Second Strike

Chapter 2: Light Lincoln

The school bells ring, prompting everyone to take their seats. 

Dr. Gregory faces the class, a smile indicating the start of an intriguing lesson. 

He begins, "In 2140, a war erupted between The Unity and Spark Users. It ended in 2142 with the elimination of the powerful Master Sparks."

Curious, Cloke raises his hand, asking, "What are Master Sparks?"

Dr. Gregory replies, "They are spark users with the ability to harness both inner and outer spark energy, making them the strongest among their kind."

Cloke's interest piques, but Dr. Gregory adds, "We'll discuss inner and outer spark later. Let's turn to page 34 for our discussion and questions."

The class focuses on the material, eager to explore the topic further.

As Cloke searches for page 34, he stumbles upon two intriguing images. On the left, a sketch titled "Inner Spark" depicts arrows entering the body, representing the flow of energy within. The accompanying text explains that inner sparks can manipulate their own energy, enhancing their speed and strength and even creating energy-based objects. 

On the right, a sketch titled "Outer Spark" shows arrows flowing outward from the body, symbolizing the manipulation of energy in the surroundings. The text describes how outer sparks can harness and control the energy of their environment, adhering to the law of conservation of matter.

Lost in thought, Cloke wonders about his own spark nature. "If I'm truly a spark, could I be an inner spark?" His contemplation is interrupted by Dr. Gregory's presence next to him, reminding him to focus on page 34. Apologizing quickly, Cloke turns his attention back to the class.

 While the professor continues discussing the war, Cloke's mind drifts to the events of the previous night, "Was the spark user I encountered also an inner spark?"

As the sun began to set and rain poured from the sky, a man with a mischievous grin dashed through the busy traffic, his pursuer hot on his heels. With an agile leap, he effortlessly scaled a nearby building, landing on its rooftop. Above them, a giant LED sign illuminated the scene with a vibrant blue glow, its message teasingly spelling out "Fools."

Catching his breath, the man turned to face his relentless chaser, who happened to be a woman with fiery red hair, a flame-emblazoned mask, and a fierce determination in her eyes.

"Light Lincoln, the legendary spark user of the moment," she taunted, her voice tinged with curiosity, "Why are you running away?" 

Light, unruffled by her presence, shot back with a mischievous smirk, "Who said I was running? Maybe I just wanted to bring you into my own little arena."

The woman surveyed their surroundings, impressed by the choice of a secluded, under-construction building far from prying eyes. "Well played," she admitted.

Without warning, her arms burst into flames, the intense yellow and orange hues dancing against the cool blue light of the sign. Not one to back down, Light's body crackled with electric sparks of green energy, ready to defend himself.

 "Last chance, Light," she warned, assuming a fighting stance. "Do you know about 'Zeus'?" 

Light readied himself, a sly smile playing on his lips, "I guess you'll have to beat the information out of me!"

With lightning speed, Light darted toward her, landing a swift uppercut before she erupted into a blazing inferno, momentarily blinding him with her intense radiance. Regaining her composure, she retaliated with a powerful punch to Light's stomach, sending him hurtling into the glowing "O" of the LED sign. Though his clothes bore a gaping hole from the flames, his unblemished skin revealed the resilience of a true spark user.