Abell and Hugo walked back into the main tavern in Iridius for a bite to eat. It was near noon, and though the fight with his mother was still on his mind, Abell did his best to keep his thoughts clear.
"So, this guy is the strongest Luminary?" Abell thought, glancing at Hugo. He finally spoke up. "Hey, Hugo."
Hugo looked up from the menu he was scanning. "What's up?"
Abell asked, "Why are you giving me this opportunity? Is it because of who my mom is, or my sister?"
Hugo grinned, "Ah, now your curiosity is showing. But first, let me order. You want anything?"
"No, I'm good," Abell replied, still unsure about the whole situation.
Hugo ordered, then dove into his food like a maniac. "So, why me?" Abell asked again, his voice tinged with impatience.
Hugo paused, wiping his mouth. "It's simple. We have similar traits."
Abell blinked, confused. "We do?"
"Yup! Didn't you notice? The ball of light I used in the forest—it's like your sword, but yours looks more powerful," Hugo explained, his excitement obvious.
Abell's eyes widened, but before he could respond, Hugo continued. "But I've said enough. Here's one last bit of advice: You rely too much on your trait. Look at me—didn't use mine in the whole fight. Creativity opens more options. Remember that."
Before Abell could process this, Hugo was already finished, a grin on his face. "Anyway, I've got some work to do. Later, kid."
Hugo dashed out the door, leaving Abell alone at the table, reflecting on his words. "Creativity, huh?" Abell mused to himself. "Guess I'll figure it out."
With a sigh, Abell walked out of the tavern, unsure of what to do next. "I could always check out the market," he thought.
[10 hours before the fight]
The marketplace was its usual bustling self. Abell made his way through the crowds, watching people haggle over fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats. "I won't miss this place," he thought, feeling the familiar sense of comfort in the chaos of the market.
He approached his favorite stall. "I'll take two Solara rice cakes," he said, smiling at the vendor.
"That'll be five sols," the stall-keeper replied.
After paying, Abell's eyes were drawn to some wanted posters nearby. The words "Fractured Dawn" stood out.
"The hell?" he muttered, leaning closer.
"Those five are causing a stir across the country," the shopkeeper said, noticing Abell's interest. "People say they're Luminaries, but they've been using their power to attack humans. It's crazy, right?"
Another customer chimed in, "Those guys are doing us a favor, taking down the elites. About time someone stood up for us."
The shopkeeper waved it off, a little uncomfortable. "I'm just selling food, not starting a debate," he muttered.
Abell shrugged. "Thanks, old man. Food's always great." He turned and walked away, his mind still on the wanted posters.
As he passed the statue of the Liberator, he found himself staring up at it, lost in thought. "I always end up here. How strong were you, I wonder… probably stronger than Hugo."
[8 hours before the fight]
Abell was snapped from his thoughts by a familiar voice.
"Aha, I found you, Abell! Prepare yourself!" Misha shouted, his voice full of energy.
"Stop causing trouble! We have to go home!" Astrid's voice followed.
Abell sighed. He was ready this time. Taking a deep breath, he sprinted off, putting as much distance between him and the duo as possible.
"Hey, don't run, coward! Come here!" Misha yelled.
Abell grinned to himself. "Guess I'm getting some extra exercise." He led the chase back toward their house. As Misha and Astrid closed in, Misha caught up with him, looking furious.
"What's the big idea, scaredy cat? Let's fight. I heard about your duel with Torin. I'm next," Misha said, raising his fists.
Abell stopped running, his expression serious. "I can't today. I've got a big battle coming up. And you chasing me was good enough for exercise."
Misha's face twisted in anger. "You idiot! You don't respect me as a fighter, huh? Fine! Don't get mad when I'm stronger than you next time!" With that, he stormed off toward the house.
Astrid approached, looking at Abell with curiosity. "If you don't mind me asking, who are you fighting?"
"My mother," Abell said quickly.
Astrid blinked, clearly surprised. "Don't you guys always spar? You're known for causing a ruckus early in the mornings, ha."
"This time it's different," Abell replied, his expression darkening. "We're fighting to settle something. I'm leaving soon to go to the Luminary Academy, and she doesn't think I'm ready."
Astrid's eyes widened. "WHAT? You're leaving soon? When?"
"Well, tomorrow, if everything goes well," Abell replied, his tone firm.
"And you wait until now to tell me? Seriously, Abell? You're just going to leave without any warning?" Astrid said, frustration clear in her voice.
Abell's gaze hardened. "Listen, why are you getting so mad?
Astrid snapped back, "Seriously? I thought you were maturing, but I guess I was wrong. You're still the same bratty loner."
"Hey, watch it," Abell retorted, his irritation rising. "Where are you going?"
"I've got to prepare dinner," she said, turning away. "See you never, I guess."
Abell watched her leave, his frustration simmering. "Ugh, what was that about? Whatever, I don't have time for this. The battle's almost here."
He glanced at the sky, checking the time. "Maybe I should get some rest… about six hours until sundown."
With that, Abell decided to rest, mentally preparing for the fight ahead.
Abell sat on the edge of his bed, his eyes fixed on the window as the sun began to dip lower in the sky. The battle was imminent, and his mind raced. Can I really do this?
He could already hear his mother's voice echoing in his head, the words that fueled his drive: You have to prove to yourself you can do it.
But even so, he couldn't shake the gnawing feeling that something was off. He wasn't fighting for glory, not for recognition, but to prove to himself that he could be strong, like his sister had been.
The clock ticked on, and soon, it would be time.
Keeko stood in the training yard, she could feel the weight of what was coming. Is he really ready for this?
She didn't want to fight him. But she knew she had no choice. If Abell wanted to become a true Luminary, she had to show him the harsh realities of battle. This will hurt him, but he needs it. He needs to understand the cost of strength.
Abell stepped into the yard, the sun low in the sky casting long shadows over the ground. Keeko turned to face him, her gaze steady.
"You ready, son?" Her voice was calm, but the tightness around her eyes betrayed the unease she was feeling.
Abell nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. "I'm ready."
Keeko's lips tightened, her posture shifting into a stance of readiness, though her arms remained at her sides—no weapon in hand, only her raw strength.
The battle has begun!