Chereads / Soul Weavers / Chapter 8 - Preparing for the Trials

Chapter 8 - Preparing for the Trials

The day of training had arrived, and Kiro felt a mix of excitement and anxiety as he met up with Mako and Jason in the main training hall of the Soul Weaver Agency. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as trainees prepared for the upcoming Soul Weaver Trials. Kiro could see groups practicing combat techniques, while others were deep in discussion about strategies."Are you ready for this?" Mako asked, adjusting her sword at her side. Her enthusiasm was infectious."I think so," Kiro replied, trying to sound more confident than he felt. "But I'm still not sure what to expect."Jason, who had been observing the other trainees, chimed in. "I've seen some of these guys sparring. They look intense! Are you sure you can keep up?"Kiro shot him a determined look. "I have to keep up. I want to prove myself."Mako smiled encouragingly. "That's the spirit! Remember, the trials will test your skills, but they're also about teamwork and adaptability. You'll be working alongside other candidates, and that's where you'll really shine."As they warmed up, Gohan approached them, his presence commanding attention. "Kiro, Mako, Jason," he greeted them. "I wanted to go over a few key points before we begin training today.""Sure," Kiro replied, eager to hear what Gohan had to say."The Soul Weaver Trials are not just about individual skill; they're also about how well you can work with a team," Gohan explained. "You'll be placed in groups during the trials, and each group will face different challenges designed to test your abilities."Mako nodded in agreement. "That's why it's important to build good relationships with your fellow trainees. You'll need to rely on each other during the trials."Gohan continued, "The trials will consist of three main phases: Physical Combat, Soul Manipulation, and Tactical Assessment. Each phase will challenge you in different ways."Kiro listened intently as Gohan detailed each phase:Physical Combat: Candidates would face off against Hitos in simulated battles, testing their combat skills and endurance.Soul Manipulation: This phase would assess their ability to channel their will into actions—using their powers effectively under pressure.Tactical Assessment: Teams would be put in complex scenarios where they must devise strategies to overcome obstacles and threats."Remember," Gohan added, "the trials are designed to push you to your limits. It's not just about winning; it's about learning and growing from each experience."As Gohan finished speaking, Kiro felt a rush of determination wash over him. He was ready for this challenge.After Gohan left, Mako turned to Kiro and Jason. "Let's start with some combat drills today. We can work on your techniques and get you more comfortable with your powers."They moved to one of the training areas where several dummies were set up for practice. Kiro took a deep breath as he picked up his sword, feeling its familiar weight in his hands."Focus on channeling your will into your strikes," Mako instructed as she demonstrated a series of fluid movements. "Imagine each swing as an extension of yourself."Kiro watched closely, trying to absorb her technique before attempting it himself. He swung his sword in a practice arc but felt awkward and clumsy."Not bad for a start," Mako encouraged him. "But remember to visualize what you want to achieve with each strike."With renewed focus, Kiro tried again, this time imagining the energy flowing through him and into the blade. As he struck the dummy again, he felt a surge of power; the blade glowed faintly as it connected."That's it!" Mako cheered. "You're getting there!"Jason watched from the sidelines, impressed by Kiro's progress. "You've got this, man! Just keep practicing!"As they continued their training session, Kiro felt more at ease with his movements and began incorporating Mako's advice into his strikes.After hours of practice, they took a break and sat down on the grass outside the training area."I can't believe how much we've learned already," Jason said between breaths.Mako nodded in agreement. "And we still have weeks left before the trials begin! We'll make sure you're both ready."Kiro looked out at the training grounds filled with dedicated trainees preparing for their own journeys. He felt a sense of belonging among them—a community united by purpose."I'm going to give it my all," Kiro declared with newfound confidence. "I want to prove myself not just for me but for all of us."Mako smiled warmly at him, her eyes shining with encouragement. "That's exactly the mindset you need for the trials."As they resumed their training under the warm sun, Kiro knew that this was just the beginning of an incredible journey—one filled with challenges that would test his strength and resolve like never before.With every swing of his sword and every moment spent honing his skills alongside Mako and Jason, he was one step closer to becoming a true Soul Weaver—and ready to face whatever awaited him in the trials ahead.