** Five Years Later***
" Come on you gonna have to do better than that if you want to beat me, or even lay a scratch for that matter."
The Mooncrest Mansion's training grounds echoed with the harmonious clash of weapons and the crackle of magical energies as the Mooncrest family continued their spirited training session. Victor, though not exerting his full strength, remained a formidable force against his quadruplet children.
Ceteus, adjusting the aim of his magical rifle, remarked,
"Father, your adaptability is astounding. It's like you're predicting our moves before we make them."
Victor, his sword meeting magical projectiles mid-air, smiled.
"Anticipating your opponents is a skill that comes with experience. Keep challenging me, Ceteus. It sharpens both our edges."
Meanwhile, Key, utilizing his dual shortswords, weaved through the training ground with a grin.
"Dad, you're holding back, aren't you? You've got tricks up your sleeve you're not showing."
Victor, effortlessly evading Key's strikes, responded,
"Perhaps I am, Key. But remember, the true strength lies not just in the visible moves but in the unpredictability of the unseen."
Mikro, coordinating with his brothers telepathically, questioned,
"Dad, how do you maintain such calm in the midst of chaos?"
Victor, parrying Mikro's attacks with ease, replied,
"Calmness is the eye of the storm, Mikro. Amidst the chaos, find your center. It will guide you."
Kwatee, his fists a whirlwind, joined the conversation.
"Father, you're not breaking a sweat. It's like you're dancing through this."
Victor, deflecting Kwatee's strikes gracefully, explained,
"Efficiency in movement conserves energy. In a true battle, every ounce of strength matters."
The training session continued, a dance of skill and strategy. Victor, though not revealing the full extent of his power, provided invaluable insights to his children. The banter and exchanges of wisdom intertwined with the family's shared laughter, creating an atmosphere of growth and unity.
The quadruplets engaged in a dynamic training session against their father, Victor. However, this time, a unique strategy unfolded as the children tapped into their telepathic link to coordinate their moves.
Ceteus, adjusting the aim of his magical rifle, sent a mental message,
"Keep him occupied with your elemental attacks. I'll line up a shot from a distance."
Victor, deflecting magical projectiles with ease, replied aloud, "Ceteus, you've become quite the marksman."
Meanwhile, Key, utilizing his dual shortswords, shared a telepathic message,
"Everyone, let's create a diversion. Dad won't see this coming."
Mikro, coordinating the mental conversation, added,
"I'll create illusions to confuse him. Kwatee, strike when he's disoriented."
Kwatee, his fists poised for action, replied telepathically, "Got it, Mikro. Let's make this count."
As the children synchronized their moves through the telepathic link, the training ground became a stage for a unique dance of strategy. Victor, sensing the heightened coordination, observed, "There's an unusual rhythm to your movements, my children. What's the secret?"
Ceteus, telepathically conveying his plan, replied,
"Let's keep him guessing, brothers. Mikro, amplify the illusions. Key, stay agile and elusive."
Key, twirling his shortswords with finesse, responded telepathically,
"On it. Dad won't know what hit him."
Mikro, delving deeper into the telepathic link, Illusions intensifying. Confusion level rising.
Kwatee, seizing the moment, struck with precision as Victor faced the disorienting illusions. Victor, caught off guard, acknowledged, "Well done, Kwatee. That was unexpected."
Victor. However, as the battle continued, it became apparent that Victor, even when not exerting his full strength, was a force to be reckoned with.
Ceteus, maintaining a calculated distance, continued his assault with magical projectiles. The telepathic link allowed the quadruplets to coordinate seamlessly, but Victor's experience and adaptability proved to be formidable obstacles. Victor deftly dodged Ceteus's magical onslaught, recognizing the patterns.
"Father, he's anticipating my shots," Ceteus transmitted through the telepathic link. "I can't get a clear shot."
Key, twirling his shortswords with finesse, received the message.
"Alright, Ceteus. Mikro, intensify the illusions. Let's create more chaos."
Mikro, enhancing the illusions, responded, Illusions at maximum intensity.
"Key, go for a surprise attack when he's distracted."
As the illusions reached their peak, Victor found himself momentarily disoriented by the kaleidoscope of false images. Seizing the opportunity, Key lunged forward with a swift strike. However, Victor, relying on his instincts, countered the attack and disarmed Key with a calculated move.
"He's quick"
Key transmitted, acknowledging the defeat.
"But we're just getting started."
Kwatee, with fists charged, moved in next. The telepathic link buzzed with determination. Kwatee, "Keep him busy"
Mikro instructed. "I'll amplify the illusions even more."
Kwatee unleashed a barrage of rapid punches, showcasing his newfound strength. The illusions created a whirlwind of confusion around Victor. However, Victor, relying on his intuition, anticipated Kwatee's movements and, with a precise counter, brought the onslaught to a halt.
"Well fought, Kwatee"
Victor transmitted through the telepathic link.
"But there's always room for improvement."
As Kwatee acknowledged his defeat, Mikro and Key regrouped, their telepathic link pulsating with determination. "Let's combine our strengths," Mikro suggested.
"Key, your agility and illusions. Mikro, your telepathic insights. We can create a powerful synergy."
The brothers nodded in agreement, ready to face Victor together. However, even with their combined efforts, Victor, showcasing masterful swordplay, expertly navigated through their coordinated attacks. The telepathic link, while enhancing their collaboration, couldn't bridge the experience gap between the young warriors and their seasoned father.
In a poetic dance of blades, illusions, and telepathic strategy, Victor emerged victorious over Mikro and Key. "
You fought valiantly, Victor transmitted through the telepathic link. Your coordination is impressive. But the journey of mastery is a continuous one."
Mikro and Key, while acknowledging their defeat, shared a determined look. Ceteus and Kwatee joined their brothers, the telepathic link buzzing with a mix of camaraderie and ambition. The battle may have been lost, but the Mooncrest family's unity and shared growth remained unbroken.
"Your skills are unparalleled, Father, Ceteus transmitted. But we're not giving up. This is just a step on our journey."
Victor, sensing the resilience in his children's thoughts, smiled.
"Indeed, my sons. The journey is long, and every defeat is a lesson. Now, let's regroup and continue honing our strengths."
"Excellent effort, my sons,"
Victor praised, his features reflecting a mix of pride and wisdom.
"Your coordination through the telepathic link is a remarkable asset. But remember, the key to victory lies not only in coordination but also in adaptability."
Ceteus, adjusting the strap of his magical rifle, nodded.
"You're right, Father. I need to be more unpredictable in my attacks."
Victor placed a reassuring hand on Ceteus's shoulder.
"Indeed. Mix up your elemental patterns, and never let your opponent predict your next move. Surprise is a valuable ally in battle."
Kwatee, flexing his fists, chimed in.
"I got too focused on power, didn't I? I should have varied my approach."
Victor nodded.
"Power is essential, but balance is the key. Mix speed, precision, and power in your strikes. Keep your opponent guessing."
Key, twirling his shortswords, looked thoughtful.
"I thought illusions would be enough, but I guess I need to improve my direct combat skills."
Victor acknowledged,
"Illusions are a potent tool, Key, but they're most effective when used strategically. Combining them with your agile strikes will make you a formidable opponent."
Mikro, with a telepathic grin, added,
"You outplayed us, Father. Your experience is a significant advantage."
Victor chuckled.
"Experience comes with time, Mikro. But your unique blend of skills and telepathic coordination is a force to be reckoned with. Remember, every defeat is a lesson."
As the quadruplets absorbed their father's guidance, Victor turned his attention to Mikro.
"Mikro, your telepathic insights are exceptional. However, don't rely solely on them. Let them complement your physical prowess, not replace it."
Mikro nodded, understanding the wisdom in his father's words.
"I'll work on enhancing both aspects, Father."
Victor glanced at each of his sons, a mix of paternal affection and respect in his gaze. "
Remember, my sons, strength is not only about winning battles but also about continuous improvement. Train not just for victory but for the journey of self-discovery and mastery."
As Victor, bid farewell to the training grounds, his features carried the weight of experience and the warmth of paternal pride. The quadruplet brothers, Ceteus, Kwatee, Key, and Mikro, gathered in a huddle, the telepathic link rekindling their internal conversation.
Ceteus, adjusting the strap of his magical rifle, spoke telepathically,
"Do you think we could have won if we used all of our abilities?"
Kwatee, still flexing his fists, considered the question.
"Maybe. But Father has a point about balance. We need to learn how to integrate our abilities seamlessly."
Key, twirling his shortswords absentmindedly, added,
"He's right. Each of us has unique strengths. Combining them strategically is the key to victory."
Mikro, the eldest, contemplated their options.
"We're still figuring out the intricacies of our abilities and the telepathic link. It's a learning process."
Ceteus nodded.
"True. We shouldn't rush. We'll get better with time."
As the boys discussed their potential strategies, Mikro glanced towards their departing father.
"He's proud of us, you know. We gave him a good challenge."
Key smirked,
"If we had used all our abilities, we might have surprised him."
Kwatee grinned,
"Next time, we go all out."
Mikro, with a sense of brotherly camaraderie, concluded,
"Agreed. Let's keep training and refining our skills. We can't use our true strength right now, and honestly, even if we did I'm sure we still would have lost"
Kwatee frowned at his brother's response
"I know your right, but it's frustrating having to hold back even base stats now at this point because our progress is frightening."
"Well, you can blame Key for that."
Mikro said
"Hey, It wasn't my fault the Mooncrest supposed Main Family Genius was so weak. He couldn't even withstand one hit."
Ceteus started coughing at Key's rebuttal.
"You do know you almost killed the poor kid right, if it wasn't for Mother's healing magic he might have died. Now we have to learn how to utilize less than half our strength because people our age are too weak."
" Again how is that my fault"
The three boys could do nothing but shake their heads at their brother's own ignorance, and how the Patriarch would have killed him if it wasn't for Father and Mother stepping in.
"Whatever Key, Everyone send in their system stats to how much we progress today with training"
SYSTEM
Name: Kwatee Mooncrest
LVL 1
RACE Human
CORE STAGE: Late Yellow stage
STATUS POINTS-0
MAGIC POWER-1000
STR-400
DEF-360
AGI-250
STAM-200
INT-600
MANA RESERVE-1000
WILL-45
*******
SYSTEM
Name: Mikro Mooncrest
LVL:1
RACE:Human
CORE STAGE: Late Orange Stage
STATUS POINTS-0
MAGIC POWER-800
STR-700
DEF-550
AGI-700
STAM-400
INT-350
MANA RESERVE-800
WILL-30
***********
Key
LVL 1
RACE:Human
CORE STAGE: Late Orange stage
STATUS POINTS-0
MAGIC POWER-700(+420)
STR-300(+180)
DEF-700(+420)
AGI-600(+360)
STAM-300(+180)
INT-300(+180)
MANA RESERVE-700(+420)
*********
SYSTEM
Name:Ceteus Mooncrest
LVL:1
RACE: Human
CORE STAGE: Late Orange stage
STATUS POINTS-0
MAGIC POWER-700
STR-250
DEF-300
AGI-800
STAM-500
INT-500
MANA RESERVE-700
WILL-30
*********
The Three Brothers could do nothing but sigh as they looked at Key's stats wishing they had taken the Solar Empowerment Talent.
"Dammit why am I always last, I should have taken a talent that increases my training Efficiency. I only Have Gluttony which I can't use right now until we start to fight monsters so I can absorb their stats and potentially a skill from them."
Ceteus complained.
"Doesn't Even matter if my stats are this high I can't even use my full strength without blowing off one of my limbs. If it wasn't for my regeneration I would be a crippled right now, and my Zenkai Talent doesn't seem to work on self-afflicted wounds. Curse this small body of mine"
The Boys nodded in agreement remembering when they each almost lost a limb because of their overwhelming stats.
A thought appeared in Mikro's head all of a sudden
"Guys don't forget we have the upcoming Competition with the other Mooncrest Branches with kids around our age, even though fighting them will be boring, I overheard one the maids saying we will have an opportunity to fight against a real magical beast"
"That means we both can finally use one of our talents to finally gain more and you can even use bestowment on us if you find a really good one."
Ceteus was finally feeling better thinking of the idea of his chance to use his gluttony to gain strength.
Ceteus knew he possessed unique abilities. Yet, when he compared himself to his other brother he found himself feeling inferior just like in their past life. Ceteus knew that overcoming this internal struggle would be a challenge in itself. He understood the importance of embracing his unique strengths and contributions to the team, but breaking free from the shadow of comparison proved to be a journey of self-discovery.
Mikro, perceptive and attuned to the emotions within their shared mental space, recognized the importance of addressing this subtle shift. In the midst of the lively banter and excitement, Mikro made a mental note to check in with Ceteus privately.
"Hold on I think we might be getting ahead of ourselves, we might be strong for our age, but we can't even utilize half of our power, and right now Mooncrest is having an internal conflict for the right to be the next Main family, there are over a hundred different branches each birthing extreme amounts of children. Mooncrest is known as a warrior family. There is a chance that a few of them might be able to compete with us at this level of strength."
"Kwatee right, there could be over a thousand kids there, and there a chance one of them could be their own little protagonist and keep up with us in terms of skills and these limiting stats."
Mikro said agreeing with Kwatee.
" Who gives a fuck, let them try yall can be defeated by them, but I'll kill everyone who tries me."
Key Standing up declaring his insanity in front of them.
The three boys could do nothing but stare at the best friend now brother.
"I didn't pick these Talents to lose to just anyone and neither did you, so what we can't use more of our strength and only the talents that showed during the ceremony. I chose these talents to be like Escanor and have his pride, they should apologize to me that they were born into my world."
Key standing there making his declaration known to everyone, but the boys just couldn't help but burst into laughter.
"Key please don't kill anyone we might need them for the future and did you really have to quote the man."