The next day arrived, and I wasted no time in heading to my aunt's house. Gliding effortlessly on the hoverboard I had crafted in my father's workshop, the wind rushing through my hair, I felt a surge of excitement building within me. As I passed by, something caught my eye—a magnificent waterfall nearby my aunt's house. Its roaring waters and the expansive space surrounding it seemed perfect for training. I made a mental note to spend my time there, honing my skills before our departure to Mal-Ra.
Reaching my aunt's house, I eagerly explained the recent turn of events and the urgent need for a tournament outfit. With a reassuring smile, she promised to create the perfect attire in time. Knowing that this would be my final lesson from her, I felt a mix of gratitude and determination. With renewed resolve, I collected my thoughts and decided to devote the next three months to training by the waterfall I had seen earlier.
However, I couldn't help but wonder if there was a way to maximize my training. So I decided to head to my uncle's lab. In my search through my uncles' belongings, I stumbled upon a book with a peculiar heart-shaped stone inside. As I opened it, the stone transformed into a clone version of myself. Shock and excitement coursed through me as the clone introduced itself as Leafwis and offered its assistance. Unable to contain my curiosity, I asked if Leafwis could help me train for the tournament. It stared at me, mirroring my expressions like a perfect reflection. Then, unexpectedly, it replied, "Certainly, sir. Would you happen to know Master Morgan, by chance?" I was astounded that Leafwis knew Morgan, my skilled cousin. I responded, "Yes, he is my older cousin." Leafwis explained that Morgan had utilized its abilities for training as well. This revelation shed light on Morgan's remarkable strength in previous tournaments. With newfound understanding, I decided to transform Leafwise back into a book and carried it with me to the waterfall, ready to commence my training.
Under the majestic waterfall's spray, Leafwis outlined our training plan. It began with resistance training and presented me with a gravity watch that I would wear for the next three months. This watch would subject me to ten times the gravity of Gia, intensifying my training regimen. Every sit-up felt as if my ribs were about to break, and every push-up strained my arms to the limit. Each day, Leafwis stressed the importance of meditation, guiding me to find inner peace amid the physical challenges. Seeking respite, I often sat beneath the waterfall, allowing the rushing water to cleanse my body and mind.
I meticulously adhered to a strict meal regimen that Leafwis had designed, ensuring my body received the necessary nourishment to withstand the demanding training. Just when I thought I was getting accustomed to gravity, Leafwis would increase it by fivefold, pushing me beyond my limits. Each day presented new struggles, but the thought of victory in the tournament fueled my determination. Rain or shine, scorching sun or cool breeze, I persisted, dedicating myself wholly to the pursuit of my goal.
As the weeks turned into months, I could sense a remarkable transformation occurring within me. The arduous training by the waterfall, coupled with Leafwis's guidance, had forged me into a more formidable version of myself. I had developed unwavering confidence, unyielding resilience, and an unquenchable thirst for victory. My skills had sharpened, and I had unearthed hidden reservoirs of power within. The sight of the tournament ranking card was now crystal clear in my mind, a tangible symbol of my unwavering determination.
The last week of training arrived, and to my surprise, Leafwise halted my rigorous routine. It advised me to rest, claiming that my training was complete. Initially, I protested, insisting that I could push myself further. However, Leafwis explained that rest played an essential role in training, urging me to trust its wisdom. Reluctantly, I returned home to rest, allowing my body to recover and prepare for the challenges that awaited me in Mal-ra.
The next morning, I awoke with a renewed sense of purpose. Determined to make the most of my remaining time, I offered my assistance to my father on the farm. As we tended to the deer, my father began sharing a heartfelt story—one I had never heard before. He revealed that my mother, unlike us, was not born on this island. She had been a city girl, excelling in her studies and eventually becoming a head doctor here. It was during her time as a doctor that fate intervened. One day, a buck escaped and gravely wounded my father. My mother had rushed to his aid, healing him with her remarkable skills. At that moment, my father had fallen in love, and a few years later, they were married, bringing my brother Bryan and me into the world. He confessed that my mother's parents had been opposed to the match, desiring a noble suitor for her, not a backwash Enhance like him. This revelation left me astounded, unaware of the deeper connection my mother had with Mal-ra.
Moved by my father's words, I softly replied, "Okay, Dad. Thank you for sharing. I had no idea." He placed his hand on my shoulder and said, "I know it's a lot to take in but remember, you're my son, and I'll always be proud of you. Your mother's longing to return to Mal-ra holds great significance for her, and it's important that you support her." Curiosity sparked within me as I pondered the mysteries of Mal-ra, but the weight of my training and the gravity watch reminded me of the imminent tournament. My mind was consumed by thoughts of my ultimate goal, eclipsing any worries about what destiny awaited me in this foreign land.
With a heavy heart, burdened by both my father's words of caution and the weight of my training, I focused solely on the upcoming tournament. The journey to Mal-ra loomed before me, filled with uncertainty and the promise of extraordinary encounters.
As I made my way back to the house, a familiar face caught my attention. It was Lyle, my long-lost friend, who had come to see me. It had been so long that I almost didn't recognize him at first. But there he was, standing before me with a grin on his face. "How has it been, buddy?" he greeted. "Sorry for not coming to see you, but I was training for the ranking tournament. How are things here on the farm?"
I couldn't help but smile at his unchanged demeanor. However, I couldn't say the same for myself. I felt different somehow, transformed by my intense training and the weight of impending challenges. Still, I played it off casually, replying, "You know, just working hard, I guess. Hey, did you know my mom and I are moving to Mal-ra?" Lyle's eyes widened with surprise as he exclaimed, "No way! That's great! Wow, I guess even though you don't have powers, you still get to see the world."
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I chuckled at his remark but soon noticed a shift in his expression. His face turned serious, and he spoke with urgency, "Good, I thought you would be stupid enough to join the tournament. Ken has his eyes set on you, Kyron. He hasn't let go of his father's death, and he wants blood. If you participate, he will try to kill you." Fear gripped me, not for my own sake, but for my friend. Now that darkness resided within me if Ken were to attack me with the intention to kill, I would show him no mercy. Trying to conceal my concern, I replied to Lyle, "Hey, thanks for coming. I'm glad you dropped by. Do you remember how badly Alex beat me up when he took your stones? I don't want that to happen ever again."
Lyle interrupted our conversation, his voice filled with urgency, "Kyron, I'm serious. Ken has grown incredibly strong over the years. I heard he fought and defeated a Montilian. Don't even think about attending the tournament. He will try something, and I don't even think I can protect you." Shocked by the genuine fear in his eyes, I realized that Ken, my former friend turned enemy, was someone to be avoided at all costs. I tried to reassure Lyle, saying, "Lighten up, man. Why are you so worried? Everything will be fine, okay? I'm leaving on the day of the tournament, so don't worry."
Lyle sighed, his concern evident, and replied, "I'm going home. I only came here to warn you because you're still my friend." I watched as he walked away down the path toward the city. Thoughts raced through my mind as I murmured to myself, "A Monotilian, huh?"
Later that night, while my parents slept soundly, I made a daring decision. I quietly slipped through the window, feeling strangely light despite being under 50 times gravity. With incredible speed, I raced to a nearby hill, utilizing my enhanced senses to locate the nearest Dinotilian. I found one by a serene lake and approached it cautiously, saying as it growled, "Hello, buddy. Don't take this personally, but I need to see where I stand." The beast charged at me, but with agility beyond belief, I evaded its every move as if it were moving in slow motion. Frustration grew in the creature, but its attacks were no match for my heightened abilities. With a swift motion, I disappeared from its line of sight and sprinted back to Grandleaf, my loyal friend. Resting my hand on its sturdy frame, I whispered, "Looks like I won't need you to take me home this time, my friend." I then sprinted back to the hill, unable to believe my newfound strength. Even under 50 times gravity, I had managed to enhance my abilities to an astonishing degree. The shock overwhelmed me as I made my way back to my room, contemplating what might happen when I eventually turned off the gravity watch. Exhaustion consumed me, and I drifted off to sleep, the mysteries of the upcoming tournament and my evolving powers swirling in my dreams.
The next day, as I sat in front of the Flowervision, engrossed in my favorite show, an announcement I had been eagerly anticipating filled the air. "Good morning, dear viewers! Our 25th ranking tournament is soon on its way this Friday. Entry begins at 11 o'clock sharp, and everyone from the age of 11 is welcome to join the battle. The fights will commence at noon, and all contestants will have the opportunity to obtain their ranking cards, granting them access to guilds and academies. We look forward to seeing you soon!"
The excitement surged through me as I realized that the moment I had been preparing for was just around the corner. This Friday would mark the beginning of my journey, where my life would take a new and transformative turn. Determination burned within me as I eagerly awaited what lay ahead.
Suddenly, the familiar jingle of my Flower phone rang, interrupting my thoughts. I quickly answered it, only to hear the voice of my older brother, Bryan, on the other end. "Hey, Kyron! How have you been? Are you excited to come to Mal-ra?" His words brought a mix of surprise and joy. It had been years since we last spoke, and I wondered why he was reaching out now. I replied, "Bryan, wow, it's been a while. I'm good, and yes, I'm incredibly excited. How have you been?"
Bryan chuckled lightly before responding, "I'm good. Hey, tell me, have you discovered any powers yet? I really hope there has been a change because Mal-ra is a dangerous place with danger lurking around every corner." His words caught me off guard. It seemed as though he knew about my awakening powers, but how? I hesitated for a moment, then replied, "No, I haven't discovered any powers yet. However, Dad has taught me Ele-ki, and he now recognizes me as a master."
Curiosity piqued, Bryan seized the opportunity and continued, "Speaking of Dad, can you pass the phone to him? I need to talk to him." I agreed, and I listened as my father took the phone and walked outside to the workshop, engaging in a hushed conversation. I was left in silence, pondering the mystery that seemed to deepen with each passing moment. I couldn't believe that I had finally spoken to my brother after all these years. Yet, why had Bryan called now, and why did Dad have to walk away? There was an air of secrecy surrounding their conversation, and I yearned to uncover the truth. It was becoming increasingly evident that there were more mysteries to unravel as time went by, and I was determined to discover the answers.
With my focus sharpened, I knew that obtaining a high-rank card at all costs was crucial. I needed to win the tournament and prove my worth. The drive to succeed burned within me as I set my eyes firmly on Friday, the day that would mark the beginning of my journey to uncover my destiny.
As the days passed, I found myself in a state of anticipation and rest. My aunt had arrived, and she had diligently worked on crafting a suit for me to wear during the tournament. I gratefully accepted her help, knowing that her expertise would ensure that I was well-prepared for the battles that lay ahead.
During this period of waiting, I took the opportunity to rest and gather my strength. Training and intense preparation had taken its toll on my body, and I recognized the importance of allowing myself time to recover. I focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, ensuring I ate nutritious meals, engaged in light exercises, and spent moments of quiet reflection.
Each passing day brought me closer to the day of the tournament, and my excitement grew with every heartbeat. I spent my time visualizing my battles, strategizing my moves, and mentally preparing for the challenges that awaited me. The suit my aunt had crafted for me held great significance—it symbolized not only the physical protection it would provide but also the support and love from my family.
Patience became my guiding virtue as I waited for the day of the tournament to arrive. I knew that timing was crucial, and rushing into battle without adequate rest and mental preparation would be unwise. I trusted in the process, knowing that the time I spent waiting would ultimately contribute to my success.
Surrounded by the love and support of my family, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Their presence reminded me of the importance of my journey and the responsibility I carried not only for myself but also for those who believed in me. Their unwavering belief fueled my resolve, and I vowed to make them proud.
With a heart filled with determination and a mind focused on victory, I patiently awaited my moment, knowing that this was just the beginning of the path that would lead me to my destiny. The stage was set, and I was ready to embrace the challenges, the triumphs, and the lessons that awaited me in the tournament.