Elizabeth nodded, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to spill. "I know. It's just...I'll miss you."
Clark gave her shoulder a reassuring squeeze before returning to his packing. As the morning wore on, the atmosphere became more somber. They shared a quiet breakfast, both lost in their own thoughts.
After breakfast, Clark double-checked his gear, making sure he had everything he needed. His VoidBlade was carefully wrapped and secured, ready for any challenges he might face. Elizabeth watched him, her heart heavy but her resolve firm.
Finally, the time came for Clark to leave. He stood at the door, his bag slung over his shoulder. Elizabeth stood beside him, trying to put on a brave face. "You've got everything?" she asked, her voice slightly shaky.
Clark nodded. "Yeah, I think so." He looked around the dormitory, taking in the familiar surroundings one last time. "Thanks for everything, Elizabeth. I'll see you soon."
Elizabeth couldn't hold back any longer. She stepped forward and hugged him tightly, tears streaming down her face. "Be safe, Clark. And don't forget about us here."
Clark hugged her back, his own eyes misting over. "I won't. Take care, Elizabeth."
With a final squeeze, they let go, and Clark stepped outside. The afternoon sun was bright, the sky a clear, brilliant blue. Clark took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. He turned back to Elizabeth, who stood in the doorway, watching him go.
"I'll come back stronger," he called out, giving her a confident smile.
Elizabeth nodded, wiping her tears. "I'll be waiting."
With that, Clark set off down the path, his heart heavy but his spirit determined. As he walked, he thought about the training ahead, the challenges he would face, and the promise he had made to Elizabeth. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but he was ready to push himself to new heights.
The journey to the mountain training field was long, but Clark was fueled by his desire to grow stronger and protect those he cared about. As the dormitory grew smaller in the distance, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He would train hard, master his abilities, and return to Elizabeth and the others as a warrior they could rely on.
And so, with the sun high in the sky and the road stretching out before him, Clark began the next chapter of his journey, determined to face whatever lay ahead with courage and strength.
Clark arrives at the place where he will stay for a year.
Satoru was already here waiting for him to arrive.
"Let's go start!" Satoru said to Clark
Clark nods.
Month 1: Building Endurance
Clark's mornings began with a long-distance run. Each day, the distance increased, and the terrain grew more challenging. Rocky paths, uneven ground, and steep inclines tested his stamina. Gojo would occasionally appear, effortlessly keeping pace, offering pointers on breathing techniques and efficient movement.
"Focus on your breathing, Clark. In through the nose, out through the mouth. Keep a steady rhythm," Gojo advised during one particularly steep climb.
By the end of the first month, Clark's body had started to adapt. His muscles became leaner, and his endurance improved. The initial exhaustion gave way to a steady, controlled pace, even on the most difficult trails.
Chapter Ends.