With a heart laden with concern for her cherished friend, Lykaa approached Astraa’s abode and rapped upon the door.

  Astraa’s grandmother, Lady Moula, greeted her with a warm and welcoming smile.

  "Hello, dear. How did your trial fare?" she inquired with gentle interest, bidding Lykaa to enter.

  "It went splendidly, Miss Moula. I am pleased to announce that I am now a healing apprentice," Lykaa responded, her voice imbued with a sense of pride.

  As they settled into the cozy confines of the living room, Lady Moula voiced her unease regarding Astraa’s recent demeanor. "I have observed that Astraa has not been herself since her return. I trust that all is well among you girls," she said, her tone laced with genuine concern.

  Lykaa offered reassurance, "Oh, indeed, all is well. Astraa may simply be a bit weary, but she performed admirably in her trial."

  Lady Moula nodded, her eyes a blend of relief and lingering worry. "That girl has a way of concealing her feelings. Please, do make an effort to comfort her. She is upstairs in her room. Why not relax for a while? I shall call for you when dinner is ready," she suggested with kindness.

  Grateful for the hospitality, Lykaa thanked her and ascended the stairs, her anticipation growing as she sought out her friend.

  Lykaa made her way up the stairs and gently tapped upon the pale green door of Astraa’s chamber. "Astraa, it is Lykaa. May I enter?" she called softly.

  Astraa’s warm and inviting voice replied, "Lykaa, what brings you here? Do come in!" The door swung open to reveal Astraa seated upon her bed, with a tranquil view of the river stretching beyond the window.

  "You departed without a word! Did you truly believe I would allow you to leave without imparting my thoughts?" Lykaa remarked with a playful tone.

  Astraa’s countenance softened as she responded, "I was merely exhausted and wished not to dampen the spirits of the others. That is why I took my leave."

  Lykaa, unable to restrain her emotions any longer, was overwhelmed by tears as she embraced Astraa with a fervent hug. Through her sobs, she whispered earnestly into her friend’s ear, "Forgive me, Astraa. I know you might feel that I’ve concealed matters from you, but it was never my intention to cause you pain. You and Minosa are everything to me. Without your support, I would never have found the resolve to become an apprentice healer."

  Astraa tenderly brushed away Lykaa’s tears and spoke with soothing reassurance, "Lykaa, you could never wound me or anyone else, even if you wished to. That is precisely why you are so well-suited to the role of an apprentice healer."

  As the girls embraced their reconciliation, Lykaa added wistfully, "I do wish Minosa were here as well. It would have made this day truly perfect."

  Astraa nodded in agreement, "You are quite right. But where is Minosa, indeed? Did you not bring her along with you?"

  Lykaa, momentarily at a loss, took a deep breath before revealing the truth.

  "It pertains to Markon," she began, her voice laden with hesitation.

  "Markon?" Astraa’s brows arched in bewilderment. "What has he to do with all of this?"

  Lykaa steadied herself and continued, "Throughout the course of these trials, I suspect that Minosa may have developed feelings for Markon."

  Astraa’s face lit up with a dawning comprehension. "Ah! She spoke of him with such fervor, even before our trial began. I instructed her to focus, which would explain her seeming distance toward me."

  "Well," Astraa chuckled lightly, "at least her dedication bore fruit in her trials, did it not? Her focus has served her well."

  Yet, noticing the grave demeanor upon Lykaa’s face, Astraa ceased her light-heartedness and inquired, "Is there something else that truly troubles Minosa? Surely, there must be more to this matter than meets the eye."

  Lykaa confessed,"Minosa’s feelings for Markon are indeed sincere, and her distance from you stemmed not merely from your request that she focus on the trials. Rather, she felt that Markon’s attention was devoted entirely to you, leaving her with a sense of exclusion and quiet sorrow."

  "Attention?" Astraa responded with a reassuring smile. "Markon’s interest was but an appreciation of my abilities, nothing more. There is no cause for concern. I shall speak with Minosa to clear this up."

  Lykaa managed a strained laugh, fully aware that Markon's admiration for Astraa extended beyond mere appreciation.

  "Once I convey to Minosa that her worries are unfounded, we shall convene at my home tomorrow to celebrate our success," Astraa declared, delighted to have her friend’s company once more.

  At that moment, Lady Moula’s voice rang through the house, "Girls! Come downstairs, for dinner is served!"

  Astraa and Lykaa exchanged playful glances as they made their way downstairs. "Let us descend before she grows impatient," Astraa teased.

  As they gathered around the dinner table, curiosity tinged with anticipation regarding Lady Moula’s culinary offering, Lykaa could not suppress her eagerness.

  "Pray, Lady Moula, what delightful fare have you prepared for us this evening?" she inquired.

  With a warm and gracious smile, Lady Moula responded, "To commemorate your triumphs, I have crafted a special Bleater pie—a dish of tender and flavorful meat from the Bleaters, those charmingly furry creatures akin to goats, which is Astraa’s favorite. Accompanying this are buttered vegetables, breadsticks, and, Lykaa, a treat of shredded Hoger meat, which I know is your preference." (Hogers are large, boar-like animals renowned for their rich and succulent meat.)

  Lykaa’s countenance brightened with uncontainable joy. "You remembered! My deepest thanks, Lady Moula."

  The faces of Astraa and Lykaa illuminated with pleasure at the mention of their beloved dishes. The enticing aroma of the freshly prepared feast filled the air, heightening their eagerness to savor the meal crafted with such care by Astraa’s devoted grandmother. As they partook of the sumptuous dinner, their conversation brimmed with shared stories and hearty laughter, a fitting celebration of their recent successes.

  Lady Moula beamed with satisfaction, her heart warmed by the sight of her granddaughter, Astraa, grinning once more, and she felt deeply appreciative of Lykaa's visit. Her joy was evident as she observed the girls enjoying themselves, their laughter mingling with the delightful aromas of the feast she had prepared.

  The serene ambiance was momentarily interrupted by the sound of a knock on the door. Lady Moula assured the girls to continue their meal as she made her way to answer it.

  "What has delayed you so? Have you been indulging in libations at the tavern?" Lady Moula teased with a playful tone.

  Lykaa interjected with enthusiasm, "Sir Skarsnay, please join us for dinner. Lady Moula has prepared a marvelous feast!"

  "Why, thank you, Lykaa. It is gratifying to know that someone shows concern for me," Skarsnay responded with a hearty laugh.

  "And Lykaa, when we are at home, kindly refrain from addressing me as 'sir.' After all, I am Astraa's uncle."

  "My apologies, Uncle Skarsnay," Lykaa retorted with a playful grin, "Please come and join us for dinner."

  The room erupted with laughter at the light-hearted exchange, as Sir Skarsnay took his place at the table, adding to the merriment of the evening.

  "And as Astraa’s uncle, you ought to have returned home earlier to celebrate with your niece on her special day," Lady Moula chided playfully, her tone laced with affectionate reproach.

  "Ah, dear Mother," Sir Skarsnay responded with a hint of inebriation, his voice imbued with pride despite the slight slur of the wine, "The very reason I ventured to the tavern with Leon was to toast my niece’s success!"

  At home, Sir Skarsnay revealed an entirely different facet of himself, especially after a few indulgent drinks.

  Astraa and Lykaa exchanged knowing smiles and teased Sir Skarsnay about the contrast between his stern demeanor during the trials and his current joviality.

  "Indeed, it seems the wine has brought out your more spirited side, Uncle Skarsnay," Astraa remarked with a chuckle.

  "He transforms entirely when he has imbibed a few libations," Lykaa whispered, causing both girls to stifle their mirth.

  As Skarsnay regaled Astraa and Lykaa with tales and indulged in jovial antics, a sudden recollection struck him.

  "Astraa," he interjected with a hint of seriousness amidst the mirth, "where did you disappear to following your trial? I had an important announcement to make."

  Astraa, with a mischievous glint in her eye, responded playfully, "I had other matters to attend to, but I was aware you would be joining us for dinner regardless."

  Skarsnay chuckled heartily at Astraa's teasing, appreciating the contrast between her light-hearted demeanor at home and the composed, solemn visage she presented in public. He cherished this unguarded side of her, the spirited and playful girl he had watched grow from childhood.

  "Well, I suppose I shall extend my forgiveness this time," Skarsnay declared with a feigned sternness that betrayed his hidden smile. "However, you are to meet me at the training grounds tomorrow morning. I have a most important announcement concerning the final trial."

  Astraa’s eyes sparkled with newfound curiosity, and she dropped her playful demeanor. "An announcement regarding the final trial? Pray, what might it entail?"

  Skarsnay, savoring the suspense he had generated, grinned broadly. "You shall learn all in due course, tomorrow."

  Astraa’s eagerness was unmistakable as she responded, "Very well, I shall be there."

  With the matter settled, the remainder of the evening unfolded in a symphony of laughter and merriment. Skarsnay bade the young ladies goodnight, pledging to see them at the break of dawn. As Astraa and Lykaa prepared for rest, their thoughts brimmed with anticipation, pondering the nature of Sir Skarsnay’s announcement and its implications for their journey as candidates for the eternal warrior's mantle.

  At the same hour Sir Skarsnay journeyed towards Astraa's abode, Gargus, filled with eager determination, inquired about Minosa’s residence from Sir Leon.

  Armed with the directions, he made his way to the heart of the bustling city of Arela, where Minosa’s home lay nestled amidst a lively row of houses, a fitting reflection of her vibrant spirit.

  Taking a steadying breath, Gargus ascended the steps and knocked upon the door.

  A lady with curly locks, bearing a resemblance to Minosa, answered the knock and addressed Gargus with a courteous inquiry, "Greetings. And whom do I have the pleasure of meeting?"

  "Good day, madam. I am Gargus. I seek Minosa. We were comrades in the trial, and I bear a matter of some importance to discuss with her," Gargus responded with respect.

  "Why, Gargus! What brings you here?" Minosa exclaimed with unrestrained delight, her voice cutting through her mother's words. "Do come in at once!"

  Minosa ushered Gargus into the presence of her mother, Joula, with a hint of playful exasperation. "Mother, recall the reckless candidate I mentioned in our conversations? Here he is."

  Joula, with a welcoming smile, invited them further into the living room.

  "Do sit and converse; I am certain your discussion is of great import. I shall procure some refreshments for you." Her gesture was imbued with a note of hospitality.

  So, Gargus,” Minosa inquired with a glimmer of amusement in her eyes, “what prompts your visit at such an hour?”

  Gargus took a moment to steady himself before delivering his news. “Sir Skarsnay has summoned all candidates to gather at the training grounds on the morrow. He has indicated that an important announcement regarding the final trial is forthcoming.”

  With an air of innocent astonishment, Gargus added, “I had been under the impression that we had concluded all trials and were thus apprentices. Imagine my surprise!” His earnest revelation elicited a burst of laughter from Minosa.

  Gargus, once somewhat apprehensive in Minosa’s abode, now found himself at ease, buoyed by her laughter and warmth. Lady Joula soon entered with a tray of refreshments, extending her hospitality with a gentle smile. “Here you are, children. Partake of these treats,” she offered kindly.

  Gargus gratefully accepted a biscuit, savoring the warmth of the homemade delicacy. Minosa, with a hint of pride, remarked, "My mother bakes these biscuits herself. My father, sells it throughout Arela. Alas, he shall be delayed once more today, or I would have had the pleasure of introducing him to you."

  “Truly, these are splendid!” Gargus exclaimed. “My heartfelt thanks, Lady Joula.”

  Joula, with a gracious smile, responded, “Oh, no need for such flattery. It is the very least I can offer after your thoughtful visit.”

  Following a convivial exchange of jest and merriment, Gargus took his leave of Minosa and Lady Joula. With the promise of reuniting at the training grounds on the morrow, he departed, heartened by the pleasant evening spent in their company.

  The morning sun gently brushed the sky with soft hues of pink and orange as Astraa stirred early from her slumber, anticipation thrumming through her veins. With tender care, she roused her friend Lykaa, who had passed the night under the same roof.

  "Astraa, it's still far too early. Why wake me now?" Lykaa murmured, her voice heavy with lingering sleep.

  "And besides, I’m not required to be there, you know," she added, reminding Astraa of her newly minted status as an apprentice healer.

  Astraa's smile was warm, a silent conveyance of gratitude. "I know you need not attend, but your presence means the world to me, Lykaa. I truly appreciate your support."

  Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

  With a resigned sigh, Lykaa rose from the bed, understanding the significance of the moment to Astraa. As they descended the stairs, they were greeted by the comforting sight of Lady Moula, already waiting for them in the cozy embrace of the living room.

  "Good morning, Grandma," Astraa greeted her with affectionate warmth.

  "I knew you would be up with the dawn’s first light, my dear," Lady Moula said with a knowing smile. "I’ve prepared breakfast for you and Lykaa."

  Astraa hesitated, her mind preoccupied with the weight of Sir Skarsnay’s impending announcement.

  "I’m sorry, Grandma, but I really must go. Uncle Skarsnay has something important to share with us."

  But Lady Moula, steadfast in her care, would not be swayed.

  "Nonsense! You shan’t leave this house without a proper breakfast," she declared, her tone firm yet filled with loving warmth. With gentle insistence, she guided Astraa to a chair and made sure she was seated.

  Lykaa, unable to suppress a chuckle, appreciated Lady Moula’s nurturing nature. "Thank you, Lady Moula. I find I am rather hungry," she said as she joined Astraa at the table.

  As they partook of the morning meal, Lady Moula observed the gleam of anticipation in Astraa’s eyes and the quiet determination in Lykaa’s smile. She knew, deep in her heart, that these young women were destined for great things, and she silently offered a prayer for their success in the trials that lay ahead.

  After bidding a fond farewell to Lady Moula, Astraa and Lykaa set out for the training grounds.

  The sun climbed steadily, casting a golden glow upon the assembly. Astraa and Lykaa, believing themselves among the first to arrive, were met with a pleasant surprise—the figures of Markon, Gargus, and Flanco were already present, their faces reflecting the same eagerness that filled the air.

  "So much for being the early birds," Lykaa quipped, a playful grin tugging at her lips as she addressed the group.

  Markon, quick to engage in a light-hearted exchange, responded with a chuckle. "It seems we were just a touch more determined than your friend here," he replied, casting a teasing glance in Astraa’s direction.

  Astraa, flashed a competitive grin. “We shall see whose resolve prevails once the announcement is made,” she replied, her tone both spirited and lighthearted.

  Laughter mingled with the crisp morning air as they exchanged playful banter, reveling in the camaraderie that had blossomed over their shared trials.

  Gargus, with his usual wit, interjected, “Let us hope these two do not manage to best each other before the final trial arrives.”

  As their mirth gradually waned, Minosa appeared, her vibrant presence adding a new dimension to the group. Her eyes sparkled at the sight of Markon, yet Astraa detected a subtle shift in her friend’s demeanor upon noting Markon’s proximity.

  “Minosa, what delayed you so?” Astraa inquired with a cheerful countenance, glad to see her friend’s arrival.

  Minosa’s response took Astraa aback. “Not everyone enjoys the same privileges as you, Astraa. Some of us bear responsibilities at home as well,” she retorted with a hint of provocation.

  Astraa felt a twinge of hurt from Minosa’s words. She had never flaunted her status as the niece of an eternal warrior, nor used it as a means of advantage. Her background was known only to her two closest friends, Minosa and Lykaa.

  Resolving to maintain her composure until after the announcement, Astraa chose to set aside her feelings for the moment, intending to address the matter privately with Minosa thereafter.

  Suppressing any impulse for rebuttal, Astraa subtly restrained Lykaa, who was poised to defend her. Recognizing that an impassioned reaction would only serve to heighten tensions among the group, she opted to remain composed and awaited a more fitting moment to address her concerns with Minosa.

  The assembly of candidates engaged in light-hearted conversation and mirth as they awaited Sir Skarsnay's forthcoming pronouncement.

  Their anticipation heightened as Sir Skarsnay, flanked by Sir Leon and Lady Hermiosa, approached the training grounds. Despite the evident signs of a revelrous night before, Sir Skarsnay upheld his authoritative bearing as he prepared to address the gathering.

  "Esteemed candidates," Sir Skarsnay intoned, his voice carrying a weight of gravity, "you are well aware that to ascend to the rank of apprentice warrior, you must first endure one final trial— the third and most formidable test of your combat prowess. This trial is set to unfold six moons hence, and it shall be the most grueling challenge you have faced thus far, particularly given your current lack of combat experience."

  He continued, "In preparation for this, you shall be subjected to rigorous training under my guidance for the next three moons. I trust you are ready to confront the trials that lie ahead, for they are essential to your evolution as prospective apprentices."

  Lady Hermiosa then spoke, her voice gentle yet firm, "In tandem with your arduous training, the apprentice healers will undergo their instruction under my tutelage for the same duration. Following this, they shall accompany you during the subsequent three moons, as you are dispatched to various realms for the concluding phase of your training."

  Lykaa, unable to suppress her burgeoning curiosity, interjected with a question, "Shall we have the opportunity to work alongside the eternal warriors even before the final trial?"

  Lady Hermiosa, casting a stern and admonitory gaze upon Lykaa, reminded her of the impropriety of her presence at such a gathering.

  "Lykaa, what business have you here at this moment? Further particulars will be disclosed when your training commences and when all apprentice healers are assembled."

  With a nod of understanding, Lykaa acknowledged her oversight, realizing she had ventured beyond her current standing.

  Astraa, her gaze meeting that of her friend Lykaa, shared a subtle, knowing smile that spoke volumes of their mutual anticipation and solidarity regarding the forthcoming training.

  As the official announcement concluded, the candidates began to disperse, their minds abuzz with a complex mixture of anticipation, excitement, and trepidation about the rigorous training that awaited them.

  The sun began its descent, casting a resplendent golden glow over the training grounds.

  Astraa, Lykaa, Markon, Gargus, and Flanco gathered together, their thoughts mingling with anticipation for the rigorous training and the daunting final trial that loomed ahead. Yet, the weight of their future seemed to lift in the warmth of their camaraderie.

  Gargus, proposed a reprieve from their looming challenges. "Considering the demanding schedule that lies before us and with a week’s respite before our training commences, might we indulge in a modest diversion this evening?" he suggested with a spirited gleam in his eye.

  Flanco, equally eager, responded with alacrity, "Indeed! I propose we venture to River Street, where the vibrant food stalls await."

  Gargus nodded in agreement, "And perhaps a visit to the tavern by the river’s edge would round off the evening splendidly."

  Markon, ever the prudent soul, voiced his reservations regarding the tavern. “I must express some concern about commencing our revelry with the prospect of training ahead. However, I am most agreeable to visiting River Street. Its charm is at its zenith in the evening, when the lanterns are aglow and the street teems with vitality.”

  Minosa, with her customary buoyancy, readily concurred. “ I am most eager to partake in the festivities, particularly after the trials of yesterday.”

  Lykaa, turned to Astraa. “And what say you, Astraa? Will you accompany us?”

  Astraa, typically reserved, hesitated, casting a glance toward Lykaa for reassurance.

  Yet Minosa’s sharp jest caught her off guard. “Ah, our esteemed queen here seldom mingles with the common throng,” Minosa quipped, “so I daresay, let us not dally. Shall we proceed?”

  Minosa's sharp remark struck a discordant note with Astraa.

  “Minosa,” Lykaa interjected with a note of veiled ire, “we must have words in private. Join me, and Astraa, you as well.” With an assertive gesture, she guided the two away from the group.

  As they retreated to a secluded corner of the training grounds, Astraa cast a puzzled glance over her shoulder. Though uncertain of the full import of the moment, she understood the necessity of addressing the matter with Lykaa and Minosa. It was imperative to mend the frayed threads of their camaraderie before they could fully embrace the evening’s planned revelries.

  In the quiet seclusion, Lykaa’s heart weighed heavily as she broached the subject of Minosa’s unkindness towards Astraa. The trio, now ensconced in their private enclave, prepared to navigate the delicate conversation that would clear the air and restore the harmony among friends.

  “Minosa,” Lykaa began, her tone laden with a blend of indignation and sorrow, “I fail to comprehend why you persist in this behavior. Astraa has ever been a steadfast friend to you, and you are well aware of her struggles with opening up to others. Yet, you continue to alienate her with your harsh words, and in the presence of others no less.”

  Astraa inhaled deeply, mustering her composure before addressing her friend. “Minosa,” she began, her voice soft yet imbued with earnestness, “Lykaa has suggested that your discontent might stem from matters concerning Markon. Is this indeed the cause of your distance?”

  Minosa’s countenance darkened with a mix of frustration and inner conflict. “So, you both were aware all along,” she retorted, her eyes reflecting the tumult within her. “It seems my feelings for Markon were no secret after all.”

  “No,” Lykaa interjected, “Astraa only learned of this matter the previous evening.”

  Astraa spoke with a voice that was both gentle and resolute, addressing Minosa’s ire with clarity. “Minosa, you are well aware of my nature. I would never willfully inflict harm upon you, and my regard for Markon is purely one of professional respect. If my interactions with him are causing you distress, I am prepared to cease all association with him for your sake.”

  Minosa’s eyes wavered, a storm of emotions flickering within them. Her voice, though quivering, bore the weight of her grievance.

  “Are you so naive as to think I was unaware? Of course, I knew you harbored no romantic interest in him. It was precisely that knowledge which fueled my anger! I exerted every ounce of effort during the trial, hoping to capture his attention. Yet, no matter my endeavors, his gaze remained fixed upon you.”

  Astraa's heart ached deeply as she absorbed Minosa's confession. "Minosa, I had no inkling of the depth of your feelings," she murmured, extending a hand in solace.

  Minosa recoiled, her vexation unabated.“It is not your fault that his gaze has fallen upon you; rather, it is mine for yearning for his regard,” she spoke with a tinge of bitterness.

  “Now, you offer to withdraw from him on my behalf, but what if fate leads him to me in the end? Am I to be forever indebted to you for merely stepping aside?”

  Astraa stood there, overwhelmed and dismayed by her friend's harsh words. She had never anticipated such a vehement outburst.

  "Minosa," she said softly, " Should you and Markon find happiness together, I would rejoice for you wholeheartedly. You owe me nothing."

  Minosa remained mute, her anger still burning within her. Astraa, striving to calm the storm, spoke gently, “ And as for Markon, his regard for me is merely a recognition of my abilities, nothing more.”

  Minosa’s frustration flared anew. “Ah, not everyone is as unseeing to the affections of men as you are! Why not consult him directly? Perhaps that would dispel all uncertainties,” she retorted, her voice rising in agitation.

  Lykaa interjected, her tone firm but soothing, “Minosa, please, lower your voice. We risk drawing attention from the others.”

  In the distance, the group of men began to take note of the disturbance.

  Flanco remarked with a touch of humor, “Perhaps they’re about to abandon us once more, just as they did the other day.”

  Markon, genuinely concerned and eager to ensure Astraa’s well-being, decided to approach them. “I shall go and ascertain if all is well,” he said to his companions.

  Alarmed by Minosa’s raised voice, Astraa beseeched her urgently, “Minosa, I implore you to temper your words. Markon is approaching. We must not cause a scene.”

  Minosa, undeterred by Astraa’s plea, retorted, “Should we not let him hear the truth? It might bring clarity to this entire situation, once and for all.”

  As Markon drew near, Astraa's anxiety intensified.

  “Minosa, please, cease this uproar! Markon, visibly perturbed, inquired with genuine concern, "What seems to be the matter here? Why is Minosa so agitated and upset?"

  “Markon, I assure you, it is not as it seems,” Astraa implored, attempting to defuse the tension.

  Markon turned his attention back to Astraa . “Come now, ladies. It is but a stroll down River Street. If it suits you, we may return early.”

  Seizing the moment, Minosa sought to provoke him further. “Why do you make such an effort to include us when you are adored by all the maidens in town? Surely, you could secure the company of anyone else you desire.”

  Markon replied with measured diplomacy, “Not all the maidens in town share the bond that we do. We are united in our pursuit of becoming eternal warriors, and that connection is what matters.”

  Minosa’s gaze turned shrewd, her words laced with subtle innuendo. “Is that truly all, Markon? It seems you might desire the presence of a particular person here with us, especially this evening,” she said, her eyes lingering on Astraa.

  Flanco and Gargus exchanged knowing glances, their understanding of Minosa’s veiled insinuations evident, while Markon’s nervousness lent credence to her claims.

  Feeling the pressure, Markon faltered. “What do you imply, Minosa? I wish for all of you to join us. Why would you suggest otherwise?” He strove to maintain his composure, though his discomfort was unmistakable.

  Minosa pressed forward with a sharp edge to her voice, “So, would it be acceptable if Astraa were to forgo joining us?” Her words hung heavily in the air, causing a tense silence among the group.

  Flanco, seeking to ease the rising tension, interjected, “Minosa, you are interpreting things far too deeply.”

  Yet Minosa remained unyielding. “Come now, we are all aware of the manner in which you regarded her during the trials,” she said, her voice laced with accusation. “Will you deny it?”

  As her remarks settled upon them, Flanco and Gargus grasped the underlying discord between Astraa and Minosa, the realization dawning that they were mere spectators to a private and poignant dispute.

  Astraa's cheeks suffused with a flush of crimson, her vulnerability laid bare under Minosa's relentless scrutiny.

  With mounting frustration and indignation, Astraa implored Minosa to cease her provocations.

  “Minosa, enough!” she declared with resolute firmness. “Markon’s regard for me is solely based on respect for my skills—nothing more. Cease your attempts to incite discord.”

  Yet Minosa persisted, her eyes narrowing with defiant insistence. She cast a pointed gaze at Markon, implying that his silence hinted at feelings beyond mere admiration.

  Markon, breaking his silence, proclaimed with measured clarity, “I hold Astraa in the highest regard, both for her character and her skills. That is the extent of my sentiment.”

  Astraa experienced a profound relief as Markon’s words seemed to quell the rising storm of Minosa’s insinuations.

  Yet Minosa, undeterred and laced with a tone of sharp sarcasm, pressed on.

  “Is that truly all you offer Astraa? Just respect for her skills?” she jeered. “If it were mere respect, you would not have emulated the very techniques she employed to win your own trial. Pray tell, why would the illustrious Markon find it necessary to adopt another’s methods?” Minosa continued, her words laden with challenge as she sought to unveil a deeper truth.

  Markon found himself ensnared in a vexing dilemma, unable to muster a suitable response. The audacity of Minosa’s challenge had taken him completely by surprise.

  Astraa, standing there in bewildered silence, was confronted with startling revelations. She was taken aback to learn of Markon’s willingness to forsake the trial for her and that he had employed her own techniques.

  The air was thick with tension as Minosa’s words lingered, casting a shadow over the group. Astraa stood in a state of stunned disbelief, grappling with the newfound realization of Markon's sentiments. The weight of the moment left her rendered speechless, as an array of emotions—surprise, gratitude, and confusion—swirled within her.

  As the silence stretched, Markon's thoughts raced, striving to find a way to articulate his feelings. The revelation of his emotions, particularly in the presence of Astraa, had not been his intention, and he found himself at a loss for words.

  The revelation cast a heavy pall over the gathering, plunging the group into an awkward silence. Taking a steadying breath, Astraa endeavored to compose herself amid the swirling tumult of emotions, seeking clarity in the midst of the profound and unforeseen turn of events.

  Flanco, unable to bear the sight of his friend Markon ensnared by Minosa’s sharp-tongued reproach, could no longer contain his mounting frustration and indignation.

  His voice, charged with intensity, cut through the tense silence. "You posture with such arrogance," he declared, "yet we all witnessed your unrestrained adulation for Markon.

  During his trials, your cheers were fervent and unrelenting, only to falter when he mirrored Astraa's techniques. Your demeanor shifted, and Markon, though newly acquainted with Astraa, exhibited concern for her well-being upon her departure. In stark contrast, you seemed almost elated by her absence. Now, you stand here, deliberately baiting Markon before Astraa, seeking to tarnish his image to advance your own interests.

  Am I wrong? Why the silence now?" Flanco’s words resonated with a blend of anger and frustration, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

  Minosa, who was usually quick to retort, found herself momentarily bereft of words. Her gaze flitted between Flanco and Markon, betraying a flicker of surprise and unease. The directness of Flanco's accusation was unforeseen, leaving her momentarily stunned.

  The gravity of Flanco's revelations weighed heavily upon her, rendering her mute and vulnerable. She had not anticipated that her feelings for Markon were so well known among the group. Her silence was a tacit acknowledgment of the truth in Flanco's assertions.

  “Why do you remain silent now, Minosa?” Flanco pressed, his voice imbued with a fervent determination to reveal the truth.

  Minosa's throat tightened, her heart racing with a tumultuous blend of regret and remorse. The veil of her secret had been lifted, and she now stood exposed, facing the repercussions of her actions.

  Minosa, her demeanor fraught with regret, froze unable to speak through the tumult of her emotions.

  Markon, who had remained a silent observer until now, chose this moment to interject with a commanding presence.

  “Flanco, enough of this,” he declared with a gravity that sought to quell the discord. His eyes, however, betrayed a storm of feelings—confusion, anguish, and a trace of unexpected astonishment.

  As the charged silence hung heavy, Astraa’s sense of unease grew palpably. “I am leaving,” she said, her voice quavering with a profound strain.

  Meanwhile, Lady Hermiosa, having sought out Lykaa ever since she had caught sight of her amidst the gathering for the warrior candidates, chanced upon the candidates embroiled in a fervent dispute. The discordant voices reverberated through the open expanse of the training grounds, infusing the atmosphere with palpable tension and discontent.

  With resolute authority, Lady Hermiosa intervened in the midst of the tumult. Her commanding presence brought an immediate hush to the clamor.

  “What is the meaning of this? Should you not have departed posthaste following the announcement? The training grounds are not your private domain for idle congregations,” she admonished with a firm tone, her words slicing through the charged atmosphere with precision.

  The candidates dispersed, each retreating with hearts heavy and spirits marred by the recent events. Minosa, her countenance streaked with tears, walked away burdened by the tumult she had incited.

  Flanco and Gargus, steadfast in their camaraderie, accompanied Markon, offering their support as they made their way homeward together. Meanwhile, Lykaa remained by Astraa's side as they prepared to depart the training grounds.

  Yet, before they could fully make their exit, Lady Hermiosa interceded with a commanding presence.

  “Lykaa, hold a moment. I must have words with you, and with you as well, Astraa. Please, stay,” she requested, her voice blending concern with authority.

  Lykaa, though momentarily hesitant, chose to remain, her curiosity stirred by Lady Hermiosa’s summons. Astraa, steadfast and resolute, stood by her friend, bracing herself for the forthcoming conversation.

  As the remaining figures melted into the distance, Lady Hermiosa turned her full attention to Lykaa and Astraa.

  "Would you girls, do me the honor of joining me for tea?" Lady Hermiosa inquired, her smile warm and inviting.

  Astraa and Lykaa exchanged a momentary glance, their surprise evident.

  “Indeed, Lady Hermiosa, we would be delighted to,” Lykaa responded with cautious enthusiasm, while Astraa inclined her head in silent accord.