A Serpent's Touch

Chapter 4

Enid stood at the edge of the training area, her eyes fixed on Wednesday as she squared off against her opponent.

The air crackled with energy as their powers clashed, creating a dazzling display of light and force. Enid couldn't help but feel a mixture of awe and admiration for Wednesday's skill and determination. Every move Wednesday made was precise, every strike calculated.

The intensity of the battle held everyone’s attention, the room filled with gasps and murmurs of awe from the watching students. Wednesday’s opponent, Melanie, was giving her best effort, but it was clear that Wednesday had the upper hand. With a final, powerful blow, Wednesday knocked Melanie to the ground.

Ms. Thatcher stepped forward, a look of approval on her face.

"Good job, Wednesday," she praised, her voice carrying across the room. She then turned her attention to Melanie, who was slowly getting to her feet.

"Melanie, your defenses are a bit weak. You need to focus more on strengthening them. Work on your technique."

Melanie nodded, a determined expression on her face.

Just then, the bell rang, signaling the end of the training session. The sharp sound echoed through the room, a reminder of the passing time.

"Alright, students," Ms. Thatcher called out, raising her voice. "That’s it for today. Get changed, and we'll continue this in our next training session next week."

The students began to disperse, heading toward the changing rooms. Conversations buzzed around Enid as the students discussed the training session, sharing tips and critiques.

Enid lingered near the entrance, her thoughts still occupied by the remarkable display of skill she had just witnessed. She admired Wednesday's composure and precision, qualities she herself aspired to achieve.

Not long before Wednesday emerged from the changing room, her dark hair slightly damp from a quick rinse.

"You were incredible there" Enid said as she approached her, her voice filled with genuine admiration.

Wednesday shrugged, her expression neutral but her eyes reflecting a hint of appreciation.

"I had an advantage. Her attacks and defenses are weak," she replied.

Enid chuckled and shook her head. "You make it sound so easy. But it takes real skill to exploit those weaknesses effectively."

Wednesday's lips twitched into what might have been a smile.

"It's all about observation and strategy," she said, her tone almost dismissive. But Enid sensed the underlying pride in her words.

As they walked together down the hallway, the buzz of conversations around them gradually fading, Enid's mind drifted back to a night that had been etched into her memory. She remembered the alleyway, the darkness, and the figure who had come to her rescue.

"I wanna ask you something," Enid began hesitantly, glancing at Wednesday as they walked.

"Go on," Wednesday said, her voice calm but curious.

Enid took a deep breath, feeling a mixture of nervousness and anticipation.

"Do you remember when you fought someone in an alleyway, near Jericho?"

Wednesday's brows furrowed slightly as she thought for a moment.

"Hmm," she murmured, before recognition dawned on her. "I remember I burned him, and I think there was a witness."

Enid chuckled softly. "That was me."

Wednesday tilted her head, her eyes narrowing slightly in thought.