The Elementiels

Ch. 23: MOVE FORWARD

The next day, Jason continued his training as he focused intently on the flames dancing around his outstretched hand. Behind him, Grandpa Mark stood with his arms crossed, observing silently. His expression was calm, but his thoughts churned beneath the surface.

"Jason's growth is extraordinary," Mark thought, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "But there's something peculiar about his energy. It's... different. Stronger than it should be. I wonder why..."

Jason exhaled sharply, extinguishing the flames and dropping to the ground to catch his breath. He leaned back on his palms, staring up at the sky as Grandpa Mark approached and sat down beside him.

"You're doing great, Jason."

Jason gazed at the horizon, his eyes clouded with thought. Finally, he asked, "Grandpa, have you ever wondered what the world would be like if everyone had powers?"

Mark raised an eyebrow, stroking his chin as he considered the question. "Hmm, not really. But a world like that would certainly be... interesting."

Jason nodded slowly, his gaze distant. "Yeah. People wouldn't have to live in fear. They could protect themselves. They wouldn't have to lose the people they care about..."

Mark's hand paused mid-stroke, and his face softened. He let out a long sigh. "Jason, I know a part of you hasn't forgiven me for keeping the truth from you. And you're right-it's my fault she's gone."

Jason's fists clenched as Mark continued. "I thought that training you, making you stronger, was my way of making amends. A way to redeem myself for the choices I made. But no matter how hard I try, I've come to realize... nothing I do will ever heal the pain of losing her."

Jason turned to face his grandfather, his expression heavy with sorrow. "We're both carrying that same guilt, aren't we? That feeling one has, when they know things could have turned out differently. It hurts so much, Grandpa."

Mark stared at him as he continues. "But I know Stacey wouldn't want us to live like this-trapped by our regrets. She'd want us to move forward, to use the gifts we've been given to make the world a better place. To bring joy to others, even when things feel hopeless."

Mark stared at him for a long moment, his weathered face etched with grief. Slowly, Jason extended his hand. "Let's keep moving forward, grandpa. For Stacey."

A faint, genuine smile broke through Mark's solemn expression as he reached out and clasped Jason's hand. "For Stacey," he echoed.

For a brief moment, the two of them sat in silence, their hands locked in a quiet pact. Then Mark stood and stretched. "Alright, enough of this sentimental talk. There's a new trick I think you're ready to learn."

Jason's eyes lit up with curiosity as he stood up. "Alright, I'm listening."

Mark folded his arms, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. "It's called The Ignite. A technique that lets you set anything on fire without touching them."

Jason's jaw dropped. "No way! Is that even possible?"

"Of course it is," Mark said with a chuckle. "It's especially useful against opponents with strong defenses. With Ignite, you can strike without needing to get close."

Jason grinned, excitement buzzing through him. "Alright, let's do this! I'm ready."

Mark gestured toward a nearby tree. "We'll start with that. Stretch your hand toward the tree, close your eyes, and focus."

Jason did as instructed, extending his hand and shutting his eyes.

"Now," Mark said in a calm, steady tone, "picture the tree in your mind. Feel the heat building inside you, and think of the tree bursting into flames."