The Cobra King's Return

The Aftermath and the First Mission End

In the hospital room, Lily lay still, her body wrapped in bandages, her face showing the strain of her injuries. Despite the pain from severe fourth-degree burns, she remained steadfast in her determination to shield Peti from harm during their harrowing battle. As she stirred awake, she glanced at Peti, her eyes meeting his with a mixture of relief and concern.

Peti, recovering nearby, observed Lily with a mixture of admiration and worry. Seeing her in such a vulnerable state, bandaged and weakened, struck a chord deep within him. He knew the extent of her sacrifice, the lengths she had gone to protect him despite the grave danger they faced.Their gazes held a silent understanding, a bond forged through trials that transcended words.

In the pain and exhaustion. Lily's resolve remained unshaken. She masked her discomfort with a faint smile, silently assuring Peti that she would recover, that they would face whatever challenges lay ahead together.As the hospital bustled around them with the sounds of medical equipment and distant voices, Peti reached out to take Lily's hand gently, as lily fell back sleep. Together, they would heal and prepare for the battles yet to come, their bond strengthened by the crucible of adversity they had faced together.

In the hospital room, the atmosphere was tense yet tinged with a sense of relief as Lang, their boss, entered. His expression was a mix of pride and disappointment as he addressed Lily, who lay recovering in her hospital bed.
"Lily, I'm proud of your victory over Noboru," Lang began, his voice carrying a weight of authority. "But I'm also disappointed that you allowed him to unleash his Czar bomb-powered ability."

Lily nodded faintly, her eyes reflecting both understanding and the toll of her injuries.

Turning to Peti Lang's demeanor softened slightly. "As for you, Peti, I have some good news. You're now an official hero."

Peti's reaction was hesitant, his mind grappling with the implications. "I'm not sure if I want that," he admitted, his voice wavering slightly.

Lang nodded thoughtfully. "It's your decision, of course. But consider the benefits heroes receive, like Lily here," he continued, gesturing towards Lily. "Free services, including medical care, free food, and unlimited travel with a VIP hero card that grants access everywhere. Plus, you'll receive a 50% discount on purchases made through us and the government."

Peti pondered these perks, weighing them against the challenges and risks of being a hero. He glanced at Lily, their eyes meeting briefly in silent communication. He understood the sacrifices and responsibilities that came with the title, yet Lang's offer also presented opportunities he hadn't considered before.

In the hospital room, Lang's presence brought a sense of purpose and urgency. He turned to Lily, his expression a blend of concern and determination."Lily, I've arranged for our best healer to treat you," Lang said firmly. "We need you to stand up and show Peti around the hero base."

Lily nodded weakly, grateful but still in pain. Her injuries were severe, yet she trusted in the healer's ability to help her recover quickly.

Peti, however, was visibly conflicted. He shook his head, uncertainty etched across his face. "I don't know if I still want to be a hero," he admitted, his voice tinged with doubt.

Lang looked at Peti with understanding. "It's a big decision, Peti. Take your time to think about it. The hero's life isn't for everyone, but it comes with its own rewards and responsibilities. Seeing the base and understanding what we do might help you make your choice."

The room fell silent for a moment, the gravity of the situation settling in. Despite his hesitation, Peti couldn't deny the allure of understanding more about the hero world, especially with Lily as his guide.