Chapter 7 New Challenges

Chapter 7: New Challenges

The sun had fully set by the time Kai and Sakura returned to their small apartment, tired but energized by the day's training. Despite the exhaustion from the hours spent on the wooden platform, there was a sense of accomplishment between them. The experience of training on the mountain, and even meeting the mysterious old man, had sparked something in both Kai and Sakura.

As they entered the apartment, Yuji's voice came through loud and clear from Kai's phone. He had sent a message earlier, asking for a quick check-in.

"Did everything go as planned?" the message read.

Kai typed back quickly. "We finished the training session. It was harder than I expected, but Sakura did great."

A few moments later, Yuji responded. "Good. That's just the beginning. We've got a big event coming up in the West District. You'll need to get ready. You've seen the East District tournament, right? Well, the West District tournament is a whole different level. I want you to be prepared."

"A tournament?" Kai muttered to himself. "I didn't think I was ready for another one so soon."

Sakura, who had been resting in her pocket all this time, peered out from beneath the fabric and spoke. "We are ready, Kai. We've been training for this."

"Yeah, you're right," Kai said, smiling as he looked down at his small Frame Knight. "We've come a long way since that first defeat. I won't let us fall behind this time."

The following morning, after a quick breakfast, they met up with Yuji at the designated spot. He was waiting for them, looking as confident as ever, though there was a hint of something else in his eyes—a challenge, perhaps?

"This tournament in the West District is no joke," Yuji explained as they made their way to the train station. "The competition will be fierce, and this time, you won't have the element of surprise on your side. This will test your growth."

"What exactly are we doing to prepare for it?" Kai asked, still unsure of what to expect.

Yuji turned his gaze to the horizon. "I'm going to introduce you to a new technique, something I've been working on with Striker. It's called the 'Reflex Strike.' It's not about brute strength. It's about timing, precision, and understanding your opponent's movements before they even make them."

Kai felt a chill run down his spine. "That sounds… intense."

Yuji grinned. "It is. But I believe you two are ready for it."

They arrived at a large training hall later that afternoon, a place specially designed for Frame Knight training. Inside, the walls were lined with padded barriers, and there was a large area in the center, which resembled a battle arena.

"You'll be training in here," Yuji said, pointing to the center of the arena. "Sakura will fight against Striker to test out the Reflex Strike."

Kai's eyes widened. "Wait, Striker? You mean, you're going to have us fight each other?"

Yuji's grin only widened. "Exactly. This is going to be a test of your speed, reaction time, and ability to anticipate movements. Striker is one of the best at this technique, and Sakura needs to learn how to adapt to it."

"I won't let you down, Kai," Sakura said, her voice filled with determination.

Kai took a deep breath. He knew that this would be another tough challenge, but the only way to move forward was through these trials.

As Striker entered the arena, her presence was commanding. Standing at just over half the size of the room, her frame was sleek and athletic, built for quick strikes. The moment she stepped forward, it was clear she was far from an ordinary Frame Knight.

Striker, who had been silent up until now, spoke, her voice smooth but stern. "Sakura, don't hold back. I won't either."

Sakura stood tall, her pink clothing swaying slightly as she adjusted her katana at her side. "I will do my best, Striker."

The battle began. It wasn't about overwhelming force; rather, it was about testing their reflexes. Striker moved like a blur, striking with pinpoint accuracy while Sakura struggled to react in time. With each passing moment, Sakura's movements grew sharper. She anticipated Striker's next strike, dodging and countering with increasing confidence.

But it wasn't enough. Striker was faster, more precise, and each time she struck, it was like a lesson in timing and reflex.

"This is it, Sakura!" Yuji shouted. "Focus on the rhythm. Don't just react—feel the flow of battle!"

Kai watched from the sidelines, feeling a mix of awe and anxiety. He could see how hard Sakura was trying, but Striker's movements were like a blur, too quick to follow. It was almost like the air itself seemed to anticipate Striker's movements before they even happened.

Sakura's eyes narrowed. She adjusted her stance and prepared herself for the next strike.

And then, in a split second, Sakura managed to predict Striker's movement. As Striker lunged forward, Sakura reacted with perfect timing, sidestepping and bringing her katana to bear. She didn't hit Striker—she didn't need to—but the sheer speed and precision of the maneuver took everyone by surprise.

Striker stepped back, surprised by Sakura's sudden breakthrough. "You've improved," she said, a rare note of respect in her voice.

Sakura stood tall, her eyes still locked on Striker. "I won't stop improving, Striker. I'll be ready for anything."

"Good," Striker replied. "You've learned the most important lesson: don't just react. Anticipate."

After the training, Yuji approached Kai, who had been silently watching the entire time. "See? Sakura has potential. With enough practice, she'll be able to take on even the best."

Kai smiled, feeling a sense of pride. "She's amazing, Yuji. I'm just glad we've come this far."

Yuji clapped him on the back. "You've come a long way, too. But the tournament is still ahead. You'll need to keep pushing both yourself and Sakura if you want to win."

Kai nodded, feeling the weight of the challenge ahead. The West District tournament was fast approaching, and it would be their biggest test yet. But he was more determined than ever to see it through.

As the training session ended, they made their way back to their apartment, preparing for the next step. The road ahead would be difficult, but it was one they were ready to walk together.

End of Chapter 7