"So, what's your awakened ability?" Ahiro finally asked, unable to contain his curiosity.
Melvin grinned mischievously. "Ah, that's a secret, my friend. You see, revealing one's abilities too soon can be a disadvantage. It's always better to keep your cards close to your chest, especially in situations like these."
Ahiro nodded, realizing the wisdom in Melvin's words. In a test like this, information was power, and revealing too much could make you an easy target.
"By the way," Melvin continued, "what about you"
Ahiro hesitated for a moment before deciding to speak. "Oh, that is a secret. "
Melvin's eyes widened in surprise. "You sure learn fast." as he said this both of them laughed.
After some time Ahiro was now feeling a bit more at ease. But Melvin was already getting up ready to leave.
Ahiro was about to ask him to stay but before he could Melvin spoke "Sorry but I need to get going, that was the deal right" Mevin smiled and stretched his hand forward to shake Ahiro's hand. to which Ahiro also got up and they shook thier hands. Melvin continued "Just remember, you've got an advantage here. You're also resourceful enough to build a fire, catch fish, and set up camp. That's more than most students can say. Think before taking any action and use your abilities wisely. Hope to meet you in the academy"
Ahiro smiled, grateful for the encouragement. "Thanks, Melvin. I'll do my best."
As the night wore on, ahiro sat by the campfire thinking about all Melvin said. Ahiro couldn't help but admire Melvin's carefree attitude and how he made the best out of any situation.
As Ahiro watched Melvin disappear into the darkness of the forest, he couldn't help but mull over their conversation. Melvin's parting words about the last badge around this area being at the stream intrigued him. He knew about that since it was already in his possession, but since Melvin also knew even before he went there that means It meant that this area had been thoroughly scoured by him, maybe using his ability he guessed, and he also said that if he wanted to find more badges, he'd have to venture deeper into the forest.
The full moon cast an eerie yet comforting glow on his surroundings, and he knew he needed to prepare for what lay ahead. First, he checked his pouch to ensure the badge he'd received from Melvin was safe.
Next, he turned his attention to secure his food for the next day's journey. He had consumed two bars, leaving only three remaining. He then went to his fishnet and bought back two more fish that were caught, he ate half of one of the fish and wrapped the rest tightly in the wrapper from an already-eaten energy bar.
With sustenance taken care of, Ahiro set to work on other essential tasks. He fashioned more rope from the vines he had gathered earlier, he also carved additional tools from nearby branches, including a sturdy walking stick that could double as a weapon if needed.
As the night wore on, he lay down on his makeshift bed of leaves took a deep breath, and allowed himself allowed himself some rest.
As Ahiro stirred from his makeshift bed, he could tell that it was still early morning. The forest was cloaked in a tranquil darkness, with only a hint of the sun's impending arrival on the horizon. He knew he needed to start his day early to make the most of the precious daylight.
With a stretch and a yawn, he rose to his feet. His body felt stiff from the previous day's exertion, but there was no time to dwell on it.
With rope on his back and a hard walking stick in his hand, he set out into the forest once more. The darkness was gradually giving way to the soft glow of dawn as he moved through the trees, his senses alert to any signs of movement or badges hidden among the foliage.
Ahiro started his day with a methodical approach. Armed with his improvised stick, he carefully ruffled the bushes, hoping to uncover any hidden badges. At times, he even resorted to climbing trees to gain a bird's-eye view of the forest floor, scanning the treetops for badges concealed in the branches.
He knew the importance of maintaining his strength, so he took occasional breaks to sip water from his flask and nibble on his energy bar. Time was of the essence, and he couldn't afford to waste a single moment.
As he moved through the forest, he continued to mark the trees with his knife. These markings served as both his trail markers and a way to ensure he wouldn't lose his bearings in the dense woods.
Amid his persistent search, he noticed something peculiar – a tree that stood out from the others. It was larger and had an unusual appearance that piqued his curiosity. Ahiro decided to investigate further, making it his destination. He was determined to reach it by noon, hoping it might yield the precious badges he sought. With that goal in mind, he pressed on through the forest.
Ahiro stood at the entrance of the strange, hollow tree, his heart torn between curiosity and caution. He knew that venturing inside could lead to unexpected dangers – possibly venomous creatures or other hazards. However, the allure of finding another badge was too great to resist.
With determination, he tied the rope from his backpack to a sturdy-looking branch near the entrance. His descent into the hollow tree was slow and uncertain. He lacked experience in navigating such environments, but his determination pushed him onward.
As he descended further into the tree, he noticed that the interior was surprisingly spacious. The tree walls were covered in a lush layer of moss, which, combined with the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above, provided ample illumination.
Ahiro searched inside and after some time, he spotted the coveted badge wedged into the bark. Using his knife, he carefully pried it loose and kept it inside the pouch. With three badges now in his possession, he knew he was closer to the target of 15 but he also knew that half of the time limit was up.
Fatigue weighed heavily on him. His hands were blistered from the climb, and he felt the gnawing hunger that signaled the need for sustenance. Ahiro decided to take a quick break.
Ahiro savored the grilled fish he had wisely packed earlier, washing it down with a few sips of water. The meal helped replenish his energy and ease his hunger.
He began the ascent to the tree's canopy once more. The ascent was steady but careful, Reaching the tree's uppermost branches, Ahiro skillfully untied the rope, coiled it neatly, and secured it to his back once more. He carefully made his way down the tree determined to continue his search and find 15 badges.