Heroes POV
Noah's disbelief surged as he witnessed a brawl erupting mere minutes into their voyage, and for once, it wasn't instigated by Lloyd, but rather by Kai. He felt a surge of irritation at Kai's impulsive actions, especially when Sensei Garmadon was explaining about the original Elementals Masters.
As they observed Kai squaring off against an ability user named Karlof, who possessed the power to physically turn into metal, hardening himself as an impervious defense Noah couldn't help but feel exasperated by the prospect of yet another conflict stemming from matters of the heart. Kai had intervened because Karlof had dared to pull the hood of a girl Kai had taken a sudden liking to.
"You've got to be kidding me," Noah muttered under his breath, casting a glance at Lloyd, who appeared thoroughly entertained by the unfolding chaos. "Let's put an end to this guys."
Abruptly, Sensei Garmadon intervened, halting their progress with a stern command, "Kai initiated this conflict; he must resolve it." His gaze bore into Kai and Karlof, the tension palpable as if the air was crackling with impending confrontation. "That's how a true Elemental Master handles matters."
Noah glances at his uncle, pondering his words, then redirects his attention to Kai. Perhaps it was time to heed his uncle's wisdom. After all, Sensei Garmadon had helped him perceive his abilities in a new light. But first, Noah felt the need to have a private conversation with Kai.
"So much for keeping a low profile," he muttered under his breath, resigning to the unfolding drama. However, their exchange was abruptly interrupted as Clouse, Chen's second-in-command, materialized on the scene, swiftly quelling the escalating altercation.
"Enough of this juvenile behavior!" Clouse's voice thundered as he cast a stern glance at Kai and Karlof. "Save your energy for the Tournament; you'll need it there."
Karlof relented, leaving Kai behind, and strode off. Clouse's gaze shifted to Sensei Garmadon, his expression souring. "You've got some nerve showing your face here after your betrayal." he spat.
"I had no intention of returning," Sensei Garmadon retorted coolly. "I'm only here for my nephew."
Tension thickened in the air, but Clouse's attention shifted to Lloyd, who appeared lost in contemplation of the night sky. "You ought to keep a close eye on your boy," he warned. "Who knows what trouble he might attract."
Sensei Garmadon's eyes widened, his face flushed with anger. "Touch my child, and you'll regret it with every fiber of your being," he warned icily, his voice laced with venom.
Clouse's smirk only widened as he turned and walked away, leaving Sensei Garmadon seething in rage. A tense silence fell over the group as they watched him, wary of provoking further anger.
Noah took charge, addressing his friends with a firm tone. "We're here for one purpose only, so don't get sidetracked," he reminded them sternly. "Especially you, Kai."
Kai shot Noah a defiant glare but remained silent. The others nodded in agreement, understanding the gravity of their mission. All they could do now was hope that Master Chen's promises held.
…
Lloyd POV
As I strode towards the palace, Clouse intercepted me, his presence immediately causing a furrow to form on my brow. Aware of the longstanding animosity between him and my father, I anticipated that his motives were far from benign.
"What can I do for you, Sir Clouse?" I inquired, my tone polite yet tinged with wariness. "I'm headed to the palace, just like everyone else."
He scrutinized me from head to toe before posing his inquiry, his gaze alternating between me and the imposing doors of the palace. "I was wondering why you're not with the ninja group Shouldn't you be by your father's side?"
Understanding his insinuation, I responded evely, "My relationship with my father isn't exactly stellar. Ever since his purification, I haven't felt compelled to forge a bond with him, considering he wasn't there for me during my formative years."
Clouse acknowledged my explanation with a nod, conceding space for me to pass. "In that case, you're free to proceed. Time doesn't wait for anyone."
"Indeed," I acknowledged as I continued on my path towards the palace. "I have a feeling our paths will cross again soon."
"Yes, indeed," came Clouse's parting remark before I disappeared through the palace doors.
As I entered the room, I noticed that all the seats were already taken except for one, conveniently situated next to Elijah. It was evident that nobody wanted to be near him, likely due to his aloof demeanor. I settled into the vacant seat, stealing a glance at Elijah. He remained an enigma to me, his past and future shrouded in mystery. While I had no doubt he would become a formidable hero, what lay beyond that was a puzzle I couldn't solve.
Yet, it wasn't just Elijah who puzzled me. Mister Glasses was another enigma altogether. Despite his pivotal role in recruiting Noah and his friends, I knew next to nothing about him. His elusive nature, coupled with his tendency to remain within the confines of the school grounds, renders him a mystery. I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to him than met the eye but dwelling on it would only lead to frustration. As long as Mister Glasses didn't impede my plans, I saw no reason to concern myself with him, despite the lack of information.
The abrupt snapping of fingers startled me, pulling my attention to Elijah, whose expression seemed to mirror his displeasure. His sharp question sliced through the air, demanding an answer.
"Why are you staring at me?" He asked.
I blinked, realizing I had been staring, and struggled to muster a response. "Oh, um, nothing," I stammered, trying to recover. "It; 's just… well, you're quite striking." I couldn't help but blurt out my honest observation. "I mean, I've been told I'm cute, but you… you're undeniably hot."
Elijah's reaction was a mixture of disdain and irritation, but before he could retort, the resounding clang of a gong and the scratching melody of a gramophone filled the room, commanding our attention.
"All rise for Master Chen," Clouse announced, and instinctively, we all complied, standing in deference to the approaching presence of the tournament's host.
The floor rumbled beneath us, parting to reveal a grand sofa ascending with Master Chen perched atop it. Despite the gravity of the moment, I couldn't suppress a small chuckle. Chen's flair for the dramatic hadn't waned a bit since my past life. Yet, as entertaining as his theatrics were, I knew that his grand plans would ultimately crumble at the hands of Noah and his comrades.
But that wasn't my concern. My sole purpose here was to hone my skills as an ability Weilder. If I could such muster ower, I'd be unstoppable, a force to be reckoned with.
"Welcome to the Tournament of Elements! Now everyone can all di-" The door slammed shut abruptly, causing a ripple of surprise through the gathered crowd. "-rect your attention to me," Master Chen declared, his laughter echoing through the room.
As he chuckled at the startled reactions, a sense of unease settled over me. This man was unhinged, his demeanor sending shivers down my spine. I understand the true purpose of this tournament, and it certainly wasn't for mere entertainment.
Master Chen's gaze swept across the assembly, his eyes gleaming with anticipation, "Never before have so many Elemental Fighters been under one roof," he proclaimed. "I see Masters of Fire, Earth, Shadow, Speed, and even a prophesied Green Savior among us."
Noah's gaze fell, a wave of embarrassment and shame washing over him. He couldn't escape the truth: he hadn't truly saved Ninjago once. Instead, he'd often found himself relying on others, only to receive credit he hadn't earned. It was this very reliance that had left him feeling powerless to prevent Zane's death. Noah's entire existence felt like a facade, built on lies from the very beginning. He didn't know how to break free from this cycle and grow stronger. Unlike Lloyd, who had honed his skills through self-teaching, or Abaddon, who possessed a natural strength that Noah could only envy.
"And a former pupil has returned, and there is his son." Master Chen's gaze lingered on me, a peculiar smile playing on his lips. Sensing his intentions, I returned the gesture with a smile of my own, though mine held a hint of caution. As he addressed the crowd, his voice resonated with an air of authority.
"This symbol before you," he declared, gesturing toward the emblem of the Anacondrai, "represents the fiercest Serpentine to ever roam the land. Its creed: 'Only one can remain."
His words sent a chill through the room, each syllable dripping with ominous significance. It was clear that the Tournament of Elements would be no ordinary contest.
Master Chen's voice reverberated through the hall, drawing the attention of every participant. With an air of authority, he began to outline the details of the first challenge.
"Since we're all here," he began, his tone commanding of this tournament." let me tell you about the first challenge of this tournament." He wasted no time in getting to the heart of the matter. "It is called the Labyrinth of Shadows. The challenge will be placed in a dark and twisting labyrinth, filled with traps and illusions. Your task? Navigate through the maze and retrieve a Jadeblade."
With a flourish, he presented a peculiar-looking blade, its green hue shimmering in the light. "The Jadeblade," he continued, emphasizing its significance. "It represents life itself. Hold tight, for it is your key to survival in this challenge. But beware- allow your opponent to take it, and you must strive to reclaim it or steal it from another."
Master Chen's words hung in the air, the gravity of the challenge sinking in. "Those who fail to make it out with a Jadeblade within the time limit, those who become lost in the darkness, or those who fall victim to the traps are eliminated."
As Master Chen elaborated on the challenge, my mind wandered, much like it had done countless times before. But this time, I smirked to myself, realizing that my tendency to drift off might just work in my favor. With a sense of confidence, I knew that I could strategize my way through this challenge.
I mulled over the task ahead, pondering the location of a Jadeblade and how L could secure it for me. It seemed simple enough- retrieve the blade and ensure no one could take it from me. However, the labyrinth itself posed a formidable obstacle, living up to its ominous name with its twists, turns, and hidden dangers.
"Every challenge will be different. Your powers will keep you in the tournament. Use it or lose it!" Master Chen's voice reverberated through the hall, his words carrying weight and anticipation for the trails ahead. "But that is for another time, right now we will show you to your suite."
As the others began to rise, a Kabuki attendant reached out, intending to guide me. I instinctively stepped back, holding up a hand to ward off any physical contact due to an incident in my past," I explained politely. "I would appreciate it if you could simply show me to my suite."
The Kabuki nodded in understanding and began leading the way. My mind raced with thoughts of strategy, the weight of competition heavy on my shoulders. Failure was not an option, and I knew I had to rely on Energy Manipulation to navigate the labyrinth successfully. But doubts lingered nagging at the edge of my confidence. What if my abilities failed me?
Suddenly, inspiration struck like lightning. A daring idea took shape in my mind, promising a solution to my dilemma. Without hesitation, I halted in my tracks, turning back to the Kabuki with newfound determination.
"Excuse me, my fair lady," I addressed her, my voice tinged with urgency. "I need to speak with Master Chen. Please wait here for me, I'll be back shortly." Ignoring any protest, I dashed back towards the palace with purpose in stride.
The grand doors of the palace swung before me, revealing the scene within. Clouse and Master Chen engaged in conversation, their attention focused on matters of the tournament. This was my chance to seize an opportunity that could tip the scales in my favor.
"I apologize for the interruption," I began, offering a respectful bow. "But I have a suggestion that could enhance the excitement of this tournament."
Clouse regarded me with disdain, but Master Chen's curiosity was piqued. "What suggestion do you have in mind?" he inquired.
"I propose live streaming the Tournament of Elements," I proposed. "Let's make this event accessible to all of Ninjago."
Master Chen seemed taken aback by my proposal, while Clouse wore a displeased expression. "And why would we do that?" Clouse challenged.
"In addition to increasing engagement, broadcasting the tournament would allow the citizens of Ninjago to witness the thrilling battles firsthand," I explained.
Before Clouse could voice further opposition, Master Chen interjected enthusiastically. "What a splendid idea! You remind me of your father when he was younger."
As my eye twitched in irritation, I responded firmly, "Please refrain from comparing me to my father. Our relationship is far from amicable."
Chen nodded, though his enthusiasm seemed somewhat subdued. "You may proceed to your suite now. I will ponder over your suggestion."
With another respectful bow, I turned and made my way back to the waiting Kabuki. "You may lead me to the suite now," I instructed.
…
My eyes snapped open as Master Chen's voice announcement echoed through the room, his voice resonating with an air of anticipation echoed through the room, "Fellow fighters, concealed within Labyrinth of Shadows lie enough Jadeblades for almost all participants. Your task is to locate one and safely navigate your way out, provided you don't fall prey to its challenges."
Listening intently to Chen's instructions, I felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through my veins. It was time to spring into action. Rising from my bed, I began a series of stretches to loosen my muscles. Despite the lingering soreness in my back, I knew I had to be swift and agile, avoiding any entanglements in the impending chaos. With each stretch, I steeled myself for the challenges ahead, fully aware that the competition was about to escalate to new heights of complexity.
I bolted out of my room, my heart pounding with anticipation. With Destruction off the table to avoid revealing my identity as Abaddon, I relied solely on my speed, darting through the corridors with determination. Each footfall echoed loudly in the empty halls as I raced towards the exit, my mind already strategizing how to leverage Energy Manipulation to its fullest potential.
The creaking of doors opening behind me served as a warning that the other competitors were hot on my heels. I reached the stairs and, without hesitation, launched myself down the downward, taking steps two at a time in my haste to gain a crucial head start.
Emerging through the back door, I was met with the imposing silhouette of the labyrinth looming before me. Its vastness was daunting, but I refused to let it intimidate me. With a singular focus on securing a Jadeblade, I charged toward the maze, my determination unwavering.
As I approached the enterance, darkness entrance, plunging me into an abyss of unceartainly. I stood uncertain training to discern any movement in the impenetrable blackness. Suddenly, a rush of wind brushed past me, a fleeting presence that sent shivers down my spine.
"If you keep standing there, you're not going to make it to the next round," a voice echoed from the depths of the maze, its source quickly fading into the labyrinthine corridors.
Griffin's words jolted me into action. His speed was legendary, and I couldn't afford to let him- or anyone else- outpace me in the pursuit of a Jadeblade. With a determination grimace, I conjured a small, glowing energy ball, casting its faint light into the surrounding darkness.
Using the feeble illumination to guide my path, I plunged into the shadows ahead, my footsteps echoing against the cold stone walls. Each twist and turn of the labyrinth presented a new challenge, but I pressed forward, my resolve unyielding.