As John and Linda stepped inside their individual Training PODs, the doors sealed shut with a soft hiss, and the world outside disappeared. The silence was deafening for a moment until a faint hum filled the air, and the inner mechanisms of the PODs sprang to life. The walls glowed softly, projecting a warm, comforting light as the system integrated them into the training environment Dave had prepared.
"Bella," Dave said, his voice steady but tinged with concern, "I want you to guide them carefully through this. Make sure they fully understand their abilities. Increase their rank, help them master their new strengths, and protect them in every way."
"Understood, Dave. I'll oversee their training personally. They'll be safe," Bella's voice resonated, a reassuring calmness lacing her words. "Commencing Training Session for John and Linda… Initializing."
The soft hum of the PODs deepened, and within moments, John and Linda's consciousnesses were transported to the vast, immersive virtual worlds specifically designed for each of them.
John's POV
John found himself standing in a vast, empty wasteland. The ground beneath his feet was cracked and barren, stretching out endlessly in all directions. The air was thick and heavy, but he felt no fatigue. Instead, a surge of energy coursed through his veins—a strength he had never known before.
He looked down at his hands, his fingers flexing with newfound power. The system had manifested him in his prime—a version of himself that radiated vitality and resilience.
"John," Bella's voice echoed in the desolate expanse, breaking the silence. "Your power is called Titan's Resolve. It grants you immense strength and durability. You can withstand almost any force and take down opponents with raw, physical power. But to master it, you'll need to push yourself beyond your limits."
Before he could respond, the ground rumbled, and massive stone pillars shot up from the earth, forming a colossal arena around him. Standing on the opposite side were hulking figures—creatures forged from rock and metal, towering over him.
"These are your training targets," Bella continued. "Each one represents a different level of strength. Defeat them, and your power will grow. Fail, and you'll start again until you succeed."
John clenched his fists, a sense of determination rising within him. He had spent his entire life working hard, providing for his family, and supporting them in every way he could. Now, he had the chance to be strong in a new way—to protect them with this gift.
The first golem charged, its massive fists swinging down at him like a sledgehammer. John didn't flinch. With a roar, he stepped forward, his muscles bulging as he met the golem's attack head-on. The impact sent a shockwave rippling through the ground, but John held his ground, pushing back with raw strength.
With a mighty heave, he grabbed the golem's arm and swung it over his shoulder, slamming it into the ground. The creature shattered on impact, its pieces crumbling into dust.
"One down," John muttered, breathing heavily. "Who's next?"
As if in response, more golems emerged—each larger and more powerful than the last. But John didn't back down. He faced each challenge head-on, his power growing with every strike, every block, every step he took forward.
Hours, days, and weeks seemed to blur together as John pushed himself harder and harder. The creatures became more menacing, the fights more intense, but John's resolve never wavered. With each victory, he felt his power growing, his body becoming stronger, more resilient. The muscles in his arms and legs bulged, his skin hardened like armor, and his senses sharpened to the point where he could anticipate the enemies' attacks before they even moved.
Linda's POV
Meanwhile, Linda found herself in a completely different world—one filled with serene meadows, lush forests, and tranquil lakes. The environment was peaceful, calming, but she could feel the energy swirling around her like a protective barrier.
"Linda," Bella's voice echoed softly in the serene landscape. "Your power is called Guardian's Aegis. It allows you to generate powerful barriers and shields to protect yourself and others. But to master it, you must learn to control your emotions and harness your willpower. Your strength lies not in aggression but in your ability to defend against any threat."
Linda nodded, feeling a sense of peace settle within her. She raised her hands, and a shimmering barrier of light formed around her. It pulsed softly, its surface rippling like water. She could feel its strength, but she knew it wasn't enough. She needed more.
As if sensing her thoughts, a series of challenges appeared before her. Ghostly figures materialized, launching attacks at her from all directions—fireballs, arrows, and energy blasts. Linda's heart raced, but she stood her ground, focusing on the barrier around her.
With each incoming attack, she adjusted the shield, deflecting and absorbing the impacts. The force of the strikes reverberated through her body, but she held firm, her resolve unshaken.
"Good, Linda," Bella's voice encouraged gently. "Remember, your power comes from within. Your will is your greatest weapon. Focus, and expand your barriers."
Linda closed her eyes, drawing in a deep breath. She visualized the shield growing, encompassing more than just herself. The light around her expanded, forming a protective dome that covered the entire clearing. The ghostly figures intensified their assault, but Linda's shield held strong.
Days turned into weeks as Linda continued to refine her abilities. She learned to summon barriers of different shapes and sizes, to create layers of protection, and to use the shield offensively—trapping enemies within a sphere of light and immobilizing them. With each passing day, her power grew, her barriers becoming nearly impenetrable.
Back to Dave's POV
Outside the PODs, Dave stood with his arms crossed, watching the screens intently as Bella monitored the training sessions.
"Are they progressing well?" he asked, his voice soft, almost reverent.
"They're exceeding expectations," Bella replied, her tone professional but with a hint of pride. "John's strength is growing exponentially. He's on track to reach Rank C in no time. Linda's barriers have become formidable. She's nearly perfected the art of energy manipulation."
Dave let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. "Good. Keep pushing them, Bella. I want them to be ready… for whatever comes next."
"Of course, Dave," Bella agreed. "I'll make sure they unlock their full potential."
Dave watched the screens for a moment longer, a sense of relief and hope washing over him. His parents were finally gaining the strength they needed. They would be safe—strong enough to face the dangers that were sure to come.
With a final glance, he turned away, leaving them to their training. This was just the beginning. For his family, and for everything he was planning to achieve.