Episode 14 - The Blood Bond
Scene 1: Frustration and Scolding
Master Ju's scolding leaves Ryu visibly upset. She storms out of the gathering, brushing off Kai's attempts to cheer her up.
Kai: "Ryu, don't take it so hard. He's just... you know, Master Ju being himself."
Ryu: "It's not that. I'm just... tired of everyone thinking I'm nothing."
She unconsciously rubs her waist where the faint mark of the red pearl lies hidden under her clothing.
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Scene 2: The Crystal's Dark Transformation
Later that evening, as students continue attempting to approach the crystal, Ryu watches from the shadows, unwilling to draw attention to herself. Wa Leyi, a new and highly talented student, steps forward.
Wa Leyi: "Step aside. I'll take care of this."
As Wa Leyi channels his energy, the crystal begins to glow faintly red, but the energy dissipates before he can stabilize it. The crowd murmurs in awe of his strength but frustration grows as the crystal remains unyielding.
Nearby, Ryu feels a sharp pain in her waist. She gasps as a single drop of blood seeps through her clothing and falls silently to the ground. The crimson bead rolls unnoticed toward the crystal, evaporating the moment it touches the barrier.
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Scene 3: Chaos Unleashed
The crystal, once dormant, begins to pulse with an ominous black glow. The air grows heavy, and a low rumble shakes the ground.
Student 1: "What's happening?!"
Student 2: "Is it going to explode?!"
The crystal starts growing larger, its once-clear surface darkening as black tendrils of energy snake outward. All the students panic and scatter, leaving only the masters to intervene.
Master Ju and the other instructors rush forward, their combined energy creating a protective barrier around the crystal.
Master Ju: "Focus! If we don't contain this, it could destroy the entire academy!"
Their powers clash with the crystal's wild energy, creating a spectacular light show of black and red against the night sky.
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Scene 4: The Crystal's Transformation
After a grueling effort, the crystal suddenly shifts. The black energy subsides, leaving behind a brilliant, glowing red crystal that radiates warmth and serenity. The masters lower their hands, staring in shock at the transformed crystal.
Master Ju: "In all my years... I've never seen anything like this."
Master Zhou: "The crystal's energy... it's more stable than ever."
The students return cautiously, marveling at the crystal's beauty. None of them notice Ryu, standing quietly in the shadows, clutching her waist.
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Scene 5: Misplaced Recognition
Wa Leyi, still standing near the crystal, is suddenly surrounded by excited students.
Student 1: "It must've been you, Wa Leyi! Your power was incredible!"
Student 2: "You transformed the crystal! You're amazing!"
Wa Leyi looks uncertain but accepts the praise, basking in the admiration of his peers.
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Scene 6: Ryu's Struggle
Ryu watches from afar, her heart sinking. She knows the truth — her blood had something to do with the crystal's transformation. But how could she explain it? Would anyone even believe her?
Kai finds her and notices her pale face.
Kai: "You okay, Ryu? You look like you've seen a ghost."
Ryu: "It's nothing... I just need some air."
As she walks away, the camera focuses on the faint black aura still lingering around the mark on her waist.
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Scene 7: A New Challenge
Later that night, Master Ju and Master Zhou discuss the day's events.
Master Zhou: "We need to keep a close eye on Wa Leyi. If his power truly affected the crystal, he could be key to unraveling its mysteries."
Master Ju: "Perhaps. But I have a feeling there's more to this than meets the eye."
The episode ends with Ryu lying awake in her bed, staring at her mark. She whispers to herself, "What's happening to me?"
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