Chapter 37: Marcelino’s two months result of training

It had been two months since John, known to the world outside as Marcelino, began his training at the Venom Hunters. During this time, the rigorous and grueling schedule had reshaped him into a formidable force. His muscles had become well-defined and his body, a testament to relentless dedication, showed a newfound strength. Even Anamae, his mentor and a master in martial arts and assassination, watched his transformation with an impressed eye.

In these months, Marcelino had come to understand not just the physicality required of a leader but also the psychological resilience. He learned that power wasn’t merely the ability to conquer others but the discipline to conquer oneself.

The morning air was crisp and cool as Marcelino made his way to the training ground. His steps were steady, his focus unwavering. Today was no different than any other day at the Venom Hunters—demanding and intense. But Marcelino welcomed the challenge, knowing that each day brought him closer to his goal.

As he approached the training arena, the familiar sounds of combat and exertion filled the air. But beneath the usual din, there was a whisper of anticipation, a charged energy that spoke of an impending confrontation.

Victor, the arrogant young master with a perpetual grudge against Marcelino, was waiting. His expression was one of smug confidence as he watched Marcelino approach.

“Well, well, if it isn’t the rising star of Venom Hunters,” Victor sneered, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Marcelino met his gaze with calm resolve. “Victor, what do you want?”

Marcelino chuckled, the sound echoing through the arena. “I want to see if the rumors are true. Let’s see if you’ve really become something more than just a weakling.”
Marcelino’s eyes narrowed. He knew Victor’s type—one who thrived on belittling others to elevate himself. But today, he felt no need to prove anything to Victor. Still, he understood that refusing a challenge would only invite more trouble.

“Alright, Victor. Let’s settle this,” Marcelino said, stepping into the ring with an air of quiet confidence.

Victor smirked, clearly relishing the opportunity to put Marcelino in his place. “You’ll regret this, you know. I’ve been training hard just for this moment.”

Without another word, the fight began. Victor lunged forward, his movements aggressive and unrestrained. But Marcelino had spent two months honing his skills, and he met Victor’s attack with precision and control.

Their fists flew, a blur of motion and sound as they exchanged blows. The crowd of students gathered around them, watching with bated breath.
“You think you’re better than us because of some talent?” Victor taunted, trying to break Marcelino’s focus.

Marcelino parried Victor’s strike with ease, countering with a swift jab. “This isn’t about being better, Victor. It’s about proving to myself what I’m capable of.”

Victor sneered, launching into another attack. But Marcelino was ready, his movements fluid and deliberate. Each step, each punch was calculated, the result of hours of training under Anamae’s watchful eye.
The two fighters circled each other, the tension between them crackling in the air. But just when it seemed like the fight was at a stalemate, Victor made a fatal mistake.

He overreached, leaving himself vulnerable. Marcelino seized the opportunity, using a technique he had mastered through endless repetition. He disarmed Victor with a deft twist, sending him sprawling to the ground.

Victor lay on the ground, dazed and humiliated. The crowd erupted in whispers, some shocked, others impressed by Marcelino’s display of skill.

But just as Marcelino turned to walk away, Victor spat out a chilling threat. “You may have won this round, but I know about Angelic.”

Marcelino froze, his heart pounding in his chest. The mention of Angelic, his beloved, sent a shiver down his spine.

“What did you say?” Marcelino demanded, his voice low and dangerous.

Victor grinned maliciously. “You heard me. My family’s reach is vast, and I’ve learned about your little romance. Angelic, wasn’t it? She’s quite the beauty. I wonder what it would be like to have her as a…plaything.”
The threat hung in the air, a sinister promise that ignited a fire within Marcelino. He felt his blood run cold, his mind racing with possibilities.

“Leave her out of this,” Marcelino warned, his fists clenched in anger.

Victor laughed, the sound grating against Marcelino’s nerves. “Why should I? You care for her, don’t you? What will you do to protect her?”

The air in the arena grew tense, the other students watching with a mixture of anticipation and dread. They could sense the shift in John’s demeanor, the quiet determination that promised retribution.
“You want to know what I’ll do?” Marcelino said, stepping closer to Victor. “I’ll make sure you never threaten her again.”

With a burst of speed, John closed the distance between them. His movements were a blur, a testament to his training and newfound strength.

Victor barely had time to react before Marcelino struck, a series of calculated blows that left him reeling. The final strike was a sharp kick to the chest, sending Victor crashing to the ground.
Marcelino stood over him, his expression calm but deadly. “Consider this you’re warning. Don’t come near Angelic, and don’t test me again.”

As Victor lay gasping for breath, Marcelino turned away, his mind already focused on the next steps he needed to take to protect Angelic.
The fight had been a stark reminder of the threats that lurked in the shadows, waiting to strike at the people he cared for. But it had also strengthened his resolve, his commitment to doing whatever it took to keep Angelic safe.

Back at the training compound, Marcelino found a quiet spot to regroup. He knew that Victor’s threat was just the beginning, a harbinger of the challenges that awaited him.

Anamae approached; her expression thoughtful. “You handled that well, John. But you know this is only the start.”

Marcelino nodded, his mind racing with plans and contingencies. “I know. Victor’s just a pawn in a larger game.”

Anamae studied him, her gaze piercing. “You’re thinking about Angelic, aren’t you?”

Marcelino sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I can’t help it. She means everything to me, and I won’t let anyone harm her.”

Anamae’s eyes softened, a rare show of empathy. “You have the strength to protect her, John. But remember, you’re not alone. There are allies to be found, even here.”

Marcelino met her gaze, a sense of gratitude filling him. “Thank you, Anamae. Your guidance means a lot.”

She smiled, clapping him on the shoulder. “You’re going to do great things, John. I believe in you.”

As she walked away, Marcelino felt a renewed sense of purpose. He would protect Angelic, no matter the cost. And he would prove himself worthy of the legacy he had been entrusted with.