89 Sato's Training

"I... I can't..." I shamefully averted my gaze. Though he hadn't said what we were training for, I knew he planned to have me use my affinity.

"Why? Barik said, unfazed.

"It's because," I clenched my fists, "I'm... I can't... I can't deal with fire. It terrifies me." I turned my head to the ground and bit my lip in frustration. I hated that I couldn't make use of my power, but using fire was too much of a hurdle for me.

"So?" Barik sighed and crossed his arms. "Fire terrifies a lot of things, kid. But there's no time to be coddled. Let's go; I'm not taking no for an answer."

Fear welled up in my heart, and my legs were locked to place. The idea of setting myself ablaze left my mind dizzy with dread.

"Well? C'mon...  We don't have all night," Barik walked up and took me by the shoulder. "If you won't move, I'll move you myself."