The Last Aayu: Book 1 - Ashes

Chapter 6: Valiant Soul

Utahis returned to the Academy with Overseer Ushak, their carriage journey back from the Armide filled with quiet introspection. As they arrived at the gates and Utahis stepped out of the carriage, Ushak's commanding voice broke through the tranquil atmosphere.

"Do not speak of the trial," Ushak instructed, his tone both stern and understanding. "Let its impact settle within you. Let your peers notice the change in you on their own."

Utahis nodded, taking in the wise words. As he made his way through the familiar grounds of the academy, he felt a newfound strength and determination coursing through his veins. His steps were purposeful, and his gaze was unflinching. He could feel the curious eyes of his fellow trainees upon him, intrigued by the subtle transformation in his demeanor.

Entering his bunk room 22-5A, Utahis was greeted with warm smiles from Kaiden, Leisan, and Zalish. Relief and happiness radiated from their faces at the sight of him.

"Welcome back," Leisan said genuinely.

"How was it?" Zalish asked with underlying curiosity about the trial.

Utahis remembered Ushak's advice and carefully chose his words. "It was challenging," he replied simply, hinting at the depth of the experience without divulging details.

He then glanced around the room, noticing the absence of two familiar faces. "Where are Jurt and Niala?" he inquired.

Kaiden stepped forward with a serious expression. "They're on separate trials," he explained.

"Together?" Utahis asked, a flicker of concern crossing his mind.

"No," Kaiden shook his head. "They went alone."

A moment of silence followed as Utahis absorbed this information. With his own trial fresh in his mind, he hoped that his friends were faring well.

"How have things been here?" Utahis asked, shifting the focus away from his absence.

"Busy," Leisan sighed. "Training has been relentless, but we've managed."

"Yeah, and we missed you," Zalish chimed in with a smile. "Things just aren't the same without you here."

Utahis smiled, feeling a sense of camaraderie and belonging. Despite the challenges and trials ahead, he knew he had a strong support system in his friends.

"We must continue to move forward," Utahis said confidently. "Together, we can face anything that comes our way."

He settled back into the familiar surroundings of his bunk room, still processing the recent trial. Looking at Zalish, memories of previous conversations and tensions resurfaced. "Zalish," he started, "have you encountered any further issues with humans questioning your place here?"

Zalish's expression darkened briefly before nodding. "Yes," he admitted, "but Leisan, Niala, Kaiden, and even Jurt on occasion have stepped in. The unit stands together to protect its own."

Kaiden interjected with earnestness tinged with humor. "Remember what you said about protecting each other as a group?" he reminded Utahis with a grin. Then jokingly added, "No one messes with Waterboy except for us."

Zalish laughed and playfully punched Kaiden on the shoulder. "Yeah, you try," he retorted, the tension dissipating with their banter.

Utahis felt a surge of pride for his friends. Despite their differences and struggles, they stood by each other's side. "I'm glad to hear that," he said sincerely. "We must remain united as a team. There is no room for division among us."

Leisan agreed with a nod. "Our strength lies in our unity. As long as we stick together, we can overcome anything."

"That's right," Zalish added determinedly, his eyes shining with resolve. "We are a team and we won't let anyone tear us apart."