I do not own the rights to Naruto or Marvel
Ogun groggily woke up, his vision blurry, and his mouth dry. He tried to sit up but found himself too weak. Somehow, his body felt lighter, even though it ached everywhere. Ogun felt a straw touch his lips, and he greedily drank, closing his eyes as he savored the coolness of the water. When he was done, he reopened his eyes, and his vision was clearer than before.
Ogun slowly turned his head to see Logan sitting down, his face wearing a blank expression.
"You've been in a coma for three weeks. That snake guy almost killed you. If Storm hadn't shown up, you would have been dead. The one I was fighting turned into mud when I stabbed him in the face," Logan explained.
Ogun started to remember what had happened and looked down at his now missing arm and leg. Where his right knee used to be, there now sat a metal plate, and the same applied to his left shoulder.
Logan's words about Beast's emergency surgery and the upcoming cybernetic prosthetics fell on deaf ears as Ogun's mind was consumed by a seething rage. His gaze remained fixed on the ceiling, his anger burning within him.
Ignoring Logan's continued explanation, Ogun finally broke his silence, his voice raspy from weeks of disuse. "Is he dead?" he asked, his words carrying a mixture of desperation and vengeance.
"No, Storm said that he vomited up a new body before bursting into a bunch of snakes. After that, Beast and I showed up, but he didn't return to fight. My guess is he realized he was outnumbered and retreated," Logan answered. Ogun's fist clenched tightly. Not only had he failed to kill Orochimaru, but the man had also survived being electrocuted by the weather witch. He was about to voice his frustration when the door slid open, revealing Charles Xavier being wheeled in by Storm, while Beast followed with a metal tray covered by a cloth.
"Hello, Ogun. How are you feeling?" Charles asked sincerely.
"I'm fine, Charles. Just furious that he managed to escape," Ogun replied, his determination evident. He mentally vowed to find and put an end to Orochimaru's reign of terror.
Charles nodded in understanding and then gestured towards the tray. "These are the prosthetics that Hank made out of nickel-titanium alloy," he explained. Ogun's gaze shifted to the tray, anticipation and hope flickering in his eyes.
Hank carefully removed the cloth, unveiling the gleaming prosthetics. Ogun's gaze lingered on the intricate craftsmanship, admiring the sleek design and the promise of restored mobility. Hank approached him, a gentle warning in his voice. "This will sting a little."
Ogun braced himself, ready to endure the discomfort in exchange for the chance to regain his independence. He trusted Hank's expertise and knew that the temporary pain would be a small price to pay for the potential freedom and strength the cybernetic prosthetics would provide.
Ogun grunted as he felt the arm and leg being connected to his body. The arm and leg cybernetic prosthetics were meticulously crafted from a resilient nickel titanium alloy, combining strength and flexibility in a seamless design. The sleek, metallic limbs seamlessly integrated with Ogun's body, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
The cybernetic arm, with its smooth contours and precision engineering, replicated the natural movements of a human limb. Its nickel titanium framework offered exceptional durability, capable of withstanding immense pressure and impact. Embedded within the prosthetic were an array of sensors and microprocessors, enabling Ogun to control the limb with remarkable precision. The fingers, coated with a tactile layer, allowed him to grasp objects with a delicate touch or exert a firm grip when needed.
Similarly, the cybernetic leg, composed of the same nickel titanium alloy, possessed a streamlined appearance that blended seamlessly with Ogun's physique. Its joints and articulations mirrored the range of motion of a real leg, providing him with a fluid and natural gait. The prosthetic leg's advanced shock absorption system ensured a comfortable stride, minimizing the impact on Ogun's body while walking or running.
The nickel titanium alloy not only offered exceptional strength and flexibility but also exhibited a lustrous sheen, giving the cybernetic limbs a futuristic and visually striking appearance. The alloy's metallic surface reflected light, creating an eye-catching contrast against Ogun's skin.
Overall, these prosthetics not only restored Ogun's mobility but also enhanced his physical capabilities, allowing him to navigate the world with newfound confidence and grace.
"Thank you," Ogun said softly, expressing his gratitude before sitting up on the bed where he had been lying.
Charles, his voice calm yet firm, inquired further, "What can you tell me about this snake user?" He acknowledged that Logan had already provided his account but wanted to hear more from Ogun.
"His name is Orochimaru. He stands at 5'10" with pale skin and eyes that resemble a snake. He possesses remarkable strength, speed, and evident combat training. Not only can he manipulate snakes, but he also displayed a wind-based attack that inflicted damage to my arm during the fight. Additionally, he referred to Logan's mutation as a 'kekkai genkai,' which translates to 'bloodline limit.' When I questioned him further, he claimed not to possess one, indicating that he is not a mutant," explained the assassin.
A heavy silence filled the room as Charles absorbed the information. Before long, Logan broke the silence, his voice filled with determination.
"If he wasn't a mutant, then what the hell was he?" Logan questioned, his confusion mirroring Ogun's own. The abilities displayed by Orochimaru seemed beyond what a non-mutant should be capable of.
Ogun nodded in agreement with Logan's sentiment, acknowledging the perplexing nature of Orochimaru's powers.
Ororo interjected, her arms folded across her chest, her voice filled with concern. "Whatever he is, we need to be prepared. Orochimaru, along with whoever he's working with, has already seized control of the criminal underworld in Japan. They have eliminated clan heads and merged them into something new. We don't know what their next move will be."
Charles Xavier, deep in thought, finally spoke up. "Ororo is right. We must inform Eric and Raven about what is happening. We may require their assistance."
Hank adjusted his glasses on his face, his voice resolute. "I agree. We need to gather all the help we can get to confront this threat head-on."
"I need to return to my student. I have lost too much time already. With the yakuza's threat identified and their families relocated safely, my obligations to them are fulfilled. I must focus on preparing my student for the challenges that lie ahead. I will search for Orochimaru on my own and contact you when the time is right," Ogun asserted, his determination unwavering. He made a move to stand up and leave, but Hank placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Rest for a few more days, rebuild your strength, and familiarize yourself with the new arm and leg," Hank insisted, his concern evident. Ogun contemplated the suggestion for a moment before relenting, sinking back into the bed. He knew he had much to teach his student, Khalid, mutant or not. Khalid would be his ultimate revenge. While the others strategized, Ogun's mind remained fixated on one thing: the demise of Orochimaru.
Khalid's P.O.V
I watched as the twins diligently practiced their offensive and defensive techniques in slow motion, following Clint's instructions. Clint, with a scroll in hand, walked around them, making corrections and adjustments as they moved. They had been at it for an hour already, putting in the effort to improve their skills.
While I took a break from my personal training, I delegated the task to my clones. Around 50 of them were sent to the forest to practice chakra control. They had already mastered tree walking, but I aimed for them to perform it effortlessly and instinctively. However, their water walking training proved to be more challenging for them. Nonetheless, I trusted that with time and practice, they would overcome the difficulties and improve the skill.
I had also made a copy of the Gentle Fist scroll specifically for Gwen, even though she couldn't use it like a Hyūga clan member. However, I believed it would still be beneficial for her. She had taken to studying it during the twins' training sessions with Barton, and afterwards, she would seek Barton's advice when no one else was around.
I noticed Gwen practicing the katas from the scroll when she thought no one was watching. Her determination to not be left behind by the boys was admirable, and I couldn't help but admire her dedication. With her intelligence surpassing that of the twins, she would probably be the first one to learn about Chakra.
The only thing that had me upset was the fact that Ogun seemed to have disappeared. Since his departure, I hadn't had any serious sparring sessions. Barton never took the spars as seriously as my master did. I was tempted to go back into the time chamber to spar with Iruka, but I eventually gave up on the thought. The next time I entered the chamber would be with Gwen and the twins.
"Alright, that's enough for today," Clint said loudly enough for me to hear. "You boys go wash up and rest."
I watched as Harry and Rowan ran inside, talking about how much they had improved. Clint came over and stood before me, speaking directly to me. "Are you gonna sit there and sulk all day?"
"I'm not sulking. I'm just worried about Ogun. I have a gut feeling that something has happened to him," I replied honestly. I couldn't shake the feeling that Ogun was in danger.
"Ogun can handle himself, kid. You should be out here playing with your cousins and Gwen. By the way, you know she has a crush on you, right?" Clint said, his words carrying a teasing tone.
"No, she doesn't. Besides, we're too young to be thinking of stuff like that," I said, turning my head to hide my blush from Clint's teasing.
"Oh, so you like her too," he said, his smirk evident in his voice.
"It's nothing like that!" I exclaimed loudly. Just then, Gwen came from the side of the house, panting.
"Khal, I did it! I finally learned the stances!" Gwen said with excitement.
"See, I told you she likes you," Clint said, earning a glare from me. Gwen obviously didn't hear him because she moved directly in front of me. I could see a hint of red in her cheeks as her sapphire eyes locked onto mine.
"Can you spar with me?" Gwen asked, and before I could say no, she grabbed my hands. "Please?"
Her plea melted away any apprehension I had about sparring with her. I sighed and said, "Fine, let's see what you can do."
We walked a few feet away from the porch, and Clint followed us, seemingly acting as an official to ensure I didn't go too hard on Gwen. Not that I had any intention of doing so. I just wanted to see how much she had learned. I had already glimpsed the Gentle Fist scroll with my Sharingan.
I watched Gwen as she got into her stance, noticing that her feet weren't in the correct position. Perhaps I could take this opportunity to correct her.
"Aren't you going to take a stance?" Clint asked, and I shook my head in response. "Alright then, begin."
Gwen dashed towards me, while I stood there with my hands behind my back. She threw an open palm towards my chest, but I casually spun around her, positioning myself behind her. I pressed my body against hers, helping her straighten her back and using my knees to adjust her stance. Then, I slid her left leg out to strengthen her footing. After that, I gently guided her arms into the correct positions.
As I guided Gwen into the correct stance, I could feel her body tense with anticipation. She was eager to learn and improve, and I was determined to help her.
"Remember to keep your feet grounded and your body balanced," I advised, my voice calm and encouraging. "Focus on your breathing and let your movements flow naturally."
Gwen nodded, her eyes locked on mine, absorbing every word. With a newfound confidence, she took a step back and prepared herself for another attack.
This time, as she lunged forward, her strikes were more controlled and precise. I could see her applying the techniques she had learned from the Gentle Fist scroll, channeling her energy into each strike. I matched her movements, deflecting her attacks with ease, but also allowing her to feel the impact of her strikes against my defenses.
As the spar continued, Gwen's movements became more fluid and her strikes more powerful. She was adapting quickly, learning from each exchange and adjusting her approach. I could see the determination in her eyes, the fire burning within her.
I decided to test her further, increasing the intensity of my attacks. Gwen met each challenge head-on, countering with her own strikes and evading my attempts to land a hit. She was quick, agile, and her technique was improving with every move.
We continued to engage in a dance of strikes and blocks, each of us pushing ourselves to the limit. Gwen's determination was unwavering, and I could see her confidence growing with each successful strike.
"Excellent job, Gwen," I praised, a smile forming on my face. "Your progress is remarkable. Keep practicing and refining your technique, and there's no doubt you'll become a master of the Gentle Fist."
"Thank you, Khal," she said before turning to head into the house.
"Khal's got a girlfriend," he started singing in a playful manner, like an annoying older brother.
"She's not my girlfriend!" I shouted back at him.
"Then why are you blushing?" Clint said, smiling widely.
"I'm not blushing!" I exclaimed, turning my back to him. This caused Clint to laugh uncontrollably before walking up to me and rubbing my head.
"I'm just kidding, Khalid," he said, not removing his hand from my head. "I have a question for you: How do you feel about archery?"
"I think it's pretty cool, why?" I replied. If he was implying what I think he was, then my body was already tingling with excitement.
"Come, let me show you how to work a bow," Clint said with a wide grin on his face. He started talking enthusiastically about when he first started doing archery, while I was just excited to learn something new.
It was almost time for Coulson to go home, and he was glad. Fury had informed him that the house was ready, and security measures were being installed by S.H.I.E.L.D's science division. Once that was completed, Fury would bring Coulson back home to his future wife and son. Coulson couldn't wait to show Khal what he had discovered, like one of the headbands and a brief history of the village.
Coulson knew he couldn't reveal the violent aspects, but he could share information about the rankings of the shinobi and what they had uncovered about a few clans. He had already received the go-ahead from Fury, just to ensure everything was in order. Fury had emphasized the importance of Khalid knowing his people's origins so that he could be prepared for the Dawn.
Coulson had also been closely following the news from Japan. He couldn't help but wonder who these new players were that had effortlessly taken down the yakuza. So far, they hadn't made any further moves, leading Coulson to speculate that they might be biding their time until they could seize control of the yakuza's business interests as well. Whatever was happening, Coulson knew that S.H.I.E.L.D and Fury had their eyes on it.
As Coulson packed up the few supplies he had acquired during his time there, Dr. Mann entered his RV. "Coulson, we need to talk," the bearded man said quietly.
Curious, Coulson asked, "What is it, Doc?" Dr. Mann glanced around before moving closer.
"Will you and Fury be going after the other villages?" he asked. Coulson remained silent for a moment, ensuring that no one would overhear their conversation, before responding.
"Yes, we will. May will continue the search while I go home to deal with my family. The moment she finds any of them, I will be back to assist," Coulson stated calmly.
"Well, I think you all will need this," said Dr. Mann, pulling out a map. Coulson looked at the map and realized that it didn't resemble Japan's current map at all. "Is this a map of where the villages are located?" Coulson asked, relieved that they wouldn't have to search too hard to find the others.
"Yes, but if we compare it to current maps, we won't find them," Dr. Mann stated. He pulled out two more maps and placed them side by side. Coulson could see that one was a current map, but the other depicted a continent he had never seen before.
"This is Pangea, the last supercontinent to exist on this planet 200 million years ago. This is the map of the villages, and this is a map of the current world," the man explained. "Tell me what you notice."
Coulson examined the maps closely and noticed how the map of the villages resembled the northern half of Pangea. "So you're saying that these villages have been here for over 200 million years?" Coulson asked, his voice filled with surprise.
"I don't know for sure, but I have a theory. Whatever caused the separation of Pangea may have also led to the downfall of this advanced ancient civilization. Perhaps they possessed some form of super weapon that divided them, resulting in humanity reverting to a more primitive state, with only a few exceptions," explained Dr. Mann. Coulson listened attentively as the doctor presented his thoughts.
"Hopefully, whatever caused it will be long gone. At least now we have an understanding of where to look," said Coulson. According to the Doctor's map, there seemed to be one major village in North America, another in the Asian islands, one in North Asia, and another in the northern deserts of Africa.
"This discovery will revolutionize the theory of evolution, revealing that humans are much older than we ever thought. It's the discovery of the century!" exclaimed Dr. Mann, filled with hushed excitement.
"Settle down, Doc. I'm not sure Fury wants to create a scene like the one we witnessed here when we find the other villages," said Coulson, gesturing towards the excavation site outside. "That's why we've removed all the knowledge we found about the other villages. We'll let the world have this village while we secure the information from the others. Then, we can allow you to go public with the discoveries."
"Can you allow me to bring in another colleague?" asked Dr. Mann.
"I'll ask Fury. Who is it?" Coulson inquired, shifting his attention back to the maps.
"Dr. Henry McCoy," replied Dr. Mann.
Clint stood there, stunned at how quickly Khalid had learned to use the bow. Not only was the kid's stance an exact copy of his own, but Khalid's accuracy was on par with Clint's. Ever since Clint had given him the bow, Khalid hadn't missed the target once. With each shot fired, Clint watched in awe as Khalid's arrows grew closer and closer to the center.
Not once had Khalid asked Clint for assistance after Clint had shown him how to hold and fire a bow. Clint was amazed at the kid's ability to learn so quickly. He couldn't help but wonder if Coulson would mind if he took Khalid under his wing once he was done with Ogun.
"That was fun!" Khalid exclaimed loudly, bringing Clint out of his thoughts. Clint looked over to see that out of the 15 arrows Khalid had fired, 7 were scattered in different parts of the target. The remaining 8 were grouped around the center, with one hitting a perfect bullseye.
"You're really amazing, Khalid. If I didn't know any better, I'd say you've been doing this for years," Clint said happily, walking up to the child and placing his hand on his head.
"Thank you, big bro," Khalid replied before quickly covering his mouth with his hand. Clint smiled at the slip-up of affection from the usually reserved Khalid. "If you tell anyone, I will deny it," Khalid added coldly, a slight blush of embarrassment visible on his face.
"Don't worry, little brother. I won't tell anyone," Clint responded, affectionately rubbing the top of Khalid's head. Clint couldn't help but smile as he watched Khalid's face light up at being called little brother.
"Khal! Time for dinner!" they both heard Mary-Ann calling from the porch. "Go on ahead, get cleaned up, and I'll be right there," Clint said, urging Khalid to go inside. He observed as Khalid ran towards his grandmother, who scooped him up with joy evident on her face. It made Clint wonder about his own potential as a father when the time came to have his own kids.
After the duo went inside, Clint took out his phone to make his daily call with his wife, Laura. They ended up talking for an hour, with Laura sharing details about her day and Clint gushing about how amazing Khalid was.
"The kid seems to have made quite an impression on you," Laura teased. Clint loved how his wife indulged his playful side.
"He really has. Khalid is going to be a fantastic uncle when we have kids," Clint said softly.
"I'm sure he will be. Just like how you're going to be a wonderful father," Laura replied sweetly.
"Thank you, you always know how to cheer me up," Clint replied gratefully.
"Of course, my little hawk. Now get back to work. I love you. Talk to you tomorrow," Laura said calmly.
"I love you too, baby," Clint said before hanging up the phone. He slowly made his way inside the house, and as he approached, he could hear Khalid speaking loudly about using a bow for the first time.
"And Onii-chan told me that I did great for my first time," Khalid exclaimed.
"So you're calling me big brother in public now," Clint said, rubbing Khalid's head. This caused the child to mumble something under his breath. Clint simply smiled and joined the table, relishing the warmth of a true family surrounding him.
Khalid's P.O.V
One week later
As summer came to an end, I continued to train myself diligently. Unfortunately, Ogun had not returned as he had promised, which left me feeling disappointed. In the meantime, I focused on improving my physical strength through drills with Barton. The days were mostly uneventful, except for a fight that broke out between Rowan and Harry, resulting in both of them being banned from training for the rest of the vacation.
I also dedicated time to training Gwen in the gentle fist technique. Gwen, in her own right, was a prodigy. She had already learned enough of the gentle fist to compete on an equal level with the twins. I was impressed when she started studying books on pressure points to maximize the effectiveness of the fighting style. It was a pleasant surprise when she asked me to translate the Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms technique, acknowledging that she wasn't ready to learn it yet but was still curious about it.
Today, as I sat in the clearing in the woods, packing up my Shinobi supplies, I stumbled upon the summoning scroll that I had never opened before. Filled with curiosity, I carefully unrolled it, revealing two names inscribed on the parchment. Both names belonged to members of the Kaguya clan, known for their bone manipulation abilities and their affinity for war.
Although the names themselves didn't catch my attention, it was the warning written beneath the second name that gave me pause. It read, "Do not take the sage's challenge unless you want to die. That is not a rabbit but a demon!"
The warning sent a shiver down my spine, and I couldn't help but wonder what kind of perilous challenge awaited those who dared to take it. It seemed that this summoning scroll held secrets and dangers beyond my imagination.
My body trembled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. How strong were these rabbits that only two people had signed the scroll, and one of them even feared them despite possessing power? Ignoring the warning, I bit into my finger, drawing blood, and proceeded to write my name and place my fingerprints at the bottom of the scroll. As I did so, the scroll emitted a faint glow, and my blood stained the paper.
With my hand still bleeding, I performed the hand signs as instructed in the upper corner of the scroll: Boar, Dog, Bird, Monkey, Ram. "Summoning Jutsu!" I thought, slamming my hand onto the ground. I anxiously waited for the smoke to clear, my heart pounding in my chest.
As the smoke cleared, revealing the summoned rabbit before me, I couldn't help but be captivated by its appearance. The rabbit stood at an average size, its body covered in a mesmerizing shade of blue fur that seemed to shimmer in the sunlight. Its fur was soft and velvety, giving the rabbit an almost ethereal quality.
The rabbit's eyes, a piercing shade of crimson, held a sense of wisdom and ancient knowledge. Its ears were long and alert, twitching slightly as it took in its surroundings. I noticed intricate markings on its fur, resembling delicate patterns that seemed to glow faintly with a mysterious energy.
Despite its otherworldly appearance, the rabbit exuded an aura of calm and grace. It seemed to possess a quiet intelligence, as if it understood the significance of its summoning and the power it held. As it bowed before me, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence and anticipation for the journey that lay ahead with this enigmatic creature by my side.
"You must be the new summoner. My name is Umi," the rabbit said in a soft, feminine voice.
"My name is Khalid. Nice to meet you," Khalid replied, extending his hand towards the rabbit. Umi took his hand with both paws and shook it gently.
"It has been a few millennia since we've had a summoner. We were afraid that the summoner had hidden our scroll from the world," Umi explained. Khalid considered mentioning that they were no longer in the Elemental Nations, but decided against it.
"The last owner of the scroll is long dead. So, can you tell me more about the rabbit summons?" Khalid asked, his curiosity piqued. Umi nodded in response.
"We, the Rabbit summon, number in the hundreds. We only allow the strongest clans to mate, ensuring that we don't face overpopulation. Kenja no Heigen, the Plains of the Wise Sages, is our home and is ruled by a council of seven Elder Rabbits and one Grand Elder," Umi explained. Khalid listened attentively, eager to absorb as much knowledge as he could. Umi continued to speak.
"Water, Earth, Fire, Lightning, Wind, Yin, and Yang - each representing the Elders and leaders of their respective clans. The Grand Elder, on the other hand, possesses the ability to wield multiple techniques. The fur color of each clan represents their elemental affinity.
To become a sage as our summoner, you must defeat all seven clan leaders, as well as the representative of the Grand Elder. It is worth noting that the Representative has never been defeated in battle, except by the Grand Elder himself. I would advise against attempting this challenge until you have reached at least the level of a Kage." Umi explained.
From the sounds of it, these clan heads are indeed formidable. However, my primary goal was to learn how to better control my elemental chakra. Perhaps then, I wouldn't struggle as much as Naruto did in creating different elemental Rasengan. The prospect of discovering the identity of the representative, whom only a Kage could defeat, intrigued me greatly. It seemed that things were looking up for me in the long run.
As I remained silent, Umi continued her explanation. "We specialize in Ninjutsu, Taijutsu, espionage, and deliveries. When we deem you ready, we will allow you to choose eight rabbits, one from each clan, to raise as your personal summons for battle. You will have the privilege of naming them. The rest of us will be at your service whenever needed. Do you have any questions?"
"Yeah, I do. How long will it take for all of you to be ready?" I asked eagerly, already envisioning the moment when I could select my personal summons.
"We will host a tournament and choose the best ten from each clan. If I were to estimate, I would say it will take around 5-6 months once I return to inform the other elders about our new summoner," Umi explained.
I raised an eyebrow in surprise and asked, "So, you're an elder?"
"Yes, I am, Khalid-sama," she replied respectfully. Suddenly, Umi's ears perked up, and she turned her head to the side, sensing someone's approach. "Someone is coming. Summon me again if you have any further questions," she said before disappearing in a puff of smoke.
Quickly, I stored away the rest of my gear, including the summoning scroll, and prepared to leave the clearing. Just as I was about to leave, the twins and Gwen entered the clearing, their curious gazes scanning the area.
"Khal, this is where you've been hiding! See, Rowan, I told you I saw him walk into the woods," Harry exclaimed excitedly, walking closer to me.
I smiled at their arrival, glad to see familiar faces. "Hey, guys! Just taking some time to myself. What brings you all here?" I asked, curious about their sudden appearance
"We were looking for you!" Harry practically shouted, throwing his arms around my shoulders in excitement.
I chuckled, feeling a sense of warmth from their enthusiasm. "Well, you found me," I replied, returning the gesture. It was comforting to know that I had friends who cared about me and sought me out.
"You're practicing in secret, aren't you?" Rowan asked, crossing his arms over his chest as he approached me. His suspicion was evident in his tone.
"Caught me, nothing can escape you guys," I replied sarcastically, though I doubted they caught on to my true intentions.
Gwen, on the other hand, seemed more observant. "Who were you talking to?" she asked, her eyes scanning the surroundings as if sensing something. I was surprised that she even heard my conversation.
"I was just talking to myself about learning some new fighting styles," I explained, rubbing the back of my head sheepishly. It seemed to satisfy the twins, who immediately bombarded me with questions about the style I was considering. We engaged in an animated discussion as we made our way back to the ranch.
However, I couldn't help but notice the questioning looks Gwen was giving me. It made me realize that I needed to be more cautious around her. There was a sense of intuition in her that I couldn't ignore, and I knew I had to tread carefully in revealing too much about my secret training.