Varek's POV – A Father's Pride, A Mother's Worry
The morning sun bathed the Solin household in a soft golden glow. Varek stood in front of a mirror, adjusting the collar of his training uniform. He wasn't nervous—at least, that's what he kept telling himself. Today was another step in the tournament, another step toward proving his strength.
Downstairs, his father, Thalion Solin, waited by the door, arms crossed, a proud smirk on his face. "Ready to show them what a Solin can do?"
Varek grinned. "Of course."
His mother, Aeliana Solin, wasn't as carefree. She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Be careful out there, Varek. We still don't understand how you did two Mana Surges yesterday."
"I know," he replied, giving her a reassuring nod. "But I can't afford to hold back."
Aeliana sighed but smiled. "Then do your best."
Thalion clapped his son on the back. "No pressure, but we'll be watching."
Varek chuckled and stepped outside, feeling the cool morning air energize him. His heart pounded with excitement. Today, he would push himself even further.
---
Keiran's POV – A Silent Departure
The Trizk estate was eerily quiet, as always. Keiran walked down the long, pristine hallways of his home, each step echoing off the marble floors. He had woken up early, not that it mattered—he barely slept.
At the entrance, his father, John Trizk, stood with his usual composed expression. "Your match today will be another opportunity to solidify your dominance. Do not disappoint us."
Keiran simply nodded.
His mother, Yuru Trizk, offered a faint smile. "Good luck, Keiran."
That was all. No celebration, no warmth, just expectations.
Keiran stepped outside, inhaling the crisp air. His mind was sharp, his body ready. He didn't need motivation from his family. He had himself. And that was enough.
Or so he told himself.
---
Vikas's POV – A Lonely Road
Vikas stretched his arms as he stepped out of his modest home, the morning breeze ruffling his hair. He glanced back inside, but the house was empty.
His parents had already left for work.
No warm send-off. No words of encouragement. No one waiting to see him off.
He sighed, shoving his hands in his pockets. He wasn't surprised. It was always like this.
Still, he couldn't let it get to him. He had a match today. He had something to prove—not just to others, but to himself.
Walking down the road, he saw other students being sent off by their parents with cheers and smiles. He pretended not to notice. He wasn't jealous. At least, that's what he told himself.
As he reached the tournament grounds, he took a deep breath and forced a grin.
"Let's do this."
---
Each of them had taken their own path to the tournament. Each carried their own burdens. But once they stepped into the arena, none of that would matter. Only their strength, their will, and their determination would decide what happened next.