As they arrived at the sparring area, Aleric observed numerous children practicing with wooden swords, engaged in lively sparring sessions. Curious, he turned to Damien and asked about the significant investments he had made with the money obtained. Damien's response was enlightening.
"Well, with the funds acquired, I didn't just purchase this mansion and land. I established an orphanage to nurture children like you, Aleric. Those abandoned or left without family receive training here to defend themselves and their home. It's akin to what I did for you, but with these resources, we can provide even greater opportunities. That's why acquiring this magic stone is crucial—it represents a means to enact positive change. But let's set that aside for now; take a real sword, and I'll match you with this wooden one."
Damien's words resonated deeply with Aleric, highlighting the true purpose behind their endeavors and the responsibility that came with their power. He nodded, acknowledging the gravity of their mission and the impact it could have beyond personal gain. With resolve in his heart, Aleric readied himself for the sparring session ahead, knowing that the bonds they forged today would shape the future they sought to create.
As the spar was about to commence, Evelina observed the scene with a mixture of awe and apprehension. The grandeur of the mansion and the intimidating presence of the well-dressed individuals left her feeling unsettled. She couldn't help but wonder how Aleric was connected to someone with such wealth and apparent power, especially considering his upbringing as an abandoned child.
Meanwhile, Aric watched the unfolding events with a keen eye, his expression unreadable as Damien and Aleric, also known as Shadow Spark, prepared for their duel. The tension in the air was palpable as the two adversaries faced each other, one armed with a real sword and the other with a wooden one.
As the battle unfolded, the clash of swords rang out in the courtyard, each strike reverberating through the air with a thunderous intensity. Shadow Spark, known for his mastery of lightning magic, wielded his wooden sword with practiced precision, but there was a noticeable absence of his usual electric power. Despite this, he defended himself skillfully, parrying Damien's strikes with swift and agile movements.
On the other hand, Damien demonstrated formidable prowess with his sword, each swing carrying a raw, untamed power that seemed to ignite the very air around them. With each strike, the wooden sword seemed to come alive, trailing sparks of fire in its wake. Despite Aleric's best efforts, Damien's sheer strength and skill proved overwhelming, gradually pushing Shadow Spark back.
As the battle reached its climax, Damien delivered a powerful strike that sent Shadow Spark reeling. With a swift motion, he extinguished the flames that had engulfed his wooden sword, his expression a mix of frustration and concern. "What happened to your electric and air magic?" Damien demanded, his voice edged with urgency.
Aleric hesitated for a moment, the weight of his secret pressing down on him. "Ever since I enrolled in the academy, I haven't been able to access my usual powers," he admitted reluctantly. "I feel like it's the ring..." Before he could finish his sentence, Damien reached out and snatched the ring from his finger, crushing it between his fingers.
"If you think something is bothering you, you crush it," Damien said firmly, his voice brooking no argument. With a heavy heart, Aleric watched as the ring crumbled to dust, a sense of finality settling over him. In that moment, he knew that he had to confront the shadows of his past if he ever hoped to reclaim his true power.