"Arise, my dear slumbering companions! The morning repast awaits you," called Astraa, her visage aglow with a radiant smile as she beheld the sluggish efforts of Lykaa and Minosa to rouse themselves from their sleep.

  Lykaa, still drowsy and loath to abandon the warmth of her bed, murmured in protest, "Astraa, I truly cannot summon the strength to forsake this cocoon of comfort. I am bereft of any hunger."

  Minosa, in harmonious agreement with Lykaa, sighed, "Indeed, I concur with Lykaa. My head throbs with such intensity that I cannot bear the thought of rising." With that, she burrowed herself deeper into the sanctuary of her covers.

  Astraa, her countenance now adorned with a mischievous grin, resolved to take matters into her own hands. With playful exuberance, she leaped upon her friends, endeavoring to stir them from their morning lethargy.

  Amid muffled protests, Lykaa and Minosa cried out, their voices stifled by pillows, "Astraa, cease this torment! You cannot fathom the depths of our misery."

  Disregarding their entreaties, Astraa persisted in her endeavor to rouse them.

  "Consider this retribution for your lack of support last night," she quipped, her tone light but teasing.

  In playful desperation, Lykaa and Minosa cried out, "Someone, rescue us from this torment!"

  The commotion reached the ears of Lady Moula, who swiftly entered the chamber.

  With a mild rebuke, she addressed Astraa, "Astraa, cease this rough treatment of your friends. At least they know how to enjoy themselves from time to time."

  With a gentle smile, Lady Moula presented a plate of breakfast to the beleaguered Lykaa and Minosa.

  "Here, my dears, partake in this meal. It shall work wonders, restoring you to your spirited selves in no time."

  "Lady Moula, you needn't have troubled yourself. We are most thankful, and we apologize for any inconvenience we may have caused," they said in unison.

  "Inconvenience? I raised two rambunctious boys—this is hardly anything at all. And Astraa, I beseech you, do not vex them further while I am away," she added, casting a stern glance in Astraa's direction.

  Feigning innocence, Astraa responded with a sly smile, "Certainly, Grandmother."

  Noticing Astraa's mischievous expression, Lykaa and Minosa exchanged worried glances and earnestly implored, "Please, Lady Moula, do not leave us alone with her!"

  Meanwhile, within the confines of Markon's abode, Flanco slowly emerged from his alcohol-induced stupor, his recollections of the previous night scattered and unclear.

  "How did I end up here? Did I truly manage to walk all this way unaided?" he muttered, still somewhat dazed and disoriented.

  "Walk?," Gargus responded with a laugh. "Sir Leon practically had to haul you here. You were the first among us to succumb to the drink."

  Flanco rubbed his temples, trying to piece together the events of the previous night. "Last night was... rather enjoyable," he remarked, a faint trace of naivety coloring his tone.

  Gargus rolled his eyes in exasperation. "Enjoyable, you say? You slept through quite a ruckus, and, truth be told, you were the least useful among us all."

  "What on earth did I do? What transpired?"

  Gargus sighed heavily before beginning to recount the events of the previous night. As Flanco listened, his disbelief grew with each revelation, realizing how much he had missed.

  "Oh, heavens! That could have been a catastrophe. Thank the stars Sir Skarsnay and Sir Leon arrived just in time. Astraa, who hadn’t even touched a drop of drink, might have found herself in grave peril," Flanco exclaimed, his words tinged with concern.

  Gargus swiftly hushed him. "Lower your voice. Markon is nearby."

  Markon stood apart, his demeanor somber and weighed down by some unspoken burden.

  What troubles him so?" Flanco whispered to Gargus.

  "Ever since Sir Leon departed from our company last night, Markon has been in this state. He is deeply distressed over the entire affair."

  Flanco, beginning to grasp the situation, probed further. "Is it due to the fracas at the tavern?"

  "Precisely. Astraa, the sole sober one among us, shielded both me and Markon from one of those ruffians. Subsequently, Sir Skarsnay came to our aid. Thus, Markon feels despondent, not only for his inability to protect the maiden he admires but also for being rescued by her and her uncle."

  Flanco could not suppress a chuckle. "Well, that is indeed quite mortifying."

  Markon, having clearly overheard their exchange, interjected irritably, "Who claims we are unable to assist? Had it not been for the drink, we could have managed the situation ourselves.Why not approach Astraa, offer our apologies, and assure her that we shall always stand by her side from this day forth?"

  "Do you recall what Astraa conveyed to us last night?" Gargus replied. "She explicitly stated that she does not hold us accountable for her safety and that she requires no rescue. Indeed, she was the one who saved us while maintaining her sobriety. Do you genuinely believe that a girl of her caliber would be swayed by mere words?" Flanco nodded in solemn agreement.

  Flanco added, offering a measured perspective. "Considering the events of last night at the tavern, it is highly improbable that the ladies will venture out in the near future. With only a week remaining before our training commences, our window to make a favorable impression is narrow. If you are truly intent on earning Astraa’s esteem, mere words will avail you little. You must demonstrate through deeds that you possess the fortitude and resilience akin to her uncle, Sir Skarsnay. Such actions will be the surest means to leave a lasting mark upon her."

  Markon inhaled deeply, striving to temper his frustration. He acknowledged the wisdom in their counsel, and a sense of determination stirred within him. Resolute to prove his worth to Astraa, he recognized that his efforts must be shown through his performance rather than through empty promises. The time had come to rise to the challenge and reveal the true measure of his character in their forthcoming training.

  A full week had elapsed since that momentous occasion when Astraa, Minosa, and Lykaa stood steadfast before the illustrious Arela School for Warriors. It was here, in this very locale, that they had triumphed over formidable trials, heralding the commencement of their transformative journey as Eternals.

  "Ladies, we have journeyed thus far; there is no room for complacency now," she proclaimed, her gaze ablaze with fierce determination.

  Minosa, the spirited firebrand of the group, affirmed her commitment with equal fervor. "You may depend upon me, Astraa. I shall not falter," she asserted, her eyes mirroring the steadfast determination embodied in her words.

  Lykaa, nodded in solemn accord. "I second Minosa's assertion." she affirmed, her calm demeanor providing a stark contrast to the fiery determination of her companions.

  Awaiting them at the entrance stood Gargus, Markon, and Flanco, the trio of friends who had shared in the memorable yet chaotic events at the tavern.

  Astraa’s surprise was palpable as she greeted them.

  "Ah, what a delightful surprise! How fare you, my fellow warriors?" she remarked, observing the timely arrival of the young men.

  Markon, wearing a warm smile that exuded confidence, replied, "We have been well and remain as steadfastly motivated as ever."

  Astraa could not resist delivering a light-hearted jest. "That is reassuring, for you may rest assured that we shall not be lenient with you."

  Flanco, taking Astraa’s banter in stride, retorted playfully, "When, pray tell, have you ever shown us leniency, Astraa?"

  After exchanging sincere well-wishes, Lykaa prepared to take her leave, saying, "Very well, my friends. I must away to meet Lady Hermiosa and reunite with the other healers."

  Amidst the gathering, Markon endeavored to maintain his focus, his gaze steadfastly fixed ahead as he struggled to keep his composure with Astraa by his side.

  Flanco, ever the perceptive friend, discerned the turmoil within his comrade and offered a whispered counsel.

  "Markon, stay your focus. Now is not the hour for distractions. Prove yourself in training, and you shall surely capture her attention."

  Gargus could not resist jesting about the situation. "How the tides have turned! It was once Markon who reminded us to remain steadfast, and now here we are, admonishing him," he remarked with a chuckle.

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  Their lighthearted banter was abruptly interrupted when a commanding voice resounded from behind them.

  "You knaves still have not learned a thing, have you?" Sir Skarsnay’s voice sent a shiver racing down their spines.

  Startled, Gargus and Flanco turned with alacrity. "Sir... Sir Skarsnay, we were unaware of your presence. We beg your pardon," Gargus stammered.

  Minosa, delighting in their predicament, could not suppress a smirk.

  "Astraa and Minosa," Sir Skarsnay intoned, "from your earliest days, I have been the one to impart foundational training and instruction. However, I assure you that the coming three months will present challenges unlike any you have previously encountered. Therefore, I expect nothing less than steadfast dedication."

  Accustomed to his stern yet benevolent guidance, Astraa and Minosa responded promptly, their voices rising in unison, "Yes, sir!"

  "In the coming three months, you shall undergo rigorous training in advanced absorption techniques and hand-to-hand combat. I shall not temper my demands, and I require your utmost dedication. Remember that your final trial to attain the status of Eternals will be conducted during the Blooming Festival. Failure is not an option."

  Skarsnay’s tone grew even more somber as he addressed the group.

  "Furthermore, recall that following these initial three months, you will engage in training across various states. You will encounter trials and adversities beyond any you have previously faced, yet the effort will be rewarded when you achieve your aspirations."

  He paused, scrutinizing each of them with unwavering intensity. "So, do I have your commitment?"

  Minosa, Astraa, Markon, Gargus, and Flanco responded with resounding determination, their spirits ignited by Sir Skarsnay’s impassioned address. "Yes!" they shouted in unison, fully prepared to confront the trials and tribulations that lay ahead.

  Meanwhile, Lykaa had assembled with Yeric and Amara, standing before Lady Hermiosa.

  "How fare you?" Yeric asked, his voice imbued with genuine delight. "I perceive that you have grown in confidence."

  Lykaa returned his warm smile, grateful for his encouragement. Amara, ever the silent and enigmatic presence, remained characteristically reserved.

  "Very well, healers, gather round," Lady Hermiosa commanded, drawing their attention.

  "Having successfully completed your initial trials, the three of you are now healers in your own right, already serving the people of Arela, and, if needed, those of Valendeya as well," Lady Hermiosa began.

  "Unlike warriors, who must face three trials, healers require only two to be fully recognized. Yet, to attain the esteemed title of Eternal Healer, you must undertake one final trial—this time alongside the warriors. For this, you shall undergo six months of rigorous training: three months under my guidance, after which you will be assigned to various regions to complete the remainder of your preparation."

  She paused, her gaze unwavering. "The choice is yours. Should you wish to remain a healer, you may apprentice with me for a time before setting out on your own path. However, if you aspire to become an Eternal Healer, you must be prepared to endure the most demanding of trials and commit to serving along the borders of Valendeya."

  Lady Hermiosa paused, her gaze sweeping over her healers. "The choice is yours. What shall you decide?"

  Lykaa, promptly declared, "We shall undertake the training to become eternal healers."

  Amara, displaying equal determination, affirmed, "Indeed, Lady Hermiosa, I willingly accept your guidance."

  Yeric, added, "Count me in as well."

  With their decisions firmly made, the healers embarked upon their arduous training journey, wholly dedicated to perfecting their skills.

  Sir Skarsnay, commanding the attention of his eager pupils, began " as you are well aware, the initial trials were designed to assess your absorption capabilities. Every Valendeyean learns from birth to interact with and absorb the natural elements, further refining these skills through education. Such knowledge is indispensable in their daily lives. However, to rise to the esteemed rank of Eternals, your absorption abilities must exceed those of the average Valendeyean. Thus, the preliminary trials serve chiefly to identify those with the potential to attain the status of Eternals."

  He paused, his gaze stern and unwavering. "To truly achieve the rank of a fully-fledged Eternal, you must attain a heightened level of energy absorption and refine your combat skills to their utmost potential. These are the skills I shall impart to you during our time together."

  "Before we embark upon hand-to-hand combat," declared Sir Skarsnay, "it is essential that each of you masters the advanced art of energy absorption. In your initial trial, you absorbed energy from water to enhance your speed. However, you depended upon a tangible water source, such as the trough you used at the time, to activate your speed runes. In the heat of battle, such conveniences will not be at your disposal. So, what is the solution?"

  A profound silence fell over the training area.

  "One absorbs the water vapor present in the air, just as you did."

  "Excellent insight, Astraa," commended Sir Skarsnay. "You are entirely correct. Unlike you, I never sought out a direct water source. Instead, I harnessed the water vapor present in the air. Similarly, in our second trial, I did not kneel and touch the ground to activate my strength runes. I employed my feet to absorb energy from the earth. Picture yourself dropping to your knees in battle—such an act would render you vulnerable to your adversary. This is precisely why mastering advanced absorption is of paramount importance."

  He continued, "Just as you initially learned to absorb energy by touching and feeling the water and the earth, so must you now extend this practice. However, this time, it is not confined to your arms; you must extend your sensation throughout your entire being. Every part of yourself should be adept at absorbing energy. Achieving this will demand both mental fortitude and unwavering concentration."

  With a sweeping gesture, Sir Skarsnay extended his arms, demonstrating his advanced absorption skills as he drew water from the surrounding air and activated his runes. The candidates watched in awe at the effortless grace with which he performed this remarkable feat.

  "Bear this in mind: I shall not commence your hand-to-hand combat training until you have mastered this skill," Skarsnay declared, instilling a sense of urgency. "You have but three months to train under my guidance. The more swiftly you master advanced absorption, the greater the time you will have to devote to your hand-to-hand combat training." His words resonated heavily in the air, imbuing the young candidates with a pressing sense of purpose.

  As Sir Skarsnay’s words resonated with a weight of expectation, Markon felt a tightening knot of anxiety in his stomach. He glanced about and noted that Flanco and Gargus bore expressions of similar apprehension. The gravity of the forthcoming challenge was tangible.

  Then his gaze alighted upon Astraa, and he was struck by the fervor in her eyes. Her resolve gleamed like a beacon amidst the uncertainty. It seemed as though she had received Sir Skarsnay’s words not as a burden but as a direct challenge, one she was determined to surmount. Her indomitable spirit radiated an aura of unshakable confidence.

  In that moment, Markon found himself wholly captivated by Astraa's presence. Her inner fortitude and resolve bestowed upon him an unexpected surge of self-assurance. It became increasingly clear why she was the first woman to stir such feelings within him. She personified a courage and tenacity that inspired those around her, a quality capable of transforming uncertainty into resolute determination.

  Markon found himself unable to shake the gravity of Sir Skarsnay's words. The weight of his decision pressed upon him like an anvil. He realized that he would not be able to train alongside Astraa until he had mastered the elusive skill of advanced absorption.

  This understanding, rather than extinguishing his spirit, ignited a newfound determination within him.

  As the young warriors and their companions began their journey home, the weight of Sir Skarsnay's words lingered heavily in their minds.

  Amidst their walk, a conversation blossomed. Flanco, wearing a pensive expression, broke the silence. "Do you believe we ought to train together?" he mused aloud.

  Gargus, equally absorbed in thought, replied, "Indeed, that was also on my mind."

  "I have no objections, provided that Astraa is in agreement", replied Minosa.

  Markon, however, held his breath, anticipation shimmering in his eyes. He longed for Astraa's consent, as it would spare him the solitude of mastering advanced absorption.

  Sensing Markon's unspoken yearning, Minosa turned her gaze toward Astraa, her voice imbued with hope. "So, what say you, Astraa?"

  Astraa, with a measured and thoughtful response, elucidated her decision.

  "I believe it is wisest for me to train alone. Please understand, advanced absorption is a skill we must master individually. If it were not so, Sir Skarsnay would have imparted it directly to us. While I deeply value your companionship, training together might only serve as a distraction rather than a means to enhance my progress."

  Her words, though received with understanding, cast a shadow of solitude over Markon's hopes, who now faced the challenge of proving his mettle alone.

  "It appears I was misguided in my expectations," said Flanco with a chuckle, allowing his disappointment to show.

  Gargus, wearing a look of mild resignation, agreed, "It appears we are left with just the four of us, then."

  Markon, acutely aware of the significance of his choice yet resolute in his determination to prove himself, declared firmly, "No, count me out as well. Astraa’s reasoning resonates with me. I shall undertake my training in solitude."

  His words garnered a meaningful glance from Astraa, a silent acknowledgment of his commitment to forge his own path.

  Gargus could not help but jest with Minosa, "So, Minosa, are you with us, or will you forsake us like Markon has?" His tone was playful, knowing well what her response would be.

  Minosa, laughing in good spirits, reassured her companions, "Oh no, I am steadfastly with you."

  With their decision firmly made, the group prepared to embark on their individual quests to master the elusive art of advanced absorption.

  In the healing hanger, Lady Hermiosa continued to address her apprentices.

  "As you have chosen to advance with your training, allow me to remind you of the esteemed role that healers traditionally occupy. Our vocation is one of noble service, dedicated to the care and recovery of the injured. However, as eternal healers who will stand alongside the eternal warriors, your responsibilities will transcend mere healing.

  You will also be called upon to offer defense to the warriors in their times of peril. This is why you shall undergo three months of rigorous training under my stewardship."

  Lady Hermiosa continued, imparting a touch of history to her attentive students.

  "In bygone eras, and even during my own tenure, the role of eternal healers was chiefly centered on the art of healing the eternal warriors. However, a groundbreaking concept was introduced by a visionary royal guard, who possessed a deep interest in the healing arts. This innovation sought to expand the role of healers beyond mere healing, incorporating their skills into the defense of the eternal warriors."

  Lykaa, her curiosity piqued, ventured to express her desire to align her path more closely with that of her friends Astraa and Minosa. With a spark of eagerness in her gaze, she asked, "Will we also have the opportunity to learn hand-to-hand combat, akin to the eternal warriors?"

  Lady Hermiosa pondered the question momentarily before responding with a tone both measured and practical.

  "Our primary function is to provide defense. While it is indeed possible to acquire hand-to-hand combat skills, it is not a central component of our core training. Should you wish to pursue mastery in combat, you may need to seek the guidance of Sir Skarsnay."

  "That said," she elaborated, "you have a mere three months to attain proficiency in defensive techniques. Balancing these rigorous demands with the pursuit of additional skills may indeed present a formidable challenge. Yet, should you succeed, the benefits will accrue not only to you but also to your comrades. The choice is yours."

  Amara's voice sliced through the air with an edge of skepticism, her tone as crisp as a winter's breeze. "Indeed, it seems more likely that mastering the basics of defensive techniques will demand all your effort. The notion of adding combat skills appears somewhat ambitious."

  Lykaa, unaccustomed to such direct confrontations, felt a sharp pang of surprise and discomfort at Amara's frosty remark. She hesitated, uncertain of how to reply.

  With a warm smile toward Lykaa, Yeric declared, "I am not so certain of that. I firmly believe that when Lykaa sets her mind to something, there is nothing beyond her reach." His words brought a grateful smile to Lykaa's face.

  "That will be all for today. Our training commences at first light tomorrow. I expect each of you to be punctual to the very second.

  "The assembled healers responded in unison, "Yes, Lady Hermiosa."

  Thus began the demanding regimen of training for both healers and warriors.