A month had passed since Harden's intense training session with Hawkins. During that time, Harden and his friends had been participating in abyssal raids, honing their skills. But it wasn't just to defend themselves against Cataclysmic Revolt — there was something else looming on the horizon.
The Rookies Tournament.
Once every year, the Intercontinental Body of Mythical Fighters organized a tournament for all rookies, a symbol of friendship and rivalry between the five continents: Earnshaw Falls, Iron Creeks, Linton Hills, Gumsdale, and Bluesanga.
And this year, Earnshaw Falls would be the host.
"I'm kinda excited that our continent is hosting the Rookies Tournament," Amy said, practically bouncing with excitement.
"I wonder what the people from the other continents are like," Raizo added, his mind already racing with possibilities.
"To be honest..." Harden said, frowning, "I feel like Cataclysmic Revolt will make a move during the tournament."
The group quieted.
"I mean, they've been collecting rare materials, and they even have weapons no one else has. Heck, they can even seal an abyss! Something's off," Harden continued. "Earnshaw Falls was the first place where mythical beasts were found, and it has the highest concentration of Mythical Force in the atmosphere. That has to be connected somehow."
"Relax, will you?" Raizo said with a laugh. "We've trained our butts off. Even Hawkins confirmed we're at least twice as strong as we were a month ago."
"Yeah, I guess so..." Harden said, not fully convinced.
"Hey guys!" Amy suddenly said. "In preparation for the tournament, why don't we go shopping?"
"Huh? How does that help with preparation?" Harden asked, confused.
"I mean buying skill books and stuff!" Amy said, grinning.
"Ohh, right," Harden replied.
"Then let's go!" Amy said, practically dragging the others along.
The group made their way to the Mythical Fighters Official Market. Once there, they split up: Amy dashed to the Mage Section, Raizo to the Samurai Section, and Harden... just stood there, unsure where to go.
Eventually, Harden wandered toward the Martial Arts Section, hoping something might catch his eye. He ignored the rows of skill books; he already knew he couldn't learn skills just by reading — he had to see them being used.
Harden moved on to the weapons area. He passed by tonfa batons — short sticks with a side handle and pointed edges. He could easily imagine using them offensively and defensively. But they won't let me use my skills, Harden thought, moving on.
Next, he spotted a pair of black gauntlets. The sight immediately brought back memories of when he was trapped in a desert-like abyss. Yeah, I'll pass on those, he chuckled to himself.
He kept looking until he stumbled upon a pair of brass knuckles.
A smile spread across Harden's face. They're perfect.
He pulled them out of their showcase box to inspect them. Not only were they in excellent condition, but they were also crafted with remarkable care.
They're not poor quality either... they're perfect!
But then his eyes caught the price tag.
"What the—" Harden exclaimed in shock.
He quickly composed himself. It's not like he couldn't afford it — but still, the price was painful. In the end, he managed to pay for the brass knuckles, feeling a mix of pride and regret.
As he exited the Martial Artist Section, his gaze locked onto another teenager approaching him.
He had platinum-colored hair and deep, blood-red eyes. He wore a long black jacket with red stripe designs and plain black trousers. A sword with a red hilt rested at his side, and his hanafuda earrings jingled softly with each step.
The teenager walked straight toward Harden.
"Hey, you're Harden, right? Nice to meet you. I'm Rory," he said with a casual smile.
"Huh?" Harden was taken aback.
Who the heck is this?
And what's this pressure he's emitting...?