Three days had elapsed since Rizki's humbling defeat in an archery duel against Liora. During this period, he had engaged in deep introspection regarding her offer to train him. In the dimly lit bedroom of the Danielle Sisters, Eva, Eve, Evelyn, and Everyn occupied their respective beds, forming a semicircle around him. The room buzzed with anticipation as they awaited Rizki's words.
After a poignant silence, Rizki took a profound breath and began, "I've been soul-searching and reflecting on my actions in recent days, particularly since Liora offered to become my mentor."
Four pairs of earnest eyes fixed upon him as he continued, his voice heavy with remorse, "I must confess that I've made substantial errors."
Eva, filled with concern, inquired, "Is this about Grand Master?"
Rizki nodded solemnly and replied, "Yes, it's about Liora."
He then gathered his courage and began to share a glimpse of his past, saying, "You see, I've always known that I possess a keen aptitude for science and mathematics. Despite my parents' strictness, they never stifled my pursuits. They even allowed me to engage in street fights, which brought me a peculiar sense of happiness."
Rizki sighed and chose to reveal more of his history, explaining, "I've been entangled in a relentless battle among school factions. In your world, it may resemble a competition for scholarships, but here, it's a brawl that sometimes includes bike chains." As he presented a bike chain, Eve's curiosity was piqued.
Eve raised an eyebrow and inquired, "Is that not lethal?"
Rizki chuckled and let the chain rest on the bed, clarifying, "No, it's not meant to be lethal. It's a tool to inflict excruciating pain, worse than death, on someone."
Rizki then shifted the conversation, remarking, "I once believed that using fists and brute force could resolve any issue. However, Liora's words have made me reconsider."
Recalling what he had learned from her, Rizki mentioned, "First and foremost, Eve, do you recall that Liora lost her family during the conquest against the beastmen?"
Eve nodded, her frustration evident. She responded, "But she's incredibly stubborn! I want to assist her, but she refuses."
"If she, with all her strength, struggles to defeat them, then those I've vanquished before were likely their underlings," Rizki argued. He then recounted the numerous obstacles he had faced and the injuries he had sustained while confronting them.
He briefly alluded to his past, sharing, "I was once part of the Undefeated Eighteen, a group of the eighteen mightiest fighters in my school. I was the third member, as the first had perished, and the second had betrayed us. Although these details may seem irrelevant, they have played a role in shaping my choices."
Continuing with a heavy heart, Rizki admitted, "I had never tasted defeat before. Yet, when I lost to Liora in our last encounter, it stung deeply. I have honed my archery skills, earning four gold medals in archery sports events alone. But I questioned the purpose of my victories."
He paused, deep in thought, and then continued, "I realized that there are realms beyond what I have achieved in my former pursuits. If Liora cannot effortlessly overcome her adversaries, how can I hope to do so?"
The Danielle Sisters exchanged glances, silently deliberating Rizki's revelations. He then declared, "I have made my decision. I will train under Liora's guidance for the next 2-3 years."
"2-3 years…" Everyn whispered timidly. She added, "Are you certain about this?"
Eva eagerly suggested, "Train with us instead!"
Rizki, meeting their silence with a question, asked, "Can any of you defeat me?" None of them responded, their silence confirming his point. Rizki then bowed and said, "I am aware of each of your abilities, and I prefer not to delve further into that, especially now that we are in a romantic relationship. Therefore…"
With a respectful bow, he concluded, "Allow me to embark on this journey with Liora for the next 3 years to train."
Witnessing Rizki's humble bow, Evelyn smiled and patted his back, saying, "It's alright. We will patiently await your return, even if it takes 200 years."
Rizki lifted his head, expressing his gratitude to them softly by muttering, "Liora." The name lingered in the air, signifying his unwavering commitment to change, to train, and to become worthy of her teachings.
As Rizki's decision settled in, the room seemed to transform around him. The dimly lit bedroom expanded, revealing more details of the Danielle Sisters' living quarters. Posters from various archery tournaments adorned the walls, displaying their shared passion for the sport. A wooden training dummy occupied one corner, bearing the scars of countless arrow strikes. The room mirrored their dedication to their craft.
Evelyn warmly smiled at Rizki and reassured him, saying, "We believe in you, Rizki. We will support you every step of the way."
Eve chimed in, "You won't be alone in this journey. We will ensure you have everything you need to succeed."
Eva nodded in agreement, emphasizing, "You're like family to us, Rizki. We will eagerly anticipate your return and celebrate your growth as a warrior."
Everyn, the quietest of the sisters, offered a reassuring smile, her eyes filled with unwavering faith in Rizki's decision.
With their unwavering support, Rizki's resolve solidified. He understood that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges, but he was prepared to embrace it. The room, now suffused with camaraderie and determination, served as a testament to the bonds he had forged with the Danielle Sisters.
Turning to face them, Rizki's heart brimming with gratitude, he affirmed, "Thank you, each one of you. I pledge that upon my return, I will be a better person."
Rizki's heart raced with anticipation and a hint of nervousness as he exited the room and entered the captivating world beyond. Liora, the enigmatic female elf with her ethereal beauty, awaited him beside a magnificent horse that seamlessly blended with the natural splendor of the forest.
Before them stretched the forest, a lush tapestry of emerald leaves and dappled sunlight. The atmosphere buzzed with the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant calls of birds. It was a realm he had only glimpsed in his dreams—a place where magic and wonder were tangible.
Meeting Rizki's gaze with her piercing emerald eyes, Liora asked, "Are you prepared?"
Rizki took a deep breath, his eyes brimming with determination. He let his bag drop to the ground, symbolizing the release of his past life's burdens. "I'm ready," he affirmed, his voice resolute.