SOUL-SEEKER || (On Hiatus)

(Chapter 28) Battle Finish!

The silence that follows the battle begins to envelop the surroundings, with the sole audible sound being the heavy, labored breaths of the fighters who have just engaged in combat. On either side of the forest, you can observe the teams slowly gathering together, making their way towards the exit of the battlefield. At the exit, their teachers eagerly anticipate their arrival, wearing expressions of pride and satisfaction.

ORN: Glad they've made it back in one piece.
PRC: The next generation truly is amazing.

The students, having put in their hard work and effort, can now be observed taking a rest that they truly deserve. They are unwinding and relaxing after their diligent endeavors.

ART: It's a shame I didn't get to challenge you, master.
MOR: You'll get plenty of chances in the future, don't even worry 'bout it!
SLN: We're lucky this is all the damage we sustained.
SLV: Yeah, Selene's right.

All four students turn their heads and focus their attention on the formidable pair who valiantly held their ground against an S-Class threat, showing remarkable resilience and courage in the face of danger.

ART: Are those two really C-Class?
SLV: This is what sucks about the system. It assesses individuals based on their inherent abilities rather than their acquired skills. In the case of Sebastian and Dominic, their battle statistics may not stand out, but their remarkable ability to adapt swiftly during fights is what truly sets them apart and makes them formidable.
MOR: I'd bet that they would be at least A-Class if the system was not bullshit.
SLN: (Wow! Seb and Dom are so amazing!)

As Sebastian stands there, a shiver runs down his spine, causing goosebumps to appear on his arms. He instinctively turns towards Dominic, gently bumping his shoulder in the process. Dominic, perplexed by this sudden gesture, pivots to face Sebastian, wearing a puzzled expression on his face.

SBT: Think someone just talked about me.
DMC: You still believe in that stuff?
SBT: Superstitions are real, trust me!
DMC: Guess you're getting dumber each day that passes.

Shortly thereafter, the rest of the students make their way to the scene. Among them, you can spot Kaden, who has Victor perched on his shoulder with an air of effortless strength. Trailing behind them, there's Ethan and Violet, their weariness evident as they walk wearily, clearly fatigued from their recent exertions.

KDN: That damned devil! It ran away before I could tear it to shreds!
VCT: Kaden, please calm down. We had no chance of defeating that thing.
KDN: It's all his fault!

Kaden lifts his index finger and directs it toward Kaito, who responds with an amused chuckle in reaction to the comment. With a gentle pat on the student's shoulder, he continues on his way, bending down as he goes to meet the visibly fatigued and worn-out Violet, squatting down to get a closer look at her.

KTO: You got beat up pretty bad.
VLT: Save your bullshit, master.
KTO: At least your foul tongue is safe!
VLT: I'm going to kill you if you don't shut up.

Stepping backward a few paces, Kaito adopts a playful, sarcastic grin as he humbly implores Violet for mercy. In response, the student lets out a sigh, her tense demeanor gradually easing as she regains her composure. Her gaze lifts upward, and she spots the final two students on their way, making their approach towards them.

KTO: Ah! There they are!

Lucas takes measured steps forward, his outstretched hand offering a supportive grip to help Ezra maintain his balance as they move side by side. The signs of sheer exhaustion are unmistakable, etched onto their faces, telling a tale of fatigue and hardship. Just as Lucas contemplates taking another stride, his eyelids grow heavy, and he surrenders to drowsiness, swaying forward. In a quick and graceful move, Kaito intervenes, catching both Lucas and Ezra, ensuring their safety. He then gently transfers Ezra into Pierce's care. With determination, Lucas summons the last reserves of his strength and manages to find his voice, ready to utter a few words.

LCS: I did it, master.
KTO: I'm proud of you, Lucas.
LCS: Hah, I need some rest.

With a sense of relief, Lucas lets his weary eyelids descend, surrendering himself to the comforting embrace of Kaito's arms. His mentor, Kaito, acknowledges Arthur with a friendly wave, silently communicating that it's time for Arthur to step in and offer his assistance to their ailing comrade. Without hesitation, Arthur hurries over to Lucas's side, and with a skillful command of his unique abilities, he envelops Lucas in a warm, protective shroud of shadows, creating a cocoon of darkness that provides solace and respite.

ART: What now, master?
KTO: That's up to them to decide, but I've got an idea.
ORN: Go ahead with it, Kaito.
KTO: Gotcha! Alright students! Who's got a stomach to fill?! Because I'm treating you to dinner!

In the group of students, a radiant joy emanates, and it's fascinating to see how each individual expresses it uniquely. They are all touched by happiness, and they reveal it through their individual and distinctive mannerisms.

SLN: Master Kaito is so generous!
MOR: Free dinner?! Count me in!
SLV: Guess I'll go with you.
SBT: What's the call, dom?
DMC: No plans for tomorrow.
KDN: A chance to try Tokyos' specials! Amazing!
VLT: I'm in desperate need of some refreshers.
VCT: Same here.
KTO: Right then! It's settled! Everyone hop on the bus!

Kaito enthusiastically signals to the vibrant bus that is patiently waiting for them on the road. With excitement, all the students board the bus and settle into their seats as the driver prepares to embark on the journey to the city. Kaito leans in close to the driver, providing directions for the route to take.

End of Chapter 28
"Battle Finish!"

[ The skirmish has ended. ]