Luna opened the scroll on the table. “This was gifted to me by the superior one.” Luna expected excitement but all she was met with was confusion.

“Wow! What is it?” Drippy asked.

“They are instructions on how to use a magic that enhances strength in the hands.” Luna explained. “I’ve seen the power it holds and I think this will give Oliver an edge in his confrontation with Oakgu.”

“So um I don’t really know how to use magic. This all looks like a bunch of gibberish to me.” Oliver said

“Leave that to me. I can teach you how to use magic. Just don’t expect to learn it right away. Lucky for you I am an excellent teacher. I can have you using this magic within a month.” Luna proclaimed

“Luna not to sound rude but I don’t think we have a month.” Oliver said

“Actually we might.” Yadi spoke up. “I hit her with that Frog Poison you made for me Luna.” 

“That’s true! She looked pretty bad. She was still keeping up with Yadi though.” Drippy added.

“If she was hit with the frog poison there is a chance Oliver may not need to fight her.” Luna said

“I don’t want to win that way.” Oliver said crestfallen.

“Don't worry Oliver. I know Oakgu and she isn’t the type to roll over and die. I’ve seen for myself how smart Yadi is. However my people also have some of this knowledge on healing.” Thralla said as she placed a gentle hand on Oliver’s back. “I doubt we have made any advancements since then. If I remember being attacked by a fatal poison it takes about a month to recover. You don’t want to defeat her in a weakened state anyway. You may get the title of War chief but you won’t be able to hold onto it for long. The others won’t respect you and challenge you often.”

“Sounds like everything lines up perfectly. Oliver, you come with me and let’s get to training.” Luna grabbed Oliver and was dragging him outside.

***

Luna and Oliver sat in front of the house. The grass is a beautiful green and the trees swaying in the wind peacefully.

“So what are we doing Luna? I thought this was going to require a lot of note taking.” Oliver asked.

“That part can come later. This part is the most important. You need to be able to breathe and be in the moment.” Luna sounded relaxed.

“Okay? But how could I do that in the midst of a life or death battle?” Oliver said.

“Your enemies can manage it. That’s why they hold the edge over you. While your mind is racing theirs is serene and calm. Close your eyes.” Luna said. Oliver did as instructed. “Now I want you to use your other senses and describe what you experience.”

Oliver felt ridiculous but he did what she said. “ I smell my fathers tree. I can feel the soft grass beneath us. I can hear the leaves falling and the wind blowing gently.”

“You’re doing great Oliver. Now I want you to focus more. Focus on your breathing. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. If it helps, think of it as pulling in the energy you need for the magic and then expelling it in whatever form you wish.” Luna instructed.

Oliver followed her instructions. He felt a bit uneasy at first but as he continued it began to feel more natural. After doing this for a few minutes he felt his mind was clear.

“Exellent job Oliver. How do you feel?” Luna asked

“I feel lighter.” Oliver responded.

“This takes practice. So everyday for this month we are going to meditate like this. To the point where you will be able to do it at any time.” Luna said.

“How will I know if I can use it in combat? What if I freeze up? What if I’m not good enough?” Oliver said, sounding worried.

“Oliver there is no point in stressing yourself out before the time comes. Besides that's where Yadi and Drippy come into play. Yadi was able to keep up with Oakgu so she will be the person you face off against. I feel Drippy is rough around the edges. She has some combat skill but we need to hone it if she is to accomplish her task. By teaching her you can reinforce what you learn. She’s also a bit unpredictable so that will be helpful in teaching you to stay calm. Do you think your mom would be willing to help you and Drippy train?” Luna said.

“That’s a good idea. I’ll ask her. She taught me everything I know so I’m not sure what I will get out of it.” Oliver said. They noticed a large shadow over them.

“No need. I will train them. Remember Oliver, I taught you everything you know not everything I know. I taught you enough to get by but now that I know you are serious and have people to lead it’s time I get serious as well. I will be fighting you as a former War chief, not as your mother.” Thralla said

“I’ll beat you and the current one!” Oliver boasted with a smile. Thralla returned his smile. Luna reluctantly smiled and thought this next month is going to be an entertaining one.