The sun was still shyly rising when Ryoken met Master Kaelen at the edge of the training grounds. Birds chirped lazily, and the soft breeze carried the scent of pine and earth. But for Ryoken, every morning was the start of a battle — not just against his foes, but against his own limits.
"Today," Kaelen announced, stretching his arms, "you learn to harness the Divine Light within you. It's not just a weapon — it's your essence."
Ryoken nodded, determined. "I'm ready."
Kaelen raised a hand, and suddenly, glowing orbs of light appeared, swirling gently around them.
"Focus on your breath. Feel the light inside. Don't think — feel."
Ryoken closed his eyes, breathing deeply. A warm glow began to flicker within his chest, spreading slowly.
Suddenly, a burst of light shot from his fingertips, narrowly missing Kaelen's head.
"Oi! Watch it!" Kaelen ducked, laughing. "You're all over the place."
Ryoken groaned. "I can't control it!"
Kaelen smirked. "You'll get there. Patience. Even the greatest started like this."
Later that day, as they trained, a sudden commotion broke the quiet. From behind the trees, a group of mischievous apprentices appeared, aiming to distract Ryoken.
One of them, a cheeky boy named Taro, shouted, "Hey Ryoken! Bet you can't catch me!"
Before Ryoken could react, Taro dashed off, giggling.
Kaelen raised an eyebrow. "Looks like you're the target of the academy pranksters."
Ryoken grinned despite himself. "Guess I'm famous now."
With a quick surge of Divine Light, Ryoken sped after Taro, his feet barely touching the ground.
The chase was clumsy but exhilarating. Laughter echoed through the trees as Ryoken finally cornered Taro, who collapsed, panting.
"Okay, okay, you win!" Taro said, raising his hands.
Kaelen clapped slowly. "Not bad. Looks like your powers are catching up with your speed."
That evening, Ryoken found Aelira waiting by the campfire again.
"You're getting stronger," she said, handing him a warm bowl of stew.
Ryoken smiled. "Thanks to Master Kaelen… and the unexpected lessons in chasing troublemakers."
Aelira laughed. "Well, don't get too cocky. There's a whole world out there — including some kingdoms that won't be so friendly."
Ryoken's expression hardened. "I'm ready for whatever comes."
She smiled softly, her eyes shining. "Good. Because I'll be right by your side."