The sun was barely rising when Malcom woke up early in the morning. His heart raced with anticipation, knowing that today was the day he would meet Lord Minato, the strongest warrior and former village leader. He took a quick bath, wearing his only remaining decent clothes, determined to make a good impression.
Before leaving, Malcom checked his meager savings, taking a little money to buy food and medicine for his sick mother. Her headaches and body pains weighed heavily on his mind, and he wanted to ensure she felt some relief. With a newfound hope in his eyes, he rushed to the market, purchasing the essentials as fast as he could.
Returning home, Malcom fed his mother, gently giving her the medicine. He took her for a short walk, enjoying the warmth of the sun on their faces. As the afternoon sun began to wane, he carefully tucked her into bed, her peaceful slumber bringing him some comfort.
As soon as his mother fell asleep, Malcom's thoughts returned to the address given to him by the mysterious man. He rushed to the location, filled with excitement and determination. But upon arrival, he found no one there, and his heart sank. Doubt and sadness clouded his mind, questioning whether he had been the victim of a cruel joke.
For the next two days, Malcom felt even sadder, visiting the address repeatedly with no luck. On the third day, he looked at the flyer for the tournament and decided to visit the venue that evening, hoping to find answers.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Malcom arrived at the designated location. Fear and hesitation held him back from knocking on the door. Instead, he climbed a nearby tree, hoping to catch a glimpse of the renowned Lord Minato.
As he observed from his hidden perch, he saw a figure that exuded strength and power. His eyes widened in awe as the man trained, his movements too fast for ordinary eyes to follow. It was at that moment Malcom grasped the vast difference between those gifted with supernatural abilities and ordinary humans like himself.
Suddenly, Lord Minato spotted him and demanded an explanation. Malcom trembled and stuttered, explaining that a man had sent him with a letter.
The former village leader read the letter in silence, scrutinizing the boy before him.
With a hint of uncertainty, Minato punched Malcom hard, sending him to the ground. He demanded that the boy call him "Sensei." Gritting his teeth, Malcom complied, and Minato delivered another stern blow, urging him to get up and never stay down.
Malcom's tears mixed with the dirt on his face, but he found the strength to rise each time he fell. Minato recognized the boy's determination, but reminded him that spirit alone was not enough. He had to work harder and endure the most grueling training to have a chance at winning the competition.
With a mixture of pain and determination, Malcom shouted, "Give me anything, Sensei. I'll prove to you that I can carry the name of your student, the strongest warrior!"
Minato nodded, acknowledging the young boy's resolve. But he knew that this was only the beginning of a journey filled with hardship and sacrifice. With a firm voice, he warned Malcom that this training would push him to his limits, physically and mentally. Only time would tell if he had what it took to become a true champion and bring honor to his village.