Page 203

--donation bonus (day #7, post 3/5)--
Hector roared down the highway. Traffic was a bit heavier than before but still nowhere near as uncomfortable as the city. After a while, he remembered another question.

‘Desmond’s ability,’ said Hector. ‘Didn’t you say you’d explain?’

‘Ah, yes. Desmond’s ability falls under the category of transfiguration. I think the big guy’s did, too.’

‘Which means...?’

‘Transfiguration abilities allow the user to replace body parts with a particular element. In Desmond’s case, I would guess that element was sodium.’

‘Sodium? That doesn’t explode... does it?’

‘When mixed with water, it does.’

‘Oh. So he was using... hmm.’

‘Technically, it’s not the sodium itself that’s responsible. Heat from the chemical reaction ignites the hydrogen that is expelled as a result.’

‘I... okay.’

‘Sodium and water can explode quite violently, but even so, Desmond’s explosions seemed more powerful. I assume he was also employing a soul-strengthening technique to give them an extra punch.’

‘Soul-strengthening... That sounds... useful.’

‘It’s basically just enhancing physical qualities through the application of mental force. It’s something you can only do when your imaginary power grows stronger.’

‘I’m guessing it’s not as easy as that first step was.’

‘It’s not easy or hard, actually. And unlike your iron ability, it can’t grow in sudden bursts through mental stress. Imaginary power is based upon the manipulation of your soul.’

‘So, what? More meditation, then?’

‘No. After the first step is taken, the only way to increase your imaginary power is time.’

‘Wha?’

‘See, I have control of your soul. In order for you to manipulate it, too, you and I have to spend more time together. Gradually, your soul and mine will become more synchronized.’

‘You mean, like... through the power of friendship or some shit?’

Garovel laughed. ‘No. Friendship doesn’t really factor in, unfortunately. It’s just a kind of natural osmosis that happens over time.’