In the quiet embrace of the island, a thick coat of clouds covered the afternoon sky, hiding the warm embrace of the sun.
The air carried a gentle chill, its touch caressing the landscape with a cool breeze that whispered secrets across the rugged terrain.
The only thing that broke the peace was the rhythmic melody of crashing waves that echoed from far away, dancing on the island's shores like a soothing lullaby.
Aizel and Aquarian were sitting on the ground with their legs crossed.
Eyes closed, they sought solace in the depths of meditation, although their experiences diverged greatly.
Aquarian, like a tranquil river flowing with effortless grace, surrendered himself to the stillness, finding solace in the sanctuary of his thoughts.
Aizel, on the other hand, fought to find the same peace.
His thoughts were all over the place, like leaves caught in a strong wind. The upcoming tournament loomed large in his mind, its weight pressing down on his shoulders, while images of Daisy, the kids, Alora, and his mother tugged at the edges of his attention.
Even in this quiet place, it seemed like the weight and responsibilities of his journey would not let him rest.
"AHHHHH...."
"This is so frustrating. I can't even keep my mind clear, even for a second."
"You are still pretty new at this," Aquarian replied.
"What benefit is it going to bring during the battle?" Aizel asked.
"It is not only a path to inner peace and self-discovery but also a valuable tool in the art of sword fighting.
"As you explore the depths of your own mind, you become more self-aware and gain more control over your thoughts," Aquarian explained.
"But doesn't sword fighting mostly depend on quick reflexes and swift strikes in the midst of chaotic fights?" Aizel asked
I have my imagination power, meditation can only help me to concentrate more," he thought.
"Yes, fights are often chaotic and fast-paced. But when swords are flying and mages are fighting, the best thing you can do is keep your mind clear and calm.
"Through meditation, you learn to quiet the noise inside you and separate yourself from outside things that might cloud your judgment."
"When you're in the middle of a fight, your mind may be full of thoughts and feelings. Fear, doubt, anger, and uncertainty can make it hard to decide what to do and slow you down.
"But a mind that has been trained through meditation will give you the clarity you need to make choices in a split second." Auarian further explained.
"Just think about how accurate your sword hits would be if you didn't lose your focus.
"With your senses tuned to every subtle change in your opponent's movements, you become one with your weapon and can easily predict and counter every move they make.
"By meditating, you can make it easier for yourself to stay calm and in control, even in the middle of the most intense fights.
"Look at the ocean? What do you see?" Aquarian asked.
Aizel stared at the ocean for a minute and started to ponder.
"I see an ocean that is very deep and vast. It's like even if I went all out on it, nothing would even faze it.
"Good. There are many techniques to develop your sword art. No one can say that their technique is better than the others.
"But what makes the difference is how much you have mastered those techniques.
"From today onwards, I would like to teach you my own techniques," Aquarian said with a smile.
Aizel stared at him for a second, and then Vespara's words rang in his mind.
He sighed and asked, "I don't want to be rude here, but can I ask why you are helping me so much?"
"Hahaha, I knew you were going to ask this. I had a son...
"So I seem to remind you of your son?"
"Could you even let me start?" Aquarian asked, with his brows raised.
"Okay, keep it short."
"I had a son whom I always wanted to teach about more magic and sword arts. But due to a cruel fate, that long-held wish can't be fulfilled now.
"I have seen many mages, but none have caught my eye. Soren was the only one, but because of his unique power, I couldn't teach him.
"Then I saw you and your fighting capabilities. That's when I knew I wanted to gift my art to you.
"I saw your love for the kids, Vespara and the other two girls. How deeply you care about them.
"You are perfect for this.
"My art isn't for killing. Now don't take it the wrong way.
"Even though you can't use the water element, you can still learn the way of water.
"This art is for the loved ones."
Aizel's brows raised when he heard that.
"This will help you protect your loved ones." He said it with a calm smile.
"I wasn't able to do it. I have made many mistakes in the past. I wish to talk about more with you like a brother to brother, but that's the story for another day."
"So will you learn it?"
"Yes, only if you control that laugh of yours. It is irritating."
"Hahaha, good, good. You are going to become a great mage.
In the blink of an eye, the serene ambiance that enveloped the island took an abrupt turn. The air grew tense as if holding its breath in anticipation. Aquarian, with an intensity that seemed to pierce the very depths of Aizel's soul, leaned forward until their eyes locked in a fierce gaze.
"If you ever use it to kill people mercilessly, I will kill you personally, even if I have to go against Vespara."
Aizel simply nodded.
Who does he think I am?" Meanwhile, he thought.
[You have already become Satan, Master. Our job is the same]
"Okay, let's meditate again and try to keep your mind calm this time."
Aizel and Aquarian sat down once more on the rough ground of the island and went deep into meditation. Aizel tried to calm down the storm of thoughts that had been going through his mind earlier.
With each breath, he tried to quiet the noise inside him and let peace come over him like a soft tide. As they gave in to the deep silence that surrounded them, time stopped being important.
