Training under Sora was nothing short of grueling. Every day was a blend of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion, but I could feel myself improving. My control over the blue flames was getting sharper, and I was finally starting to grasp how to manipulate the velocity of objects with some consistency.
Xavier's training sessions, while different from mine, were equally intense. While I focused on precision and creativity with my powers, he worked tirelessly to maintain control over his unpredictable lightning. It was rare to see him lose his composure, but I could tell there was a constant weight on his shoulders.
One evening after an especially tough session, Sora called both of us over to sit around a small fire he had made in the backyard. It wasn't often that Sora was in a reflective mood, but tonight he seemed quieter than usual.
"You two have been making good progress," he began, his sharp yellow eyes scanning both of us. "But I need you to understand something. The Elite Entrance Exams aren't just about strength. They're about resilience—mental, physical, and emotional. The pressure you'll face there will push you beyond your limits."
"We can handle it," Xavier said confidently.
Sora smirked. "That's what I like to hear. But confidence alone won't get you through. You need trust. You're training together for a reason. Out there, no one succeeds alone. Remember that."
His words hung in the air, and for once, Xavier didn't have a quick response. I glanced at him, then back at Sora, feeling the weight of what he was saying settle on my shoulders.
That night, as I lay in bed, I found myself staring at the bracelet Heesung had given me. I turned it over in my hands, the smooth metal glinting faintly in the moonlight.
"Trust…" I whispered to myself. It was easier said than done.
---
The next morning, Sora stood in the middle of the training field, arms crossed and a sly grin on his face.
"Today, we're changing things up," he announced. "No abilities. No fire. No lightning. Just raw strength, speed, and skill."
I blinked, confused. "Wait—no powers? What's the point? Isn't that what we're training for?"
Xavier snorted. "Don't tell me you're scared of a fair fight, Akari."
I shot him a glare. "You wish."
Sora stepped between us, his piercing yellow eyes demanding attention. "The Elites don't just rely on their powers. Those who survive—and thrive—do so because of their enhanced physical abilities. Superhuman speed, strength, reflexes… these are the foundations of an Elite. Your powers? They're tools. But your body is your greatest weapon."
I nodded slowly, though doubt still lingered in my mind. Xavier, of course, looked more excited than ever.
"All right," Sora continued. "Sparring rules are simple. Use your enhanced strength and speed, but no powers. Fight smart, fight fast, and remember—this isn't about winning. It's about learning."
Xavier and I squared off, circling each other like predators. The air between us was thick with anticipation.
"You ready for this?" Xavier asked, his grin practically glowing.
"Always," I shot back.
The second Sora gave the signal, Xavier lunged forward, moving so fast I barely had time to react. My instincts kicked in, and I dodged to the side, feeling the rush of air as his fist grazed past me.
"You're quick," he said, his voice teasing. "But are you strong enough?"
I didn't answer—talking would only slow me down. Instead, I dropped low and swept my leg at his knees. He jumped back with lightning-fast reflexes, his movements fluid and precise.
"Good," Sora called out from the sidelines. "But don't hesitate, Akari. Stay on the offensive!"
Gritting my teeth, I pushed forward, using every ounce of my enhanced strength to close the gap between us. My fist shot out, aiming for Xavier's side, but he twisted out of the way at the last second.
"Not bad," he said, his tone infuriatingly calm. "But you're gonna have to hit harder than that."
"Oh, I plan to," I muttered, forcing myself to focus.
We exchanged blows, each strike faster and stronger than the last. Xavier's punches were precise, his footwork flawless, but I had my own strengths. My speed kept me just out of his reach, and my agility let me slip past his defenses.
Finally, I saw an opening. Feinting left, I ducked under his arm and aimed a sharp kick at his midsection. It connected, and Xavier stumbled back, his breath escaping in a grunt.
"Nice one," he admitted, rubbing his ribs. "Didn't see that coming."
"Maybe if you talked less, you'd fight better," I teased, feeling a flicker of pride.
His grin widened, and he lunged at me again, faster this time. I barely managed to block his attack, my arms trembling under the force of his blow.
"Enough!" Sora's voice cut through the air, sharp and commanding.
Both of us froze, panting heavily. My muscles ached, and I could see the sweat dripping down Xavier's face.
"Not bad," Sora said, walking toward us. "But remember—speed and strength are nothing without strategy. Learn to read your opponent. Anticipate their moves. That's how you'll survive out there."
Xavier and I exchanged a glance, both of us silently acknowledging the challenge ahead.
"Take five," Sora said, gesturing toward the shade of a nearby tree. "Then we go again."
As I collapsed onto the grass, my chest still heaving from the fight, I couldn't help but glance at Xavier. He was lying on his back, staring up at the sky with a grin on his face.
"You're getting better," he said, his tone more genuine than teasing.
"So are you," I replied, though I hated to admit it.
For a moment, the world felt quiet, the only sounds our heavy breathing and the rustling of leaves in the breeze. Despite the exhaustion, I felt a spark of determination burning in my chest. Sora was right—this wasn't about winning. It was about pushing ourselves, about becoming stronger.
Because when the time came for the Elite Entrance Exams, we wouldn't just need to be good. We'd need to be the best.