THE ONE WHO WE COULDN'T SAVE

Caius let out a sigh of relief, his chest rising and falling as the tension eased from his muscles. He turned to Dylan, a tired but satisfied smile crossing his face.

Dylan, still catching his breath from his own battle, smirked back. "Sheesh took you long enough" he teased. "Thought you were gonna let the knight walk all over you for a second."

Cauis chuckled shaking his head. "Yeah well… couldn't let you and the others hog the spotlight."

The knights observed the scene with quiet respect, acknowledging the strength and determination of the young fighters

Dylan stretched his arms still feeling the exhaustion from his match, then turned to Cauis. "Alright, let's go check on June. I wanna see how she's doing."

Cauis nodded his expression softening. "Yeah, she pushed herself way too hard."

The two walked together toward where Axel and Alisan had taken June, their steps a little slower from fatigue

As they arrived Dylan spotted June sitting up already awake and chatting with Alisan. 

"Yo, you're up already?" Dylan said, walking over with a grin. "Guess I worried for nothing."

June glanced at him and smirked. "Of course I'm up. You think a little mana exhaustion is enough to keep me down?"

Cauis chuckled. "Looks like she's back to normal."

June raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Oh? Was it really that cool?"

Dylan crossed his arms, puffing out his chest. "Of course! I had this whole plan faked a spell and then BOOM flashbang! The knight didn't see it coming."

Alisan chuckled. "And yet, you still ended up on the ground, exhausted."

Dylan surprised asked "Wait, how did you know?"

June smirked and crossed her arms. "The knights told us. Apparently, you knocked yourself out before they could even land a proper hit on you."

Dylan groaned rubbing the back of his head. "Man, they didn't have to say it like that… I made it look cool, at least."

Alisan laughed. "Yeah, yeah, whatever you say Mr. Flashbang."

The group burst into laughter the tension from the sparring matches fading away. Even June still recovering couldn't help but smile at Dylan's antics.

Cauis shook his head with a grin. "Well at least we all gave it our best. That's what matters."

Dylan pouted. "Yeah, yeah. But next time I'm winning without collapsing, got it?"

June smirked. "We'll see about that."

With their spirits high they enjoyed the moment knowing they had grown stronger together.

Moments later, a royal Maid approached the group bowing respectfully before speaking.

"Heroes His Majesty has summoned you. Please make your way to the throne room at once."

The group exchanged glances their laughter fading as they realized the weight of the summons. Cauis nodded stepping forward. "Understood. We'll be there shortly."

June still regaining her strength stood up with Alisan's help. Dylan stretched shaking off his exhaustion. "Well, guess our break is over."

With a sense of anticipation, they all made their way toward the throne room.

As they entered the grand throne room the towering pillars and golden chandeliers reflected the majesty of the kingdom. The king sat upon his throne a warm yet commanding presence surrounding him.

With a kind smile he greeted them. "Hello, heroes. Did you all have a good rest after that sparring match?"

Dylan stretched his arms with a tired grin. "Rest? Not really. That fight took more out of me than I thought."

June nodded, still feeling the strain of her battle. "It was tough, but we managed."

Cauis, standing tall replied respectfully "It was a great learning experience Your Majesty."

The king chuckled. "That's good to hear. Your progress is truly remarkable. Now, let's get to the reason I summoned you."

The heroes exchanged glances sensing that something important was about to be revealed.

The king's words carried a sense of pride and encouragement as he gazed upon the group.

"As I observed you all earlier I found it reassuring that you are not only talented but also powerful. To be able to stand against an elite knight a 2-star at that is no small feat. You don't see that every day so be proud of yourselves," he said with a smile.

The heroes straightened, a sense of accomplishment washing over them.

"With that in mind" the king continued "I believe you are ready to set out on your adventure together. As you travel, you will grow even stronger. To aid you on your journey, I will provide you with some items that will make things easier for you."

Dylan's eyes lit up. "Whoa, we're getting gifts? Now that's what I'm talking about!"

June chuckled. "This must mean our real journey is about to begin."

Cauis nodded. "We won't let you down, Your Majesty."

The king gestured to one of his attendants who stepped forward, carrying a chest filled with supplies. "Take these and may they serve you well in the challenges ahead."

The king smiled as he watched them inspect the contents. "These items should help you on your journey but remember your strength comes from within. Trust each other and you will go far."

The group bowed respectfully, their heads lowered in gratitude. "Thank you, Your Majesty," they said in unison.

The king smiled warmly at their response. "You are most welcome. May these items assist you in your journey. Remember the road ahead may be tough, but I believe in your strength."

Now, go forth and make your mark," the king added, his voice full of encouragement.

With a final nod to the king, the group turned and left the throne room, their hearts filled with anticipation for the road ahead.