“To try, try again,

  one must be vigilant,

  stupid, or both.”

  - Baiter Nottry,

  Philosopher of the

  Third Age.

  Chapter 24: Kicking Against the Goads

  The training went on for hours. Each lightning strike taxed his body heavily, but Koga refused to yield. Mitamin was clearly growing concerned for his safety, but each time he thought he had had enough, Koga stood again to his feet, demanding more. His will remained indomitable, and so was his drive to succeed. He would never surrender. He would never succumb. The spirit of defeat would not wash over him.

  Koga pressed forward like this for days, despite not showing a single sign of progress. Mitamin verbally acknowledged Koga’s ability to still breathe progress in and of itself, given the punishment he had endured would kill most men. Still, these were not the strides either of them were seeking to make.

  He remained relentless, yet he came no closer to mastering the lightning. It was not like it was when he was in the castle. Even Mitamin’s least gifted students had shown signs of progress at this point, but not him. The news was discouraging, but it did not matter. He would work harder than any of them.

  Mitamin had tried different things to unlock just a fraction of power that lay dormant within him. They had sat out in dangerous lightning storms, but he could not control a single one of the sky’s mighty blasts. Mitmain had made him swim with the Endarspa eels, hoping that combatting the enormous, electrified creatures might unlock his hidden potential. Still, nothing came of it. The old man had even had Luminous play one of her many games, laser tag, with him, in hopes that dodging and advancing upon the light wielder might cause him to call upon the power that lay dormant. Still, not a single technique had worked.

  As the three of them sat at the kitchen table one night for supper, Mitamin expressed his fears. His tone was blique. His demeanor sunken and defeated.

  “Koga, you have been training hard. Harder than anyone I’ve ever trained before. But...”

  “I’ve made no progress,” Koga interrupted, finishing the older man’s sentence.

  “Something is inhibiting the ability within you. Something that mere training cannot fix,” Mitamin replied.

  “Grandpa?” Luminous addressed, gently cutting into the conversation.

  “Yes, my little light?” Mitamin replied, addressing her in turn by his favorite, familial nickname.

  “Perhaps he could go to Thunder Mountain? Maybe that would bring out his power.”

  Mitamin stroked his beard, contemplating her suggestion. It seemed like a noteworthy idea. Different than the ones they had tried before. Mitamin sighed, then shook his head, arriving at his conclusion.

  “I’m afraid that would not work. It’s too risky.”

  “What do you mean?” Luminous inquired.

  “It’s too dangerous,” Mitamin explained, “Thunder Mountain is a place of endless storm, where lightning strikes the mountain every minute, and ravenous triwolves roam its rocky sides.”

  “But grandpa, in the Chronicler’s ‘History by the Century’, he said that it’s rumored to be a place of awakening for lightning wielders.”

  “A place of awakening?” Koga asked.

  “It’s a place where one is tested if they’re seeking to awaken or enhance their ability,” Luminous explained. “When more wielders existed, such places were visited more often.”

  Koga did not hide his confusion. Why had such a place not been mentioned by his tutor before? Surely, that would have been a quicker route to success than the one they had tried beforehand.

  “These places you speak of test more than just your physical abilities, my little light. They test the very core of who you are. They make you face things worse than the imagination can muster. Many have met far worse fates than death in such places,” Mitamin retorted, ominously elaborating on the mountain.

  “If I’m not making progress, what choice do we have?” Koga inquired. “It’s clear what we have tried is not working.”

  Luminous leaned back in her chair, seemingly realizing what her grandfather’s hesitation was all about. Koga sensed her aura turning from cheerfulness to displeasure. She crossed her arms, looking rather frustrated.

  “It’s because you’ll need a guide. And I’m too ‘fragile’ to take you.”

  “Luminous-”

  “That’s the reason, isn’t it, grandpa?”

  “Luminous, you know it’s not like that. Don’t be this way. You’re not fragile at all. I-”

  “Then why not let me go?” she replied, her frustration growing.

  “Because you’re not ready for the outside world yet, Luminous. You’re too naive! It’s not a kind place. If you don’t believe me, ask this man right here,” Mitamin stated, gesturing towards Koga.

  “Grandpa, I know this. I’m not naive, and I’m not a little girl anymore. I’m seventeen years old.”

  “But there’s still a lot you have left to learn.”

  “And how am I supposed to learn it? Reread every book you have in the library? You’ve always told me that experience was one of life’s greatest teachers,” Luminous replied, “and if you have your way, I’ll never be under its tutelage.”

  “That’s enough, Luminous!” Mitamin replied, raising his voice slightly. She stood up from the table.

  “Yes, it is,” she said, storming off.

  Mitamin leaned back in his chair, obviously regretting how the conversation went. He gently pinched the space between his eyes on the bridge of his nose, closing his eyes and shaking his head. Looking at Koga, he sighed.

  “I’m sorry you had to witness that.”

  “If I may ask, has Luminous ever left the tower?”

  “No,” Mitamin replied sadly. “Not since I took her in at a young age. When her parents disappeared, I stepped in to raise her. I’m... the only family she has left, you see. But I can’t leave the tower to take her anywhere. Not while my duties keep me here.”

  If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.

  “And you don’t trust her to go by herself,” Koga concluded.

  “I don’t trust the galaxy she calls home. She’s such a sweet girl. Creative. Knowledgeable. Intelligent. Fierce. But she’s so naive when it comes to the ways of this world.”

  Koga stood to his feet, and took everyone’s finished dishes to the kitchen sink. He started the wash, then turned back towards Mitamin. Going back for the utensils, he addressed him once more.

  “You know you can’t keep her here forever.”

  “I know,” Mitamin admitted, “She’s a good girl. She’d never leave me unless I gave her permission to... but that doesn’t stop how she feels. Or help what she needs.”

  Outside the open door of the tower, Luminous went zooming by in a flash of light Koga could barely sense. Although Koga did not know her too well, he knew she was probably heading to that place in the woods where she often frequented. A small smile appeared on his face, as he came to a realization of his own.

  “I think she’s ready for the outside world, Mitamin. Whether it’s ready for her is another story.”

  *

  Butterflies flew about in the night sky. These were not real butterflies, however, but those of Luminous’ creation. They took form in various colors of light, illuminating the woods around them, casting light on their maker. She sat against a tree, staring up at her creations and the starry night sky.

  Despite her apparent peace, she felt as though she was being watched. She turned to her right, but saw nothing. Turning to her left, she saw Koga leaning against a tree slightly behind the one she sat against. The sight startled her so much she lost her balance, and fell back. Breaking her concentration, the butterflies disappeared.

  “Woah! You startled me. How long have you been standing there?” she asked, rising to her feet.

  “A few minutes.”

  “How do you do that? You should teach me,” she replied, her mood reflecting a cheeriness that was faked. Albeit, very well faked, he thought.

  “Restless?” Koga asked, cutting to the chase.

  Luminous gave a small chuckle, looking back up at the stars.

  “I apologize for my outburst. I suppose it’s rather obvious, isn’t it?”

  “Mitamin is right,” Koga replied. “You have a lot to learn.”

  Luminous attempted to conceal her distaste at Koga’s statement.

  “But learning ever ends. Not for a survivor. That’s what we are, isn’t it? Survivors?”

  Luminous kept her gaze locked on Koga.

  “What are you trying to say?” she inquired, confused at where the conversation was leading.

  “That if this monster your grandfather spoke of is real, I could use you by my side to stop it,” Koga stated.

  Luminous smiled.

  “I appreciate that, Koga. More than you know. But if you’re trying to get me to leave my grandfather, I won’t. I can’t. He’s the only family I have.”

  “I would not ask that of you. But some day, your decisions will be your own.”

  “I think he knows that, too,” Luminous said, playing with some sticks below her. “And as much as the outside world both scares and excites me, he knows I’ll need to face it someday.”

  “And I’ve realized that that day is here,” Mitamin said, stepping out from behind the two of them. Koga, slightly startled, turned around.

  “You didn’t think you were the only one who could remain undetected, did you, son?” Mitamin stated, teasing Koga.

  “Grandpa?” Luminous asked, startled as well.

  “You’ve grown into a fine young woman, Luminous. I can’t deny that anymore,” Mitamin admitted. “I think it’s time you see the world.”

  “Grandpa...” she said, overwhelmed. “Really?”

  “Yes,” Mitamin stated with a smile. “Really.”

  Luminous ran over to him, embracing him. They hugged tightly for a few moments, both closing their eyes and feeling the warmth of the embrace. A single tear ran down Mitamin’s face, before quickly wiping it away. Koga, who apparently did not deal well with showing emotion, awkwardly looked away.

  “Come here, you,” Luminous continued, using her light speed to grab him and bring him in on the hug. Now a group hug, Koga reluctantly squeezed them both back. Luminous tightened her embrace.

  “I’ll always be your little girl, Grandpa,” she said, looking to Mitamin. “Thank you.”

  “It’s your job to look after her now, Koga. If something happens to her, you’ll have me to deal with,” Mitamin said, the two of them now facing Koga as they released their embrace.

  “I’ll keep her safe, then introduce her to some people that can care for her from there,” Koga assured.

  “She’s staying with you, son of Kane. I wouldn’t trust anyone else but you to keep an eye on her,” Mitamin insisted.

  “Where I go... what I do... it’s not a life for someone like her.”

  “If this galaxy is to be saved, the path you walk must change. A mantle once forsaken must be retaken. You’ll need my granddaughter's help when the time comes.”

  Koga could not argue. Grandfather usually did know best, and there was no denying the truth. Besides, Luminous would rather stay by his side. She trusted him. In some ways, Koga was like the brother she never had.

  “Who am I to argue with destiny?” Koga replied, surrendering his stance on the matter.

  “I won’t be a bother, Koga! I promise,” Luminous said, giddily.

  “I’m sure you won’t,” Koga replied.

  “I’ll go pack my things and get ready to go!” she said, just before zooming off in a beam of light towards the tower.

  *

  Mitamin looked on to see her speedily run off.

  “I still can’t believe the moment has come,” Mitamin commented, more to himself than Koga.

  “She’ll be back again someday,” Koga replied.

  “I know she will,” he said, walking back towards the tower. “But it will never be the same.”

  *

  “You know the path to the mountain?”

  “Yes, Grandpa,” Luminous answered, packing away the last of her things.

  “The path to the mountain always changes, you know. The forests shift and change. They will try to keep you from reaching it. You must follow my instructions to the letter.”

  “Yes, Grandpa. We went over this, remember?” she replied, smiling as she slung her travel pack onto her shoulders

  “And I explained to Koga what must be done as well, so don’t forget to rely on him if you need help,” Mitamin continued, the concern in his voice evident.

  Luminous hugged him tightly.

  “Grandpa, I’ll be fine. I promise.”

  Mitamin sighed, hugging his granddaughter back just as tightly.

  “I know, my little light. It’s hard to believe this moment is here. That’s all.”

  Luminous looked up into her grandfather’s eyes, as her mind drifted back to all the days of her youth.

  “You taught me everything I know, Grandpa. And, without trying to sound too braggadocious, I think you did a good job.”

  Mitamin, smiling and beaming with pride, hugged her once more.

  “I can’t tell you how proud I am of you, Luminous. I wish your parents were here to see just how wise, how beautiful, and how strong their daughter has become.”

  “Thanks, Grandpa.”

  Mitamin, clearing his throat, took a step back, and grabbed his staff he had left leaning against the wall. He then regained his composure, and began to walk with Luminous towards the front door of the tower. Side by side, they walked through the living room.

  “Do you have everything you’ll need?”

  “I do,” she replied. “At least, until we come back.”

  “Luminous,” Mitamin began, a heaviness linked to his tone. “You’re not coming back. At least, not right after the mountain you’re not.”

  “What do you mean? If Koga finally connects with his inner power, then he’ll need you to train him!”

  “Time is running short. By then, other events will have taken precedence,” the old man explained. “You will have to help him in furthering his training.

  “But grandpa, I don’t know anything about the school of lightning!”

  Mitamin smiled.

  “I taught you everything you need to know to train others. Plus, don’t think I didn’t notice you sneaking some books from my library to reread. One of them will help you a great deal, I believe.”

  “Why not come back here, though?”

  “Trust me, my little light: you won’t have time. The snake comes quickly, as do other foes you must face. You’ll know when it’s the right time to come back.”

  Koga, fully covered in his armor, met them outside the tower’s door.

  “Ready?” He asked.

  “I am,” she replied.

  “Koga, one more thing,” Mitamin replied, walking over to him.

  “Should you succeed on the mountain, you’ll need to visit this man. Here’s the address.”

  “Why?” Koga asked, puzzled.

  “You’ll need more than your new powers to combat this creature. He will be able to help. Him, and the Red Raven.”

  “Ziglad Bombad and Gishni’s Spear… High Rock prison...,” Luminous stated, grabbing the note from his hand, then reading the names out loud. “Who is Ziglad? And what’s in this prison we need?”

  “An ancient antiques dealer. I’ve employed his services in the past. Be cautious he doesn’t cheat you. He might have a clue to aid you in finding Gishni’s spear,” Mitamin answered.

  “And there is only one prisoner at High Rock you’ll need to rescue. A dangerous man they call the ‘Red Raven.’ He has strange, teleportation powers. Be weary of him. Save him, however, and he will help you with Gishni’s spear… and the beast.”

  “How do you know this?” Koga asked.

  “My vision. It showed them to me. With the beast returning, I’m sure both their expertise will be of aid to you.”

  “Thanks,” Koga replied. He then shook Mitamin’s hand in the style traditionally used on Inkh: hands locked together with elbows down.

  “Thank you.”

  “Thank you, Koga Kane. Take care of my granddaughter for me. She’s in your care now.”

  Koga Kane looked at Luminous, then back to her grandfather.

  “I will.”

  “Take down this beast, Blight. You’re our only hope.”

  “And what if I fail? Is there a contingency plan?”

  “More like a last resort. Don’t make me use it.”

  “How will you know? If the beast dies, how will you know?”

  Mitamin smiled coyly.

  “Surely you know by now, Koga Kane: I have my ways of knowing.”

  And with that, Koga and Luminous left Mitamin and his great tower, heading off to the East, the suns rising to meet them. Mitamin watched on as Luminous grabbed Koga’s hand, pulling him with her in a flash of light. It was a bittersweet moment to say goodbye to her home. She could not help but cry. Already, she missed him. But this, she knew, was not goodbye.