"The past three months have been exceptionally arduous for you all, yet I must extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you for persevering through my demanding training," declared Sir Skarsnay.
The warriors assembled before him felt a swell of pride at his words; they had indeed made significant strides.
"As you are well aware, having completed your combat training, the next three months will be devoted to traveling to other states within our realm. This journey will grant you a broader understanding of our land and is an essential component of your training," Sir Skarsnay continued, his gaze sweeping across the attentive faces of his students.
"But where shall we be journeying?" Flanco inquired, unable to contain his curiosity.
"I shall provide further details regarding our destination in due course. However, there is a matter of even greater significance that I must address."
"Of greater importance than our forthcoming journey?" Gargus asked, his curiosity stirred.
"Indeed," Sir Skarsnay affirmed, "it pertains to your final trial to attain the status of eternal warriors." The warriors exchanged solemn glances, the gravity of this revelation settling upon them like a heavy shroud.
"As you are all aware, your final trial shall take place during the Blooming Festival, following the completion of your training in the various states. For this ultimate test, each of you will face a battle-hardened Eternal—an adversary of my own caliber. Your objective will be to strike their armor no fewer than three times. Should you fail to achieve this, your aspirations of becoming Eternal Warriors will be dashed, rendering all your training thus far a fruitless endeavor," Sir Skarsnay declared, his words imbued with the gravity of the moment.
The young warriors exchanged anxious glances, and a profound sense of trepidation settled over them. Even Astraa and Markon, who had proven themselves to be among the most skilled, could not escape the creeping fear that tinged their thoughts. The looming possibility of their hard-won efforts being rendered meaningless weighed heavily on their minds.
"But do not despair," Skarsnay continued, his voice imbued with a reassuring cadence. "You shall not confront your opponent in isolation. As apprentices, it would be impractical to challenge a seasoned Eternal alone.
For the purpose of this trial, you have the option to join forces with another warrior or healer, and together you shall face the Eternal Warrior."
"But why would one choose to ally with a healer?" Flanco inquired with a smirk.
"Would not two warriors have a greater chance of prevailing in the trial together?"
Lady Hermiosa entered the scene and caught wind of their exchange.
"If you are so certain that healers would be of little aid, might we put your theory to the test with a sparring match?" she proposed, casting a challenging gaze at Flanco.
"That is, of course, contingent upon Sir Skarsnay's approval," Lady Hermiosa added, directing her attention to the esteemed warrior.
Sir Skarsnay, with a nod of assent, responded, "I would have it no other way."
Faced with the challenge, Flanco found himself cornered. "Very well," he conceded, his resolve solidifying. "I accept."
"Very well, Flanco, choose your partner, while the remaining warriors determine who among you shall volunteer to ally with a healer," he instructed.
Astraa, spoke up boldly. "I shall volunteer, and I wish to pair with Healer Lykaa."
Flanco made his selection with confidence.
"I shall choose Gargus as my warrior partner, and I assure you, we shall not be lenient," he declared, a sly smile gracing his lips, mirrored by Gargus's expression of agreement.
Thus, the stage was set for an exhilarating sparring match, one that would not only test the martial prowess of the warriors but also illuminate the potential of healers in the crucible of battle.
The training grounds were cleared, providing a grand stage for the forthcoming sparring match. Astraa and Lykaa stood ready, facing Flanco and Gargus. The air was thick with anticipation.
"I eagerly await to see the fruits of your training. I trust you will cover my flank," Astraa said to Lykaa, her gaze brimming with determination.
"You may rely on me, as always," Lykaa replied with a confident smile.
Across from them, Flanco and Gargus exchanged a conspiratorial grin, their strategy evidently in place.
"Very well, healer and warriors, commence!" Sir Skarsnay’s authoritative voice rang out, slicing through the tension and signaling the start of the match.
Flanco and Gargus wasted no time, charging at Astraa with their wooden swords drawn. Astraa held her own wooden sword firmly, adopting a defensive stance, while Lykaa positioned herself behind her.
Flanco commenced the assault, unleashing a flurry of strikes aimed at Astraa. She adeptly defended against and parried his attacks, then countered with a swift blow that sent him staggering backward.
Gargus, however, proved to be a formidable adversary. He moved with both precision and skill, engaging Astraa in a series of calculated strikes. Yet, Astraa responded with remarkable ease, countering each of his advances.
Just as Astraa spotted an opening to launch her own counter-attack, Flanco seized the moment. Sneaking up from behind, he prepared to strike her from an undefended angle.
With deft precision, Lykaa raised her healing barrier, effortlessly deflecting Flanco’s attack. This maneuver opened the way for Astraa, who swiftly landed a blow on Gargus and, in one fluid motion, brought down Flanco immediately afterward.
With that, Sir Skarsnay struck the bell, bringing the sparring match to an abrupt halt.
"Well done, Astraa. It is evident that my training has borne fruit. And you, Lykaa, were equally remarkable. I must credit Lady Hermiosa’s tutelage for your outstanding performance," Sir Skarsnay said, casting a proud glance toward Lady Hermiosa.
The latter, her cheeks graced with a modest blush from the esteemed warrior’s praise, radiated with pride.
Lady Hermiosa gracefully deflected the accolades. "I merely imparted what knowledge I possess. It was Lykaa’s own fervor that drove her remarkable improvement. And as for you, Astraa, your growth is evident. I do feel a pang of sympathy considering the rigorous training you must have endured under Sir Skarsnay," she added, her gaze returning to the stoic warrior.
Astraa and Lykaa, despite their pride in receiving praise from their mentors, could not help but observe the subtle exchanges between Sir Skarsnay and Lady Hermiosa.
Astraa shared a knowing glance with Lykaa, who responded with a mischievous grin.
Sir Skarsnay, breaking the momentarily charged atmosphere, continued, "I trust you gentlemen have now recognized the advantages of partnering with a healer."
He turned his gaze toward Gargus and Flanco, who, in a moment of shared embarrassment, replied in unison, "Yes, sir."
Laughter resounded throughout the training grounds as Minosa playfully teased Flanco and Gargus, who were still recovering their breath after the intense sparring match.
Minosa, genuinely impressed, could not contain her praise. "Lykaa, I must confess, your skills were truly revelatory—an unexpected delight."
Astraa, added with a smile, "Indeed, our dear Lykaa has made extraordinary progress."
Lykaa, though visibly pleased by the accolades, sought to modestly downplay her achievement. "Very well, very well, that is quite enough." She then graciously redirected the attention, introducing her two companions to the assembly.
"By the way, allow me to present Amara and Yeric, fellow healers with whom I have had the pleasure of training."
Yeric, a whirlwind of exuberance and lively chatter, burst onto the scene with unbridled enthusiasm.
“Greetings, one and all! Meeting each of you is an absolute delight. Lykaa has regaled me with your tales, particularly praising Astraa and Minosa!”
In sharp contrast, Amara offered a more subdued “Hello,” her manner reserved and contemplative as she quietly moved through the group.
Her gaze, fleeting yet intentional, lingered for a moment on Astraa as she passed.
Lykaa, interjected with an apologetic tone, “Forgive Amara’s reticent demeanor; it is merely her way.”
Astraa, with her usual grace and understanding, responded with a warm, welcoming smile.
And so, amidst the echoes of laughter and the gentle hum of introductions, the healers and warriors embarked upon the journey of forging new connections and deepening their bonds.
“Good day, gentlemen,” Yeric greeted, extending his hand with a friendly smile. His gaze fell upon Flanco, and a fleeting moment of hesitation crossed his features.
“And you, if I am not mistaken, are Flanco?” he inquired, his tone courteous yet tinged with uncertainty. “Pardon my lapse in memory.”
Flanco, displaying a mixture of amusement and mild vexation, responded, “Indeed, I am Flanco. It appears that I am less memorable than the others.”
Yeric, maintaining his composed demeanor, replied with an unwavering countenance, “It is merely that Lykaa has not spoken extensively of you.”
Gargus and Markon could not suppress their laughter at Yeric’s astute retort. Flanco, initially taken aback, soon found himself unable to resist a wry smile.
“Remarkable fellow, is he not?” Flanco remarked with a touch of amusement.
Gargus, still smiling broadly, concurred, “ He appears to be growing on me.”
“As you have observed in the recent sparring match,” Sir Skarsnay began, his voice laden with gravitas, “pairing with a healer for the trial confers undeniable advantages. Yet, it is not without its potential drawbacks.”
His audience leaned forward, their attention wholly captured, as the seasoned warrior delved into the complexities of the challenge that lay before them.
“Firstly, the warrior who chooses to pair with a healer may find their offensive capabilities somewhat curtailed, for healers are primarily focused on defense. It is a decision that must be made with a keen awareness of your own combat strengths and limitations.”
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“Secondly,” Sir Skarsnay continued, his tone somber, “the burden of risk falls squarely upon the warrior. Should the warrior falter in the trial, their dreams of ascending to the ranks of the eternal warriors shall be forever dashed. In contrast, should a healer falter, they will merely forfeit the honor of serving on the borderlands and becoming an eternal healer , yet retain their role as healers within the state.”
A heavy silence descended upon the group, the weight of their impending decisions settling like a dense fog over their hearts. It was then that a gentle voice broke through the tension, offering solace.
“But worry not, dear apprentices. You have a full three months to sharpen your skills and make your choice. For now, take this day to rest and restore your strength, for you shall need it in abundance for the trials that await.”
It was Lady Hermiosa, ever the calming presence amid the rigors of their training, who sought to ease the tension in the air.
“Return on the morrow, and we shall reveal the details of your training beyond our state’s borders,” Skarsnay intoned, leaving them with a final note of gravity in his parting words.
The warriors and healers, each carrying the weight of their own thoughts, made their way homeward, savoring the rare prospect of a well-deserved respite. It was a day of much-needed recuperation, a brief but welcome interlude amidst the relentless demands of their three-month training regimen.
For Astraa, the comforts of home beckoned. Lady Moula, ever attentive and caring, had lovingly prepared a sumptuous meal, knowing that her charge would need sustenance to restore her strength for the challenges yet to come.
Markon, ever the gracious host, extended a warm invitation to Gargus and Flanco, welcoming them into his home for a grand feast.
The air was rich with the tantalizing aromas of culinary delights, each dish a heartfelt expression of Markon’s gratitude for his steadfast friends.
Minosa, upon her arrival at her own abode, was met with tender embraces and an array of delectable treats, transforming her home into a sanctuary of comfort and indulgence after the rigors of the day.
As for Lykaa, her path led her to the familiar warmth of her own hearth.
This time, however, her heart swelled with anticipation, for her father—often absent due to the demands of his duties—had promised to be there. It was a rare and cherished opportunity for father and daughter to spend quality time together, and Lykaa held the moment dear, treasuring the bond that time and distance could never sever.
"Ah, you're home earlier than I anticipated! The gods be praised, for I’m nearly done with supper," exclaimed Sir Jakyl as he caught sight of his daughter. His eyes, usually accustomed to the distant horizons of the wild, sparkled with warmth and unspoken joy as he beheld Lykaa's familiar figure.
"Father, you truly kept your word this time—and you’re cooking, no less?" Lykaa’s voice was laced with a delightful blend of surprise and joy, her heart fluttering at the sight of her father, apron-clad and engrossed in a rare domestic task.
Sir Jakyl offered a smile, a gesture as rare as his presence at home. "Indeed, my dear. Given how seldom I am here, I thought it was long overdue that I do something special for my girl when I am."
Lykaa’s heart brimmed with contentment as she took her seat at the dinner table, savoring the moment.
It was a rarity, a precious interval in time where the demands of her father’s life as a hunter—often far from home, trading the pelts of the creatures he skillfully pursued—were momentarily set aside for the simple, profound joy of a shared meal.
"So, Father, what culinary delight shall we be indulging in this evening?" Lykaa inquired, her curiosity piqued.
A gleam of pride brightened Sir Jakyl’s rugged features.
"Your favorite, my dear—rich meat stew accompanied by freshly baked bread. It’s the one dish I’ve truly mastered, and I trust it shall satisfy even the most discerning of appetites."
They shared a hearty laugh as they began their meal, the warmth of their connection infusing the room with a comforting glow. The simple act of dining together, after so many days apart, felt like a rare and cherished luxury.
As the meal neared its end, Sir Jakyl leaned back, a twinkle in his eye.
"Lykaa, I have a little something for you," he announced, producing a carefully wrapped bundle of fur from beneath the table. "Behold, a gift from the wilds—a pelt from the elusive purple rabbit."
Lykaa’s eyes widened in disbelief.
"The purple rabbit? But that creature is exceedingly rare! The nobility pays handsomely for even the smallest piece of its fur!"
"I wished to gift you something truly special, my dear, in recognition of your unwavering dedication," Sir Jakyl said with a tender smile.
"Take this, and may it serve you well in your forthcoming travels beyond our borders."
Overwhelmed by her father’s thoughtfulness, Lykaa could scarcely contain her gratitude. "Thank you, Father. I cherish it deeply."
But Sir Jakyl's generosity did not end there.
"I’ve also procured one each for Astraa and Minosa. They have been steadfast companions to you, especially in my absence, and I know you've shared many a meal at their tables more often than here."
"Thank you once more, Father. I am certain they will be overjoyed by your kindness." Eagerly, she anticipated the moment when she could present these heartfelt tokens to her dearest friends.
On the morning of their anticipated announcement, the warriors enjoyed a rare reprieve, luxuriating in the comfort of their abodes. A palpable sense of excitement and expectancy hung in the air as they awaited the revelation that would herald the next stage of their rigorous training.
Astraa, ever driven by her boundless enthusiasm, arose before dawn’s light, eager to uncover what lay ahead. Resolute in her intention to be the first to reach the training grounds, she set forth with determined steps.
Yet, to her astonishment, she discovered Markon already present, accompanied by Flanco and Gargus. Not far behind were Minosa and Lykaa, in the company of Yeric and Amara, all assembled in readiness.
"Is everyone here already?" Astraa inquired, her astonishment unmistakable.
Markon, with a gleeful smirk, responded, "Ah, Astraa, ever the last to arrive, it seems."
Minosa, joining in on the jest, added, "Did you imagine you’d be the sole one brimming with anticipation?"
Flanco, with a mischievous grin, remarked, "Perhaps Astraa fancied herself the first to arrive."
Astraa, feeling her cheeks warm with the friendly teasing, attempted to shift the conversation.
"Very well, has Sir Skarsnay arrived yet?" Her impatience was beginning to show.
Gargus, quick with a retort, responded, "No, he has not yet graced us with his presence. It appears that a penchant for being fashionably late is indeed a family trait."
The entire assembly erupted into laughter, Astraa included. Despite her initial embarrassment, she could not suppress the grin that blossomed at Gargus's quip.
Markon, keenly observing the charming expression upon her face as she struggled to contain her mirth, was struck by the delightful radiance she exuded in that moment.
"Excellent, you have all arrived, and I am heartened by your fervor," proclaimed Sir Skarsnay as he entered, flanked by Lady Hermiosa, Sir Leon, and Chief Sline. The presence of Markon's father among the esteemed instructors piqued Flanco's curiosity.
"Markon, what brings your father here? Were you aware of this development?" Flanco inquired in hushed tones.
Markon shook his head with a hint of bemusement. "No, I am as surprised as you are."
As Sir Skarsnay assumed his commanding position at the center, the assemblage of apprentices and healers gathered in rapt anticipation, eager to learn the details that would define the next chapter of their training.
"Sir Leon, Lady Hermiosa, and I have deliberated upon the assignments for each group of warriors and healers for the forthcoming three months," Sir Skarsnay declared with gravitas.
"Chief Sline has graciously facilitated your placements within the respective states to which you shall journey. Attend closely, for this will shape the course of your training henceforth."
"Following extensive deliberation, we have resolved the assignments," Lady Hermiosa proclaimed with a composed demeanor.
As she began to enumerate the designated pairings, Markon's pulse quickened, his heart brimming with hope that his name would be called alongside Astraa's.
"Astraa, Lykaa, Flanco, and..." Markon held his breath, eager for his name to follow. Lady Hermiosa continued, "Amara will be journeying to the state of Tadu, the remainder of you will be journeying to the state of Rhanda."
A wave of disheartenment washed over Markon as he realized the separation from Astraa was imminent.
The gravity of the situation became apparent, and Minosa, discerning the melancholy in Markon's countenance, felt sympathy even as she found solace in their shared assignment.
Flanco, too, expressed his chagrin, "Alas, it appears I am the sole one left apart, destined to be separated from both Markon and Gargus."
Astraa, declared with a cheerful tone, "It seems we are fated to journey together after all, Lykaa. I am eager to embark on this adventure with you."
Lykaa's heart was buoyed by Astraa's words, and she responded with a radiant smile and heartfelt enthusiasm, "Astraa, I too am thrilled at the prospect of traveling with you. It promises to be a remarkable experience, and I eagerly anticipate the adventures that await us."
Thus, the apprentices and healers absorbed the news of their forthcoming sojourn with a blend of excitement, anticipation, and, for some, a touch of wistful regret.
Sir Skarsnay’s proclamation enveloped the assembly with a solemn gravitas, like an invisible mantle draped heavily upon their shoulders.
"In this next chapter of your journey," he declared with resonant authority, "you shall come to grasp the intricate tapestry of our neighboring states. These forthcoming months of training are paramount, for they will forge your capacity to comprehend and serve the people of lands beyond our own."
Lady Hermiosa's voice, imbued with a finality befitting the occasion, followed. "In the span of three days, your departure shall commence. Prepare yourselves forthwith, and assemble here as your journey begins. I extend my heartfelt farewells as you embark upon the trials that await you."
With their hearts alight with newfound resolve, the young warriors and healers departed from the training grounds. Their gratitude towards Lady Hermiosa and Sir Skarsnay was boundless, an unspoken testament to the guidance and wisdom they had received.
As the training grounds gradually emptied, an air of impending separation lingered like an unspoken promise. Markon's voice, though steady, bore a subtle tremor as he spoke to Astraa, his sentiments conveyed through carefully measured words.
"Astraa," he began, his gaze lingering on hers with a depth of feeling, "it appears that our paths shall diverge for some time. The past three months have been truly remarkable, and I earnestly wish for your safety and well-being.
These words, though simple, carry a weight of unspoken emotions, as I find it difficult to part ways with you."
“I shall take care, Markon. With Lykaa and Flanco by my side, I am well assured of safety. Do look after yourself, and remember to keep a watchful eye on Minosa,” she said, her words acknowledging his sentiments while maintaining a measured reserve.
With a nod of farewell, Astraa gracefully departed, leaving Markon standing amidst the quiet aftermath, his heart heavy with a blend of longing and uncertainty.
Gargus, having observed the exchange with keen eyes, approached his friend with comforting words.
“Fret not, my friend,” Gargus spoke with a reassuring tone. “We embark upon a new journey to a distant state, and who can say what fortunes may await? Perhaps there, you will find someone who can evoke feelings as profound as those you carry now.”
“I fear, Gargus, that no one has ever stirred my soul as Astraa does. Her absence leaves me unsettled,” he confessed, his feelings laid bare before his companion.
Gargus, redirected their focus. “Let us set aside thoughts of Astraa for the moment,” he suggested. “You well understand her stance on matters of the heart—she is not one to yield easily to love. My greater concern lies with Flanco. His demeanor has turned notably somber since the announcement of our separation.”
Markon’s gaze shifted to Flanco, who seemed enveloped in an aura of despondency. Determined to lift his friend’s spirits, Markon moved closer, resolved to offer the solace and support Flanco clearly needed.
“Flanco, it is but a fleeting three months,” Markon reassured, his voice imbued with empathy.
“I can well understand your trepidation, for I would feel much the same in your stead. Yet, we are granted three days more in each other’s company. Come, join Gargus and me at my abode. We might find solace in each other's company and perhaps indulge in some ale,” he proposed, seeking to infuse their final days with a note of camaraderie.
“Ale, you say? Is that a guarantee?” Flanco’s eyes sparkled with a glimmer of renewed vigor at the mention of the promised refreshment. “If so, count me in. Let us not linger but rather seize these final days with zest,” he declared with a newfound enthusiasm.
Gargus, added with a cheerful grin, “Indeed, Flanco. Let us revel in our remaining time together.”
Thus, the three friends, their spirits lifted, ventured toward Markon’s home, resolved to cherish each fleeting moment before their paths diverged once more.
“Astraa, wherefore do you hasten away? Prithee, wait for us,” Lykaa called out, her tone imbued with a gentle urgency.
Minosa, equally perplexed, chimed in, “Indeed, you scarcely bade us farewell. Your departure was most abrupt.”
Astraa, turning to regard her friends, displayed a countenance marked by both comprehension and a trace of melancholy.
She bore the unspoken weight of Markon’s emotions, recognizing the depth of his feelings as she departed without the customary farewell.
“Minosa,” Astraa responded with gentle earnestness.
“Markon was quite moved by the prospect of our impending separation and the disjunction of our paths. My continued presence would only have deepened his distress.”
Lykaa, with a mischievous glimmer in her eye, interjected, “Astraa, you have become quite the diplomat. Not only do you discern when affection is directed towards you, but you also navigate such matters with notable grace. Those tea sessions with Lady Hermiosa must have imparted much wisdom.”
As Astraa and Lykaa engaged in their light-hearted exchange, Minosa's heart was stirred by a flicker of jealousy. The knowledge that Markon continued to harbor feelings for Astraa, despite her prior rejection, left her feeling a twinge of discontent.
“Ah, I almost forgot,” Lykaa said, her smile radiating warmth. “These are for both of you, a token from my father.”
Astraa, deeply moved by the thoughtful gesture, hesitated. “Lykaa, this gift is truly splendid and seems of great value. I am uncertain whether I can accept such a lavish present.”
Minosa, however, was unhesitant and received her gift with genuine appreciation.
“As for myself, I find no reason to refuse. This is delightful,” she declared with a playful grin.
“Astraa, I insist. This token is but a small token of my gratitude for the countless times I have dined at your home and shared in your family's hospitality. Please, accept it.”
With a touch of reluctance, Astraa accepted the gift, her heart warmed by the sincerity behind it. “Thank you ever so much,” she said, her smile reflecting her genuine appreciation.
“I will accept it with pleasure, on the condition that both of you join me for lunch at my home. Spend the night if you wish. With Minosa heading to Rhanda, it will be some time before we are all together again.”
Lykaa and Minosa, touched by the sentiment, readily acquiesced to Astraa’s invitation. As they made their way to Astraa's abode, they cherished the precious moments remaining before their imminent separation would scatter them to distant lands.
