Number 10. The prodigy. The pressure. His breath slows. He plants his left foot. Right leg coils like a spring. “This is it.” Page 3 The crowd holds its breath. Time freezes. Kisaki’s eyes narrow. He swings. BOOM. The ball flies— Page 4 —wide. Silence. Then— Gasps. Shock. Disbelief. Page 5 Coach: “KISAKI!!!” Teammates: “No way…” Opponents: stunned. Kisaki: Blank. Empty. He stares at the goal. Then— He drops. Knees hit the turf. Head down. Hands trembling. Page 6 TWEEEEET. Final whistle. It’s over. Kisaki doesn’t move. The crowd erupts again—this time, not for him. He’s alone in the noise. A hero fallen. A dream missed. A moment that will haunt.
Blair is a young warrior in his mid 20s with a short beard and a short mustache. He has short brown hair and is 5'7. Lilith is the demon of lust, crimson skin with horns, demonic wings and sharp claws. Lilith has glowing crimson eyes. The story continues as Blair kneels before Lilith who is now twice his height. She summons a mirror in front of them both as she stands behind Blair, who can see their height difference. She proceeds to taunt him, reminding him that she owns him now. Lilith proceeds to lift up one leg and place her foot on top of Blair's head as they stand in front of the mirror, commanding him to kneel and reflect on my status as a man which Blair does.
The main character wakes up in an abandoned prison cell with a watch on his wrist projecting a green light. The color of the light depicts how "sane" the person wearing it is and how close they are to becoming a monster. The main character explores the prison finding keys and clues on how they got there. As he learns more, he tries to find a way to stop what's going on and cure himself before he becomes a monster.
, there was a tiny oil lamp that sat in the corner of a temple. It was not as bright as the big lamps and not as beautiful either. One night, a strong wind blew and all the big lamps went out. Only the little lamp stayed lit, protecting its flame with its small glass cover. Because of that tiny light, people could find their way and relight the others. The little lamp learned that night: you don’t need to be big to make a big difference.
A pleasant day in Swastik Residency, Thane. Children can be heard playing games in the Society playground. Amidst the Jolly mood of the society, A rather timid boy sits in the verandah glancing over his book, on the blissful interactions he sought after. Enter Archit, our main character. He was a bright boy and a quick learner. However, appearance-wise, He was just any other boy, you'd find every 2 doors. He would have loved to go play with others if not for his series of tests at his school soon. However, he had some friends who’d come to visit him & study with him. One of them was Jash, also known as "J wala Jash”. Archit hoped at least he would visit on this gloomy day, and so did he. Jash came in and started bothering Archit. He pulled him and asked him to stop being a bookworm for once. Archit was enraged, yet Jash had a point. It had been ages since he had a nice walk, so he agreed. Jash told him he had something to show Archit. Curious, yet nonchalant, they walked the length of their lodge all the way to the nearest elevator. But something was strange. Archit had never seen Jash so excited about something. The elevator dinged and they teetered out the apartment into the large open space. That’s when Archit realised Jash was dressed rather well for a normal day. A matte-brown corduroy over a pleasant white Tee. His trousers hung low yet went well with his outfit he had a musk essence coming off of him. While our man, well, he looked as if he had just woke up from a nightmare and wet his pants. Yet they trotted their way all the way through the society gates to the main road. Archit having not walked for a while, felt tired and uninterested in whatever Jash was so excited about. Jash took Archit to the famous “Tapas Ke Golgappe”. It was a Pani puri shop famous for its “Dhaakan Pani Puri”. Archit slightly annoyed asked the reason for visiting a Pani Puri shop, when he had so much work to do. Jash informed that they were waiting for someone, just a few more minutes. Jash convinced Archit to stay by buying him a ‘Golgappa’ plate while treating himself to Sev puri. While eating a golgappa, Archit saw a charming girl come over. She was gorgeous and stunning. Her smile kept his mouth gape open. Then all of a sudden, Jash took hold of her and introduced her to Archit as his girlfriend. Bamboozled, Archita choked on his golgappa and coughed the life out of him. The girl pitied and grinned at Archit's sorry state. The girl introduced herself as Paulami, Her voice, honey to Archit's ears. At that moment, Archit experienced something, he had never experienced before. his stomach. tickled and his face turned red. Her voice echoed in his ears and his face couldn't stop smiling. Jash & Paulami held each other's hands and started talking like lovebirds. The conversation could be interpreted as a script for a romantic movie. The more they talked, the closer they got. Even the reader could predict what was gonna happen next. Both the lovebirds leaned in for a kiss when it was interrupted by a loud, hoarse voice. from the owner Tapas, “DON'T DO THIS TAATI POTTY IN FRONT OF MY SHOP, DHAAKAN". Scared the shit out of them. The Trio ran all the way home never stopping once. Jash bid Archit farewell and led Paulami to his house. Archit walked back home, thinking of this Newfound feeling. Was it Love? Or was it Hormones? He could never know until they met again. The only thing he could focus on now was recovering from Tapas’ Trauma.
Volume 1 – Spring & First Love Title: When the Bell Rang Twice – Volume 1 Chapters: 10 Tone: Light, tender, school romance, slow-burn ⸻ Chapter 1 – The Seat by the Window Page 1 • Panel 1: Wide shot of classroom, morning sun through windows. Students settling. • Narration (Mio’s thoughts): “Another spring… another year at this school.” • Panel 2: Teacher at front, pointing to empty desk. • Teacher: “New student, Akiyama Haru. Window seat, next to Yamada Mio.” • Panel 3: Close-up of Mio, surprised, glancing at new student entering. • Mio (thought): He looks… different. Page 2 • Panel 1: Haru sits beside Mio, smiling awkwardly. • Haru: “Hi… hope I’m not in your way.” • Panel 2: Mio blushes slightly, returning a small smile. • Mio (thought): Why does my heart feel funny? • Panel 3: Close-up of both hands reaching for an eraser at the same time. Fingers touch. • Panel 4: Soft focus on their surprised expressions. • Narration: “A spark, small as it was, somehow lingered.” ⸻ Chapter 2 – Small Gestures Page 3 • Panel 1: Lunchtime, Mio eating alone at her desk. • Panel 2: Haru walks up, holding a milk carton. • Haru: “You forgot this.” • Panel 3: Mio blushes, accepting it. • Mio (thought): He notices me… • Panel 4: Hallway shot of them walking side by side after class. • Narration: “We didn’t say much, but every step together felt meaningful.” Page 4 • Panel 1: Rainstorm outside. Students rushing. • Panel 2: Haru holding an umbrella for Mio. • Haru: “We can share.” • Panel 3: Close-up: their shoulders touching. • Panel 4: Mio’s inner thought: Please don’t let this end. ⸻ Chapter 3 – Cultural Festival Page 5 • Panel 1: Festival night, lanterns glowing. Wide shot of the school yard. • Panel 2: Mio in a simple yukata, looking around nervously. • Panel 3: Haru approaches, pauses, amazed. • Haru: “…Wow.” • Panel 4: Close-up: fireworks exploding behind them, illuminating their faces. • Narration (Mio’s thoughts): “A perfect moment I wished could last forever.” ⸻ Chapter 4 – Illness Revealed Page 6 • Panel 1: Haru coughing during class, looking pale. • Panel 2: Mio discreetly slides a note: “Are you okay?” • Panel 3: Haru writes back on paper: “Just tired. Don’t worry.” with a small smile. Page 7 • Panel 1: Hallway after school. Mio watches him leave. • Panel 2: Inner thought: Something feels wrong… but I can’t ask. ⸻ Chapter 5 – Growing Closer Page 8 • Panel 1: Rooftop scene at sunset. Haru looks out over the school yard. • Panel 2: Mio approaches, hesitant. • Mio: “Do you come here often?” • Haru: “Yeah… it’s peaceful.” • Panel 3: Their hands almost touch. Close-up. • Narration: “Small closeness became our secret.” Page 9 • Panel 1: Side-by-side flashback panels of their shared laughs, sketching together, walking home in rain. • Panel 2: Close-up of their intertwined fingers, subtle blushes. • Panel 3: Wide rooftop shot, petals drifting in the wind. • Narration: “I didn’t know then that this happiness was fragile.” Chapter 6 – Rainy Confession (Foreshadowing) Page 10 • Panel 1: Heavy rain outside school. Students rush with umbrellas. • Panel 2: Mio walks alone, holding her sketchbook. Haru appears under a nearby umbrella. • Haru: “Hey… want to walk together?” • Panel 3: They walk, shoulders touching slightly. Close-up on their hands almost brushing. • Panel 4: Mio’s thoughts: Every time we touch, my heart skips… Page 11 • Panel 1: Close-up of Haru, smiling softly, slightly pale. • Haru (thought): I wish this moment could last forever. • Panel 2: Mio looks down, quiet blush. • Panel 3: Their feet step in the same puddle accidentally. Splash. • Panel 4: They both laugh. Narration: “Little things became everything.” ⸻ Chapter 7 – Festival Confession Attempt Page 12 • Panel 1: Rooftop at school festival, night sky, fireworks. • Panel 2: Mio hesitates, looking at Haru. • Mio (thinking): I want to tell him… but… • Panel 3: Haru leans against the railing, smiling nervously. • Haru: “Mio… I—” • Panel 4: He staggers slightly, clutching his chest. Mio catches him. • Panel 5: Close-up of their shocked faces. • Narration: “Life has a way of interrupting perfect moments.” ⸻ Chapter 8 – Hospital White Page 13 • Panel 1: Hospital hallway. Soft sunlight through windows. • Panel 2: Mio sits outside Haru’s room, clutching her sketchbook. • Panel 3: Doctor approaches. • Doctor: “He’s hiding a serious illness… it’s better you know the truth now.” • Panel 4: Close-up of Mio’s tear-filled eyes. • Mio (thought): I should have known… Page 14 • Panel 1: Haru lies in hospital bed, pale but smiling at Mio. • Panel 2: Mio holds his hand. • Mio: “Please… don’t leave me.” • Panel 3: Haru gently squeezes her hand. • Haru: “I’ll fight… but if I can’t… remember me, okay?” • Panel 4: Close-up: Mio nods, tears streaming. • Narration: “Even in fragile moments, love feels eternal.” ⸻ Chapter 9 – First Kiss Page 15 • Panel 1: Sunlight streams into hospital room. Haru awake, Mio sitting beside him. • Panel 2: Haru reaches out, touching her cheek softly. • Haru: “I’ve wanted to do this for a long time…” • Panel 3: They kiss gently. Soft panel borders, focus on intimacy, not graphic. • Panel 4: Mio pulls back, smiling through tears. • Narration: “A moment too precious for words, too fragile for time.” ⸻ Chapter 10 – The Empty Desk Page 16 • Panel 1: Back at school, Haru’s desk is empty. • Panel 2: Mio places a small flower on it, lingering. • Panel 3: Flashback panels: laughter, shared sketches, rainy walks, festival rooftop. • Panel 4: Close-up of Mio’s hand holding a note from Haru: • “Thank you for loving me. Keep smiling, Mio.” Page 17 • Panel 1: Wide classroom shot, sunlight through windows, empty chair in back. • Panel 2: Mio stands, looking out the window at cherry blossoms. • Narration: “Love doesn’t disappear when someone is gone… it stays, like petals in the wind.” • Panel 3 (Final Page Panel): Close-up of Mio’s hand resting on the desk, eyes soft but resolute. • Narration: “And some memories are forever.” Volume 2 – Confession & Loss Title: When the Bell Rang Twice – Volume 2 Chapters: 10 Tone: Bittersweet, emotional, hospital drama, first heartbreak ⸻ Chapter 1 – Winter Illness Page 1 • Panel 1: Classroom in winter. Snow visible outside the windows. Students in jackets. • Panel 2: Haru coughs into his sleeve, looking pale. Close-up of his strained smile. • Panel 3: Mio notices, worried, writing a note: “Are you okay?” • Panel 4: Haru writes back, faintly smiling: “Just tired. Don’t worry.” Page 2 • Panel 1: Hallway after class. Students rush past. • Panel 2: Mio watches Haru’s back as he leaves. • Panel 3: Close-up of her worried face. • Narration (Mio’s thoughts): “I felt a shadow over the happiness we’d built.” ⸻ Chapter 2 – Feverish Days Page 3 • Panel 1: Hospital exterior, snow lightly falling. • Panel 2: Mio arrives, coat buttoned tight, holding a sketchbook. • Panel 3: Haru lies in bed, pale but smiling. • Haru: “Hey… didn’t think you’d come today.” • Panel 4: Mio sits beside him, gently taking his hand. • Mio: “Of course I came. I’m not letting you face this alone.” Page 4 • Panel 1: Haru coughs softly. Mio wipes his forehead. • Panel 2: Close-up: Haru’s hand holding hers tightly. • Haru: “I didn’t want to worry you… but maybe I’ve been too weak.” • Panel 3: Mio looks determined. • Mio: “We’ll face it together. Always.” ⸻ Chapter 3 – Confession Attempt Page 5 • Panel 1: Hospital rooftop, late afternoon. Sun casting long shadows. • Panel 2: Haru leans against railing, eyes distant. • Panel 3: Mio approaches. • Mio: “I… I want to say something.” • Panel 4: Haru glances at her, softly smiling. • Haru: “Me too…” Page 6 • Panel 1: Close-up of their hands almost touching. • Panel 2: Haru sways slightly, Mio catches him instinctively. • Panel 3: Both faces close. • Panel 4: Narration: “In that fragile moment, words felt too heavy to speak.” ⸻ Chapter 4 – Winter Memories Page 7 • Panel 1: Flashback panels of winter school days: shared lunches, walking in snow, laughing. • Panel 2: Close-up of sketchbook pages with drawings of each other. • Panel 3: Haru coughing in the classroom. Mio’s worried glance. • Panel 4: Narration: “Every memory felt more precious, because I knew it might be all we’d have.” ⸻ Chapter 5 – The First Kiss Page 8 • Panel 1: Hospital room, sunlight soft through blinds. • Panel 2: Haru reaches out, touching Mio’s cheek gently. • Haru: “I’ve wanted to do this for so long…” • Panel 3: They kiss softly. Focus on emotion, not graphic. • Panel 4: Mio pulls back, eyes wet, smiling faintly. • Narration: “A kiss, fleeting but eternal, marked the start of a memory that could never fade.” ⸻ Chapter 6 – Days of Waiting Page 9 • Panel 1: Hospital corridor, empty. Mio sketches quietly. • Panel 2: Close-up of sketches of Haru smiling, laughing, and in hospital bed. • Panel 3: Narration: “I tried to hold onto him… even as he grew weaker.” • Panel 4: Haru sleeps, Mio watching, softly crying. ⸻ Chapter 7 – Farewell Page 10 • Panel 1: Haru’s hand slips slightly from hers. • Panel 2: Close-up of Mio’s eyes widening, heart pounding. • Panel 3: Haru murmurs faintly, smiling. • Haru: “Remember me… always.” • Panel 4: Mio holds his hand tighter, tears streaming. • Narration: “I whispered my love… but the world had other plans.” Page 11 • Panel 1: Wide shot: Haru’s hospital bed, sunlight breaking through clouds. • Panel 2: Mio alone in the hallway, holding her sketchbook to her chest. • Panel 3: Flashbacks: laughter, rooftop, rain, first handshake, first shared umbrella. • Panel 4: Narration: “And just like that… the seat beside me was empty forever.” ⸻ Chapter 8 – The Empty Desk Page 12 • Panel 1: Back at school, Haru’s desk empty. Snow falling outside. • Panel 2: Mio places a small flower on the desk. • Panel 3: Close-up of her fingers brushing carved initials in the wood. • Narration: “Love doesn’t vanish. It lingers in the smallest spaces, in the quietest moments.” Page 13 • Panel 1: Wide shot of Mio looking out the window at falling snow. • Panel 2: Close-up: tear slides down her cheek. • Panel 3: Mio clutches Haru’s note: “Thank you for loving me. Keep smiling.” • Panel 4: Narration: “Some memories are too precious to let go, even when hearts ache.” ⸻ Chapter 9 – The First Goodbye Page 14 • Panel 1: Flashback: rooftop festival, fireworks. Haru laughing, holding Mio’s hand. • Panel 2: Cut to hospital: Mio alone, looking at petals falling outside window. • Panel 3: Narration: “I had learned that love is sometimes measured in fleeting moments, not time.” • Panel 4: Close-up of sketchbook page with both their faces smiling. ⸻ Chapter 10 – Volume 2 Closing Page 15 • Panel 1: Wide shot: classroom empty except Mio’s silhouette. • Panel 2: Soft sunlight illuminates the empty desk. • Panel 3: Close-up of Mio writing in her notebook: • “Haru, I’ll always remember you. Always.” • Panel 4 (Final Panel): Snow falls outside. Narration: • “Even as life moves on, some love stays eternal… etched in the heart like petals in the wind. Volume 3 – Adult Mio & Reflections Title: When the Bell Rang Twice – Volume 3 Chapters: 8 Tone: Nostalgic, reflective, bittersweet, healing ⸻ Chapter 1 – Return to the School Page 1 • Panel 1: Wide exterior of the school in spring. Cherry blossoms bloom, petals drifting in the wind. • Panel 2: Adult Mio (mid-20s) stands at the gate, briefcase in hand, soft smile. • Mio (thought): I haven’t been here in ten years… • Panel 3: Close-up of her hand brushing against the gate, remembering. • Panel 4: Wide shot of school yard, empty, echoing past laughter. Page 2 • Panel 1: Mio walks through the familiar hallway, dust motes in sunlight. • Panel 2: Close-up of her gaze stopping at the back corner — Haru’s empty desk. • Panel 3: Mio (whispering): “You’re still here, aren’t you?” • Panel 4: Flashback panel: Haru laughing, giving her a playful wink in the same seat. ⸻ Chapter 2 – Memories in the Classroom Page 3 • Panel 1: Mio sits at Haru’s desk, fingers tracing carved initials. • Panel 2: Close-up of old sketches she kept in a notebook: shared doodles, cherry blossoms, small moments. • Panel 3: Mio smiles softly, eyes misty. • Narration: “I carry these memories like treasure… even now.” • Panel 4: Wide panel of empty classroom, sunlight streaming in. Page 4 • Panel 1: Mio notices a little girl outside the window, sketching petals in her notebook. • Panel 2: Close-up: Mio smiles, heartwarming. • Panel 3: Mio kneels beside the girl. • Mio: “Mind if I watch?” • Panel 4: Girl smiles shyly: “Sure!” ⸻ Chapter 3 – Haru’s Letter Page 5 • Panel 1: Mio finds a yellowed envelope tucked under the desk. • Panel 2: Close-up of handwriting: “If you’re reading this, it means you’ve remembered me. Thank you for loving me. Live fully, Mio. Promise me.” • Panel 3: Tears roll down Mio’s cheeks. She clutches the note to her chest. • Mio (thought): I did, Haru… every day. • Panel 4: Wide panel: cherry petals swirl around her, sunlight hitting her face. ⸻ Chapter 4 – Life Moves On Page 6 • Panel 1: Mio walking down a cherry blossom-lined street. • Panel 2: She watches children playing, couples laughing. • Panel 3: Close-up: little girl from before showing Mio her sketch. • Panel 4: Mio opens her old sketchbook, inspired to draw again. • Narration: “Love doesn’t end with loss. It continues in memories, kindness, and inspiration.” ⸻ Chapter 5 – Reflection at Sunset Page 7 • Panel 1: Mio revisits the school one last time, sitting on the steps outside. • Panel 2: Cherry blossoms fall around her. • Panel 3: Soft, imaginary voice of Haru: “I’m proud of you, Mio.” • Panel 4: Mio smiles, eyes glistening: • Mio: “Me too, Haru… always me too.” ⸻ Chapter 6 – Moving Forward Page 8 • Panel 1: Wide shot: Mio walking away from school gate, briefcase in hand. • Panel 2: Close-up: her sketchbook tucked under her arm, pages fluttering in the wind. • Panel 3: Narration: “Some love never fades… it simply guides the next steps of our lives.” • Panel 4 (Final Panel): Cherry blossoms fall, school bell rings faintly in distance, symbolizing past and hope for the future. Volume 4 – Teacher Mio & Mentorship Title: When the Bell Rang Twice – Volume 4 Chapters: 8 Tone: Reflective, mentoring, subtle hope, echoes of past love ⸻ Chapter 1 – First Day as a Teacher Page 1 • Panel 1: Exterior: School in spring. Cherry blossoms in full bloom. • Panel 2: Adult Mio stands in front of a classroom, smiling warmly. • Narration: “I never imagined returning… but life brings us full circle.” • Panel 3: Wide shot of students settling in. • Panel 4: Mio notices a boy at the back, sketching quietly. Page 2 • Panel 1: Close-up of boy, Riku, focused, messy hair, serious expression. • Panel 2: Mio’s inner thought: There’s something familiar about him… • Panel 3: Students chatting around him. Mio approaches. • Mio: “Hello, I’m your new art teacher. Can I see what you’re drawing?” • Panel 4: Riku hands her a sketch. • Riku: “It’s nothing special.” ⸻ Chapter 2 – Echoes of Haru Page 3 • Panel 1: Mio studies the sketch. Wide shot shows her gentle smile. • Mio: “No, this is wonderful. I see a lot of feeling here.” • Panel 2: Close-up: Riku blushes slightly, looking down. • Panel 3: Flashback panel: Mio sketching with Haru in school. • Panel 4: Narration: “It reminded me of someone I once knew… someone who changed me.” ⸻ Chapter 3 – Mentoring Moments Page 4 • Panel 1: Art club room, students painting, drawing. Riku sits quietly sketching. • Panel 2: Mio kneels beside him, pointing at a detail. • Mio: “Try feeling the wind in the petals… imagine it moving through your brush.” • Panel 3: Riku nods, focused, inspired. • Panel 4: Close-up of Mio’s thoughtful face. • Narration: “Teaching him reminded me that love isn’t just for the heart… it’s for the soul.” ⸻ Chapter 4 – Festival Preparations Page 5 • Panel 1: Students decorate school for cultural festival, Mio supervising. • Panel 2: Riku approaches, holding a folded sketch. • Panel 3: Close-up: sketch shows Mio at the school steps surrounded by cherry blossoms. • Panel 4: Mio gasps softly, tears welling up. • Mio: “You… captured something I didn’t even know I remembered.” • Panel 5: Riku smiles shyly. • Riku: “I wanted you to see what your presence does… even without knowing it.” ⸻ Chapter 5 – Graduation Day Page 6 • Panel 1: Graduation ceremony, students in caps and gowns. Wide shot. • Panel 2: Riku approaches Mio, holding a sketchbook. • Riku: “Thank you for believing in me.” • Panel 3: Mio hugs him briefly. • Mio: “Carry your feelings with you. That’s how people live on.” • Panel 4: Close-up: Mio watching Riku walk away, cherry petals swirling. • Narration: “Haru’s memory guided me here… and now I could guide others.” ⸻ Chapter 6 – Reflection on Love and Mentorship Page 7 • Panel 1: Mio stands on the school rooftop at sunset. • Panel 2: Soft, imaginary voice of Haru: “I’m proud of you, Mio.” • Panel 3: Mio smiles, eyes soft, remembering. • Mio: “I hope you see… I’ve carried you in everything I do.” • Panel 4: Close-up of sketchbook in her hands, sketches of students, cherry blossoms, and memories of Haru. ⸻ Chapter 7 – Passing the Torch Page 8 • Panel 1: Classroom empty after school, sunlight streaming in. • Panel 2: Mio tidies up Riku’s art supplies. • Panel 3: Narration: “Some love leaves only memories… some leaves a legacy.” • Panel 4: Wide panel: Mio walking through school gate, cherry petals falling. • Narration: “Haru’s presence lingered, but life moves forward… and so must I.” Volume 5 – Adult Romance & New Love Title: When the Bell Rang Twice – Volume 5 Chapters: 8 Tone: Bittersweet romance, healing, hope ⸻ Chapter 1 – A Chance Encounter Page 1 • Panel 1: Mio walking home after school, cherry blossoms drifting in the wind. • Panel 2: She bumps into Kaoru, books flying everywhere. • Kaoru: “Oh no! I’m so sorry!” • Panel 3: Mio kneels to help him gather the papers. Their hands brush. • Panel 4: Mio (thought): There’s something… calming about him. Page 2 • Panel 1: Kaoru hands her a book with a shy smile. • Kaoru: “I think fate wants us to meet like this.” • Panel 2: Mio blushes slightly, smiling faintly. • Panel 3: Wide shot of cherry petals swirling around them. • Panel 4: Narration: “Life has a way of introducing new stories… even after heartbreak.” ⸻ Chapter 2 – Shared Memories Page 3 • Panel 1: Mio and Kaoru walking side by side under cherry trees. • Panel 2: Kaoru glances at her. • Kaoru: “Do you like cherry blossoms?” • Panel 3: Mio smiles softly, thinking of Haru. • Mio: “I do… they remind me of fleeting moments.” • Panel 4: Kaoru takes a deep breath. • Kaoru: “Then maybe we can make new moments together.” ⸻ Chapter 3 – Past and Present Page 4 • Panel 1: Mio visits her old school with Kaoru, showing him the classroom and Haru’s desk. • Panel 2: Kaoru: “He must have been very special.” • Panel 3: Mio nods, tearful but smiling. • Mio: “He still is… in a way.” • Panel 4: Kaoru gently squeezes her hand. • Kaoru: “And I’ll try to be special too… without replacing him.” ⸻ Chapter 4 – Confession Under Cherry Blossoms Page 5 • Panel 1: Spring festival at school, petals falling everywhere. • Panel 2: Kaoru nervously presents a small sketchbook to Mio. • Kaoru: “I drew this… it’s us, walking here together.” • Panel 3: Mio flips through it, softly laughing and tearing up. • Mio: “You captured… something I didn’t even realize I remembered.” • Panel 4: Close-up: Kaoru leans slightly closer. • Kaoru: “Mio… will you give me a chance?” ⸻ Chapter 5 – Acceptance Page 6 • Panel 1: Mio’s eyes glisten with tears. • Panel 2: Close-up of Mio’s hands hesitating, then intertwining with Kaoru’s. • Panel 3: Mio (thought): Haru… it’s okay to love again. • Panel 4: Wide panel: both walking hand in hand, petals falling around them. ⸻ Chapter 6 – New Beginnings Page 7 • Panel 1: Mio and Kaoru strolling under cherry trees, soft sunlight. • Panel 2: Close-up: sketchbook in Mio’s bag, showing drawings of Haru and past memories. • Panel 3: Mio (thought): “Love can exist in layers… the past shapes the present.” • Panel 4: Kaoru smiles at her. • Kaoru: “Thank you for letting me walk with you.” ⸻ Chapter 7 – Life and Memory Page 8 • Panel 1: Mio pauses, looking at the school from afar. • Panel 2: Soft voice of Haru in memory: “I’m proud of you, Mio.” • Panel 3: Mio smiles, holding Kaoru’s hand. • Mio: “I am too… for both of us.” • Panel 4 (Final Panel): Wide shot of cherry blossoms falling, school bell ringing in the background. • Narration: “The bell rings for past love… and for new beginnings.” Manga
CyberWolf Chapter 1: Awakening (Rough Draft) Tori Mack woke up because his body felt wrong. The room was quiet, filled with the low hum of machines. White lights burned above him, and the air smelled clean—too clean. His head throbbed as he tried to remember how he got there, but his mind was blank. He moved his right hand. Metal shifted. Tori froze and slowly lifted his arm. From shoulder to fingertips, it was solid steel—smooth, dark, and unbreakable. His breathing picked up as he tried to move his right leg. Metal again. “What… is going on?” he whispered. “You’re awake,” a calm voice said. Tori turned his head. A man stood beside the bed, watching him closely. He looked older, his expression patient, like someone who had been waiting for this moment. “My name is Ein Tucker,” the man said. Tori tried to sit up. His body responded easily, stronger than it should have been. He swung his legs off the bed and stood. His metal foot hit the floor with a solid thud. “I don’t remember anything,” Tori said, panic creeping into his voice. “What happened to me?” “You were caught in a storm,” Ein said carefully. “You didn’t survive it the way a normal human would.” “So what am I?” Tori asked. “Still human,” Ein replied. “But also something more.” “Rebuilt by who?” Tori asked. “That’s a conversation for later,” Ein said. “What matters now is that you’re alive.” Tori clenched his metal fist. It didn’t shake. It didn’t hurt. “When I was unconscious,” Tori said quietly, “I dreamed of wolves watching me.” Ein’s eyes sharpened for a brief moment. “Focus on learning how to move,” Ein said. “The rest will come in time.” Tori stood there—half flesh, half metal—feeling power beneath his skin. His old life was over.And the beginning of CyberWolf had just begun