Simon

Chapter Four 

As the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape, Simon made his way home after a relaxing day by the river. The aroma of a home-cooked meal filled the air, enticing him as he stepped inside the kitchen door.  

Seated at the dining table were his parents, eagerly awaiting his return. Their faces lit up with a mixture of love and intellectual curiosity, ready to engage their son in the customary intellectual discourse which always accompanied their dinner. Simon asked them how their day had been, knowing the answer would be the same as on every other day. 

“Fine, thank you” they said almost in unison   

As Simon settled into his seat, his parents began their playful yet thought-provoking quiz. His mother, a mathematics professor, presented him with a riddle to challenge his analytical skills. Simon took a mouthful of veal escalope and spinach, savouring the perfectly seasoned cuisine and chewing slowly as he pondered the conundrum. 

“Simon, imagine you have a box filled with nine identical coins, but one of them is slightly heavier than the others. You have a balance scale and can only use it twice. How do you determine which coin is heavier?”  

After a few moments, the gears of his mind whirling, Simon replied; “I would divide the coins into three groups of three. Then, I would weigh two of the groups. If they balance, the heavier coin is in the remaining group. If one of the groups is heavier, I would take two coins from that group and weigh them against each other. Whichever one is heavier is the culprit.” 

His mother smiled, acknowledging his correct response. Although she was pleased with Simon, a correct answer was expected, and incorrect answers were not taken well. If he had not solved the puzzle, the rest of his dinner would have been spent listening to the correct and logical way to solve a problem of this nature, with countless examples. 

His father, a man of profound depths, chimed in with a philosophical quandary. “Simon, what is the meaning of life? How do we find purpose in a chaotic world?”  

Simon paused, contemplating the intellectual question. “I believe that the meaning of life lies in our ability to seek knowledge, connect with others, and make a positive impact on the world. It is in the pursuit of understanding, love, and personal growth that we find purpose and fulfilment.” 

His parents exchanged a proud glance, impressed by his answer. His mother then spoke, shifting the focus to a financial dilemma;  

“Simon, imagine you have a certain sum of money, and you want to invest it wisely. How would you allocate your funds between different investment options to maximize your returns while minimizing risks?”  

Simon took a moment to gather his thoughts, savouring a bite of his meal. “I would diversify my investments across various sectors, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. By spreading the risk, I can potentially reap the benefits of different market conditions. Additionally, I would research and seek advice from financial experts to make informed decisions and adapt my investment strategy over time.” 

His parents nodded in approval, appreciating his logical and prudent approach to financial matters. 

They continued their dinner and the conversation flowed effortlessly, a harmonious blend of intellectual challenges and familial warmth. Each question posed an opportunity for Simon to showcase his knowledge, critical thinking, and moral compass. It was an expected end to his perfectly ordinary day, and he took pleasure in the fact that he answered every question correctly.   

Through these engaging discussions, Simon’s parents nurtured his intellectual growth, fostering a love for learning and a well-rounded perspective on life’s complexities. They celebrated his achievements while also encouraging him to question, explore, and never stop seeking knowledge. Thus, the dinner continued until their meal was finished and the questions answered. Simon excused himself and left his parents to enjoy each other’s company for the evening. 

As Simon left the dining room, he walked through the spacious living room, where elegance and comfort coexisted harmoniously. The room was adorned with tastefully chosen furniture, featuring plush sofas upholstered in rich fabrics and intricately carved wooden coffee tables. A grand chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a comfortable radiance across the room, while large windows offered panoramic views of the lush garden outside.  

He crossed the large living room and ascended the grand staircase. The steps were made of polished marble, each one solid and sturdy, displaying the attention to detail in the construction of the house. Along the staircase, ornate railings with delicate designs provided both safety and aesthetic appeal. The walls were adorned with textured wallpaper, adding a touch of sophistication to the surroundings.  

Reaching the upper floor, Simon entered a hallway lined with elegant paintings and photographs capturing cherished moments of the family’s history.  Soft, plush carpeting cushioned his steps, muffling any sound as he walked toward the bathroom. Simon relished in the luxurious surroundings, appreciating the beauty and comfort that his parents’ success had afforded them. 

At the end of the hall was the family bathroom, where Simon now headed to shower away the peculiar odour of the river. The room was spacious, featuring sleek marble countertops with dual sinks, gleaming with a polished sheen. Large mirrors adorned the walls, reflecting the light of the carefully placed sconces. The shower area was enclosed in glass, showcasing a rainfall showerhead and various adjustable jets for a luxurious bathing experience. The bathtub was positioned beneath a large window, allowing natural light to filter in during the day. Fluffy, high-quality towels and a heated towel rack added a touch of indulgence, while scented candles provided a calming ambiance. 

Simon showered, changed into his pyjamas and went to his bedroom to spend some time relaxing before bed. Simon’s bedroom was a haven of personal space and comfort. The room was adorned with tasteful decorations and furnishings, reflecting his personal style and interests. The walls were painted in a soothing shade of pale blue, creating a serene atmosphere. Positioned against one wall was a sturdy solid wood desk, large enough to accommodate his laptop and study materials. The desk had a clean and organized appearance, with neatly stacked books and stationery. A comfortable ergonomic chair was placed in front of the desk, providing a suitable workspace for Simon’s studies and creative endeavours. 

Adjacent to the desk, against another wall, stood a sleek television mounted on the wall. The television was positioned at an ideal height for comfortable viewing from the bed. Simon enjoyed unwinding in the evenings by catching up on his favourite shows or indulging in a movie or two. His television was also connected to his laptop, for the times when a larger screen might be needed. He often used it for video conferences with his parents and occasionally to watch Anime on the web.  

On the opposite side of the room, a grand double bed took centre stage. The bed was adorned with soft, high-quality bedding, Egyptian cotton sheets, a plush duvet and an array of decorative pillows. A wooden bedside table was placed on either side of the bed, holding a reading lamp, a clock, and space for personal items. Simon loved his bed and often lay there for hours on a Sunday morning watching films.  

In one corner of the room, a beautifully polished piano sat gracefully, its elegant curves and ebony finish adding a touch of musical charm to the space. The piano served as both a decorative piece and a means for Simon to express his artistic talents. Alongside it was a cozy seating area with a comfortable armchair and a small coffee table, providing a quiet spot for reading, reflection, or simply enjoying a cup of tea. Large windows adorned with flowing curtains allowed natural light to filter into the room during the day, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere.  

The overall ambiance of the room was a blend of comfort, functionality, and personal style. It served as a sanctuary for Simon, offering a space to relax, study, and pursue his passions. The combination of modern technology, elegant furnishings, and personal touches made Simon’s bedroom a place where he could truly feel at home. 

As the evening wore on, the day faded into twilight and shadows enveloped Simon’s bedroom, he settled comfortably on his bed, with his laptop, ready to unwind before sleeping. The room was bathed in a warm, ambient light, emanating from a bedside lamp casting a gentle glow across the space. With a click of a button, the world of anime came to life before his eyes. Engrossed in the captivating stories and vibrant animations, he found himself transported to fantastical realms and fanciful but engaging narratives. 

The soft sounds of high-pitched voices and the occasional explosion filled the room, providing a soothing backdrop to his evening. Simon lost track of time as the minutes turned into an hour, captivated by the compelling characters and their extraordinary adventures. The laptop screen lit up his face in ever changing colours, as the story progressed, highlighting his expressions of joy and fascination. Eventually, Simon closed his laptop, setting it aside as he felt the drowsiness of sleep tugging at his senses. He slipped beneath the covers of his cozy bed, feeling the smoothness of the cotton sheets against his skin. The room was filled with a comforting silence, broken only by the gentle hum of the air conditioning and the distant hush of the night. 

As he lay there, the thoughts of Sonnet began to swirl in his mind, her presence lingering in his thoughts. Memories of their encounters in Promega danced in his imagination, a tapestry woven with moments of excitement, camaraderie, and shared challenges. The connection he felt with her was undeniable, and he couldn’t help but wonder if he would be with her again tonight, even if it was only in the realm of dreams.  

With each passing moment, Simon’s eyelids grew heavier, and a sense of tranquillity washed over him. As he drifted into a realm of dreams, the last flicker of consciousness whispered in his mind, contemplating the nature of his feelings towards Sonnet. The burgeoning emotions within him puzzled and intrigued him, leaving him to ponder the possibility of love blooming amidst their shared adventures. The room fell into a peaceful stillness, the world outside fading away as Simon’s mind surrendered to the realm of dreams. His breathing became steady and rhythmic, a gentle lullaby that accompanied him into the world of sleep, where his thoughts of Sonnet and the enchantment of Promega awaited him. 

– 

As Simon stood in the vast training area of Promega, he felt a sense of both familiarity and anticipation. The air was charged with an energetic aura, crackling with the residue of countless battles fought and skills honed within its confines. He looked around, his gaze taking in the impressive expanse before him. Sonnet was not yet present, which was normal as she often arrived after him, she seemed to have numerous responsibilities which took up her time, but she kept the details to herself. Simon was sure she’d be along soon.   

The training area was a sprawling landscape, meticulously designed to mimic various terrains and environments. Lush green meadows stretched out in one corner, dotted with vibrant wildflowers swaying gently in an unseen breeze. In another corner, a dense forest beckoned with towering trees and dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above. A rocky terrain with jagged cliffs and steep inclines provided a challenging battleground, while a serene lake shimmered under the sunlight, its calm surface reflecting the surrounding beauty. 

Simon’s eyes were drawn to the centre of the training area, where a grandiose structure stood—a majestic pavilion with intricate carvings and towering pillars. It served as a gathering point, a place where contestants and their Nomads would convene before and after their battles, sharing stories of triumph and strategizing for future encounters. Simon himself had arrived late by the look of it; the usual contenders were all present and correct. Feeling a pang of longing for Sonnet’s presence, Simon summoned his loyal Nomad, a shimmering figure materializing beside him. The Nomad exuded an aura of wisdom and strength, his smoky form radiating a comforting warmth. They stood side by side, contemplating the whereabouts of Sonnet within the vast realm of Promega. 

Simon greeted his Nomad cordially and immediately asked after the whereabouts of Sonnet. The Nomad though, had no information about her and was similarly curious. They spoke at length, both speculating and wondering. As the minutes trickled by, Simon’s curiosity sparked a new conversation with his Nomad. With an air of wonder in his voice, he inquired about the denizens of these enchanted woods. He wondered aloud if there were any dangerous animals that roamed this mystical realm. The Nomad turned to face Simon, his crystalline eyes, filled with ancient wisdom, gazed intently upon his human companion. With a voice that carried both authority and gentleness, he began to enlighten Simon about the fascinating inhabitants of this ethereal realm.  

“Ah, my dear Simon, you will find that the wild creatures of these woods are unlike anything you have ever encountered,” the Nomad began, his voice resonating with an otherworldly timbre. “In ages past, the ancient practitioners of magic decided to preserve the harmony between humans and the natural world. They gathered all the fantastical creatures and relocated them to a distant continent, a sanctuary of their own.” 

As the words tumbled from his lips, the Nomad’s gaze seemed to transcend time itself, as if glimpsing the secrets hidden within the collective memories of Promega. He continued, painting a vivid picture of the creatures that roamed the distant continent. 

“In that realm, Simon, you will encounter creatures beyond the boundaries of human imagination. Majestic dragons soar through the cerulean skies, their mighty wings casting shadows upon the earth. Banshees, with their mournful wails, haunt the twilight hours, their unholy presence sending shivers down one’s spine.” 

Simon’s eyes widened with wonder as he absorbed these descriptions, his imagination alight with fantastical visions. The Nomad’s words summoned images of mythical creatures that danced within the recesses of his mind. He listened with rapt attention, eager to hear more.  

“And there, in the depths of shadowed glens and hidden grottos, you may chance upon the gaze of a basilisk, its piercing eyes capable of turning even the bravest to stone,” the Nomad continued, his voice carrying a note of caution. “Mischievous goblins skulk through the underbrush, their cunning matched only by their insatiable curiosity.” 

Each description brought Simon closer to the realization that Promega was a world teeming with magic, where mythical beings coexisted with the humans. Simon’s mind swirled with newfound knowledge. The awareness of these mythical inhabitants added a layer of intrigue and awe to his Promega experience. The enchantment of the training area seemed to deepen, as if beckoning him to explore and discover the mysteries that lay hidden within its magical depths. 

As they conversed and time passed, it seemed that they would have to train without Sonnet or waste the time they had sitting around talking. The Nomad’s eyes glimmered with a thirst for confrontation and a desire to support Simon their shared quest, and they decided to continue without her. 

Deep within the enchanting woods of Promega, nestled amidst towering trees and a canopy of vibrant foliage, lay the training ground. It was a secluded haven, a refuge where contestants would embark on their journey of growth and mastery. Each training area spanned a generous expanse, providing ample room for contestants to test their mettle and refine their skills. Within this captivating landscape, each pair of contestants was assigned their own designated area, demarcated by subtle boundaries that seamlessly blended with the surrounding environment. These areas, conjured by the skilled practitioners of magic, acted as personalized stages, mirroring the upcoming trials and challenges of the real tournaments. 

Simon and his Nomad headed off to a far corner, a good way from the noise of the other contestants. As they ventured further into the woods, a sense of tranquillity and anticipation filled the air. Sunlight filtered through the dense foliage, casting mesmerizing patterns of light and shadow on the forest floor. The natural symphony of rustling leaves and the occasional chirping of birds created a serene ambiance, fostering an atmosphere of focus and introspection. 

As they approached the edge of the ground, Simon’s designated area materialized like a conjured dream, taking shape amidst the woodland backdrop. Their staging area became a breathtaking mixture of natural elements and enchanted constructs. Towering stone pillars intertwined with ancient trees, their gnarled branches reaching skyward. Luminous orbs hung suspended in the air, casting a soft, green glow that bathed the surroundings in a gentle radiance. Intricate patterns etched into the ground served as conduits for mystical energies, pulsating with latent power. 

Simon took his place at the edge of his designated area and a mix of excitement and determination surged within him. He felt the presence of countless past contenders who had trodden these grounds, leaving behind echoes of their passion and resolve. It was here that dreams were forged, talents were honed, and heroes were born. Simon stood poised and ready to embrace the trials that lay ahead. The training area whispered promises of growth, transformation, and the opportunity to manifest his true potential. 

The contest within the practice area between Simon, his Nomad, and the magically conjured pair would be a display of skill, strategy, and sheer determination. It would test both their physical prowess and their command over magic, creating an exhilarating blend of brawn and spellcasting. Simon waited with anticipation, knowing that at any moment the arena itself would transform into a dynamic battleground, adapting to the contestants’ every move. Trees would twist and contort, creating natural barriers and obstacles, while clouds of mist would swirl and dance, concealing both allies and foes. The air would be filled with arcane energy, charged with the potential for spectacular displays of magic. 

The contest might commence with physical combat, requiring Simon and his Nomad to showcase their agility, strength, and martial prowess, or it might begin with a test of spellcasting. Their opponents, conjured by the magic of Promega, would be formidable adversaries, possessing equal measures of skill and tenacity. Swift swordplay, acrobatic dodges, and calculated strikes would fill the air as the contestants engaged in a battle of physical finesse. But this contest would not be limited to mere swordplay. It would also delve into supernatural prowess, allowing Simon and his Nomad to tap into their magical potential.  

“Earth, Air, Fire, Water” a loud voice cried out.  

This was the theme for the activities “Defeat your opponents and defend yourselves with the use of these elements” it continued. 

“Squad A will begin” it ended 

Simon and his Nomad would attack first. As Simon and his Nomad stood together on the edge of the vast practice area, a sense of anticipation hung in the air. The secluded space allowed them the freedom to experiment and push the boundaries of their conjuring abilities. It was a moment of discovery and exhilaration, as Simon’s curiosity led him to venture into uncharted territories of magic. Taking a deep breath, Simon looked at his Nomad and a spark of audacity flickered in his eyes. He contemplated the possibilities, seeking to challenge the limits of their conjuring capabilities. What if they conjured something truly remarkable, something awe-inspiring like a dragon? The idea formed in his mind, and he couldn’t resist the temptation to put it into motion. 

Turning to his Nomad, Simon spoke in a voice filled with both excitement and trepidation. “Can you summon a dragon, my friend?” The request hung in the air, creating a momentary silence. The Nomad’s gaze grew contemplative, his normally steady expression betraying a hint of uncertainty. He had never been tasked with conjuring a dragon before, and the implications of such an act weighed heavily on his mind. It was an extraordinary request, one that required careful consideration and a deep understanding of their purpose. 

Summoning a dragon was no ordinary feat. It required tapping into vast reserves of magical energy and delving into realms of conjuration that were rarely explored. The Nomad, deeply connected to the essence of Promega, understood the magnitude of what was being asked. It was a request that carried weight and significance, testing the boundaries of their bond and stretching the limits of their conjuring abilities. He realized that while he had never been explicitly forbidden from summoning dragons, it was a responsibility that carried immense consequences. 

With a solemn nod, the Nomad made his decision. He understood the yearning within Simon, the desire to test their capabilities and push the boundaries of their bond. Closing his eyes, he reached out to the magical fabric of Promega, harnessing its essence to bring forth a dragon. In that moment, the Nomad’s connection to Promega seemed to intensify. He felt the pulsating energy of the world flowing through his incorporeal form, whispering ancient spells and unlocking forgotten knowledge. 

As the Nomad’s conjuring took form, the atmosphere shifted. A gust of wind swept through the practice area, carrying a faint hint of sulfur and the fizzing and crackling of untamed and ancient magic. Shadows coalesced, coiling and swirling and blowing and twisting with intensity until a mighty, fearsome dragon materialized before them. The dragon stood tall and majestic, its scales shimmering in iridescent hues that seemed to capture the very essence of fire and sky. Its wings spanned wide, casting a dark and murky shadow upon the surroundings. Every movement exuded grace and power, as if the dragon embodied the epitome of both ancient wisdom and raw, untamed strength. 

Simon’s eyes widened in awe as he beheld the magnificent creature before him. It was a sight that stirred his imagination and filled his heart with both excitement and reverence. The dragon’s eyes, deep and wise, seemed to hold within them the secrets of countless ages, promising a connection to a world beyond their own. As the dragon spread its wings, a gentle breeze swept through the practice area, carrying with it a sense of wonder and possibility. The Nomad and Simon felt the weight of responsibility settle upon their shoulders. They were now in the presence of a conjured dragon, a testament to their bond and the boundless potential that lay within them. 

Simon guided his Nomad to launch a ferocious assault on their adversaries. Caught off guard by the sudden appearance of the dragon, they were engulfed by the roaring inferno. The intensity of the dragon’s fiery attack was nothing short of explosive, its flames consuming their opponents in a dazzling display of power. The heat radiated through the practice area, causing the air to shimmer with waves of intense energy. Flames erupted from the dragon’s maw, again and again, its fiery breath unleashed with a force that was both destructive and spectacular. 

Word of the extraordinary performance spread like wildfire, and the other contestants abandoned their own training areas to witness the astonishing scene unfolding before their eyes. They gathered in a crowd, their expressions ranging from awe to disbelief, as they watched the dragon unleash its fiery wrath upon the unsuspecting opponents. The whole area became a temporary inferno, an arena of blazing fire and swirling heat. The ground beneath their feet trembled, as if the very earth responded to the raw power unleashed by the dragon. The air sizzled with the heat of the flames, and the scent of burning lingered in the surroundings. 

In the midst of the chaos, Simon and his Nomad stood resolute, their bond solidified through their display of strength and skill. The dragon, a testament to their conjuring abilities, stood tall, its presence commanding reverence and admiration. The victorious display of elemental might left an indelible impression on the minds of all who bore witness to it.   

As the flames subsided and the fiery aura faded, leaving only a smouldering aftermath, the other contestants exchanged glances, their faces filled with a mix of awe and a newfound determination. They had seen the true potential of the contest, the extraordinary heights to which their abilities could ascend. With the dragon’s fiery display, Simon and his Nomad had ignited a spark within the hearts of all who witnessed it. The practice area, once a realm of mere training, had become a theatre of awe and inspiration, fuelling the aspirations of the contestants and reminding them of the extraordinary journey that awaited them in Promega. 

The disembodied announcer of the contestant spoke loudly from nowhere;  

“Simon you will report to the facility, at once”