Elijah and Maria

4

As the group steps outside, they are greeted by a magnificent sight: an opulent carriage waiting for them. Its polished wood gleams in the sunlight, intricate carvings adorning its exterior. The wheels are adorned with gold accents, and the plush interior is visible through the open door, inviting them in.

Maria gasps, her eyes wide with amazement. “Wow, I’ve never seen anything like this!” she exclaims, taking in the grandeur.

Xiao Zhan stands beside her, a grin spreading across his face. “This is just the beginning. You’ll get used to the luxury once we start training in the palace,” he says, a teasing glimmer in his eyes.

As they approach the carriage, Maria and Xiao Zhan exchange glances, both silently contemplating their upcoming training sessions. Maria feels a mix of excitement and determination, envisioning how their manipulation lessons could unfold. She wonders how they could challenge each other’s skills and push their limits.

“I think this will be a fair manipulation lesson,” Maria thinks to herself, her competitive spirit ignited. She smiles at Xiao Zhan, who seems to share her enthusiasm.

Dan and Dianna exchange knowing looks as they assist the group into the carriage, sensing the chemistry forming between Maria and Xiao Zhan. “You two will make a great team,” Dianna comments playfully.

Once everyone is settled inside, the carriage begins its journey toward the palace, the rhythmic sound of hooves on cobblestone creating a sense of anticipation. Maria looks out the window, her heart racing as the landscape of Xianlu City rolls by, each moment bringing them closer to the training that could change their lives.

As the carriage glides smoothly, Elijah leans forward, excitement in his voice. “I can’t wait to start training. We have a lot to learn, and I want us to be ready for anything.”

Koli nods vigorously. “Yeah! Let’s make this count. We can’t let anything hold us back.”

With determination filling the air, the group is ready to embrace the challenges ahead, united in their mission to protect Xianlu City.

As the carriage rolls smoothly toward the palace, Dan bursts into laughter, breaking the tension in the air. “You all are in for a treat! Once we arrive, I’ll be signing you up for the wardance.”

Maria raises an eyebrow, intrigued. “What’s the wardance?”

Dan leans forward, excitement lighting up his features. “It’s a tournament where fighters from all over Xianlu come together to compete. You’ll face different opponents in a series of challenges. If you make it to the semifinals, there’s a huge prize waiting for you!”

Elijah’s eyes widen with interest. “What kind of prize?”

Dan grins widely. “The rewards are incredible! Not only will you receive a sizable reward from the tournament itself, but the wardance community also offers exclusive opportunities, including training sessions with top fighters and rare artifacts that can enhance your skills.”

Koli leans back, crossing his arms with a smirk. “So, if we win, we get cool stuff? Count me in!”

Dianna chuckles, adding, “And trust me, the experience you gain will be invaluable. It’s not just about winning; it’s about pushing your limits and learning from each encounter.”

Xiao Zhan nudges Maria playfully. “Looks like you’ll get a chance to put your skills to the test right away. Ready for a challenge?”

Maria’s competitive spirit ignites, and she nods confidently. “Absolutely. I’m all in.”

The carriage rolls onward, filled with chatter and excitement as the group discusses strategies for the wardance. The prospect of competing together ignites a fire within them, uniting their resolve to train hard and seize every opportunity.