Chereads / Jason Steel / Chapter 2 - The Sparring and False Knight Exposed

Chapter 2 - The Sparring and False Knight Exposed

Jason, Ethan, Hana, and a bunch of other students were standing in line at a large field outside of the school. The entire field was laced with a layer of grass as well as a thick forest on the other side of the field. In front of the students was Cynthia. She was wearing a black tracksuit with white stripes that went down on her sides. Her hair was tied into a ponytail. Down by her feet was a large bowl filled with scraps of paper. 

Cynthia: Alright class! Because finals are coming up, we are going to be focusing on sparing. 

Cynthia bent down and lifted up the bowl. 

Cynthia: Here's how this is going to work. I will draw two names from this bowl. Those two will have a sparring match. 

Boy (jokingly): How are you going to draw the names? All I see is paper.

Cynthia looked over at the boy who called out. She looked annoyed and held up the bowl at the boy. 

Cynthia (sarcastically): Gee, I don't know. Maybe the names are on the paper! 

The class giggled. 

Cynthia rolled her eyes. 

Cynthia: As I was saying, this will be a one on one sparring match. The fight will last for about five minutes. The fight will be over when either time runs out, someone is KOed, someone forfeits, or when I see it fit to call the matchup off. You will not be graded on if you win or lose. What matters is what you make use of what you learn during the fight. Understood? 

The Class: Yes Ms. Steel! 

Cynthia looked over to the boy from before. 

Cynthia: What about you, wise guy? You understand what I'm saying? 

Boy: Yes Ms. Steel! 

Cynthia: Okay then. 

Cynthia reached in the bowl and pulled out two pieces of paper. 

Cynthia: Let's see. George and Timmy! 

Two boys walked out of the line and onto a marked court. George started to emit red electricity while Timmy emitted green electricity. The two then began sparring. Both of them were throwing fists charged with electricity. 

Meanwhile, Mr. Gravin and the Principal known as Principal Carter were watching the sparring from a balcony from afar.

Principal Carter was very large in size. He had dark skin, short black hair, and large eyebrows. He was very muscular and had wide shoulders. He wore a dark blue tuxedo with long pants that appeared to be a bit tight in him as it looked like his muscular arms and chest would rip through the suit at any moment. He stood by Mr. Gravin as they watched the sparring matches. 

Principal Carter: We have quite the amount of go-getters this year. 

Mr. Gravin: Indeed sir. It's partly due to Ms. Cynthia's strict teaching. I dare say, her methods are a bit….brutal. 

Principal Carter: That may be the case but she is certainly no tyrant. If the students can't handle it, she allows them to quit. And the ones who stay, get pushed to new heights. 

Mr. Gravin: Of course you would know a thing or two about combat. You were the captain of the Tempion Defense Force after all.

Principal Carter: Once upon a time, but I'm retired now. Besides, The Titans are far superior to me even when I was in my prime. 

Mr. Gravin: Indeed, they are a force to be reckoned with. I would dare say that they could give Miss Cynthia a run for her money. 

Principal Carter chuckled. 

Principal Carter: Actually no. Even if all six of them ganged up on Cynthia, they would be overwhelmed. The Titans may have surpassed me, but Cynthia is in an entire different class than any Electren in Tempion.

Mr. Gravin (shocked): My word! I knew she was powerful but is she really that strong?

Principal Carter: She could've been captain of the Defense Force instead of me but she became an Apex Guardian instead.

Mr. Gravin: I see.

Principal Carter: So out of all of these students, who do you think is the best? 

Mr. Gravin stroked his mustache. 

Mr. Garvin: I'm afraid I don't know. Combat is unfortunately not an arena I am well versed in. 

Principal Carter: That doesn't matter. I wanna hear your thoughts. 

Mr. Gravin: Well then, young Ethan is a likely choice. He is a Green Electren afterall and their strength is almost unmatched. 

Principal Carter: Speak of the Devil, he is up next. Watch this match very closely. 

Back at the battle field, Ethan was up against a girl named Lapis. Ethan emitted green electricity and Lapis emitted blue electricity. She suddenly started to float up in the air. 

Mr. Gravin: Oh my, she is a Blue Electren. 

Principal Carter: Indeed. Also known as the Lightning Lilies as their beauty is quite famous. 

Mr. Gravin: If memories serve, the vast majority of Blue Electrens are female, correct? 

Principal Carter: That's correct. Pay close attention to this fight. 

Ethan charged at Lapis and jumped up. His hands charged with electricity and threw a punch at Lapis from above. 

Ethan: HAH! 

Lapis dodged the strike and flew above him. As Ethan's fist dug into the ground, a large crater formed from the impact and the earth shook. 

Lapis (confident): Nice try! 

Lapis flew at Ethan and landed a sharp kick on his back. 

Ethan: Argh! 

Ethan turned around and threw another punch at Lapis who moved out of the way to dodge it. Ethan suddenly put his palms together and started to charge electricity into his hands. A dark green orb of electricity began to form from his hands. He then launched the orb at Lapis. Lapis however kicked the orb and sent it flying back at Ethan. The orb exploded on Ethan. 

Ethan: Argh! 

Mr. Gravin: Interesting. She repelled young Ethan's attack back at him. 

Principal Carter: Yes, Green Electrens like Ethan physically are very strong but they are also quite slow. By contrast, Blue Electrens like Lapis are very quick on their feet and can learn to levitate at such an early age. And because they exercise their legs so much, they are also the strongest at kicking. 

Mr. Gravin: Now I see, young Ethan lacks mobility and thus can't catch Ms. Lapis. It seems that she will win this fight.

Principal Carter: I wouldn't jinx it. 

Mr. Gravin: Pardon? 

Principal Carter: Watch closely. 

Back at the battle field, Lapis was flying around and striking Ethan. 

Ethan: Damn it! 

Jason (thinking): Come on Ethan. Look for your moment. 

As Lapis flew at Ethan and started to glow. Blue electricity began to flow across her as she became surrounded in energy. She then charged right at Ethan. Ethan stuck his right arm out and it began to glow green. 

Ethan (thinking): Here we go. 

As Lapis got closer, Ethan jumped forward and slammed his arm into Lapis.

Lapis: KWA! 

Lapis was overpowered by the blow and was sent flying. She fell to the ground and laid there. 

Cynthia: And that's a knockout! 

Jason (cheering): That's what I'm talking about! 

Hana (cheering): Go Ethan! 

Mr. Gravin (shocked): My word! What happened? 

Principal Carter: Lapis was definitely a lot faster but she made a mistake that a lot of Blue Electrens make. She relied too much on her speed and made herself predictable. Because of that, Ethan was able to take advantage of that. 

Mr. Gravin: But a single blow? I understand that Green Electrens are mighty but she went down after one hit? 

In the background, Ethan was helping Lapis on her feet. 

Principal Carter: Another weakness of a Blue Electren. They lack defense. An inexperienced Blue Electren like Lapis wasn't prepared to deal with a counter attack. Without the proper experience and training, Blue Electrens can be glass cannons.

Mr. Gravin: My word. You truly are an experienced warrior. 

Cynthia: Alright, next two come right up. 

Principal Carter (jokingly): Come now, you're going to make me blush. I might even fall for you. 

Mr. Gravin (nervously): Uh, I'll pass. 

Principal Carter laughed out loud. 

Principal Carter: Hah! It was only a joke. 

Principal Carter looked over to the battlefield. 

Principal Carter: Ah! Now this will be interesting. A battle between two Red Electrens. 

Back at the battlefield, Hana was up against a boy named Sebastian. Hana started to glow red and was emitting red electricity. Sebastian also started to glow red and emitted red electricity. 

Cynthia: Begin! 

Hana and Sebastian dashed at each other. Sebastian jumped and attempted to drop kick Hana. However, Hana bent backwards and avoided it. She then created red strings and tied it around Sebastian's leg. 

Sebastian: What the-?! 

Hana grappled Sebastian and flipped him over. Sebastian stumbled but regained his footing. He then dashed back at Hana. 

Mr. Gravin: Such agility. 

Principal Carter: That's correct. Red Electrens and very agile and flexible. While they are a bit similar to Blue Electrens with speed, their balance, flexibility, and fake-outs make them stand out. And in a battle like this, it could last for quite awhile. 

Mr. Gravin: Um, I don't know about that sir. 

Principal Carter: What do you mean? 

Sebastian: MERCY! 

Cynthia: That's a forfeit! 

Principal Carter looked over to the battlefield to see Sebastian tied up and pinned to the ground with Hana sitting on top of his back. 

The students gasped in amazement. 

Principal Carter (dumbfounded): What just- 

Mr. Garvin: Well sir, they may be the same type of Electren but Ms. Hana was far superior. 

Principal Carter looked dumbstruck. He then cleared his throat. 

Principal Carter: Well, uh. Excellent observation Mr. Gravin. Hana clearly had more flexibility which meant-. 

Mr. Gravin (interrupting): She outmaneuvered Sebastian and immobilized him. Yes, I know sir. It was obvious. 

There was an awkward moment of silence between Principal Carter and Mr. Gravin. Mr. Gravin raised his eyebrow and stared at Principal Carter. 

Principal Carter (awkwardly): So, uh….. Let's look at the next match. 

Mr. Gravin: Very well sir. 

The battles continued as students exchanged skills and electric techniques against each other. Finally, the last match was about to start. 

Cynthia: Alright then. I guess there's no need to draw names since there are only two left. David Atoms and Jason Steel. Step up.

David and Jason walked towards the battlefield. 

Ethan: Wow! What are the odds? 

Hana: Odds of what? 

Ethan: I'll tell you later.

As David and Jason were walking to the battlefield, David leaned a little towards Jason. 

David: Heh, today is not your lucky day. If you want though, I'll go easy on you. 

Jason kept looking ahead as he was walking. 

Jason: Do that and I'll knock you upside the head.

David was taken back by the response. He hesitated but then leaned back at Jason.

David (mocking): Oh look at you. You think you're so tough. You really shouldn't be so cocky. 

Jason: Maybe you should follow your own advice you hypocrite. 

David (frustrated): What was that? 

Jason: All you do is talk. I don't know where you got it in your head that you're the best but you've certainly haven't shown me. 

David got a little angry. 

David: Well I guess we'll see that for ourselves, Sparky. 

Jason glanced over at David in response to the insult but didn't say anything. Jason then turned and headed to his starting position. David did the same. 

Both of them faced each other. David gave Jason a cocky grin but he started to sweat a bit. The crowd began to chatter. 

Boy (1): I've been wanting to see this matchup for a while! 

Girl (1): Who do you think is going to win? 

Girl (2): David is part of the Atoms family so I'm pretty sure he has this. 

Boy (2): Kinda feel sorry for Jason. 

Boy (3): Are you sure it's Jason who you should feel sorry for? 

Boy (2): What do you mean? 

Boy (3): I don't think I have ever seen David actually train. 

Girl (3): Jason's mom is Ms. Cynthia and I heard she trains him much harder than she does with us. 

Boy (2): Cynthia is his mom?! 

Boy (1): Yeah. And don't forget that Cynthia is a member of the Apex Guardians and the Electren Champion. 

Girl (2): Whoa, really?!

Ethan: Lots of gossip going on here.

Hana: It's kinda fun. 

Cynthia: Can we keep it down, class? 

Everyone stopped talking. 

Cynthia: Thank you. Now for the two of you, get ready. 

Back over where Principal Carter and Mr. Gravin was watching, Principal Carter was showing a lot of interest in this last round. 

Mr. Gravin: You seem very interested in this matchup and I can see why. It is a member of the Atoms family against a member of the Steel family.

Principal said nothing as he was focused on the fight that was about to begin.

Mr. Gravin: If I recall, Miss Cynthia and her children aren't related by blood. Both young Jason and his older sister are adopted.

Principal Carter: Maybe, but that hardly matters. You've seen Jason's grades in combat. He is quite the powerhouse. And I don't have to remind you about Valeria do I?

Mr. Gravin: No you don't have to remind me but what does that have to do with-

Principal Carter (interrupting): It's starting. 

Cynthia raised her arm up in the air. Jason assumed into a battle stand by sticking his right foot out, sticking his left arm out, and drawing his right arm back. David however made a fake yawn and stretched his back to act like this was no big deal. Cynthia then brought her arm down.

Cynthia: And begin!

David: Well, let's get this over with. 

David started to charge his hand with electricity. His hand glowed purple and then he rushed at Jason. He then threw a karate chop at Jason. Jason stuck his arm out and blocked the chop. David then started rapidly chopping at Jason. Jason raised his arms in front of his face and crossed them into an "X" to protect it and took the attacks. 

Mr. Garvin: My, it seems young David is starting off strong. 

Principal Carter: Now how will Jason respond? 

David continued chopping at Jason. Jason kept his guard and endured the rapid blows. David then jumped up and kicked Jason on the side of the head. 

Crowd: OH!

As Jason staggered back, David got up close to Jason and started rapidly chopping at him.

Mr. Gravin: Dear me. Young Jason can't seem to counter attack. 

Principal Carter: Maybe but did you notice something as the fight began? 

Mr. Gravin: Notice what? 

Principal Carter: Jason had his defense up before David started with the karate chop assault. 

Mr. Gravin: And what does that imply? 

Principal Carter: Keep watching. 

David continued his onslaught of attacks while Jason stood his ground and endured it. David then backed away from Jason and started to breathe heavily. 

David (panting): Had enough yet? 

Jason exhaled and wiped off the bit of blood that was on his lip. 

Jason: Not even close. 

David (still panting): Well, guess it's your turn. Better hurry and attack before I stop being polite. 

Jason simply cracked his neck and stood in place.

David: Well? Hurry up and come over here.

Jason: I don't feel like it. 

David stopped and looked annoyed.

David (annoyed): What did you say? 

Jason: I said I don't feel like it. Why don't you come to me instead? 

David (annoyed): That mouth of yours is going to get you in a lot of trouble! 

David suddenly dashed at Jason and started to chop at him rapidly. Instead of blocking, Jason stood there and let David strike at him. David then kicked Jason in the stomach and Jason fell to the ground hard. The students gasped. 

Hana (worried): Jason! 

Ethan (reassuring): It's going to be fine. 

Hana looked over to Ethan. 

Hana: How do you know? 

Ethan: I've known Jason since we were little. If there's one thing he is good at, it's taking hits. 

Jason got back on his feet. David stopped to catch his breath. 

David (panting): How's…. that?

Jason: How's what? Oh that. It was alright. 

Jason then turned around and pointed at his back. 

Jason: Since you're giving out free massages, could you do my back? It hurts from trying to carry your massive ego. 

Boy (1): Damn! 

Girl (2): He did not just say that! 

Ethan and Hana began laughing out loud. 

Hana (laughing): Get absolutely wrecked! 

The rest of the class began laughing. David however got extremely angry. 

David (outraged): THAT'S IT! IMMA BEAT YOUR ASS BLACK AND BLUE!!!!

David rushed at Jason and started angrily jabbing at Jason's back. 

Jason: A little higher. 

David (livid): HIGHER?! HOW'S THIS FOR HIGHER?! 

David struck at the back of Jason's head. However, right at the last moment, Jason moved his head to the side to avoid the strike. He then turned around to face David and punched him in his face. 

David: Augh! 

David fell over on his back and covered his face. The students gasped as Jason's sudden counter attack. 

Mr. Gravin: My word! 

Principal Carter: In terms of the type of Electrens, Yellow and Purple are very similar to each other. They both possess immense physical strength. Purple Electrens like David Atoms have faster reflexes, a more sharpened combat instinct, and they can fight at full strength until they run out of stamina. Yellow Electrens like Jason Steel have a tougher physical and greater endurance. However, neither one has a large enough advantage where that alone can win. 

Mr. Gravin: So they are even? 

Principal Carter: No. I didn't say that. I was speaking in a general sense. Involving this fight specifically, it's actually very clear who is going to win here. 

David got on his feet and had a red mark on his cheek where Jason punched him. David looked very angry. 

David: Lucky shot! 

Jason: Maybe. Maybe not. Who knows? 

Hana: Is it just me, or is Jason acting very differently from earlier today? 

Ethan: Jason may seem like a hot head but he can surprisingly keep a cool head when he needs to. 

Hana: So why did he freak out earlier? 

Ethan: Cause he hates getting hit on the hips. 

Hana (teasing): Oh, well he definitely looked like his head was full of hot air during that. 

Jason (calling out to Hana): I heard that! 

Hana (awkwardly): What?! Uh…. I didn't say anything. 

Jason turned to the left and looked directly at Hana. Hana tried to not look at Jason. 

Ethan: You forgot how good Jason's hearing is, didn't you? 

Hana (awkwardly): Eheh… 

David suddenly bolted at Jason. He charged electricity into his hands and attempted to attack Jason while he was distracted. As David tried to chop at Jason however, Jason turned towards David and grabbed his hand which stopped him. Without wasting a second, David used his other hand to try to karate chop Jason's hip however Jason grabbed his arm and stopped him. 

David (angrily): What?! 

Jason: Did you seriously think that would work a second time?! 

Jason suddenly headbutted David in the face and broke his nose. Blood splattered all over David's face. Seeing this, Jason let go of David and he fell to the floor. The students gasped.

Jason (shocked): Oh jeez! I'm sorry! I seriously did not mean to hit you that hard! 

David (angrily): Shut up! 

David got back on his feet but staggered a bit. Blood was oozing from his nose. 

Jason (concerned): Okay, hold your head up so you can slow down the bleed- 

David (interrupting): Shut up! 

Jason paused. 

David (angrily): I don't need your pity! Just shut up and fight! 

Jason (annoyed): Sorry for trying to help.

David got on his feet again but nearly fell over. 

David: You got lucky again! 

Jason: The only lucky thing here is that I didn't break your entire face. 

Girl (2): I thought David would do better than this. 

Boy (3): Yeah, I mean. I can understand that it's because he hasn't trained but just a few blows and he is already struggling. 

David overheard the students talking and got frustrated. He looked down and angrily clutched his fists. Jason held his fist up to prepare himself for more fighting. Suddenly, Jason noticed a tear roll down David's cheek. No one but Jason noticed this but David was starting to cry. 

Jason (concerned): Hey, are you alri- 

Before Jason could finish, David took off in the opposite direction and ran into the woods. 

Ethan (confused): Whoa, what? 

Hana: Where is he going?!

The students looked confused and bewildered by David's sudden forfeit. 

Cynthia: I'm calling the match here! No one goes anywhere until I get back!

Cynthia then raced towards where David ran off. 

Cynthia (calling out): David! Stop! 

As Cynthia disappeared into the woods, the students began to crowd around Jason. 

Girl (3): What happened? 

Boy (1): Jason, what was up with David? 

Jason hesitated. 

Jason (nervously): I'm not sure. 

Jason (thinking): I have an idea but I probably shouldn't say anything. 

Girl (2): You think David was scared of Jason? 

Girl (3): Maybe. 

Jason: Hey, I'm sure he was too angry to be scared. 

Boy (2): Then why did he run away? 

Hana (from outside the crowd): Wouldn't you run if you had a bad case of the squirts? 

The Girls: EW! 

Girl (2): Hana, that's disgusting! 

The boys started laughing. 

Boy (3) (giggling): He probably ate too much cheese! 

Girl (1) (screaming): STOP IT! THAT'S GROSS! 

Boy (2): And give the woods a fresh coat of- 

Girl (3) (angrily): SHUT UP! 

Girl (2): Why do boys have to be so vulgar? 

Boy (1): Oh so Hana doesn't count then? 

Girl (2): She didn't keep pressing on it!

Boy (3) (sarcastically): Oh yeah, that's the reason. 

Girl (2) (angrily): Oh don't you start!

As the students began to argue amongst themselves, Jason sneaked through the crowd and headed towards Ethan and Hana. 

Jason: Thanks.

Hana (cheerfully): No problem.

Ethan: Yeah but what do we do about this? 

Ethan pointed at the group of students arguing. 

Jason: I don't know. 

Meanwhile, Principal Carter and Mr. Gravin were talking about what happened. 

Mr. Gravin: That was….. unexpected.

Principal Carter: Maybe, but the outcome wasn't. Even if their level was the same, Jason had complete control of the fight. A Yellow Electren's signature battle tactic in a duel is to endure attacks from their opponents until they either outlast them or until they find an opening. A skilled Purple Electren would've seen this tactic and would focus on breaking down their defense by focusing on a single point. Not aimlessly attack like David did. And you could clearly tell that Jason was on a higher level than David. A few strikes and David was on the verge of collapsing.

Mr. Gravin: But aren't the Atoms family knights? I would've thought young David would at least have the skill to do that to break down Jason's defense even with the power difference.

Principal Carter: Atom. The Atom family are knights.

Mr. Gravin: Pardon? 

Principal Carter: I'm afraid that young David is a victim of misunderstanding. 

Mr. Gravin: Oh dear. 

Principal Carter: Mr. Gravin. I think you should have a talk with David when he gets back. 

Mr. Gravin: Very well. 

Principal Carter then stood on the gate to the balcony they were on. 

Principal Carter: As for me… 

Mr. Gravin (questioning): Principal Carter? What are-? 

Principal Carter: I'm going to give young Jason a proper sparing lesson! 

Principal Carter suddenly leaped from the fence and high into the air. The fence broke from the force of his jump. 

Mr. Gravin (panicking): WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! COME BACK! 

Principal Carter rocketed through the air and landed by the students. The force of his landing made dust shoot up from the ground. The ground cracked and sunk underneath where he landed.

Boy (3): Whoa what?! 

Girl (1): The principal?! 

Principal Carter: That was quite a marvelous performance day kids! If this was a test, I would've given you all an A+! 

Girl (3): No way! 

Boy (2): Awesome! 

Principal Carter started to walk between the crowd of students and where Jason, Ethan, and Hana where. 

Principal Carter: However, I feel like not all of you were able to showcase your full abilities. That's quite unfair. So, I've decided to take it upon myself to personally test this person's strength. In a one on one sparring match! Full power!

Boy (1): No way! 

Girl (2): Against the principal?! 

Principal Carter suddenly pointed at Jason. 

Principal Carter: I'm talking to you, Jason Steel! 

Jason (shocked): What?! 

Ethan and Hana (shocked): What?! 

The Students (shocked): WHAT?!

Principal Carter: I challenge you to a duel! Do you accept it?! 

Jason (bewildered): Uh…. 

Boy (2): A DUEL?! 

Girl (1): Isn't that where you go all out in a one on one fight?! 

Boy (1): Yeah! This is much more than a spar! This is a full on fight! 

Ethan (concerned): Principal Carter, don't you think this is a little much? 

Principal Carter: By contrast, I believe this is the best way to reveal the full extent of a young Electren's power! 

Ethan: Maybe but- 

Hana (interrupting): You should go for it Jason! 

Jason (shocked): What?! 

Ethan (exclaiming): Hana! This is not a good idea! 

Principal Carter: But what better way to test and improve that fighting a veteran? Young Jason, do you really want to pass this opportunity? 

Jason stopped for a moment. He thought about his goal to become stronger. 

Jason (thinking): I could get a lot out of fighting someone strong and experienced. 

Jason then looked Principal Carter with determined eyes. 

Jason: I accept your challenge! 

Hana (excited): Yeah Jason! 

Ethan (angrily): Jason! What are you doing?!

Jason: It will be fine. I won't get carried away. And I doubt the principal is going to lose it either. 

Ethan (reluctant): I, uh. Okay fine. 

Principal Carter (enthusiastic): That's the spirit! 

Principal Carter started to flex his arms and this entire tuxedo ripped off of him. Revealing a white undershirt as well as his extremely muscled chest. 

Jason: Damn! I knew you were jacked but holy shit! 

Principal Carter: Why thank you. 

The girls were staring at Principal Carter's chest in aw. The boys seemed a bit intimidated. Principal Carter began to generate yellow electricity. 

Jason (shocked): You're a- 

Principal Carter: Yellow Electren! Just like you! 

Jason was taken aback by this discovery. 

Principal Carter: You should've known this in class. Yellow Electrens like us stay relatively short until we reach a certain age. Then we are as big as Green Electrens! 

Jason began to charge up electricity. His hair began to glow yellow. The students began to back away from them. 

Ethan: Hana, I think we should- 

Ethan turned to where he last saw Hana only to see that she was gone. He turned around and saw that she was far away. 

Hana (shouting): What are you still doing there?! 

Ethan hurried towards Hana. Principal Carter brought up his open hand and faced it towards Jason. Jason brought up his arm and took a step back to prepare for battle. Suddenly, Principal Carter launched forward at Jason with incredible speed. Jason was caught off guard by the sudden burst of speed.

Jason (shocked): HOLY- 

Principal Carter threw a punch at Jason who blocked it by crossing his arms into an "X". The force made Jason get launched back but he was able to regain his footing and avoid falling. Jason then felt an aching pain on the arm that took the hit first.

Jason: OW! 

Jason looked at his arm to see it bruised. 

Jason (thinking): He is so fast! And he hits like a train! 

Jason jumped at Principal Carter. Principal Carter threw another punch however Jason ducked underneath it and grabbed his arm while it was still extending. Jason then threw Principal Carter over his shoulder and onto his back. 

Principal Carter: Oof! 

Jason then jumped back away from Principal Carter. Principal Carter quickly got up and had a big smile. 

Principal Carter: Not a bad tactic. 

Jason said nothing and charged at Principal Carter. Principal Carter charged up electricity into his fist and threw a punch at Jason. Jason ducked underneath it again and grabbed his arm. However, not falling for the same trick again, Principal Carter suddenly grabbed Jason with his other arm. 

Jason: Crap! 

Principal Carter then fell forward and landed right on top of Jason's back. Principal Carter's larger size and massive weight forced Jason to stay in one place as he held him up. His legs started to shake as he was struggling to carry the massive principal. Jason began to tilt down as his body was starting to give out from the pressure of the weight.

The students: OH! 

Ethan: Oh shit! Jason! 

Hana (concerned): Jason? 

Principal Carter: Well? Calling it quits? 

Jason (straining): Hell no! 

Jason managed to readjust his legs by digging his feet into the ground to give his legs more support. Using the top of his shoulders to take the weight instead of the center of his back, Jason started to lift Principal Carter back up. The students gasped at Jason's strength. 

Hana (shocked): How the hell?! 

Ethan: Nice! 

Principal Carter: Very well done! You have the strength to lift me! But now what will you do? Yellow Electren's like us are known for being very heavy so you can't just toss me aside!

Jason (straining): No shit Sherlock! I'm the one who's lifting you! 

Principal Carter: Then tell me. If you can't throw me, then how do you get me off? 

Jason (straining): Just give me a moment! 

Electricity was emitting from Jason's body and appeared to be going up. Ethan saw this and looked up. He saw a cloud forming from right above Jason and Principal Carter. 

Ethan (under his breath): Jason you crazy genius. 

Suddenly, a bolt of lightning came down from the cloud and struck Principal Carter. 

Principal Carter: ARGH!!! 

Principal Carter leaped off of Jason. Jason jumped away and faced Principal Carter who had smoke coming off of his back where he was hit. Principal Carter began to laugh. 

Principal Carter: I can't believe you used yourself as a lightning rod just to get me hit! And turning clouds into thunderclouds is difficult for many Electrens. Let alone, use it in a fight! 

Jason was trying to fix his back by stretching.

Jason: Ugh! How much do you weigh?! 

Principal Carter: Let's see. Last time I checked, it was around a thousand pounds. 

Jason (shocked): A THOUSAND POUNDS?! THAT'S HALF A TON! 

Principal Carter: You should see how messed up my mattress is back at home. 

Jason: Wow… 

Principal Carter: Now, let us continue! 

Principal Carter suddenly launched at Jason and threw a punch at him. However, Jason held his hands up. His eyes began to glow yellow. Suddenly, a yellow transparent wall appeared and curved in front of Jason. Principal Carter hit the wall and got repelled back. 

Principal Carter: Ah yes. I forgot that you are quite skilled with force fields.

Jason: It is my favorite method of defense. 

Principal Carter: Let's see how much it can withstand! 

Principal Carter began punching the wall rapidly. The wall withstood the blows without even the slightest crack. 

Meanwhile, deep in the woods, David was curled into a ball behind a large tree. He had his face down in his knee and was sobbing. Cynthia suddenly appeared and approached David carefully. 

Cynthia: David? 

David (crying): What? 

Cynthia: Maybe it's time you told the truth. 

David suddenly jerked upwards and looked at Cynthia. His face was red and wet from the crying. The blood from his broken nose was all over his mouth and cheeks.

David (sniffing): You knew?! 

Cynthia: A lot of the staff already knew. We also know that it was because people confused your last name with the name of the Atom family. 

David: Yeah, I'm not related to knights. I'm from a family of blacksmiths. Everyone just assumed I was some knight.

Cynthia: So why didn't you say anything? 

David: I wanted to at first but then everyone started talking to me like I was the best. Everyone wanted to be friends with me, everyone looked up to me, I didn't want it to go away. 

Cynthia: They were going to find out sooner or later. In fact, many people this year probably started to have their suspicions when your grades were failing. 

David: I know. I didn't know what to do other than try to act like a big shot. 

Cynthia sat next to David. She looked at his teary, bloody face.

Cynthia: Is that why you kept picking fights with Jason? 

David: Well, he's your son so I thought if I acted like there was a rivalry between us, people would start paying attention to me again. But that completely backfired. I looked like a jerk and Jason hates my guts. 

Cynthia: And the sparring session with him? 

David: I thought if I acted like I wasn't scared or even rushed him when we fought, Jason would want to chicken out. But he wouldn't back off. 

Cynthia: And then when Jason began to overwhelm you, you ran away. 

David began to tear up. 

David: Yes….. 

Cynthia put her arm around David's shoulder to comfort him. 

Cynthia: I understand how this confusion started but you should've corrected the misunderstanding from the start instead of lying to others and to yourself. You were scared that people would not like who you really are but you don't know that. 

David looked away. 

Cynthia: I can also say for certain that Jason doesn't hate your guts. 

David looked back at Cynthia. 

David: He doesn't? 

Cynthia smiled. 

Cynthia: I know my son very well. He may have a temper but he has a big heart. Afterall, he was more concerned about your broken nose than winning the fight. Speaking of which. 

Cynthia took out a tissue and wiped some of the blood that was on David's face. 

Cynthia: We should get you to the Health Center. 

David: Okay. 

Cynthia got up while helping David get up as well. Suddenly, Cynthia's cell phone started to ring from her pocket. She reached in her pocket and pulled it out. She then placed the phone to her ear. 

Cynthia: Oh, hello Eugene. Is something the matter? 

Mr. Gravin (over the phone): I would appreciate it if you didn't use my first name Miss Cynthia. But that's besides the point. I do regret to inform you that Principal Carter has got involved with your class. 

Cynthia rolled her eyes. 

Cynthia: He really needs to keep to himself. I'll be back in a few minutes. 

Mr. Gravin: Oh? I thought you would've been more upset. 

Cynthia: This isn't the first time this has happened. He just shows up, saids that he is impressed, and then laughs. 

Mr. Gravin: Oh. Yes, you got it exactly right. I suppose he also spars with the students as well? 

Cynthia (shocked): Wait, he's fighting the students?! 

Mr. Gravin: Uh, yes. He actually challenged one of them to a duel. 

Cynthia (angrily): A DUEL?! 

David got nervous when Cynthia started to get angry. Her usual sweet and confident expression changed into a vicious expression filled with malice and aggression.

Mr. Gravin (nervously): Uh, Ms. Cynthia? 

Cynthia (angrily): Who is he fighting Eugene?! 

Mr. Gravin (nervously): Uh, well….

Cynthia (impatiently): ANSWER THE QUESTION! 

Mr. Gravin (nervously): Jason Steel…. Ma'am. 

Cynthia's face suddenly turned red. Her long ponytail came undone and as it fell, it rose up and turned yellow. Electricity began surging through her body as her temper had reached its breaking point.

Cynthia (livid): HE'S FIGHTING MY SON?! 

Cynthia hung up and put her phone away. David started to walk away slowly. 

David (nervously): You know? I can find my way bac- 

Before David could finish, Cynthia grabbed his arm. 

Cynthia (seriously): Hang on tight. 

Cynthia suddenly races through the forest at such high speeds that she created a sonic boom. David was left dangling helplessly to Cynthia as she raced back to her class. 

David (screaming): STOP STOP!!! 

Back at the courtyard, Jason's battle against Principal Carter intensified. Jason was exchanging blows with Principal Carter. Electricity was sparking all over the place. 

Jason: Don't you think this is too much?! 

Principal Carter: Too much?! If anything, it's not enough! Time to really cut loose! 

Principal Carter jumped back. He then held his hands in the air. As his hands emitted tons of electricity, an orb of electricity began to form above Principal Carter. The orb grew bigger and bigger to the point where it was bigger than the battlefield itself. From Jason's point of view, it had seemed like the sky had turned yellow from the sheer size and power of the orb.

Principal Carter: Let's see how you handle this! 

Ethan (shouting): Principal Carter! That's far too much! 

Hana (shouting): You need to stop now! 

Principal Carter: That's what you say but what does Jason think?! 

Jason stood there staring at the massive orb. 

Principal Carter: Seems like he has no problem! 

To Principal Carter, it seemed like Jason was waiting for the attack to be launched. However, what really was going on was that Jason was frozen out of shock. 

Principal Carter: Here it comes Jason! 

Ethan and Hana (screaming): NO STOP!!!! 

Principal Carter threw the massive orb at Jason. Time seemed to slow down. As the orb headed towards Jason, Cynthia appeared from the forest. She let go of David and he went tumbling helplessly across the field. Cynthia then raced towards Jason and Principal Carter. As she got to the battlefield, she jumped up and kicked the orb into the sky. As the orb flew into the sky, Cynthia's hair started to glow more intensely than before. Suddenly, a yellow light started to glow from her mouth. As she looked up and opened her mouth, she shot a gigantic laser beam of electricity at the orb. The orb then exploded. The shockwave from the explosion shook the ground. As Cynthia landed, Jason fell on his back, bewildered on what just happened. The students breathe a sigh of relief. 

Ethan (relieved): Cynthia is here! 

Hana (relieved): Thank goodness! 

Principal Carter: Ah Cynthia! You have returned! 

Cynthia turned towards Jason and kneeled down to him. 

Cynthia (concerned): Are you okay? 

Jason was laying on the floor shaken up. He looked towards Cynthia. 

Jason (shaken): I-I t-think so. 

Principal Carter: I appreciate your concern about your students. However, if you could just let me finish with- 

Cynthia stood up and turned towards Principal Carter. She gave him a very scary glare. 

Principal Carter (nervously): Uh, is something a matter? 

The students began to walk away from Principal Carter, not wanting to get close to him. Ethan and Hana ran towards Jason who was now sitting up. At the same time, Cynthia began walking towards Principal Carter. 

Cynthia (angrily): Care to explain why you're having duels with my students?! 

Principal Carter: Well, technically it was just with Jason. 

Cynthia growled. 

Cynthia (angrily): Answer the question! 

Principal Carter (nervously): Uh… Well I was simply testing them to see how far they come. 

Cynthia continued to walk towards Principal Carter. 

Cynthia (angrily): That's what the sparring was for! To test their progress while making sure they are ready for the upcoming test! 

Cynthia stopped right in front of Principal Carter. Despite Cynthia having to look up at Principal Carter due to the difference in height, Cynthia was glaring at Principal Carter so intensely that it was like she was looking down at him. 

Cynthia (angrily): Do you see what the problem is?! They can't perform well on the test if they are beaten up by an idiot principal who doesn't know when to hold back! 

Principal Carter: Now hold on a minute! I understand that what I did was out of line, but I am still your boss and you need to show some respe- 

Cynthia's hair rose up. The electricity she was emitting suddenly intensified.

Cynthia (livid): SILENCE!!!! 

Principal Carter was startled by Cynthia's sudden burst of rage. He stood up straight and tried not to look Cynthia directly in the eyes. 

Principal Carter (nervously): Yes ma'am! 

Cynthia looked over towards the students who were behind Jason, Ethan, and Hana. The electricity she was generating dissipated. Her hair stopped glowing and returned to its usual black color. It then fell back down. 

Cynthia (calmly): Class is dismissed. Anyone who is injured, please go to the Medical Center. 

Cynthia then grabbed Principal Carter by the ear.

Principal Carter: Ow! Ow! Hey! 

Cynthia (angrily): You're coming with me! 

Cynthia began walking Principal Carter to the school while still pulling on his ear. The rest of the students followed them to the school. Ethan and Hana turned towards Jason who was laying on the ground.

Ethan: How are you holding up? 

Jason: Better. That was kinda scary. 

Hana: Kinda scary?! That thing looked like it was going to blow the entire kingdom up!

Jason: Yeah it did.

Ethan: You seem pretty calm for someone who almost got hit with a giant Shock Bomber.

Jason: I know right? That's weird. I can't get up though. 

Hana: Oh? Maybe you're tired? 

Ethan: I got this. 

Ethan then lifted up Jason and threw him on his shoulder. 

Jason: Thanks. 

Hana: Aw, I wanna be carried too! I'm also tired. 

Ethan: Hana, you beat Sebastian effortlessly. We all saw. There is no way you are that tired to the point you need to be carried.

Hana began to pout. 

Hana (disappointed): You're no fun. 

Ethan, who was carrying Jason, walked towards the school with Hana following behind.