“Don’t make me repeat myself child, you’re not participating in the competition, you can’t even complete mere training.” His mentor’s voice dropped, gruff and mercilessly picking out every minor mistake and mishap the boy made as he glared at the young hero.

“You ensured and convinced me that you’d be able to demonstrate your ability to perform exceptionally.. though, with your current performance I believe that you were greatly mistaken.” His eyes icy cold, sneering under his breath and walking past his mentee, brushing the boy’s shoulder with his own while walking past.

Elijja’s head hung low in shame as he clenched his fist and gritted his teeth, shame and anger flooding his veins as his mentor’s words echoed in his mind, tears swelling up on his eyes. “I promise you.. I’ll solidify my position in the competition.. just— please, one more round mentor, please.” His voice just above a whisper as it cracks and breaks at every word. Elijja turned to face his mentor, determination shining in his eyes as he wiped away his unformed tears, silently hoping for another chance.

A frustrated sigh and a cold voice pierced through the silence that followed Ellija’s request. “No. That’s final, I’ll incapacitate you if it’s necessary. I won’t let you endanger yourself and tarnish your reputation before you even gain one from other heroes. You’re young, Elijja, don’t forget that.”