Crimson Heart

37

After their training session, they decided to take a break and indulge in some well-deserved ramen. The aroma wafting from the kitchen reminded William of the comforting meals he used to share with the Stellaron Hunters back on Earth.

As they sat around a low table filled with steaming bowls of ramen, William couldn't help but reminisce.

William: sighing contentedly "I really miss the food back home. There's nothing quite like a bowl of ramen shared with friends."

Kazuha smiled, his chopsticks deftly picking up noodles.

Kazuha: "Iona has its own culinary delights. You might find something here that rivals what you're used to."

William took a sip of the broth, his eyes widening at the rich, savory flavor.

William: "Okay, this is definitely a contender. But back on Earth, there was this little ramen shop that had the best miso ramen—so rich and creamy. I could eat it every day."

Kate: laughing "We'll have to make a ramen tour someday! Until then, we've got this deliciousness right in front of us."

Sombra: grinning "Just wait until you try my recipe. It's a secret blend of spices that'll blow your mind."

The group laughed and shared stories of their favorite meals from their respective worlds, creating a sense of warmth and belonging.

As they enjoyed their meal, William felt a deep appreciation for the bonds he was forming with his new friends. Though he missed the Stellaron Hunters, he knew he was on a journey that would shape him in ways he couldn't yet comprehend. The laughter and chatter around the table filled the air, and for the first time in a while, he felt at home.

As they finished their bowls of ramen, Psylocke cleared her throat, drawing everyone's attention.

Psylocke: "Now that you've had a moment to relax, it's time to discuss your training in earnest. William, I want you to choose a weapon to complement your skills."

The group nodded in agreement, each of them proudly displaying their chosen weapons—Kate with her bow, Zed with his shurikens and razor sharp claws,  Sombra with her machine pistol  while Kazuha and Yanqing both wielded their swords with skill and confidence.

William furrowed his brow, contemplating the options before him. He rifled through a selection of weapons laid out before him, trying to envision how each one would fit his fighting style.

His gaze landed on the tessen he had stolen from Psylocke. He picked it up, the sharp-edged blades glinting in the light.

William: "What about this one?"

Psylocke raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk spreading across her face.

Psylocke: "You want to use my tessen? I must admit, I'm impressed by your boldness. But there's a catch."

William's heart raced, a mixture of excitement and anxiety coursing through him.

William: "What's the catch?"

Psylocke: "If you can defeat Yanqing in a spar, you can keep it. But you'll have three weeks of intense training with me first before you face him."

William's stomach knotted at the challenge.

William: nervously "Three weeks? Against Yanqing? He's a master martial artist!"

Yanqing: grinning "No pressure, William. Just a friendly spar to see what you've got!"

Psylocke nodded, her expression serious.