The sun was at its zenith. The heat pressed down on the foliage, and the air vibrated around the cascade, almost silent… until a loud crash echoed through the clearing.
Elric had just completed his personal challenge.
He had set this challenge for himself, without telling his father, determined to prove he was no longer a child. And this time, he had succeeded.
"I did it!!" he shouted, arms raised to the sky, a bright smile on his face.
Aelric rushed over, alert.
"What's going on?"
"I'm the strongest now! I split the cascade… with a twig!" replied Elric, proud as a king.
Aelric raised an eyebrow.
"That's it?"
"What do you mean, that's it?!" Elric choked, offended.
"I can split the cascade without touching it. And with my hand," said Aelric in a casual tone.
"Liar! That's impossible!" exclaimed Elric, crossing his arms, cocky.
Aelric's gaze shifted slightly.
"For calling me a liar… I challenge you to a sword duel."
"What?!"
"Since Mr. Cascade Splitter is so strong, he won't mind crossing blades with his old liar father, right?" Aelric replied with a provoking and mocking tone.
As they walked away toward their training ground, Aelric suddenly stopped and turned back toward the cascade.
"Oh, by the way, about that cascade…"
He raised his hand, palm open, and slowly lowered it.
The water parted in two, cleanly, as if cut by an invisible blade. Elric froze, mouth wide open.
"Shut up, you're gonna catch a fly," said Aelric, smiling.
But far from discouraged, Elric clenched his fists. He was more determined than ever. This time… he was really going to give it his all