Clash Between Dim and Shine [Part 1]

As the boy woke from deep slumber, he resumed training with Nirmal and Sushank. They were imparting the next form of their signature techniques—Sushank with Venasa and Nirmal with the Howling Fist. Despite exhaustion, the boy persisted, training relentlessly for 321 days and nights, yet struggled to fully grasp the technique.

Disappointed, he lamented, "I've spent a year and still only understand half of it." Sushank, understanding his frustration, comforted him, "Don't underestimate yourself. It took Tanuj decades to grasp even half, yet you've done it in just a year."

Motivated by these words, the boy doubled his efforts.

Meanwhile, Tanuj concentrated on condensing his chi to form his Lumain, aiming to transcend into the 3rd step of Shi Chi. A year passed, but success eluded him. Disappointed yet undeterred, he was suddenly greeted by a familiar feminine voice. Delighted, he turned to see his sister, Calou Bhurung, who embraced him warmly.

After a heartfelt reunion, they sat and caught up. Tanuj asked curiously, "What have you been doing all these centuries?"

"Traveling through different realms," Calou replied casually. "I'm still on the 1st half-step of Shi Chi. Maybe I'll reach the 2nd step in another 200 years or less."

"That's good to hear," Tanuj smiled. "But where's Sushank?"

"He's teaching Yagami," Tanuj replied, prompting her to ask about Yagami.

"He's a new member who joined us centuries ago," Tanuj explained. "He's currently at the 2nd step of Shi Chi."

Puzzled by this revelation, Calou exclaimed, "The 2nd step of Shi Chi?!"

Realizing something, she asked, "Is he the same age as you?" Tanuj shook his head, "No, he's younger than you."

Astounded that someone younger had achieved the 2nd step, she expressed her desire to meet him.

Suddenly, Tanuj, in a rare show of cold authority, addressed someone nearby, saying sharply, "Dumbass..."

The one addressed, a boy named Palove, emerged timidly. "Can I meet Yagami?" he asked tentatively, intrigued by the conversation.

Tanuj nodded, and without hesitation, they flew towards Yagami. As they approached the training ground, Yagami was engrossed in refining his technique under Sushank's watchful eye. Palove watched in awe as Yagami executed precise movements, each resonating with powerful chi.

Impressed, Palove approached Yagami respectfully. "I've heard much about your progress," he began. "I'm eager to learn from someone who has achieved so much at such a young age."

Yagami smiled warmly, sensing Palove's genuine curiosity. "I'm still learning myself," he admitted humbly. "But I'll gladly share what I know."

Just then, Nishan, a seasoned warrior and a close friend of Tanuj, Yagami, and Palove, approached the group with a mischievous grin. Known for his playful demeanor despite his formidable skills, Nishan couldn't resist joining in the fun.

"Tired of training already?" Nishan teased Yagami, nudging him lightly.

Yagami chuckled, a competitive glint in his eye. "Not at all. In fact, I was just thinking it's time for a friendly bout."

Nishan's grin widened. "Count me in then. But let's make it interesting."

Tanuj's sister, Calou, and Palove exchanged amused glances, knowing well the spirited nature of their friends.

"What do you have in mind?" Yagami asked.

Suddenly, Sushank, known for his bold ideas, interjected with a grin, "Why don't we have a friendly duel to celebrate Yagami's progress?"The suggestion sparked interest among the group. Yagami, intrigued by the idea, nodded eagerly. "A duel sounds like a great way to test our skills and have some fun."Nishan, their longtime friend known for his playful spirit despite his formidable skills, joined in with enthusiasm. "Count me in," he declared, clapping Yagami on the shoulder.Tanuj's sister, Calou, chuckled. "You boys and your competitive spirits," she remarked fondly. "But who's going to take on Yagami in a 1 vs 4 match?"Yagami grinned confidently. "I'll take on all of you," he replied, his voice brimming with determination. "I want to see how far I've come with my new powers."Palove, curious and eager to witness the match, nodded eagerly. "It'll be exciting to see everyone in action."With everyone in agreement, they prepared for the duel, each participant focusing their chi and readying their techniques. Laughter and camaraderie filled the tarnishing ground, a floating island protected by a magical barrier, as they positioned themselves for the friendly competition ahead.And so, amidst the serene surroundings of the floating island and the protective barrier that shielded them from the turbulent skies beyond, the clash between dim and shine began. Each participant pushed themselves to new heights in pursuit of mastery and the thrill of friendly competition.

The training ground crackled with anticipation as Yagami faced off against his friends in a spirited 1 vs 4 duel. With Sushank's suggestion igniting the competitive spirit, each participant took their stances, ready to test their skills and enjoy the friendly challenge.

As the others dashed forward to attack Yagami, he moved with swift grace, evading their strikes with fluid movements. However, Nishan, known for his tactical prowess and speed, managed to land a precise blow on Yagami's back, sending him staggering.

Despite the unexpected hit, Yagami maintained his composure, a small smile playing on his lips. Reacting swiftly, he countered Tanuj's sword strike with a nimble dodge, then retaliated with a powerful kick that sent Tanuj reeling backward.

Seizing the momentum, Yagami leaped into the air, channeling his chi for the first of Venasa's devastating techniques. The energy surged around him as he unleashed a flurry of strikes, each one aimed with precision and strength honed through relentless training.

Tanuj, recovering quickly from Yagami's kick, regained his footing and raised his defenses. Nishan, impressed by Yagami's agility and determination, nodded approvingly. "Well played," he acknowledged, his eyes gleaming with admiration for his friend's growth.

Meanwhile, Calou and Palove watched with keen interest, marveling at the display of martial prowess. Calou noted Yagami's improvement since joining their group, while Palove studied each move, eager to learn from the experienced fighters.

As the duel continued, the air crackled with energy, each clash of fists and kicks resonating with the thrill of friendly competition. Yagami's focus intensified, his movements becoming more precise as he faced the combined challenge of his skilled friends.

Sushank, observing from the sidelines with satisfaction, nodded at Yagami's progress. "You've come a long way," he remarked quietly to himself, proud of his student's determination and growth.

Nirmal, watching alongside Sushank, grinned proudly. "He's really pushing himself," he commented, his voice filled with admiration for Yagami's dedication.

Amidst the flurry of action, Yagami's training and newfound techniques were put to the test. Each opponent brought their unique skills to the fray, creating a dynamic exchange of attacks and defenses.

With each passing moment, Yagami adapted and responded, his movements blending finesse with power. The duel became a showcase of martial arts prowess and camaraderie, each participant pushing themselves to their limits in the pursuit of mastery and mutual growth.

(To be continued...)