Order of the Elements

Part 1: The Challenge

Moriya led the group – Hikaru, Mei, Teshii, and Haruto – deeper into the forest. The trees grew denser, and the path ahead twisted like a serpent beneath the thick canopy above.

Teshii leaned toward Hikaru, whispering, "Hey, Sunshine. Why isn't Hikari tagging along today?"

"Oh, her?" Hikaru muttered, not looking at him. "I made sure she stayed behind."

Teshii raised an eyebrow. "Why?"

Hikaru glared at him. "Are you seriously asking me that?"

As the two bickered, Haruto stepped up beside Moriya, curious. "So... Moriya. How long have you had control over the Element of Wood?"

Moriya paused briefly, thinking. "Hmm... it's been five years since I awakened this power."

"Five?" Haruto blinked.

"Yeah," Moriya nodded. "At first, it confused me. Then Elder Sana told me I was... different. Special."

Haruto chuckled. "That's exactly what happened to me. When the water started moving on its own, I thought I was going crazy."