The hum of the chartered plane’s engines filled the cabin as Kei and Mia sat across from each other in plush leather seats. The cabin was modest but comfortable, a far cry from the chaotic, Essence-infused world they had grown accustomed to. Kei’s parents had spared no expense in ensuring their journey to the martial arts competition was as smooth as possible.
Kei leaned back, idly twirling a small tool in his hand as he worked on something in his lap. His silver-grey hair fell over his eyes, but the faint grin on his face suggested he was thoroughly engrossed in his project.
Mia watched him from her seat, her arms crossed. “What are you up to now?”
Kei glanced up, his grin widening. “Making a mask.”
Mia raised an eyebrow. “I thought no equipment was allowed in the competition.”
“It’s not equipment,” Kei said, holding up the half-finished mask. “It’s... a fashion statement.”
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THE RESONANT MASK
The mask was a simple recreation of Kei’s original Resonant Mask, designed to fit within the rules of the tournament. It was plain and featureless, with no Essence enhancements or hidden mechanisms—just a piece of lightweight material shaped to cover his face.
“I don’t get it,” Mia said, leaning forward. “Why bother hiding your identity? It’s not like anyone knows who you are.”
Kei shrugged, his grin turning mischievous. “It’s not about hiding. It’s about creating a persona. If I’m going to fight in front of the world, I might as well have a little fun with it.”
Mia sighed, shaking her head. “You’re ridiculous.”
Kei chuckled, fitting the mask over his face and turning to her. “What do you think? Mysterious, right?”
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Mia smirked. “You look like you’re trying too hard.”
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A MASK FOR MIA
As they flew over the endless expanse of ocean, Kei pulled out another piece of material and began crafting a second mask. Mia raised an eyebrow as she watched him work.
“What are you doing now?” she asked.
“Making you a mask,” Kei said without looking up.
“Why?” Mia asked, her tone skeptical.
Kei grinned. “Because if I’m going to look cool and mysterious, you should too. Plus, it’ll keep people from recognizing you. You’ve got that whole ‘world-famous genius’ thing going on.”
Mia rolled her eyes. “I’m not that famous.”
Kei shot her a look. “Mia, you have multiple doctorates, a reputation for outsmarting world-class researchers, and an entire research paper on Balance Theory that’s practically worshipped by scientists. You’re famous.”
Mia opened her mouth to argue, then closed it, sighing. “Fine. But make it simple.”
Kei smirked. “Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered.”
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FINISHING TOUCHES
By the time they began their descent, both masks were complete. Kei’s mask was as plain and featureless as his original design, while Mia’s had a subtle elegance to it—smooth and unadorned, but with faint, swirling patterns etched into the surface.
Mia held up her mask, inspecting it with a critical eye. “Not bad.”
“Not bad?” Kei repeated, feigning offense. “This is a masterpiece.”
Mia smirked, slipping the mask over her face. “Alright, mysterious maestro. Let’s see if these masks actually make a difference.”
Kei leaned back in his seat, folding his arms behind his head. “Oh, they will. Trust me.”
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ARRIVAL AT THE ARENA
The plane touched down on a private airstrip near the tournament venue. As they stepped out into the bustling city, the atmosphere was electric. Banners and billboards promoting the martial arts competition lined the streets, and the air buzzed with anticipation.
Kei and Mia, now donning their masks, blended seamlessly into the crowd as they made their way toward the arena. Their identities remained a mystery, and the anonymity gave them a sense of freedom.
“You know,” Mia said, glancing at Kei as they walked, “this might actually be fun.”
Kei grinned beneath his mask. “That’s what I’ve been saying.”
Their laughter echoed as they entered the massive arena, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them—and to claim the prize that had drawn them here.