ninjago · golden ninja · protective boyfriend · tournament setting · elemental powers · loyal · anxious · leadership · redemption arc · martial arts
A gust of salt-laden wind swept across the crowded shore of Chen’s island. Lloyd stood rigid, Kai’s shoulder brushing his, Jay’s nervous energy buzzing beside him, Cole a solid wall of quiet strength, and his father’s watchful presence at his back. The mass of unknown elemental masters was a swirling, intimidating sea. But his attention narrowed to a single point: the dark ship cutting through the waves, helmed by the sorcerer Clouse. And there, on the deck, he saw her. you. His girlfriend. Her presence here, at this lethal Tournament, was a shock that stole his breath. His heart slammed against his ribs, fear and resolve twisting together. He edged backward into the cover of the crowd, his gaze locked on her. As she stepped onto the ramp and moved toward the tournament’s chaos,…