Caulin could hardly contain his excitement as he jogged out of Azure, his feet pounding the soft earth beneath him. The dojo was in sight, and his pulse quickened with each step. Ignus had evolved! He couldn’t wait to share the news with Qiang. He wished he could have shown him Ignus' new form right away, but of course, Qiang had left for his long-awaited honeymoon with his fathers, promising to see the transformation once they returned. Still, Caulin was practically buzzing with anticipation.

Running beside him, Koa kept pace effortlessly. The Zeraora’s sleek form was a perfect match for Caulin’s speed, though Koa had slowed just a fraction to match his Lucario companion’s stride.

“Haven’t seen Qiang in a while,” Koa said, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. “Not since we came back from the West Continent.”

Caulin flashed a grin. “Yeah, it’s been too long. I know he’s been locked away in his temple, training nonstop, but c’mon—he couldn’t have spared a few minutes to visit us?” His tone was light, teasing, and full of affection.

Koa nodded, a thoughtful frown creasing his brow. “He’s very dedicated,” Koa added. “Maybe too much so.”

“Well, his loss,” Caulin replied, his voice bubbling with mischief. “We got to see something incredible while he was off with his training, and now—now we get to rub it in his face!”

Koa shot him a sidelong glance. “I did not see Ignus evolve.”

Caulin laughed. “You didn’t, but you did meet a bunch of Lycanroc back home. And you’ve never seen a Pokémon like Ignus before, have you?”

“No,” Koa shook his head. “I’ve not met many Lycanroc; saw from afar, never spoke to. Never saw one like that. What form is Ignus now?”

Caulin’s smile widened. “That’s the thing. We don’t know. Even Jora was stumped. It’s like, whatever form Ignus took, it’s either brand new or something that hasn’t been seen in thousands of years. It’s almost like he’s some kind of... prophetic Pokémon or something.”

“Prophetic?” Koa asked, his brow furrowing slightly, clearly unfamiliar with the term.

Caulin slowed his pace slightly, his eyes twinkling with excitement as he thought through his explanation. “Yeah, like a prophecy. You know, a prediction about the future. Something that’s supposed to happen that’ll change everything.”

Koa’s eyes lit up in understanding. “Ah. W?’nana. An event foretold by a mystic. I see.”

Caulin nodded, his grin returning. “Yea, something like that!” he said, happily. “Hey speaking of which… You grew up with a group before you became a guardian, right? Did you have any sort of mystic tell you prophecies when you were younger?”

“Village storyteller, keeper of ancient traditions,” explained Koa, “Told me, reasons for our guarding of the Nexus. Keeping a great evil out of the hands of those who would use it for foul deeds. Often, she spoke of possible futures, or events pre-told, that might fall upon our world.”

He slowed his jog to a walk, thinking back to the stories in question. “One, I always remember… ‘When come the comet of white fire, great master of sky shall meet its fall, drive invader from our world, but calamity shall descend on all’.” He shuddered. “Way she told it… Frightening… Never forget.”

“A comet of white fire, huh?” Caulin remarked, rubbing his chin slightly as he mulled over the words. “...Ya think she might have foretold anything about the Dark Crusade?” He asked.

Koa shook his head. “Unsure… Never saw white fire in sky, before or after the coming of the Crusade. Could be it has already happened, or, has yet to happen.”

“Well, let’s hope we never do, eh?” Caulin commented, moving to slip an arm around Koa’s shoulders. “And if it does, you know I’ll be right there with you.”

Koa chuckled. “Am glad to know. But, story passed down many generations. May not happen in lifetime,” he pointed out.

“If there’s one thing that I’ve learned growing up, it’s to never say never.” Caulin pointed out as he rubbed cheeks with Koa affectionately. “Anything that could happen might just happen, it’s more often a matter of when rather than if.” He explained. “I’m not saying it’ll happen anytime soon, it’s just… something to keep in the back of your mind.”

Koa tilted his head side to side. “Sensible… May have point,” he agreed.

“Thank my mom for that~” Caulin answered, then stole a kiss to the Zeraora’s cheek before jogging ahead. “C’mon, Slowpoke! We’re almost there!”

Koa grinned, and broke into a sprint to run ahead of Caulin rather easily, even turning to run backwards and keep smiling at him. “Come on, Slowpoke!” he echoed, before turning and facing ahead again, easily outpacing the Lucario.

“...Touche, hon.” Caulin muttered, though he smirked as he picked up the pace, trying to catch up to Koa.

At their running pace, the dojo quickly came into view, the familiar wooden walls rising before them. They had arrived in mere minutes, both panting heavily from the effort, the air around them alive with the sharp scent of earth and exertion. As they approached the front gates, they spotted the double doors of the dojo ahead, just as a figure stepped into view—a Pignite, one of the newer students.

Since Caulin and Qiang’s appearance at the Junior Tournament the year before, a number of new faces had come to the dojo, drawn in by their performance. Though they hadn't won the tournament, it had done wonders for the dojo’s reputation. This Pignite, Searan, was one of the first to have enlisted, giving him more seniority than other students but still less than Caulin or Qiang.

But it seemed Searan was there for a purpose, as he didn’t move from the doors when Caulin and Koa approached. “Sorry, Caulin,” he said in a low voice, clearly aware of the urgency in Caulin's stride. “The masters are busy right now. They’re with Qiang. It’s really important—they said no one should interrupt unless it’s an emergency.”

Caulin’s ears flicked back, the words settling over him with a sharp, curious weight. “Important how?” he asked, tilting his head slightly, eyes narrowing. “What’s goin’ on?”

“You might know more than I do,” Searan replied, scratching the back of his head. “They’re calling it the Abhiseka ceremony.”

Caulin’s breath hitched, and he froze for a moment, his chest tightening. He knew what that meant. The Abhiseka ceremony was a rite of passage for students of the Fist, a crucial step from junior member to senior student. It was the test that separated the dedicated from the truly exceptional. It was more than just a ritual—it was an acknowledgment that a student had earned their place. Caulin hadn’t undergone the rite yet, though Master Chen had mentioned he was getting close.

Is that why he hadn’t seen the Kubfu in so long? Had Qiang been pushing himself to the limit to prepare for this? Was that why he had been so absorbed in his training every time Caulin had visited the dojo?

“…Well, damn,” Caulin muttered under his breath, blinking as the weight of it sank in. His gaze lingered toward the dojo, his mind briefly turning inward. “Guess I need to pick up the pace if I don’t want to get left behind.”

“What is this Ab-hee-se-kai?” Koa asked, voice full of confusion, his brow furrowing at the unfamiliar term. “A rite of passage?”

“Something like that,” Caulin answered, turning to Koa with a half-smile. “It’s a series of tests to see if a student’s ready to move on. Qiang and I are still Shi Di—junior students. If we pass the Abhiseka, we move up to senior students – known as Shi Jie. After that, it’s one step closer to becoming masters ourselves.”

Koa’s expression brightened as he understood. “Like the ceremony to select the warrior caste in my homeland.”

“Exactly,” Caulin said, though his thoughts were still wandering. “Qiang’s doing it now. I gotta step up my game if I don’t get left behind.”

Koa nodded thoughtfully. “So, it’s very important.”

“Yeah,” Caulin murmured, his gaze drifting to the dojo’s entrance, as if waiting for something to happen. “You could say that. And the worst part? I’m gonna have to work twice as hard as he does, just to keep up.” His voice took on a slightly more serious tone, though it was edged with the competitive fire he always carried.

Koa glanced at him, then at the dojo, before asking, “What do now? Do we wait?”

Caulin shook his head, his eyes alight with resolve. “Nah. I’m not gonna just stand around. I’ll grab my weighted bands. How ‘bout sparring while we wait?” He turned to Searan, who was still hovering nearby.

Searan shrugged, clearly eager to keep busy. “Sure, I could use the practice. And it’d be good to get in some more rounds before I get back to my training too.”

Caulin gave a quick nod, his pulse already rising at the thought of a sparring match. “Great. Meet you in the ring in five.” With that, he turned, darting off toward the dorms to grab his weights, excitement building again, though now it was tempered by a new understanding of the challenge ahead.

A few moments later, Caulin and Searan stood facing off in the sparring ring, with Koa stepping to the side to watch. The air was thick with anticipation, and the ground beneath them felt solid, the scent of the dojo lingering in the background.

Searan was the first to take his stance, his legs spreading apart for balance as he shifted his weight to the side. His posture resembled the Single Strike style, but it was rough, almost too eager. His left arm was outstretched, bent at the elbow, held parallel to his chest, while his right arm was tucked at his side, coiled and ready to strike.

It wasn’t a bad form, but it lacked the fluidity and precision that came with experience. His body was shorter and stockier than most who practiced the style, and that difference in build made his stance appear a little forced. Caulin had seen other students with similar struggles, though—Searan was still new to the dojo, still getting used to the weight of the style and what it demanded. His posture was too tense, his energy channelled but not quite focused.

By comparison, Caulin’s stance was effortless. He took a moment to adjust the weights on his wrists and ankles, the familiar weight settling comfortably against his limbs, before sinking into his own position. His form mirrored the Single Strike style, but there was a deliberate grace to it that spoke of countless hours of practice. His left arm extended outward, but not stiffly—more like a coiled spring, ready to release at a moment's notice. His right arm, unlike Searan’s, was held close to his side, the palm slightly open in anticipation.

Caulin’s stance was firm but fluid, the kind of grounded readiness that only came with years of mastering the style. There was no rigidity to it, no overcompensation; he had seen two masters of the style – Chen and even Volcan, the latter who was already a master of an alternate style – the Art of Eight Limbs and could switch between both combat styles on the fly – an example Caulin had followed, emphasizing adaptability over specialization.

His posture was a natural extension of his body, honed to allow for both offense and defense without being rooted to the ground. He was light on his feet, a sharp contrast to Searan’s heavy-set form.

 He occasionally bounced back and forth on the spot, then on the bounce going slightly back, he suddenly launched forward and began their sparring match, with his opening strike being a spinning side fist once he was in range of his opponent.

Searan brought up his fists to block the opening strike, successfully managing to guard against the Lucario’s attack, and striking back quickly with a punch aimed at his chest. Alas, even with his weights on, Caulin’s reflexes were quicker. He withdrew his leading arm and took a step back, parrying the punch with his reverse arm, then grabbing at the Pignite’s wrist and turning to throw him over his shoulder in one swift motion.

Searan yelped as his hooves left the ground and he was airborne, waving his arms frantically as though trying to fly, before hitting the ground hard. “Ow,” he groaned, and then rolled onto his front and hastily stood up, resuming his stance.

Caulin was now in a loose stance after that successful throw, jumping up and down on the spot and grinning confidently as he waited for his sparring partner to come at him again. Searan huffed, and began to circle Caulin as he moved closer, playing it cautious this time as he tried to find an opening.

“Not gonna come to me, eh?” Caulin asked, brushing his nose with his paw. “Then I’ll go to you!” He said before he stepped forward with a one-two punch combo, hooking with his left, spinning with the momentum of his swing to perform a spinning back fist, ending the combo with his signature Low Sweep into jump spinning back kick.

“Yeow!” Searan yelped when he avoided Caulin’s back fist, failing to dodge the Low Sweep and jump kick combo that launched him back, sending him stumbling and rubbing where he was kicked. “Hey, watch it with the backfist strikes; you have spikes you know!” Searan reminded him.

“I know, I know. Don’t worry, I was using the side of my paw.” Caulin assured, still smirking confidently as he rolled his head along his shoulders. “Wanna keep goin~? I got plenty more where that came from~”

“Yeah, I’m not beat yet!” Searan returned, returning to his battle stance again, before he made his move, coming in quickly with an Arm Thrust, using the powerful strike of the Single-Stike style behind the move, and following it with three more thrusts of his open paws.

“That’s the spirit!” Caulin said in an encouraging tone, blocking the first two blows before his guard was broken and he took the remaining two. He staggered back a bit, but recovered and came in with a flying knee in retaliation.

Searan braced himself, crossing his arms to catch the flying knee, and when Caulin jumped back he sprang into the air, curling into a ball and spinning rapidly as he came at Caulin with a Rollout attack.

Caulin’s eyes widened a bit as Searan charged at him with Rollout while they were still airborne, then he thrust his paw to his left and discharged a Force Palm to maneuver out of the way of the Pignite, suffering a glancing blow as he got out of the way, then swung his arm and retaliated with a small Aura Sphere.

The Pignite’s momentum let him power through the Aura Sphere, though he was thrown off course and careened off trajectory, missing Caulin. He uncurled himself and landed on his feet, before whirling to face the Lucario agin.

“Dang… You’re good,” he said, panting heavily. “Sometimes I forget… How long you’ve been training… With the masters.”

“Not just that.” Caulin stated. “I’ve also got my Dad and Uncle’s training under my belt too. I’ve been learning how to fight since I was a kid.” He added as he walked over to his opponent. “That’s not to say you’re a pushover, though. You’re pretty tough yourself.”

Searan nodded. “I try,” he said. “Back to it, then!”

With that, he ignited a Flame Charge to launch himself at Caulin, rearing his arm back for another Arm Thrust as he closed in. This time, Caulin planted his feet firmly into the ground and stood firm, rearing his arms back in preparation. When Searan was in striking range, Caulin threw his arms forward, clashing with his opponent’s Arm Thrust/Flame Charge combo with a double Force Palm of his own, gritting his teeth as he used all his strength to hold the Pignite in place.

The collision of their two attacks created a backlash that dropped both fighters backward as they cancelled each other out. Searan landed on his back and hastily tried to get back up, but Caulin was already on his feet again, having managed to turn his fall into a roll, and shot toward the Pignite before he could properly sit up. He was over him in an instant, throwing his arm forward and stopping just inches from his face, a small gust washing over Searan’s face just from the force of the punch.

“...Crap,” grumbled Searan. “You got me…”

Caulin smiled, turning his paw for Searan to grab and pull himself up. “Good fight, man. Ya picked up a few new moves since last time!”

“I’ve been practicing with Master Chen and a couple of other students,” he replied, letting Caulin help him up. “Been trying to put my own unique spin on the Single-Strike style. But, he does say that Rollout doesn’t really do much for me, or the fighting style. I keep hoping to find a way.”

“Hey, don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t find a way to make a technique work. Knowing how stubborn you are, I’m sure you’ll figure out some way to make it useful in your own way.” Caulin said encouragingly. “I mean, look at my Uncle Luke. He learned both Wicked Blow and Surging Strikes in just two weeks of training with the masters, and he normally can’t learn such a technique, let alone in two weeks. And then there was that Wade guy and him figuring out how to use Water Shuriken.” He went on.

“Point I’m tryin’ to make is, if there’s a will, there’s a way. You’ll figure out something, man.”

Searan nodded. “Okay. I’ll keep trying at it,” he promised.

The doors to the dojo creaked open, and the imposing forms of the Shifu Brothers stepped into view. Master Zheng, the elder of the two, was a towering figure, his movements smooth and deliberate, radiating the calm confidence of someone who had mastered every muscle in his body. At his side, Master Chen, shorter but no less commanding, moved with a quiet intensity, his gaze sharp and focused.

"Did we hear a battle out here?" Master Chen called, his voice firm but not unkind, scanning the yard until his eyes locked onto Caulin. "Ah, Caulin. Should have guessed it was you," he remarked with a wry smile, his posture still relaxed but every inch the seasoned master.

“Good day, masters,” Caulin greeted, bowing deeply in respect. His voice held the usual lightness, but his manner was still deferential in their presence. “Searan and I were just sparring.”

Master Chen raised an eyebrow, his gaze never wavering. "I trust you had another student acting as a mediator?" he asked, his tone laced with quiet authority, reminding Caulin of the dojo's strict rule that all sparring must have a neutral party overseeing it.

"I was," Koa replied, stepping forward. "I witnessed the match."

Although Koa was not officially a member of the dojo—by their rules, he wasn’t an acceptable witness—his constant presence and devotion had earned him an honorary status with the masters, who regarded him with a kind of quiet respect.

With a thoughtful nod, Master Chen turned his attention back to Caulin. His voice was calm, but there was a weight to it, the kind that only years of wisdom could impart. "I take it you're here to see Qiang?"

Caulin’s eyes brightened, and he couldn’t suppress the eager grin that tugged at his lips. "Yeah. Something big happened back home, and we just have to tell him. Is he done with his training for now?"

Master Zheng, his posture as solid as the earth beneath them, spoke up, his voice deep and measured. "At this moment, he is resting and in meditation," he explained, his gaze steady as he regarded Caulin with the practiced eye of a master. "You may visit him, but not for too long. He is at an important crossroad in his life… There must be no distraction."

Caulin was quick to respond, his excitement almost bubbling over. "Noted! Thanks, masters!" He nodded eagerly, barely giving Zheng a chance to finish before darting past them, through the dojo doors. Koa followed at a steady pace behind him, his calm demeanour a contrast to Caulin’s burst of energy.

Master Zheng watched him go, the faintest smile tugging at his lips. “That boy has too much energy,” he muttered softly, the words a mix of fond exasperation and quiet amusement.

Koa, now by the door, gave a single shrug as he passed by, silently acknowledging Zheng’s remark with a gesture that could have meant anything.

Qiang sat cross-legged on the cold floor at the farthest corner of the dojo, in a room so secluded even Caulin had never ventured into before. A dim, quiet light filtered through the window, casting shadows across the space. Before him, resting on a simple table, lay two scrolls—each wrapped tightly in cloth, their contents a mystery to the world beyond their covers.

His eyes flicked back and forth between them, the weight of the decision pressing down on him. The silence of the room was thick, broken only by the soft rustle of his fur as he shifted slightly. The faint traces of exhaustion lingered in his features—his eyes were sunken, his body tired, evidence of the sparring matches and intense training that had consumed him. But his focus remained sharp, locked on those scrolls.

He didn’t even notice Koa’s approach at first.

“Does not look like resting,” Koa observed in a quiet, almost reverent tone, as he and Caulin entered the room.

Qiang’s head snapped up, his gaze immediately meeting theirs. Even in his fatigued state, his awareness of his surroundings was keen. "Caulin? Koa?" His voice was soft but steady, carrying a hint of surprise. “What are you two doing here?”

Caulin gave a casual wave as he walked toward him, his steps light but purposeful. “Hey, Qiang. We came to see you, duh. Something happened back home that we just have to share with you.” He smiled and lowered himself to the floor, sitting beside the Kubfu. His eyes, however, quickly turned to the table, where the two scrolls lay.

“…Whatcha reading?” Caulin asked, his tone light but curious.

Qiang’s gaze flickered briefly to the scrolls before he turned away. His expression softened, and he sighed, a quiet melancholy in his eyes. "I am not reading them… Not yet, at least,” he said. “These are the Scrolls of the Fist," he explained, his voice low and heavy with the weight of the moment. "I’m... unsure which one to choose." He glanced at them again, eyes narrowing. "Once I choose, there’s no going back."

Caulin, sensing the gravity in Qiang’s tone, tilted his head slightly. “Uh… why not?” he asked, a bit quieter now. “Does this have to do with your Abhiseka or something?”

Qiang’s eyes hardened with a mixture of resolve and uncertainty. He glanced down at the scrolls once more before answering. “For me... it’s more than that.” He let out a slow breath. "You see, these are the scrolls that will trigger my evolution." He gestured to the scroll on the left, the blue cover catching the dim light. "This is the Scroll of Water, the key to the Surging Strikes—my father’s signature technique, part of the Rapid Strike style.”

He paused, letting that information settle before moving his paw to the other scroll, the dark gray exterior almost absorbing the light. "And this..." His voice faltered slightly. "...This is the Scroll of Darkness. With it, I would gain the knowledge to wield the Wicked Blow, and become a master of the Single Strike style, like my uncle Chen."

Qiang rested his paws on his knees, the weight of the decision palpable. “The dilemma is…” His voice softened, like the very air around him was thick with the enormity of it. “Which path do I choose?” He paused, his gaze lowering, the conflict clear in his eyes. "Once I choose one, there is no turning back. No Urshifu can master both. They are incompatible paths—they change who I am... even how I evolve." He shook his head slowly, as if trying to dismiss the thought, but the uncertainty lingered in his eyes. "This decision... is final."

There was a silence in the room, heavy with unspoken understanding. Koa, ever observant, said nothing, but his eyes were fixed on Qiang, sensing the gravity of the moment. Caulin, typically quick to fill the silence, hesitated. His usual playful energy was subdued, an unspoken respect filling the space.

Caulin looked between the two scrolls for a moment, humming thoughtfully as he considered Qiang’s dilemma. The room seemed to grow quieter around them, the weight of the decision hanging in the air. After a few beats, he spoke gently, his voice steady but laced with understanding. "Well, lemme ask you this," he began, his gaze still shifting between the scrolls. "You’ve been training with your Dad and Uncle longer than I have. What do you feel you’ve gravitated toward more throughout the years?"

Qiang paused, his brow furrowing in contemplation. His gaze moved from one scroll to the other, but it was clear that his mind was searching, weighing the past and present in equal measure. "Well…" he started slowly, his voice thoughtful. "I… did always want to take more after my father, I admit. I’ve always loved the fluidity of the Rapid Strike style. It was always so graceful to me. And I’ve tried to emulate it for most of my life…" He let out a quiet sigh, his eyes flicking to the other scroll. "But I’ve also trained so much with Uncle Chen... I can see myself walking that path too. It was he who taught me Rock Smash, and through him I learned Focus Punch... though, I’m not strong enough to use it very well yet..."

Caulin’s lips quirked into a small smile as he observed his friend. The hesitation in Qiang’s voice was clear, but so too was the genuine reflection in his words. "Sounds to me like you’ve already subconsciously made up your mind," Caulin pointed out matter-of-factly, his tone light but grounded. "You’ve got a natural preference for the speed and precision of Rapid Style, even though you’ve been trained in Single Strike more recently. If that’s your instinct, then trust it. Hell, if it helps, I’ll read the Scroll of Darkness myself so the decision’s final."

Qiang looked at him with a raised brow, his confusion evident. "But can you even use the Wicked Blow?" he asked, tilting his head. "I’ve seen Luke use it, but Volcan can’t, even though he’s studied the Single Strike style himself."

Caulin chuckled, the lightness in his voice offering a moment of levity amidst the tension. "Uncle Luke learned both Wicked Blow and Surging Strikes in the two to three weeks he spent here before we jumped back into the fight against the Dark Crusade. If he can learn both in that time, I’d say I could learn one of them just as fast." He grinned, picking up the Scroll of Darkness, his fingers brushing the cloth of its cover. "Besides, I kinda find myself leaning toward the Single Style myself. And if we both learned the same style, then things would get pretty boring, wouldn’t you agree?"

Qiang’s eyes softened at the playful remark, and for a moment, he seemed to forget the weight of the decision as his gaze flicked to Caulin’s face. His lips tugged up into a brief smile. "I… suppose," he said, before his gaze returned to the scrolls, the weight of the decision settling back into his chest. "Still… What if I choose wrong? There’s no going back once this choice is made."

Caulin’s smile faded, replaced by a calm, unwavering certainty. He lifted his arm and gently patted Qiang’s shoulder, his touch light but steady. "Qiang…" His voice was soft but strong, carrying the sincerity of someone who knew the struggle well. "Whoever said there even was a wrong choice?" He gestured toward the scrolls, his expression thoughtful. "It’s not about choosing right or wrong—it’s about choosing what fits you." He paused, considering the path Qiang had walked. "I mean, look at your move set. Aerial Ace? Counter? Headbutt? Those all sound like counterattacks to me. Isn’t that also what the Rapid Style is all about? Fast, precise strikes, and counterstrikes?"

Qiang blinked, the weight of Caulin’s words slowly shifting something in his mind. His eyes shifted briefly toward Koa, who had remained quietly observant, but there was a subtle acknowledgment in Qiang’s gaze.

"Well..." Qiang exhaled deeply, a small smile tugging at his lips as he mulled over the thought. "Yes, I suppose that’s true." He shifted his gaze back to the scrolls, his mind seeming to settle on the realization. He glanced at Koa again, and then—finally—looked at Caulin with a quiet understanding. "Okay… I think my decision has been made."

With that, Qiang slowly began to rise to his feet, his gaze fixed firmly on the blue scroll before him. Caulin and Koa stood a few paces away, silent and still, watching as Qiang approached the table. He picked up the scroll with reverence, unfurling it gently. The contents of the scroll—a mixture of ancient letters and intricate images—began to glow with an ethereal blue light, their shapes becoming blurred to Caulin and Koa, who instinctively squinted, shielding their eyes from the sudden brilliance.

For Qiang, however, the light seemed to settle around him like a quiet storm, wrapping him in its glow. His eyes remained wide open, unblinking as he absorbed the sacred knowledge within the scroll. The intensity of the light deepened the stillness of the room, as though time itself had momentarily paused to watch him. He stared at the scroll for what felt like an eternity, lost in its light, before finally rolling it up again with a deliberate motion.

With a steady exhale, Qiang set the scroll down where it had been and turned away from the table, his body still aglow with that mysterious blue energy. His posture shifted, smoothly transitioning into a stance that mirrored his father’s fighting form—one of perfect poise and fluidity. The energy from the scroll, still swirling in the air, seemed to pulse with the beat of his heart as his paws glistened with moisture.

And then, with a burst of energy, Qiang struck the air in rapid succession. Right, left, right, left—the series of movements flowed from his body like water, each strike precise and deliberate. His limbs were a blur, the movements so quick that they seemed to be part of the same breath. The air around him seemed to hum with the force of his motions until, with a single, powerful leap, Qiang twisted in midair and delivered a roundhouse kick that cut through the air with the sharpness of a crashing wave.

As his feet touched the ground again, a brilliant glow enveloped his body, just as it had from the scroll. The intensity of the light forced Caulin and Koa to shield their eyes, the sheer brightness almost overwhelming in the dimness of the chamber. For a few moments, Qiang's form was lost in the radiance, but soon, his silhouette began to grow—taller, broader, his limbs thickening with new muscle and strength. His fur shifted, growing darker, with intricate patterns forming across his body, resembling the traditional garb of a warrior. The transformation was quick but breathtaking, like a wave crashing and reshaping the shore.

Even as the light faded, revealing Qiang in his new form as a Rapid-Strike Urshifu, he did not break his stance. His posture remained as fluid and controlled as it had been before, as though he had not only changed physically but had also embraced the soul of his new strength.

The transformation was complete.

Qiang stood there, his new form strikingly similar to his father’s but with youthful, unmarked features. His face was still soft and free of the age lines and battle-worn wisdom that marked Master Zheng. The gi he had worn before, torn and now too small for him, fluttered loosely at his sides as his body filled out, the fabric unable to contain the strength that had grown within him.

In a voice as calm and resolute as the wave he had chosen to become, Qiang spoke, though his words seemed to echo in the stillness of the room. "I am Qiang of the Order of the Fist, son of Zheng, Master of the Fist, and Tyra of the Moonclaw Clan," he intoned, his voice steady with purpose. "As water shapes its course by the land over which it flows, I too shall carve my path."

He closed his eyes for a brief moment, taking in a deep, steadying breath as if grounding himself within his new form. His hands pressed together before him in quiet reverence, and for a long while, he stood there in stillness, becoming one with the change that had just taken place.

When he opened his eyes again, he turned toward Caulin and Koa, his gaze now fixed on them. "It is done," he said softly, his eyes meeting Caulin’s. The urgency and doubt that had once filled him were gone, replaced by a quiet confidence that was as undeniable as the strength in his stance.

“Whooooa…” Caulin muttered softly, left awestruck by Qiang’s transformation. “And I thought Ignus’ evolution was something else. That was... well… incredible!” He grinned, eyes wide in admiration.

“Thank—” Qiang began, but then paused, his expression softening. “Wait… Ignus evolved?” he asked, his curiosity piqued.

“That’s actually what brought us here,” Koa answered, his voice steady. “Pack child, no longer. Now, Ignus is pack hunter.”

Qiang’s lips tugged into a small smile. “Well, that’s marvelous news!” he exclaimed. “When did this happen?”

“About a few days ago,” Caulin said eagerly, hardly able to contain his excitement. “And get this! He’s not a Midday or a Midnight Lycanroc. He evolved during a sunset and turned out to be... a mix of both! His coat’s this tough orange, and he’s got the mane of a Midnight Lycanroc, but he runs on all fours!” Caulin chuckled, shaking his head as though the memory was still fresh. “You shoulda seen it, man!”

Qiang’s eyes widened, and he leaned in slightly. “Is he here? I’d love to see this new form of his!” His voice was full of eager anticipation.

“Gone to the city of art,” Koa clarified, his tone slightly apologetic, much to Qiang’s evident disappointment.

“Yeah, he’s off with Uncle Luke and Volcan for their vacation,” Caulin explained, sighing lightly. “Won’t be back for a couple weeks.” He sized Qiang up with a quiet smile. “But seriously, congrats, man. You look way tougher now that you’re an Urshifu.” He grinned and took a step toward the table to grab the Scroll of Darkness. “I guess I’ll have to step up my game if I don’t want you passing me by.”

Just as his paw brushed the edge of the scroll, a booming voice broke the air, sharp and commanding. “Do not touch that, Shi Di!”

Caulin’s heart leaped into his throat at the sudden intensity of the voice. The sharpness of it cut through the room, sending an involuntary shiver down his spine. It was unmistakably Master Chen’s, but this—this was different. He’d only ever heard that level of volume from him in the heat of battle, when the stakes were life and death, such as when he fought the Machamp at the Battle of Azure.

Caulin let out an undignified squeak of surprise and jerked his paw back, taking a startled step away. His body immediately snapped into attention, his nerves bristling as he straightened to full posture, though his paws still shook slightly from the shock.

Master Chen marched into the room with a purposeful stride, his footfalls heavy against the stone floor as he closed the distance. His arms were tucked behind his back, his presence commanding.

“I’m afraid you have not yet earned the right to the contents of that scroll, Caulin,” Chen said in a quieter, more controlled voice, though the gravity of his words still carried weight. “You have yet to undergo your Abhiseka, and until you have, those scrolls are forbidden to you.”

“R…R-Right.” Caulin stammered, still shaken from the earlier shout, but he quickly took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. “How far along do I have to go until then, master?” he asked, his voice steadier now, though still tinged with the weight of what was to come.

“You are closer than you think,” Master Chen replied, his tone calm but firm. “According to the customs and traditions of the order, you must undergo the rite in the presence of the current masters of both styles—myself and my brother. Together, we will meditate, we will battle, and at the end of it, you will choose your path. But before that, you must demonstrate your skills to us. Only then can we determine if you are truly ready.”

Chen’s gaze softened a little, a flicker of empathy in his eyes. “However, since you will not undergo evolution as Qiang did, the process will differ for you. You are not required to demonstrate mastery in both paths, but rather to show your commitment to the path you’ve chosen. Do not, however, mistake this for a lesser trial.”

At those words, Caulin’s expression hardened. He frowned deeply and, with a sharp motion, punched his paws together firmly. His gaze locked onto Master Chen’s, unwavering. “I may have chosen the path I want to walk, but I don’t want an altered version of the test. If I’m going to graduate, I want to do so undergoing the same ritual that Qiang did,” Caulin said, his voice low and resolute. “You know me by now, master. If I’m going to progress, I need to be pushed to my limits—and then beyond them. That’s how Uncle Luke mastered both styles, and that’s how I’ll master whichever path I choose.”

Chen’s face softened slightly, though the weight of his words remained. “Luke was... a special case,” he said, choosing his words carefully. “At the risk of underselling you, for which I apologize, Luke displayed potential that far surpassed anyone we have ever trained. Even Calhoun did not show such aptitude in all the years he was under my brother’s tutelage. Luke’s potential for growth, and his mastery of his Aura… It is unlike anything we’ve ever witnessed. To call it ‘abnormal’ would be an understatement.”

He paused, his gaze distant for a moment, as if lost in thought. Then, returning his focus to Caulin, he said, “In any case, if you wish to undergo the same process as Qiang, I will respect that choice. But understand this: The trial allows for no error. Should you fail the Abhiseka, you will remain a Shi Di. The trial cannot be repeated within the same year, by ancient tradition.”

Caulin winced slightly, the comparison to Luke's unparalleled potential stinging, but he held his ground. His frown deepened, not in frustration, but in determination. “I know I’m not in Luke’s league,” he muttered, his voice steady despite the weight of the comparison. “Hell, I’m not even in the same league as my own dad… but hearing you say that is only gonna fuel my resolve, Master.”

A flicker of energy sparked around him, emphasizing his newfound intensity. “I don’t care if it takes me years. I’m gonna get stronger. Stronger than them... and stronger than you and Master Zheng. That’s a promise.”

Master Chen studied him in silence, his gaze piercing as if trying to see into Caulin’s very soul. The room seemed to still, the air thick with the weight of their exchange. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he nodded once, sharply.

“Very well. First thing in the morning, then,” he said, his voice firm, but not unkind. “We shall begin your Abhiseka. You have until then to prepare. Use the night wisely—go over your training, meditate. When the sun rises, we will know if you are truly worthy. Now,” he added, his tone shifting toward a command, “I must ask that we all leave this room. Now that Qiang has completed his evolution, these doors are to be closed once again.”

Caulin gave a sharp nod, his expression determined. “Understood, master,” he said firmly. He bowed quickly to Qiang, then turned and strode toward the door, his pace quickening. His paws clenched at his sides, every step filled with purpose as he made his way out of the chamber. He knew what he had to do, and the time to prepare was short. Every second would count.

Koa and Qiang followed him out, and Chen pulled closed the sliding doors leading to the chamber, locking them once more as the three boys headed outside. Qiang walked at Caulin’s side as they left the dojo’s antechamber and returned to the yard, eyeing his rival studiously before he spoke.

“Are you sure about this, Caulin? I cannot tell you how the process goes - that is forbidden, but I can tell you that it is going to be taxing,” he explained. “You saw the condition I was in before I chose my scroll.”

Caulin recalled how haggard and exhausted Qiang had appeared when they’d come into the room. His expression faltered for a moment before he stared ahead again, clenching his paws tighter at his sides. “If it even left you exhausted, then that just means I gotta do what I can to make sure I’m ready for tomorrow.” He answered plainly. “Uncle Luke managed to master both styles in just two weeks. Imagine how exhausted he was after he went through his graduation here…”

Caulin then turned to look at Qiang. “I appreciate you looking out for me, man… but I got this; I know I do. As much as it stings to admit, you’re ahead of me now, and I can’t let you stay ahead of me forever.” He said before turning and holding his paw out to the Urshifu. “You’re my whole reason for wanting to push myself as hard as I can. That’s what rivals are for, right?” He added, smirking that smirk of his.

Qiang allowed himself a small smile. “I suppose so,” he said. “So… How can I help you prepare?” he asked.

“Why don’t you show me how you got prepared, and we’ll go from there.” Caulin offered. “Maybe I can add my own little twist to it to suit my needs.”

Qiang looked thoughtful for a time, before he spoke. “I can only help you go over the two styles - those will be relevant to the trial,” he said. “Let’s go through the motions, starting with the Rapid Strike style. Koa,” he looked at the Zeraora, “will have to help you… I fear I do not have the energy to go through that again.”

“That’s fine.” Caulin remarked, cracking his neck and paws. “No time like the present. Let’s get started.”

Koa nodded. “I follow your lead, kuip’po,” said Koa, using his pet name for his boyfriend.

Caulin blushed slightly at being called that; he loved when Koa called him that, but knowing what it meant was still flattering. “Hehe…” He giggled slightly before slapping his cheeks and regaining his focus. “Okay… let’s do this…”

The night before, Caulin and Qiang had trained long into the evening. Qiang pushed him hard, making Caulin practice the fluid motions of the Rapid Strike style and the sharp, powerful ones of the Single Strike style. The hours stretched on, and by the time the session ended, Caulin’s limbs felt like lead, every muscle aching from the relentless workout. Despite the exhaustion, the excitement for the test ahead kept him awake. Koa, lying beside him in their small room, drifted into sleep long before Caulin did.

Eventually, sleep claimed him, though rest wasn’t easy. His body throbbed with the strain of the training, but the anticipation of the day ahead kept his mind racing. When the first light of dawn broke through the window, Caulin stirred, feeling the familiar ache in his muscles. He groggily opened his eyes and took in the sight of Koa, still fast asleep beside him, his back turned toward Caulin after having rolled over sometime in the night.

For a long moment, Caulin simply watched him, a gentle smile tugging at his lips. He leaned over and kissed Koa softly on the cheek, then whispered into his ear, “Time to get up, sleepyhead… Today’s the day.”

With that, he carefully shook Koa’s shoulder. The Zeraora stirred slowly, blinking his eyes open. Caulin stretched his arms and cracked his joints, loosening up his stiff muscles.

Koa smiled sleepily, his eyes still half-closed. “Kuip’po, ready?” he asked, his voice soft but warm.

Caulin stretched a few more times before responding, rolling his shoulders and standing tall. He gave Koa a confident grin. “As ready as I’ll ever be, Koa. Today… I’m gonna ace my Abhiseka and graduate.”

Koa nodded, pushing the blankets aside and getting to his feet. “Masters, waiting,” he reminded with a chuckle. “Eat light. Physically straining, don’t want full stomach.”

Caulin chuckled, stretching his legs before turning to face Koa. “I know, I know.” He walked over and wrapped his arms around his partner in a gentle embrace, savoring the moment before pulling back slightly. His tail wagged slowly behind him as he grinned. “Heh… dunno what I’d do without you, Koa.”

Koa’s expression softened, and he pulled Caulin close once more. “You never have to know,” he replied, his arms sliding around Caulin affectionately.

Caulin sighed in contentment, closing his eyes for a moment, letting the peace of the moment wash over him. He leaned in and kissed Koa softly, a brief but tender gesture before pulling back and rubbing his cheek against his paw. “Wish me luck…” he murmured, his voice a quiet plea for reassurance.

“Always, Kuip’po,” Koa whispered back, his words filled with quiet confidence.

Reluctantly, Caulin let go of Koa, turning with determination and bolting out of the room to grab a light breakfast. He had to be ready. The masters were waiting.

Caulin felt the tension arcing through his body with every step as he approached the main antechamber of the dojo. The doors leading inside were closed, and all was quiet within… Students should have been going through their morning exercises by now, and indeed he could hear some nearby, but it sounded like they had moved their practice sessions to the road outside of the dojo grounds, where they had more space.

He wasn’t sure why, but he triggered his aura sense to peer into the dojo. Inside, he saw only two auras - both of which he recognized… The masters were waiting for him.

“...Here goes nothing.” He muttered softly, rolling his head along his shoulders before he stepped forward to the dojo doors, slowly pushing them open and announcing his presence to the masters within.

When he stepped into the dojo, he was greeted by silence. Neither of the masters moved from their place at the center of the room, resting on their knees with their hands upon their laps, eyes closed. At first Caulin wondered if they were in deep meditation, before Chen spoke suddenly.

“Close the door, Caulin,” he said, “and join us. Sit between my brother and I.”

“Y…Yes, Master.” The Lucario answered, slowly closing the door behind him and rolling his shoulders a bit before he approached his two masters, lowering himself to his knees and placing his paws along his thighs before taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly.

“I trust you have rested well,” Zheng piped up, his eyes closed and remaining just as unmoving as his brother.

“As well as I could, Master Zheng… with plenty of training and the right amount of breakfast before and after.” Caulin answered.

“Are you ready to begin your Abhiseka?” Chen asked, as with his brother his eyes remaining closed.

“I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.” Caulin answered with a nod. “I’m gonna give this thing my all, and then some.”

“This will mark your ascension from a Shi Di to a Shi Jie,” Chen went on. “There will be greater challenges and expectations of you. You will walk the road of a warrior of the fist, like others before you, but only those truly ready to commit themselves to the ways shall succeed. As per your request, you shall face the same trial that Qiang underwent, though it will not lead to an evolved form for you as it did him. With that being said, the rule applies; once you have chosen your path - the path of Water or the path of Darkness… There will be no turning back.”

Caulin nodded twice firmly. “You don’t have to worry about that… I’ve already made that decision already.” He said firmly. “I’m ready to begin when you are, masters… I won’t let you down.”

Zheng slowly opened his eyes, still keeping his eyes forward. “It is not us that you should be worried about letting down…” He answered stoically. “We have shown you the door… It is up to you to unlock it and pass through it…”

“Let us begin,” said Chen, “join us in meditation… Find your focus… Let yourself go.”

Caulin nodded firmly, taking in a deep breath, holding it, then slowly letting it out as he slowly allowed himself to relax, closing his eyes and letting himself enter a meditative trance. He fidgeted a little until he was comfortable before holding completely still, letting himself go.

After a few moments of deep breathing and clearing his mind, he felt something… Something metaphysical - he couldn’t feel it on his body, but all around it, and within himself. He recognized the feeling of two additional auras, seemingly merging with his own, feeling the power of the two masters radiating out from themselves to combine their auras with his, but holding the majority of their power in reserve - lest they completely overwhelm him with their combined strength.

Remaining still, he waited, until he felt compelled to stand. Even though he hadn’t opened his eyes, he could see through his senses alone that his movements were mirroring the two masters, both of them rising from their kneeling positions as well, and pressed their palms together - another move that he mirrored.

Finally, he felt the attack coming - first from his left, from master Chen. His movements again mirrored the master, and their fists met in mid-motion - little more than a warning blow, he knew, for certainly master Chen could’ve sent him hurtling across the room were he not holding himself back.

“The Power of the Single Strike… Power brought on by fury and might,” he said, “Though it focuses your aggression into your power, it can easily consume you if you are not strong of will. Your mind must be just as strong as your body.”

Then, he pulled back, and once again he was turning as Zheng came over - not with a single blow, but multiple blows, and as with Chen, Caulin felt his body moving on its own to mimic his movements.

“The Speed and Accuracy of the Rapid Strike… Instead of relying on strength and fury, your strikes move as if you are directing a current of water, striking where your opponent is most vulnerable; strikes which must be utilized with a calm, yet focused mind, lest your attacks become primal and undisciplined.” Zheng added.

Caulin could feel every motion but it was as though his body were moving on its own whenever one the masters moved… It was deep within himself, he knew; he could feel their auras interviewing with his own… Feel their power coursing through him. When he moved in tandem with them it was as though he shared a mind with them as well, moving in ways he didn't even know he could.

But at the same time, it felt like he was being pulled from either side. The two never ganged up on him, but both auras were always present… The focus of Master Zheng collided with the tempered aggression of Master Chen, like two waves meeting on the ocean, and Caulin was the one caught right in between them as they clashed, threatening to crush him with their combined might.

Finally, he regained control of himself as the two backed away from him, both taking their respective combat stances, and watching him expectantly… He knew quickly what they wanted. He was supposed to attack one of them - either of them… It was time to fight.

Caulin looked between the two masters for a few moments before he clenched his paws at his sides and began to take up his stance. He kept his gaze forward as he mentally prepared to fight, then at the last second, his eyes darted to Master Chen and he suddenly darted forward, appearing in front of him in a second and already starting out with a heavy strike aimed right for his sternum.

Miraculously, Chen seemed to anticipate the attack coming even before Caulin moved. His open palm moved to block Caulin’s attack, and with a snap twist of his hips, his other hand came around like a wrecking ball and sent him hurtling backward, the wind knocked out of him by the Urshifu. Caulin gagged as he was sent back, skidding to a halt and gasping for a moment to catch his breath before shaking his head and entering his stance again. It all happened so fast that he didn’t even get a chance to use Mind Reader to predict what his opponent would do next… a mistake he wouldn’t make again.

This time, his eyes shone briefly as he activated the ability, this time turning and attacking Zheng. He zoomed right toward him, but then darted to the side at the last second and went to attack the Urshifu from his flank. However, like with Chen, Zheng had anticipated a change in tactics and turned to face Caulin, parrying the Lucario’s attack with his leading hand before assailing him with several lightning fast attacks all aimed at the Lucario’s weak spots.

Caulin’s Mind Reader helped him block and dodge through some of the attacks, but the strikes were so fast that his body couldn’t keep up with the onslaught and was once again sent skidding backward once Zheng landed a quick and precise side kick right into Caulin’s sternum before taking his stance again.

“Focus, Caulin.” Zheng urged his student. “Do not make the mistake of relying on your abilities to see you through this trial, or have you already forgotten all that we have taught you?”

Caulin grunted and rubbed his chest a few times as he stood tall. “I haven’t forgotten, Master.” He answered firmly, taking up a firm stance again. “...I’ve just already made my decision.”

“And that is?” Chen asked.

“I’m more the kind to deliver strong, decisive attacks!” he responded.

With that, Caulin shot forward again toward Chen, rearing his paw back as if to punch Chen. At the last second thought, he opened his paw and discharged an Aura Sphere right past the Urshifu, suddenly jumping up and spinning once before swinging his leg down at his master from above.

Despite how quick he had been though, Chen’s reaction came quicker. As Caulin brought down his leg, Chen’s arm snapped up to catch him, holding him by his ankle as the Lucario was taken by gravity again, hanging from his upraised fist. Then, what he did next was jaw-dropping; his fist ignited with the channeled power of a Focus Punch, and he swung it behind him, striking the incoming Aura Sphere and shattering it like a glass ball.

“Got you…” Caulin said with a grin, rearing both his paws back right as Chen struck the Aura Sphere and thrust them forward, discharging a dual Force Palm right into his master as hard as he could.

Chen saw the attack coming too late, barely managing to let go of Caulin and take a step back before he was hit, sending him skidding across the floor. But he stayed on his feet, one hand idly caressing where Caulin had struck him, the other held in a defensive posture, as if in preparation for a follow-up.

He lifted his gaze to look at Caulin and even cracked a smile. “A fine hit, Caulin… But, deceptive tactics will only take you so far in single combat,” he said.

“And in case you forgot…” Zheng’s voice rang from behind Caulin, causing him to freeze for a moment. “You are not fighting just one opponent…”

Caulin turned, but his reaction was too slow. The second he moved, Zheng burst into action, hitting Caulin with a reined in bout of Surging Strikes that struck at all of Caulin’s weak spots yet again. Mid way through the onslaught, however, Caulin’s anger started to peak, and in a fit of rage, he caught Zheng’s arm before he could connect and let out a mighty roar, his power exploding around him along with his rage before he suddenly pulled Zheng forward with surprising strength and uppercut him square in the jaw, jumping into the air as he landed the attack.

Zheng’s head snapped back as he was hit with the attack, the power behind it just enough to momentarily send him up off the ground a bit before he stumbled back and rubbed his chin with a grunt. He looked on at Caulin afterward, seeing his rage manifest into raw power alone, with that white aura burning around him and sparks occasionally surging around him as the Lucario glared back at him.

“Hmm. Again, a fine attack… but your rage will blind you if you let it run rampant.” Zheng cautioned.

“I know.” Caulin immediately replied. “...Rage is a tool, not a crutch. A certain Typhlosion drilled that into my head ages ago after I evolved.” He explained. “I’m not like I was back then, Masters… Now let’s keep going. I’ve still got plenty of fuel in the tank.”

Chen took a step forward. “Indeed, that Typhlosion you speak of was right in that rage is a tool,” he agreed, in a tone that suggested that he knew who Caulin was referring to, and his continuation confirmed it. “However, for Sol there is a difference. For one, though he has learned to control and direct his rage, he has not mastered the ability to channel the aggression that can often come with it. That is the basis of the Single Strike style; to focus your aggression and turn it into your power.”

Another step. “And that is where you are being tested now, Caulin. However, in that burst of power you used against my brother, you have already taxed yourself heavily. You may not have as much left as you believe.”

Caulin only smirked at that response, lifting his paw and beckoning for Chen to come forward. “...Wanna test that theory?” He asked, arrogance filling his tone along with controlled rage.

Chen frowned, but said nothing as he resumed his stance again, waiting for Caulin to come at him. Needing no further incentive, Caulin rushed forward faster than before and appeared in front of Chen in the blink of an eye and already with his paw held close to the Urshifu’s stomach. He grinned and performed a one-inch punch right into his stomach, then darted quickly over to Master Zheng before Master Chen could counterattack, assailing the other Urshifu with a barrage of punches and kicks.

Zheng grunted as he parried each attack, taken aback by how strong Caulin’s attacks were. Eventually he suffered a punch to his side that made him stumble and gave Caulin an opening for a follow-up attack, to which he took by jumping up and trying another falling kick just like he did to Chen before.

Much to Caulin’s dismay though, Zheng was ready for it much like his brother was. With a glint in his eye he reached up and caught Caulin’s leg as he threw the kick, then shouted as he threw Caulin so hard to the ground that he bounced off of it, then hit him with Surging Strikes while he was still airborne before knocking him back over to Chen. There, Chen came at him with a Wicked Blow, and effectively spiked the Lucario into the floor, sending him bouncing across the floorboard, until he lay back where he had begun…

“Perhaps I overdid it,” Chen muttered, peering at Caulin.

Caulin’s aura had died out after he hit the ground from Chen’s attack, yet despite that, he slowly struggled to get back to his feet, panting heavily and wiping his face with his paw as he peered back at his masters.

“T-That all you got..?” He remarked, grinning despite the injuries he had just sustained. “Gonna… take a lot more than that… to keep me down…”

At that, Zheng frowned hard and relaxed his stance. “...I believe we are done.” He said in a firm manner. “Wouldn’t you agree, brother..?”

“Indeed,” said Chen, relaxing his guard. “Caulin…”

But of course, the young Lucario wasn’t ready to quit yet. He rushed at Chen one more time, but as he did, blackness fell over his eyes, and he collapsed, directly into the arms of the Single Strike master.

“Well done,” he whispered to Caulin, just as the Lucario faded away…

~~~~~

The doors to the dojo opened, revealing the Shifu brothers, walking out with Caulin cradled gently in the arms of Master Chen. Koa and Qiang immediately tensed, rushing over in alarm as they called out their friend’s name. Koa was the first to reach them, his expression one of horrified concern as he knelt by his boyfriend’s side.

“Uncle… Did he-?” Qiang began, his voice thick, choking on the words.

“I’m afraid he failed,” Master Chen said, his tone solemn. “He lost track of the true intent of the Abhiseka, and overtaxed himself in pursuit of victory. But that was never the goal. He has shown that he has come far, but there’s still much for him to learn.”

“He… Hurt?” Koa asked, his voice wavering with worry.

“A little bruised, yes, but nothing that rest won’t heal,” said Chen. His voice softened as he offered Caulin to Koa. “If I may ask, Koa, take him back to his room. Or home, if that is your choice. For now, he has done enough.”

“I’ll go too,” Qiang said quietly, stepping closer as Koa gently lifted Caulin into his arms.

Chen nodded. “Take care of him, both of you. And remind him… that although he failed today, he can always try again next year.”

“He’s not going to like that,” Qiang pointed out, his tone tinged with sympathy.

“Probably not…” Chen sighed. “But that is the tradition. He must return to his training, understand the true purpose of the Abhiseka, and learn the ways of the fist in its entirety.”

Qiang’s gaze lingered on his uncle, a thought crossing his mind. “He wanted to be tested the same way I was… But what makes my trial different from his?”

“For a Kubfu, the choice determines your evolution,” Chen explained, his voice steady. “You must demonstrate knowledge of both styles. The Abhiseka helps you determine your path. But for those who cannot evolve as we did, it is a test of where they commit themselves. Caulin has great potential for Single Strike, but he struggles with Rapid Strike. His Aura is too erratic, too quickly depleted.”

As the conversation fell to silence, Caulin began to stir. His face scrunched as pain flared through him, groaning softly as his blurred vision cleared. His gaze flickered between Koa and Qiang before landing on his masters. The weight of their eyes felt heavy, and he grimaced slightly, the shame hanging in the air.

“...How’d I do?” he asked quietly, his voice tinged with apprehension.

Zheng answered first, his voice as stern and unyielding as ever. “You’ve come far as a warrior, Caulin. There is no doubt of that.” He paused, his words sharp. “But you still have much to learn. You were more focused on securing victory than on understanding the essence of the test. Arrogance clouded your judgment, and that was your undoing.”

Caulin winced, the words cutting deeper than the physical pain. His gaze dropped, eyes dull, and he averted his face slightly. “Damnit…” He muttered bitterly under his breath. “All that work… and I ended up botching it in the end.”

“You will have another chance, Caulin,” Chen reassured him, his tone softer now. He laid a paw gently on Caulin’s shoulder. “For now, focus on healing and reflect on what you’ve learned.”

“...Yes, Master…” Caulin responded, still unable to meet their gaze. He clenched his jaw, his emotions churning as the shame lingered like a thick fog.

With that, the brothers turned and retreated back to the dojo, their heavy footsteps echoing in the silence. When they were gone, Caulin, still reeling from the failure, looked at Koa.

“Set me down,” Caulin muttered, his voice low. Koa, though reluctant, gently lowered him to his feet, though he stayed close, his arm ready to support Caulin if needed.

The young Lucario staggered forward, unsteady on his feet, his injuries making each step a struggle. His mind was a whirlwind of questions. What had gone wrong? Was all his effort, all his training, in vain? The pain in his body was nothing compared to the weight of the doubt that consumed him.

"Did I really let my own power go to my head?" The words slipped from his mouth, barely above a whisper, but the self-doubt hung heavily in the air.

“What was that, Caulin?” Qiang asked, having not heard him clearly.

Caulin looked up at Qiang, frowning. “Do you remember back when we first started training, after your Dad and Uncle got this place up and running?” Caulin asked, his voice tinged with nostalgia. “Remember how Dad and both my uncles had that sparring match? How upset Dad was when he was told he lost, and how upset I was seeing how angry he was at losing?”

“I do,” Qiang confirmed, his expression softening with the memory.

“Well… I’m starting to wonder if this is how he felt,” Caulin murmured. “He was always so sure of his own strength that he thought he was invincible… and then Master Zheng knocked him down a couple pegs. I just went through with my Abhiseka against both of them, thinking I had it in the bag because I was so confident in my own power. And now here I am, in the same place Dad was back then… It’s making me wonder if I failed for the same reason he did; because he was so sure of his own power… so arrogant.”

Qiang paused, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully before he spoke. “I can’t tell you exactly how to pass the Abhiseka, Caulin…” he reminded, “but, what I can tell you is this: based on what my family said, you lost sight of the true meaning behind the art of the Fist. The test was never about beating my father or uncle; I passed, but I didn’t defeat either of them, let alone both.”

Caulin frowned, frustration seeping into his voice. “If it’s not about beating them, and it’s not about struggling with what path I pick… Then what am I missing? What do I have to do to pass and graduate into a senior student?”

Qiang let out a sigh, rubbing the back of his neck as he looked at Caulin. “Since you’ll need to reflect on this regardless, let me ask you this: What do you think the three principles of the Fist are?”

Caulin met Qiang’s gaze for a moment, then looked down as he gave the question some thought. “Uh… Mind, body, and spirit, right?” he answered, uncertainty creeping into his voice.

“Correct,” Qiang said with a nod, “And what do the teachings tell us about those three principles?”

Caulin hesitated, his gaze drifting down as he struggled to recall the answer. “Uh… That true strength comes from having all three working in tandem with each other?”

“Exactly,” Qiang confirmed. “But do you know where you faltered? That’s why my uncle told you to reflect. You’re strong for your age—there’s no doubt about that. You may not have the same potential for growth as Luke, but you have potential all your own. You’ve got talent, and you’re willing to learn.”

Caulin chewed on those words, but the frustration still weighed heavily on him. “But… what does all that mean for me now? How does that help me?”

Qiang looked at Koa before continuing. “To find the answer, you’ll have to look within yourself. But... Since Koa isn’t bound by the same traditions, he can tell you something my uncle told us.”

Koa glanced from Qiang to Caulin, his expression neutral as he waited for Caulin’s response. Caulin turned toward Koa, the temptation to ask him for the answer was clear, but something in him hesitated. He slowly closed his mouth and turned back to Qiang, determination settling into his gaze.

“You’re right,” Caulin admitted, a small smile tugging at his lips. “I could ask Koa for the answer.” He looked at Koa with a knowing smirk. “But if there’s something that both Uncle Volcan and Sol told me that’s stuck with me so far, it’s that there’s no easy path to power. If I ask Koa for the answer, I won’t learn anything—I’ll just be back at square one.”

Turning back to Qiang, his grin widened. “I requested the same test you took because I knew it was going to be hard. I wanted it to be. Any less, and I wouldn’t have felt satisfied with the result. So I’ll find the answer myself, even if it takes me years to understand.” He raised his fist, holding it out to Qiang. “And I’ll have the best rival I could ask for by my side the whole way through.”

Qiang’s face lit up with a proud smile as he raised his fist to bump Caulin’s. “That is the spirit, my friend.”

Caulin chuckled as their fists collided, but he held his paw out a moment longer, even as Qiang pulled his arm back. “Don’t get too comfortable at the top, Qiang. I’m coming for that spot, and I’m going to give you one hell of a fight when I get there.” He paused, then added with a wink, “That’s a promise.”

Qiang and Koa both laughed, and with that, Koa gave a small nod, a silent promise to keep the secret unless Caulin asked.

Caulin let out a long, dramatic sigh as he pulled his arm back and wiped a hand over his face. “For now, though… I’m starving. Let’s head home and see what’s left of Uncle Luke’s cooking.”

Koa’s smile faltered slightly. “Uh… Luke, not home, Kuip’po,” he reminded him gently.

Caulin blinked, then smacked his paw against his forehead. “D’oh! Right… He’s with Uncle Volcan and Ignus on that trip…” He laughed sheepishly. “Well, Mama Bird’s place is still an option. She’s the next best cook in town.”

Qiang’s curiosity was piqued. “Come to think of it, didn’t she open that diner in town recently? Or is it still in progress?”

“Last I checked, it’s almost done. The building and the interior are finished, but she still needs staff to run the place,” Caulin replied. “We can ask her when we get home.”

With a shared nod, the three of them continued on their walk, with Caulin leaning on Koa for support as they made their way toward Port Azure. Along the way, Caulin’s thoughts drifted back to the trial. He wasn’t sure exactly where he had failed yet, but he was determined to figure it out. For now, he could only hope the answer would come soon.