Chimper #2349
The air in their shared workshop always smelled of ozone and burnt sugar, a scent Rinoha associated with near-disasters. Their partner, Kael, called it the smell of progress. Kael was all crackling energy and bold pronouncements, while Rinoha was quiet unease and spectacles perpetually in need of cleaning. It was Kael who entered them both into the annual trainee duels in The Crystal Highlands of Armaria. During the final round, Kael was disarmed and trapped. Seeing their friend helpless, the nervous energy within Rinoha finally erupted. The scorching embers they always felt on their back burst into raw, uncontrolled fire, shattering the opponent’s spell and forcing a draw. They didn't win, but they weren't defeated. Since then, the other trainees have called them the Contender. The title still feels too big, but Kael always has a slice of cake ready to celebrate the small victories.
