The Roar of the Night

15

After our conversation at the restaurant, Alex decided it was time to take action. The training was not only mental, but also physical. **"Rex, if you really want to be a hero, you need to learn to control everything you have, and for that, we are going to need equipment"**, Alex said with determination. Clara, smiling, offered to stay with Lucy while Alex, Tom and I went shopping.

We visited various places, and I was surprised how every little detail added to the plan. We bought a punching bag, dumbbells, and various pieces that would allow us to build something much larger. Tom, ever the practical one, managed to get hold of some old tubes and used tyres. **"You never know when a makeshift obstacle will come in handy,"** he said, carrying a stack of tires toward the truck.

Over the next few days, we got to work on what would become my training area. Alex and Tom worked tirelessly, taking advantage of any breaks to advance the construction. We chose a secluded corner in the woods, far enough away from prying eyes, but close enough to keep access easy. Everything was designed to take advantage of my abilities, but also to force me to improve and learn to control them.

Venom and I were amazed to see how it all came to fruition. We knew we had strength, speed and endurance, but learning to use them accurately was another story. On occasion, Venom would speak directly to Alex or Tom, expressing his doubts. **"I don't understand why we need so much effort if we already have everything it takes to win"**, Venom said in our shared mind.

Alex, always patient, explained: **"Humans are fragile. It's not about winning, Venom, it's about protecting without harming. A bad step or a misplaced blow can be fatal."**At one point, Tom told me something that surprised me. **"I was in the war, Venom"**, he confessed while adjusting one of the tubes. **"I learned to control my strength and precision in extreme situations. And if I could learn that, you can too. We are going to train you so that you are not only strong, but careful."**

The construction of the training area was almost finished. There were tires to jump on, bars to climb on, and impact zones where I could practice hitting safely. Venom and I watched in silence, trying to process all the information. I knew what was coming would be difficult, but every part of the process was preparing us.

Finally, when everything was ready, Tom stood in front of me, crossing his arms. **"Let's get started,"** he said firmly, and his tone left no room for doubt.It was time to show what we were made of.