As the days passed, Riku became a regular figure on the news. Headlines about his humble actions flooded the screens across Japan: "Riku Hayashi: The Nicest Warrior Alive", "The S-Rank Hero Who Helps the Youngest and Weakest", and "A Kindness That Surpasses Strength" were just a few of the glowing titles. Social media exploded with admiration, and over 10,000 people began calling him the "nicest warrior alive in history."
It wasn't just the speed of his victories or his powerful skills—it was how he never hesitated to help those who were struggling. His car, sleek and new, had become a symbol of his growth. Riku no longer needed to walk from place to place; the streets of the city now saw him cruising through, always ready to lend a hand to those in need, and the small missions he took on for lower-ranked warriors became his trademark.
One afternoon, Riku drove down a busy street, his windows down as the wind swept through. His phone buzzed, and he glanced at the screen to see a message from Reina Aozora.
Reina:"I got a mission tomorrow! C-Rank invasion! Are you free?"
Riku smiled, typing back.
Riku:"Always free to help a friend. What time?"
As he put the phone down, he noticed a group of young warriors standing near a training facility. They waved at him, recognizing him immediately. He waved back, causing a few to shout excitedly.
"Riku! You're the one who helped those kids get through their first Rift Zone, right?" one of them called.
Riku waved back, stopping for a moment. "That's right. But they're the real heroes."
He heard one of them chuckle. "Everyone says you're the nicest warrior in history, you know? You've done more for the younger generation than anyone."
Riku shrugged modestly. "I'm just doing what anyone would do if they had the chance."
The group exchanged looks, impressed by his humility, before one of them asked, "Can we get a picture with you?"
Riku laughed. "Sure, but only if I'm not getting in the way of your training!"
The group excitedly gathered around him, and after a few quick photos, Riku waved them off. As he climbed into his car, the buzz of admiration surrounding him was palpable. But it wasn't the attention that mattered to Riku—it was the difference he made.
That evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Riku parked his car outside a small cafe where he often met up with his friends—Renji, Takumi, and Reina. He checked the time on his watch and waited for them to arrive.
Renji and Takumi showed up first, both looking excited as usual.
"Riku, you've been making a big splash lately," Renji said, grinning. "The news calls you the nicest warrior in history! How does that feel?"
Riku smirked, leaning back in his chair. "It feels nice, but I don't really care about the title. Helping people is what I'm about."
Takumi, ever the optimist, leaned forward, his eyes glinting. "Come on, don't be humble. You're making history. People want to see someone like you succeed. It inspires them."
Just then, Reina walked in, her usual cheerful self, but her cheeks were slightly flushed. She waved and sat down next to Riku.
"Hey, Riku!" she said brightly. "I heard the news again today. They're calling you a national hero now."
Riku gave her a small smile. "I'm not a hero, just someone who helps when they can."
"You say that, but we all know you're making a huge impact on everyone," Reina replied, her voice full of admiration.
Riku leaned forward, resting his arms on the table. "I just think the younger generation needs some guidance. If I can give them that, it's worth more than any title."
The others exchanged glances, and Renji nodded thoughtfully. "You're right, Riku. You're not doing this for fame. You're doing it for them."
The next morning, Riku received a message from Reina again.
Reina:"I'm ready for our mission today! Thank you for agreeing to come with us. I know the others will be nervous with you there, but we'll all learn something!"
Riku smiled as he typed back.
Riku:"Let's make sure it's a safe mission. You're all ready, and I'll be there to help you along the way."
As he drove towards the meeting point, he felt a sense of peace. He had become something more than just a powerful S-Rank warrior—he was a mentor, a friend, and, most importantly, a symbol of hope for those who needed it most.
At the mission site, a group of lower-ranked warriors stood waiting. Mei, Akira, Hiroto, Daichi, and Reina all greeted him with smiles.
"You ready for today, Mr. Riku?" Mei asked.
Riku nodded, checking their equipment. "Just remember to stay focused. I'm here to help, but this is your mission. Let's go over the plan one more time."
As the team moved into the Rift Zone, Riku couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. These young warriors were growing stronger by the day, and he was honored to be part of their journey.
As the mission began, Riku took a step back, letting the younger warriors lead the charge. They were still learning, but with each mission, they grew more confident in themselves. And for Riku, that was the greatest reward.