Ascendants

Raiden Alaric

The anticipation was electric. Lying in bed, staring up at the ceiling, I couldn't calm the racing of my heart. The sparring gloves that Chronos had left in my room seemed to pulse with potential in the dim light. Their presence was clear affirmation. I was ready.

Ready to learn how to fight, ready to step into a new realm of training. The significance of this transition kept sleep at bay as I replayed every grueling workout that had brought me to this point, each drop of sweat a step closer to today.

When dawn cracked the sky open with soft morning light, I already laced up my running shoes. My body moved on autopilot. Carrying me through the familiar paths I had pounded into memory over the endless days of summer. The run did little to temper my excitement; if anything, it amplified my anticipation, each step drumming a rhythmic countdown.

By the time I arrived at the training facility, the sun had fully claimed the sky, casting sharp shadows across the concrete. I pushed through the doors, my breath still evening out from the run, and found Chronos already there, waiting.

"Morning, Rai," he greeted, his voice calm, with a small smile playing at the edges of his lips. He leaned casually against the mats that had seen the sweat and struggle of the past months. His eyes flicked briefly to the gloves in my hand. "Did you see the gift I left for you?"

I nodded, holding up the gloves. "I did. Thank you. I've been looking forward to this." My voice was steadier than I felt, the gloves a tangible symbol of progress.

As we walked deeper into the facility, the familiar sounds of the gym faded. Replaced by the echoing quiet of a less-frequented part of the building. We approached a large garage door, one I had passed countless times but never seen opened. It always piqued my curiosity, standing there like a barrier to some unspoken secret.

"This way, Rai," Chronos said, his voice echoing slightly in the wide hallway. He reached for a sleek control panel. "I think it's time you see what's behind here."

With a quiet hum, a mechanism raised the door, revealing an environment that contrasted with the traditional training areas I was accustomed to.

Inside lay a sparring room that felt like a blend of modern design and fantasy. A fantasy hero's wet dream, if you will. The space was expansive, with high ceilings and a layout that maximized every inch for combat training.

Along one wall stood sparring dolls equipped with advanced AI capable of mimicking various combat styles. I know for a damn fact that he didn't spare a single expense because I've seen the ads for these. Each one costs a minimum of $5.2 million, and that's IF you don't have the software package. He has six of them.

In the center of the room, several platforms floated, each suspended by softly glowing crystals. These platforms moved subtly, requiring constant balance and focus. Perfect for honing agility and tactical movement. You can program these to do just about anything with omni-directional movement. You just can't use them to fly around because they have to be near the primary power source. The large crystal embedded in the ceiling.

Also very expensive. I was curious about the cost, but their website only said, "Call for a quote."

The floor itself was an engineering marvel, composed of sleek, dark tiles that could independently rise, tilt, or even sink. At intervals, certain tiles would activate, projecting non-lethal projectiles toward the center of the room. Chronos noticed me looking at it and had a very subtle, sinister gleam in his eyes.

Oh, you bitch, I know what you're planning.

Chronos gestured broadly as he stepped into the room. "Welcome to the heart of our training, Rai. This room is where you'll learn to blend the physical with the mental aspects of combat."

He pointed to the sparring dolls. "These will help you understand different fighting styles and how to counter them effectively. They're programmed to adapt to your moves as well, so each session will be as challenging as an actual fight."

Chronos then motioned to the floating platforms. "Balance and agility are crucial in combat. These platforms will teach you to maintain your focus and composure under dynamic conditions."

Finally, he explained the floor's functionality. "The tiles here to keep you alert and responsive. They'll simulate unexpected threats. Helping you develop quick reflexes and the ability to expect sudden changes."

As we walked further into the room, Chronos instructed me to remove my shoes and socks before stepping onto the mat. "In many martial arts, the dojo is a sacred space. Here, we honor that tradition by connecting directly with the ground beneath our feet."

The cool, padded surface against my bare feet grounded me, merging the physical sensation with the weight of the opportunity before me.

Did I sound cool there? Yeah, I thought of that on the spot.

"Everything in this room is interconnected," Chronos concluded. "Training will also show you how each element is used in a wider range of applications than those shown here."

As I eagerly stepped onto the padded floor, ready to dive into the physical aspects of martial arts training, Chronos held up a hand, signaling me to pause. The anticipation building within me wavered slightly as he spoke. His voice was serious and contemplative.

"Before we begin, Rai, it's important to understand that this isn't just about learning to punch or kick. We need to explore the depths of your unique talent," Chronos explained. "Everything in this room, from the sparring dolls to the floating platforms, is off-limits for now."

My excitement faltered. "Off-limits? But you said you would teach me once I reached your standards," I protested, trying to mask my disappointment.

Chronos nodded, understanding my frustration but firm in his approach. "Yes, and I will teach you. I didn't lie about that. But your ability, Rai, to mimic and potentially steal your opponent's techniques, that's extraordinary. It might be more than just a skill; it could be what we call an 'Origin.'"

I blinked, the term unfamiliar. "An Origin?"

"Yes, an Origin. It's a manifestation of Aura, typically unique to the individual. If your ability is indeed an Origin, it means it's foundational, a core aspect of your Aura that shapes your interaction with the world and combat in a profound way."

Chronos walked over to the control panel, his fingers hovering over various buttons. "We need to understand exactly how your talent works. Does it have limitations? Can it adapt across different combat? How does it affect your opponents? These are crucial questions."

The notion that my ability could be something as significant as an Origin was both thrilling and daunting. It meant my path in martial arts wasn't just about physical mastery, but also about deep self-exploration.

"We'll start with controlled experiments. I want to observe your ability in action, understand its mechanics. We'll use various simulations, record data, analyze outcomes. It's going to be rigorous, but necessary."

"Your Origin is not just a skill; it's a fundamental part of who you are," Chronos explained, his voice carrying reverence and excitement. "It has awakened within you because of your unique experiences and your innate ability to adapt and excel. This makes your training about embracing and mastering this core aspect of your being, which can evidently lead to your revelation, allowing you to awaken."

Oh yes, speak those sweet words to me.

Chronos adjusted the settings on one of the advanced sparring dolls while I waited, eager to put my newly honed physical abilities to the test. "Alright, hit it," he directed, nodding toward the doll positioned at the center of the room.

Confused by his casual instruction, I hesitated. "What?"

"You know, throw a punch, have a tussle, a scrap, a bit of a—ah, fuck it, just punch it," Chronos said, his voice mixing frustration with a chuckle.

Energized by his command, I squared up to the sparring doll, ready to demonstrate what I had learned. Or stolen from Tony, I guess you could say. With a determined breath, I lunged forward and threw a punch, aiming for what would have been the doll's midsection.

To my surprise, the doll was quicker than I anticipated. It not only blocked my punch but also countered swiftly, its mechanical arm extending to push against my chest with enough force to throw me off balance. Before I could recover, the doll executed a maneuver that used my momentum against me, effectively tossing me onto the mat.

I landed with a thud, the air whooshing out of me as I hit the ground.

Huh?

From the side of the ring, Chronos burst out laughing. He pointed at me, still chuckling. "You've got to watch out, Rai! These things have a lot more bite than some middle schoolers!"

Lying on the mat, I couldn't help but join in the laughter, despite the flush of embarrassment. "Guess I asked for that, didn't I?"

Just give it a bit, I'll be taking this thing down soon.

"Indeed, you did. But that's good! Every fall is a lesson, Rai," Chronos replied, offering me a hand. "Let's try this again. And this time, keep your guard up and watch for the counter. Adapt quickly."

This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

The training session with the sparring doll quickly escalated into a series of swift, humbling defeats. Each attempt to land a punch ended with me being flipped onto the mat again. The doll seemed to anticipate and neutralize every move I made, its mechanical efficiency relentless.

After several more unsuccessful attempts, Chronos called a halt, noticing the frustration building in my expression. I sat on the mat, chest heaving. "I don't get it," I said, wiping sweat from my brow. "Why can't I do anything against it? I thought I could mimic any move I see."

As the session wound down, Chronos observed my mounting frustration with a thoughtful expression. After several minutes of contemplation, his gaze sharpened. Without a word, he stepped into the ring, his demeanor changing from teacher to something more intense, almost threatening.

I called out to him, "Chronos?"

He began to advance toward me slowly, his eyes locked onto mine, a silent challenge hanging between us. As he moved closer, a palpable sense of bloodlust radiated from him, pressure so intense it seemed almost tangible. The atmosphere thickened, and I found myself rooted to the spot, unable to move, barely able to breathe.

Is he... actually going to kill me?

Then, in a swift motion, Chronos raised his fist, pulling back for a punch. The air around us charged, heavy with the threat of imminent contact. It was in that moment of heightened danger that something clicked within me. My senses sharpened, and suddenly, I was acutely aware of every detail, his form, his muscle tension, the angle of his arm, the slight shift in his weight.

With barely a moment to spare, I dodged to the side, Chronos's fist grazing past my face so closely I could feel the disturbance in the air. My heart pounded, adrenaline surged, but above it all, a grin spread across my face.

Chronos halted and straightened up, a faint smirk playing on his lips. "I see, so you need to actually feel the threat at hand. Considering that massive grin on your face."

The realization dawned on me that my ability to mimic wasn't just about observing; it was about experiencing the intensity, the emotion, and the danger posed by my opponent.

"You learn when you feel the stakes are real," Chronos continued. "Your Origin isn't just mimicking technique; it's absorbing the essence of a true combat situation. It requires not just observation, but emotional and physical engagement. If I'm not mistaken, this might evolve after you awaken."

"What do you mean?" I asked.

Chronos and I sat on the edge of the training mat, the air still warm from drills. He rested his forearms on his knees and glanced over at me.

"Rai, when it comes to Origins, they're more than a combat gimmick," he said, voice low and steady. "They're personal. Deeply rooted in who you are. But once you awaken? The rules change."

He leaned back, eyes narrowing slightly. "I had a friend whose Origin revolved around balance. Nothing fancy. He was a gymnast, won championships three years running. But after he awakened, balance didn't just mean steady footing anymore. He could manipulate his center of gravity. Walked on walls like they were floors. Hung from ceilings like they were railings. His Origin didn't evolve, it bloomed."

He paused, then chuckled softly. "Then there was another friend. She wasn't a fighter. She was a counselor. Her Origin was empathy. Before awakening, people said she just understood them better than anyone else. After awakening? She didn't just understand emotions, she felt them. Every one. Like her body had become a tuning fork for other people's hearts."

Chronos stood, started pacing, hands moving as he spoke. "And that's the part people miss. Most Origins don't start in combat. They come from habits, instincts, things people do every day. Reading. Cooking. Listening. The things no one thinks twice about. That's why so many Origins fly under the radar. People think it's just skill. Just personality."

He turned to face me again. "Yours isn't subtle. Your ability to mimic and master techniques is aggressive, obvious. But that's rare. Most people awaken without ever realizing an Origin was there all along, just waiting for the right push."

I raised an eyebrow. "So there could be people walking around right now with Origins tied to folding laundry or perfect handwriting?"

"Absolutely," Chronos said, unbothered. "Someone's ability to organize might turn into spatial manipulation. A painter could awaken and create illusions so vivid they alter perception. What matters isn't what the Origin does—it's how closely it reflects who they are."

Chronos gave a small shrug, the corner of his mouth twitching upward in that half-smile he used when he was about to drop something annoyingly insightful.

"That's the kicker," he said, tone light but laced with that annoying I'm-right-and-you-know-it cadence. "Awakening doesn't just strengthen you. It makes you realize you've been carrying this weird superpower seed your whole life and never noticed."

It makes sense now. When I was fighting Tony and his goons, I wasn't able to fight back right away. I was absorbing all the information as they were pummeling me, and in that instance, there were stakes regarding my safety.

Chronos nodded thoughtfully as he saw understanding dawn in my eyes. He stepped back onto the mat, gesturing for me to follow. "Enough talk for now," he said with a slight grin. "Let's put theory into practice. Show me that punch now, Rai. The one you just took from me."

Okay, now we're talking.

I stood up, energized by our discussion. As I faced Chronos, I closed my eyes for a moment to visualize not just the action, but the deeper mechanics behind it. I didn't want to just throw a punch; I wanted to throw his punch.

I concentrated, envisioning Chronos's form as he threw the punch, the flow of his muscles, the deliberate shift of his weight, and the intense energy channeled through his arm.

Taking a deep breath, I raised my fist, attempting to mirror not only the physical motion but also the power and precision that Chronos had demonstrated. I could feel the tension in my muscles, trying to emulate the same flow. How his shoulders had rolled, how his torso had turned, driving the force outward from his core to his fist.

With a surge of determination, I thrust my arm forward. The air around my arm seemed to compress, echoing a faint whistle as my fist cut through it.

The moment my punch completed its arc, a sharp pain shot through my arm. I winced, clutching it instinctively. The intensity I had attempted to replicate was too much for my current physical condition.

"AGH!" I yelped.

As I recoiled from the punch, clutching my aching arm, Chronos swiftly crossed the distance between us. His expression was serious but not without empathy as he took my arm gently, examining it.

"Rai, there's a critical component to the martial arts techniques I use, and it's something you haven't yet mastered. Aura reinforcement," Chronos explained. "Without awakening your Aura, your body isn't reinforced against the strain that these high-level techniques impose."

He helped me lower my arm slowly. "When fully awakened, a martial artist can channel their Aura to not only enhance their physical abilities but also to protect and strengthen their body during combat. It's like armoring yourself from within. Without this, trying to replicate such powerful techniques can lead to injury."

Chronos stepped back, his gaze thoughtful. "Your Origin is extraordinary, Rai, and it gives you a unique edge. But it also places you at risk if you try to exceed the current limits of your physical capabilities without the necessary Aura protection. Otherwise, if you try to mimic every technique you encounter, you'll just break down your body every time."

After Chronos finished explaining, I couldn't help but feel skeptical. "You're fucking with me, right? It was just a punch. How could it be categorized as a high-level technique?"

Chronos cracked a half-smile, clearly amused. "A high-level technique, indeed," he responded with a slight chuckle. "But if you think it's so simple, why don't you show me a 'regular ass punch' then? Let's see how that goes for you."

His challenge hung between us. I scoffed, shaking my head as I stepped back into a basic stance, a rough imitation of what I'd seen boxers do in movies. I threw the punch, a straightforward, unembellished strike that felt jarringly plain in its execution.

The moment my fist sailed through the air and snapped back to my side, I paused. The difference was striking. It felt off, almost embarrassingly weak compared to the punch I had attempted to mimic from Chronos.

From beside the mat, Chronos couldn't hold back a laugh. He walked over, giving me a light poke in the shoulder. "Ahh, see what did I tell you? Acting like you know what you're talking about, fucking amateur," he teased.

I couldn't help but grin back, albeit grudgingly. "Alright, alright, you made your point," I conceded.

Chronos's demeanor shifted slightly, becoming more serious. "It's all in good fun, Rai, but remember, this is an important part of your training. Aura isn't just about adding strength; it's about transforming your entire approach to combat. Don't worry though, I don't plan on neglecting it entirely. Once you awaken, we're going to have plenty of training regarding it before I let you even step foot into an academy."

"Wait, if you're planning on training me, what would be the point of the academy, then?" I questioned.

Chronos nodded, appreciating the question. "The academy isn't just about personal training or mastering techniques," he explained. "Immersion in a community of fighters lets you test your skills. Learn diverse combat styles and understand martial arts and Aura application. Training one-on-one with me is one thing. It's another to face different opponents with different strengths and Origin's."

He paused, ensuring his point was clear. "My role is to prepare you, to make sure that when you walk into that academy, you're not just another student. You'll be ready to stand out, to make the most of every lesson, every spar, and every challenge."

Chronos's expression then shifted to one of mock grandeur.

His voice taking on a theatrical tone as he spread his arms wide. "As your teacher, I refuse to send forth a mere participant into the ranks of the academy. No, no, I aim to forge a champion, a burning star whose brilliance outshines the rest! I have no intention of having a student of mine be just another face in the crowd. You, Rai, are meant to dazzle them, to be that blazing beacon that everyone, friend and foe alike, cannot help but gaze upon in awe."

Playing along, I pressed my fists together and bowed at the waist, feigning noble determination. "Then I shall not let you down, Guy sensei! I will be the star that lights up the academy, blazing a trail of glory across the sky!"

Chronos chuckled at my response, the humor easing the intensity. "That's the spirit! With that attitude, I know you'll make quite the impression."

He turned around to walk toward the control panel, then paused. "Ah, Guy sensei, huh?" Chronos mused, a twinkle of mischief appearing in his eyes. "You know, you just gave me a brilliant idea." His smile widened, transforming into an almost evil glint.

The lighthearted atmosphere briefly tensed as I recognized that look, one that usually preceded a challenging new twist. "What kind of idea?" I asked, half-wary, half-curious.

Wait, no... he wouldn't.

Chronos darted off to a corner of the room, where a large, cluttered closet full of various equipment stood slightly ajar. He rummaged through the contents with purposeful intensity, moving aside items with clatters and clinks that echoed through the training space.

After a few moments of searching, he emerged holding sleek metallic bracelets, their intricate design catching the light. "Found them," he announced, triumph in his voice.

He handed me the bracelets, and I took them, intrigued by the jewels embedded in the center and the delicate patterns etched into the metal. I hesitated, but slid them onto my wrists. The bracelets began their astonishing transformation. The patterns seemed to come alive, and the metal adjusted itself to fit my wrists perfectly.

These look just like binds.

Once adjusted, the jewel at the center emitted a faint glow, signaling activation. I flicked my wrist a few times, feeling the unusual sensation of the metal conforming to my movement, slightly unnerved but also fascinated by the technology.

"These are designed to adapt to your physical and kinetic needs," Chronos explained as he pulled out a small device, turning a knob that immediately increased the gravitational pull on the bracelets. "They'll provide resistance based on the intensity of your training, dynamically adjusting to push your limits."

As the weight of the bracelets intensified, I felt my knees buckle slightly under the sudden increase. Each movement became a deliberate struggle, forcing me to engage muscles I seldom used so much.

"We'll start with basic movements to get you accustomed to them," Chronos said, watching me closely. "It's crucial to build your tolerance gradually. This will prepare you not just physically but mentally for the more demanding aspects of your training."

Something I noticed is that the bracelets themselves don't weigh heavily, it's actually my entire body that weighs so much. However, it doesn't seem to affect my surroundings. I'm not leaving a deeper impression on the mat, nor are my steps louder.

Okay, this is kind of cool, I can't deny that.

Chronos turned to me and pointed at the dolls. "Alright Rai, now get started."

Huh?