Earth, a planet known as a peaceful world throughout the universe, thrived in eternal tranquility. There were no wars, no alien invasions—humankind lived in harmony with nature and technology. Yet, that peace was shaken when a startling discovery emerged before the scientists: within every human lay extraordinary power, a potential that had never been awakened.
The scientists were perplexed, studying and analyzing, yet none knew how to trigger this hidden power.
"How… how can this power be activated?" muttered one scientist, eyes fixed on the screens filled with data, reflecting both confusion and a deep curiosity.
The answer came unexpectedly. While observing an intercity running competition, a seemingly weak participant suddenly surged to the finish line as the victor. Every step seemed to transcend the limits of ordinary human logic. In an instant, the scientist realized: human power could manifest unconsciously, triggered by pure competitive instinct.
The discovery sent shockwaves across the world. The President immediately organized a global running competition, marking the dawn of a new era in human history—the era that would come to be known as The Speed Age.
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On the 21st, at 9:00 a.m., Kyoto Stadium stood magnificent, surrounded by a sea of spectators filling the stands. Dust and morning air mingled with the roaring cheers, creating an almost magical atmosphere. All eyes were on the debut of the heirs from the prominent families.
A young man patted his friend on the shoulder, curiosity shining in his eyes.
"Hey, who are you rooting for? Makizaki Ryota or Sasaki Rika?"
His friend smiled confidently.
"Definitely Makizaki Ryota. He's the third heir of the Makizaki family. He's going to win."
The history of the prominent families resonated in everyone's minds. Makizaki, 14-time world champion, known as the 'Thunder Monster'; Sasaki, 10-time world champion, elegant with the cherry blossom power; Midorikawa, 5-time world champion, symbolizing nature and green energy—though always falling behind the top two families.
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"Good morning, everyone! Today marks the debut of the heirs from the prominent families in The Speed Age!" announced Ayaka Nishimura (Announcer), her voice commanding, shaking the stands.
"Exactly, Ayaka-san! Look at Makizaki Ryota and Sasaki Rika, ready to showcase their abilities on the track. The atmosphere is incredible!" added Hiroto Tanaka (Live Commentator), his voice brimming with energy, cutting through the cheers.
"And don't forget Midorikawa Amane. His nature-based power is unique; his movements are graceful yet unpredictable. Each step is like a dance of energy," said Takumi Hoshino (Expert Analyst), eyes scrutinizing every participant, analyzing posture, movement, and aura.
Makizaki Ryota appeared tense, on the verge of activating his power. The head of the family watched from the VIP tribune, confident he was the rightful third heir. Sasaki Rika, with gentle yet determined eyes, channeled the cherry blossom energy inherited from her ancestors, emanating an elegant aura that captivated the audience. Meanwhile, Midorikawa Amane focused his natural green energy, his body vibrating in harmony with the rhythm of the surrounding environment.
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The starting pistol fired. "BANG!"
Dust erupted, the air seeming to shatter under the force of speed and energy. Ryota and Rika shot ahead, Amane following in third place. All eyes were fixed on the track—suddenly, at the back, a participant lagged: Makizaki Kazuki.
"Last place! But wait… there's a rumor about the child the Makizaki family abandoned… could this be Kazuki?" Hiroto shouted, his voice full of astonishment.
"Look at his face. No panic. He seems to be hiding something… something immense," Takumi commented, analyzing every second of his movement.
Eighteen-year-old Kazuki inhaled deeply. A blue-black aura and starlight energy enveloped his body. Every step was precise, piercing through limits that ordinary humans deemed impossible. The wind whispered along his trail, and dust floated, forming luminous paths in the air.
"Incredible! Kazuki is overtaking all the participants, even approaching Ryota and Rika!" Hiroto's voice rose, as if the audience themselves were carried by Kazuki's energy.
"Unbelievable! This youngest participant… is surpassing the heirs of prominent families!" Ayaka exclaimed, eyes wide, face filled with awe.
"A rare phenomenon. His technique is flawless; his instincts and analysis are extraordinary. This is no mere luck," Takumi said solemnly, observing Kazuki as if measuring every ounce of energy he exerted.
Kazuki took the lead. The stadium erupted in ecstatic cheers. The roar of thousands seemed to merge with his steps. Sasaki Rika, Makizaki Ryota, and Midorikawa Amane watched him, disbelief etched into their expressions at what had just occurred.
"Who are you? How can you unleash such power at only 18?" Rika asked, her voice a mixture of awe and curiosity.
"My name is Makizaki Kazuki. I'm not running for my family… but to face my Master," Kazuki replied calmly, stepping off the track. The crowd fell silent, amazed and mystified by the enigma of his power.
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In a forest far from the stadium's clamor, an old man watched the race with keen eyes. Shadows curled into a smile upon Kazuki, signaling that a new chapter had begun. The mysterious plan was unfolding, and the world, slowly but surely, began to feel the tremors of The Speed Age.