5 Chapter 5

The morning sun filtered through the dusty windows of the bunker as I sat at the small, rickety table, munching on a bowl of cereal. My eyes flicked between the instructions for the hair dye I had purchased and the mirror propped up against the wall. Today, I was going for a drastic change—a new identity to match my altered appearance.

After finishing my cereal, I set the bowl in the sink and made my way to the bathroom, a sense of anticipation coursing through me. Following the instructions meticulously, I carefully applied the dye, watching as my blond locks transformed into a sleek, jet-black hue. Peering into the mirror, I adjusted the strands, ensuring that the color was evenly distributed. With a satisfied nod, I moved on to the next step.

Henna in hand, I painstakingly dotted my face with freckles, each one adding to the illusion of a completely different person staring back at me. As I surveyed my reflection, I couldn't help but feel a sense of detachment from the familiar features I had known all my life.

Turning away from the mirror, I glanced at my notebook, its pages filled with meticulously recorded power moves and strategies. My abilities were still in their infancy, relegated to the first stage of development. In my previous life, I had ascended to the second stage before meeting an untimely end. The memory of that failure gnawed at me, a reminder of the stakes involved in my quest for power.

With a determined set to my jaw, I pulled on a set of all-black clothing, the fabric clinging to my newly dyed hair. As I fastened the straps of the creepy, smiling mask—a relic from my past—I couldn't shake the feeling of déjà vu. It was time to put my abilities to the test once again.

Mask firmly in place, I exited the bunker and made my way to a popular destination, my mind buzzing with anticipation. Today marked the beginning of a new chapter—one where I would reclaim my power and rewrite my destiny.

Heroes POV

The atmosphere in the training room shifted abruptly as Sensei Wu's voice cut through the tranquility, pulling the ninjas out of their meditation. They exchanged quick glances, their expressions morphing from calm focus to alert readiness in an instant.

"There is trouble at the local prison," Sensei Wu's voice carried a sense of urgency, his words piercing through the stillness of the room. "A masked guy is attacking the prisoners and guards."

Noah sprang to his feet, his muscles tensing with a surge of adrenaline. "Let's go, guys. People need our help."

The rest of the ninjas responded with swift determination, leaping into action as they donned their uniforms. Noah's fingers deftly fastened the pale yellow suit around him, the fabric fitting snugly against his frame. With a sense of purpose burning in his chest, he led the charge as they rushed out of the training room and towards the awaiting danger.

As they sprinted towards the local prison, Noah couldn't shake the gnawing feeling of uncertainty gnawing at the edges of his mind. But he pushed it aside, focusing instead on the task at hand. Lives were at stake, and they were the only ones who could intervene in time.

Lloyd POV

The corpses lay scattered around me, silent witnesses to the havoc I had wrought. My grin widened as I surveyed the destruction, relishing in the power coursing through my veins. Every move I executed was a reminder of the dominance I once held, even if it felt somewhat diminished in this new form.

But my moment of triumph was short-lived as a voice pierced through the aftermath, cutting through the echoes of chaos.

"Stop right there!" The voice was sharp, authoritative, tinged with urgency.

I turned to see a figure clad in yellow, unmistakably Noah, the leader of the ninja squad. A twinge of annoyance flickered within me at his audacity, his reckless attempt to confront me without fully understanding the extent of my power. Had he learned nothing from our past encounters?

My smile widened beneath the mask, anticipation bubbling within me. Perhaps this was the opportunity I had been waiting for, a chance to rid myself of these persistent nuisances once and for all.

"Well, well, well, look who decided to show up," I taunted, my voice laced with mockery. "Seems I've stumbled upon some eager test subjects."

Without warning, I propelled myself into the air, bringing my fist crashing down upon the ground with explosive force. Purple flames erupted from the impact point, engulfing everything in their path with searing intensity. I watched with glee as the ninjas scrambled to evade the flames, their movements a desperate dance of survival.

"That," I declared triumphantly, my voice echoing against the chaos, "is a little move I like to call Hellfire. Careful, it can melt through just about anything."

As the ground trembled beneath me, I summoned forth a new barrage of destruction, rocks levitating in the air before hurtling towards my adversaries with deadly precision. I chuckled darkly, reveling in the sight of their struggle, relishing the opportunity to test their limits and watch them squirm.

Heroes POV

The four ninjas crouched behind a cluster of rocks, their expressions tense as they observed the masked ability user wreaking havoc with his formidable powers. Purple lightning crackled around him as he moved with unnatural grace, a whirlwind of destruction in his wake.

"How is he using multiple abilities like that?" Kai's voice was edged with frustration, his brow furrowed in concentration.

"Does it matter?" Jay whispered back, his tone tinged with agitation. "We're clearly outmatched here."

Noah, ever the voice of reason, interjected calmly, "We can't afford to focus on what we don't know. We need to adapt and overcome."

Cole nodded in agreement, his eyes darting between their masked adversary and his companions. "Good advice, we could use that in the afterlife!"

Their hushed conversation was abruptly cut short as the ground beneath them trembled, a telltale sign of imminent danger. With a sudden jolt, the rock they had been using for cover was lifted into the air, revealing their concealed position to the masked ability user.

"Found you," he declared with chilling amusement, his voice echoing against the backdrop of chaos. "You were easier to track down than I anticipated. Disappointing, really."

The ninjas exchanged panicked glances as they braced themselves for an inevitable confrontation. They screamed in terror as the masked figure advanced towards them, his malevolent aura sending shivers down their spines.

But just as all hope seemed lost, a blinding light pierced through the darkness, illuminating the scene with dazzling brilliance. The masked ability user paused, his attention diverted by the unexpected intervention.

A figure emerged from the radiance, stepping boldly into the fray with unwavering resolve. It was Sensei Wu, their revered mentor, standing defiantly before the masked assailant with a calm demeanor that belied the gravity of the situation.

"Don't put off until tomorrow what can be done today," Sensei Wu proclaimed, his voice ringing out with unwavering conviction.

The masked ability user regarded him with a mixture of curiosity and disdain, unimpressed by his words of wisdom. "You've managed to survive this long, old man. I suppose I can spare you for now. But don't think this changes anything."

With a dismissive wave, he turned and vanished into the darkness, leaving the ninjas shaken but alive. They collapsed to the ground in exhaustion, their bodies trembling with adrenaline as they processed the harrowing ordeal they had just endured.

Noah, his mind racing with questions and uncertainties, approached Sensei Wu with a troubled expression. "Do you think we'll ever be able to match his level of power?"

Sensei Wu's gaze was inscrutable as he met Noah's eyes, his voice grave. "He has walked a path fraught with peril and sacrifice. It is not a journey to be taken lightly."

Noah's mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions as he sat in silence, his eyes glassy with a mixture of frustration and self-doubt. The events of the day had left him feeling utterly overwhelmed, and the weight of his responsibilities pressed heavily upon his shoulders.

In the near future, he knew he would be called upon to confront his psycho uncle, a formidable adversary whose malevolent influence threatened to engulf Ninjago in chaos and despair. But as he reflected on his recent encounter with the masked ability user, Noah couldn't shake the nagging sense of inadequacy that gnawed at his confidence.

How could he hope to stand against such a powerful foe when he couldn't even defeat a single opponent who was roughly his own age? The realization weighed heavily on him, casting a shadow over his already troubled thoughts.

"We can help you reach his level." Announced a booming voice.

As the booming voice echoed through the room, the attention of everyone present was immediately drawn to the entrance. A sense of curiosity mingled with apprehension filled the air as they awaited the arrival of the newcomers.

In walked a trio of individuals, each bearing an air of confidence and authority. The first was a well-dressed man with glasses, his demeanor exuding an aura of wisdom and intelligence. He carried himself with a sense of purpose, his gaze sharp and penetrating as he surveyed the room.

Beside him stood a red-headed woman, her fiery locks framing a face that radiated determination and strength. Her eyes sparkled with a fierce intensity, and there was a palpable energy about her that commanded attention.

Bringing up the rear was another man, his features obscured by the shadows cast by the dimly lit room. Despite his obscured appearance, there was an air of mystery and intrigue that surrounded him, leaving those present intrigued by his presence.

Sensei Wu, ever the vigilant observer, frowned slightly upon seeing the newcomers. His expression betrayed a hint of recognition, suggesting that he was acquainted with the trio in some capacity. The ninjas, sensing their teacher's unease, exchanged wary glances, uncertain of what to make of the situation.

The atmosphere in the room grew tense as the newcomers made their way further into the space, their presence casting a shadow of uncertainty over the gathered group.

Kai's sudden outburst echoed through the room as he rose to his feet, his voice edged with suspicion and hostility.

"Who are you guys?" he demanded, his tone challenging and defensive.

The red-headed lady's expression tightened, her frustration evident as she clenched her teeth in irritation. Her reaction hinted at underlying tension or impatience.

"Damn you disrespectful brat…" she muttered under her breath, her words laced with barely contained anger.

Sensing the escalating tension, the man with glasses intervened, his demeanor calm and authoritative. He raised a hand to silence the red-headed lady, his gesture firm yet controlled.

"Not only will you match his level," he began, his voice carrying a sense of assurance and promise, "but we could make you even stronger."

His words hung in the air, offering a glimmer of hope and possibility to the young ninjas. Despite their initial skepticism, his confident assertion sparked a flicker of curiosity and intrigue among them.

With a smooth motion, the man retrieved a business card from the inner pocket of his suit jacket and extended it towards Noah. The card bore the emblem of a prestigious institution - EAA (Elemental Alliance Academy) - a renowned establishment dedicated to training able users to harness their powers for the greater good.

Noah accepted the card, his gaze shifting between the elegant design and the name of the academy emblazoned on its surface. It represented a potential opportunity for growth and development, a chance to explore the extent of his abilities in a structured and supportive environment.

Eager for guidance and reassurance, Noah glanced expectantly at his father, Sensei Wu, hoping for a sign of approval or disapproval. However, Sensei Wu's reaction was understated; he offered only a fleeting glance in Noah's direction before averting his gaze, his expression inscrutable.

Noah's heart sank slightly at his father's lack of response. He had hoped for guidance or encouragement, perhaps even a word of caution or wisdom. Yet, Sensei Wu's silence spoke volumes, leaving Noah uncertain about the path ahead.

"No thanks," Cole said, "We already have a teacher no matter how grumpy…" Noah covered Cole's mouth before smiling at the three strangers,

"Please give us a moment to think about it," Noah implored, his voice carrying a tone of earnest consideration. The sudden change in attitude surprised his companions, their expressions registering shock and curiosity as Noah ushered them to a secluded corner for a private discussion.

Once they were out of earshot, Noah urged his friends to reconsider, emphasizing the significance of the opportunity presented by the strangers.

"Please give this a second thought," Noah appealed, his tone earnest and persuasive.

However, Kai's initial response was laced with frustration and defiance, his eyes flashing with a hint of anger as he questioned the necessity of considering an alternative to Sensei Wu's guidance.

"We have Sensei, what else is there to think about?" Kai challenged, his voice tinged with skepticism and apprehension.

Noah's frown deepened as he grappled with his decision. Despite his reluctance, he knew he had to express his concerns honestly.

"Sensei could only teach us so much," Noah explained, his voice tinged with a sense of urgency. "Besides, didn't you see us nearly get murdered by a random guy who didn't break a sweat?" He gestured towards the three strangers, his gaze unwavering. "I don't want us to throw away an opportunity to learn something that could make us a hundred times stronger than our current state."

The ninjas were silent, their thoughts swirling as they contemplated Noah's words. What about Sensei Wu? Would they be abandoning him if they chose to pursue this opportunity at the Elemental Alliance Academy?

"Don't worry about me," Sensei Wu reassured them, sensing their hesitation. He approached them with a calm demeanor, his wise eyes meeting theirs. "Noah is right. There are so many things I could teach you until I have none left."

His words were a bittersweet reminder of the bond they shared with their teacher, and they exchanged glances filled with sadness. They couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt at the thought of leaving Sensei Wu behind. As they grappled with their emotions, the other man finally spoke up, breaking the heavy silence that hung in the air.

"Why are you acting like you are never going to see him again? He is going to be a teacher at the Academy so he could continue teaching you guys," the man interjected, his voice carrying a reassuring tone. He ran a hand through his thick, full hair, a gesture of confidence. "We should have recruited the masked kid; he had so much more potential than these kids."

Noah chewed at the bottom of his lip, perplexed by the emphasis placed on the masked individual. He didn't understand what was so great about that masked murderer; sure, he was powerful, but he was also unstable.

"Well, we can't have a villain in this school," the red-headed lady asserted firmly, her voice laced with determination.

"We should start our trip," the man in glasses suggested, his tone authoritative. "If we want to make it before dark."

The five boys nodded their heads in agreement, acknowledging the urgency of the situation. They followed the three strangers into a sleek black limousine, their minds still reeling from the events of the day. Noah glanced back at the destroyed prison, a steely resolve settling in his heart. He was determined to ensure that nothing like that ever happened again.

Lloyd POV

I gazed down at the group from my vantage point on the roof, my mind swirling with thoughts. Elemental Alliance Academy? The name resonated with familiarity, likely the school they had attended previously. A furrow creased my brow as I pondered whether they were somehow responsible for those five formidable adversaries from the past. Regardless, one thing was clear: they hadn't detected my presence before, and I intended to keep it that way.

Rising to my feet, I stretched my muscles, preparing for any potential confrontation. I needed to ensure they didn't catch wind of my whereabouts. Suddenly, a sense of impending danger washed over me, and instinctively, I spun around just in time to evade a flying sword hurtling towards me.

I eyed the man with glasses warily, my mind racing with questions. How had he managed to appear here when moments ago he had been entering the limousine? His calm demeanor and casual adjustment of his glasses only heightened my suspicion.

"You must be wondering how one person could be in two places at once, right?" His voice was smooth, betraying no hint of surprise at my presence.

I remained composed, my gaze narrowing behind the mask. "Not really," I replied coolly, masking my curiosity. "I'm more interested in whether you have the ability to duplicate yourself or exert force remotely."

The man's eyes glinted with surprise, acknowledging my astuteness. "You are quite a genius to guess my ability," he remarked, a hint of admiration in his tone.

I assessed him carefully before posing my next question, "How many weapons do you have?"

A smile played on the man's lips as he activated his abilities, causing nine swords to materialize and float around him. My hand instinctively hovered near my own power, ready to react if necessary. But then, an idea struck me.

"I want to make a deal that I think you can't say no to," I said, adopting a confident tone. "What if I got the map of the golden weapons for you?"

The man's interest was piqued, evident in the way he regarded me. "Why would you do that?" he inquired.

I shrugged casually, masking any hint of my true intentions. "I'm bored," I replied nonchalantly. "Give me seven days, and you will get your map."

He nodded thoughtfully before issuing a warning, "If you don't deliver, I will turn you into a personal slave of mine."

I couldn't help but chuckle at his threat. "Deal," I affirmed, knowing full well that I had no intention of losing this wager.

With a wave, I bid him farewell and swiftly made my exit, leaping off the roof and shedding my mask as I went. As I headed back to the bunker, I couldn't shake the excitement of the impending challenge. There were still many things I needed to test, but now I had a new goal to strive for.