Over the next few days, Kazuki spent time with Elyra, learning the intricacies of magic and honing his skills. They met in secret, away from prying eyes, often in quiet corners of the inn or in secluded parts of the city.
At first, it was challenging. Elyra guided him through various exercises, teaching him how to harness his mana. They practiced creating small barriers and directing energy through his body. Despite his initial skepticism, Kazuki found himself gradually improving.
One evening, as they were practicing in a hidden courtyard, Kazuki managed to summon a small shield of energy around him. It flickered and glowed, a soft blue light illuminating his features.
"I did it!" he exclaimed, a mix of surprise and excitement in his voice.
Elyra clapped her hands together, her eyes shining with pride. "Yes! You see? You're more capable than you realize. Now, let's build on that."
As the days turned into nights, Kazuki continued to grow more comfortable with the idea of magic. His reluctance faded, replaced with a budding confidence. He learned to feel the flow of mana within him, guiding it like a current.
Yet, despite his progress, there was a lingering tension in the air. Kazuki couldn't shake the feeling that the tournament was more than just a competition; it was a precursor to something much darker.
One afternoon, during a break from training, Kazuki and Elyra sat together, discussing strategies and potential threats. "You mentioned there are other heroes who've come from different worlds. Do you know anything more about them?" Kazuki asked, curiosity getting the better of him.
Elyra sighed, her expression thoughtful. "I've heard whispers about them, but information is scarce. They come from various realms, each with their own unique skills and abilities. Some say they're here to stop the demon king, while others claim they have their own agendas."
Kazuki frowned, contemplating the implications. "So, we might have allies or enemies among them. Great."
Elyra nodded. "That's why we need to be careful. Not everyone is as they seem, especially in a tournament like this. Keep your eyes open."
Kazuki was starting to see the bigger picture. The tournament wasn't just a showcase of strength; it was a gathering point for various factions, all vying for power. The stakes were higher than he had initially realized.