"You've been busy with your friends lately, Mizar," Abel unexpectedly appeared at the training facility where Mizar had just finished a light duel with Ridley.
"Abel, what are you doing here?" Mizar exclaimed with joy upon seeing his brother.
"I just wanted to see what you've been up to. I can tell you've grown into a skilled mage, and I'm incredibly proud of you," Abel expressed warmly.
"Thank you. Did you happen to catch our duel? How do you think we did?" Mizar inquired, seeking his brother's opinion.
"You're doing great, but I noticed you were using a peculiar spell during the duel. Care to tell me what it is?" Abel inquired, specifically referring to the membrane spell.
The boys had agreed to keep the origin of the membrane spell a secret, but in this case, Mizar's brother was different. He was not only more experienced and knowledgeable than any of them, but also someone they could trust implicitly.
Mizar didn't see any harm in his big brother knowing about the manual. However, they were both in the dark about the manual's origin and how it came to be.
"It's a new spell called 'membrane.' It provides me with added protection during battles," Mizar explained simply.
"Really? That sounds intriguing. Where did you learn it from?" Abel's curiosity was piqued, and he was eager to learn more about this new spell.
"Unlimited mana manual, model Membrane. That's what's written on the book," Vanta interjected, answering Mizar's question. He revealed that he had obtained the item from Daniel Noah.
"Hmm... that guy again. I knew this day would eventually come," Abel responded with an unexpected reaction. He let out a deep sigh and wore an annoyed expression. "I know what you guys have gotten into."
The boys became alert, realizing that Abel had knowledge about the manual and that he was intimately connected to it. They leaned in attentively, eager to hear what Abel had to say next.
"Letto, give me the 'Call' card," Vanta requested, his intuition signaling that things might not go smoothly this time.
Letto complied, handing over the Call card. Curiosity piqued, he asked, "Who are you calling?" The Call card was typically used to establish telepathic communication with someone.
"Axel, Mizar's mentor. He needs to master the Blaze Accelerator now," Vanta explained, aware that Abel's opinion on the matter was still unknown. He had made some preparations in advance, anticipating a potentially unfavorable outcome. In the background, he discreetly initiated the call, ensuring Axel would be available while the others confronted Abel.
Abel glanced at Mizar, making a conscious effort to restrain any sign of anger. He approached them gently, gathering the boys closer to share information about the manual.
"You see, that guy is affiliated with Winhard Enterprise," Abel began, his voice steady and composed.
What?!" Letto jolted in surprise as he grasped the significance of the revelation. Winhard Enterprise was the very same company that produced the Tulk card—the supplier of cards that had provided Jim with an abundance of resources.
Abel continued to explain, "The manual was an early access item given to every participant of the first Chalice Cup, a tournament designed to test Winhard Enterprise's new products."
The boys were left in a state of mixed emotions after hearing this revelation. The book's true origin was vastly different from what they had initially believed.
"It was an early access item, one that has not yet been announced, and its presence was kept a closely guarded secret," Abel added, shedding more light on the nature of the manual.
Abel's knowledge about Daniel Noah made him appear uneasy, to say the least. Daniel was infamous for selling smuggled items, and Abel knew this all too well. He further explained to the boys that their involvement with the manual was not only risky but also dangerous.
Abel revealed that all participants of the tournament, including himself, were given the mana manual. They were part of the first wave of testers who were meant to assess the new products developed by Winhard Enterprise.
"I don't like their ways of dealing things, it was way too suspicious, giving such a good item for free. They must have hidden agenda"
Upon learning the full extent of the situation, Abel became increasingly concerned about Mizar's involvement. He firmly prohibited Mizar from participating any further, emphasizing that it was far too dangerous.
"Mizar, I cannot allow you to continue participating in this," Abel stated with a tone of deep concern. "The implications of Winhard Enterprise's involvement, combined with Daniel Noah's shady reputation, make this endeavor far too perilous for someone like you."
Mizar's face displayed a mixture of disappointment and defiance. He was eager to prove himself and showcase his magical abilities, but he also understood the weight of his brother's words.
"But Abel," Mizar began, his voice filled with determination, "I've been waiting for years for an opportunity like this. I want to prove my skills and make a difference."
Abel softened his expression, realizing the depth of Mizar's aspirations and his desire to contribute. He placed a hand on Mizar's shoulder and spoke with an empathetic tone.
"I understand your passion, Mizar. Believe me, I do. But your safety and well-being are of utmost importance to me. There are forces at play here that we don't fully comprehend. It's my responsibility as your brother to keep you out of harm's way."
Mizar hung his head low, his gaze cast downwards. He couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—disappointment, understanding, and gratitude—towards his brother. Abel had always shown unwavering care and concern for him, and this time was no different.
It's going to be fine," Ridley chimed in, stepping forward to persuade Abel. Letto and Vanta also joined in, standing by Ridley's side.
"We've grown significantly stronger since the last time you saw us. With the power we possess now, we believe we can handle the challenges that come our way," Ridley stated confidently.
Abel's expression softened as he listened to their words, considering their plea. However, he wanted to ensure that they truly grasped the magnitude of the situation.
"Is that so?" Abel responded, a glimmer of challenge in his eyes. "If you're all truly confident in your abilities, then prove it to me. I'll give you a chance. If you can land just one hit on me, I'll allow you to proceed. But if not, I must forbid you from entering the tournament.
"Then could you please wait for an hour?" Vanta pleaded, his voice filled with urgency.
Abel arched an eyebrow, intrigued by Vanta's request. "Why should I wait?"
Vanta exchanged a knowing glance with Letto and Ridley before turning back to Abel. "Trust us, Abel. We promise you'll see something interesting if you just give us a little more time."
Curiosity piqued, Abel decided to entertain their request, albeit with a hint of skepticism. He nodded in agreement, willing to see what awaited him in the next hour.
As if on cue, Axel arrived on the scene, responding to Vanta's call. "Yo, what's up?"
Vanta's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Axel, could you please help Mizar master your exceptional skill? We've made a bet with Abel, and we want to prove him wrong."
Axel, still unaware of the full situation, grinned mischievously. He loved nothing more than seeing Abel lose a bet. "Sure thing! Count me in."
Abel observed the exchange between Vanta, Axel, and the rest of the boys. His curiosity was further piqued by the unexpected turn of events. Although he didn't fully grasp their plan, he was willing to give them a chance to prove themselves.
"Alright," Abel said, a faint smile forming on his lips. "I'll wait and see what you all have in store. Make it worth the suspense."