The Year’s End—Harmony in Action

A year had passed since Mina and the orb began their training. The dojo felt like a second home, but Jiro insisted they couldn’t stay forever. “Harmony isn’t meant to be static,” he said. “It must grow, evolve, and move into the world.”

To mark their progress, Jiro arranged a demonstration in the village square. Mina stood at the center, the orb hovering beside her. A small crowd gathered, including Lyra, Meera, and Mina’s parents, who had grown quieter but more supportive over the year.

Jiro stepped forward, addressing the audience. “What you’ll see today isn’t about strength or skill. It’s about connection. Mina and her companion have learned to move as one—not through control, but through trust.”

He turned to Mina. “Show them.”

Mina nodded, her heart pounding. She stepped into a circular arena marked on the ground. The orb moved in tandem with her, its light steady.

A wooden staff flew toward her, launched by Jiro. Mina shifted smoothly, redirecting the motion with her arm. The orb mirrored her movements, glowing brighter as their energies synchronized.

Another staff came from the opposite side. This time, the orb reacted first, nudging Mina’s arm to intercept. Together, they moved as one fluid entity, deflecting the attacks without force.

The crowd watched in awe as the demonstration continued. By the end, Mina stood in the center, breathing heavily but smiling. The orb’s light pulsed rhythmically, a visible testament to their connection.

Lyra approached as the crowd dispersed, her expression thoughtful. “You’ve grown,” she said simply.

Mina looked at the orb, her smile softening. “We both have.”