From Hero to Her: Cale's Quirky Adventure

Chapter 13: A Rivalry Among Friends

As the sun rose over the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, the group was already bustling with energy. Cale, Raon, On, and Hong were gathered around a small campfire, sharing breakfast and enjoying the gentle morning breeze. Laughter filled the air as Raon animatedly recounted an exaggerated tale of his latest adventure, complete with dramatic gestures.

"And then I flew right into the dragon's lair!" Raon exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "I was so fast that it didn't even see me! And when I swooped down—"

"Let me guess, you 'defeated' the dragon with your unparalleled charm?" Cale interrupted, stifling a laugh.

"Exactly!" Raon grinned, puffing out his little chest with pride. "The dragon couldn't resist my awesomeness!"

On and Hong giggled, clearly amused by their friend's antics. "You're amazing, Raon!" Hong cheered.

"Yeah! You're the best!" On echoed, jumping in place.

Meanwhile, a few steps away, the tension was palpable as Alberu and Choi Han glared at each other across the clearing. What had started as a friendly rivalry had escalated into a series of comical squabbles over who would be the first to assist Cale whenever the need arose.

"I'm just saying, I've got more experience than you," Alberu declared, crossing his arms defiantly. "If anything happens to Cale, I'm the one who should be by his side!"

"Experience? You've been coddling him more than protecting him!" Choi Han retorted, shaking his head in disbelief. "You think being a prince gives you special privileges?"

"Of course it does!" Alberu shot back, his voice rising. "I have royal authority, remember?"

"Right. Authority that's mostly used to order desserts!" Choi Han countered, suppressing a grin. "What do you even know about real fighting?"

"More than you, apparently!" Alberu exclaimed, pointing a finger accusingly. "I've fought against a sea monster, while you were busy training with your sword!"

Cale, still oblivious to the brewing storm between them, looked up from his breakfast, eyebrows raised. "Are you two seriously arguing about this again?"

Alberu quickly switched gears, his competitive spirit shining through. "I was just telling Choi Han that I have more experience protecting you. Don't you think that matters?"

"Not really," Cale replied, a teasing smile tugging at his lips. "You both have your strengths. I can handle myself, you know."

"But you're so pretty now!" Alberu insisted, waving his arms dramatically. "It's our job to protect you from all the dangers out there, including the dangers of... flattery!"

"Flattery?" Cale laughed, shaking his head. "What's wrong with people complimenting me? You both sound ridiculous."

"It's not ridiculous!" Choi Han interjected, taking a step closer, his brows furrowed in determination. "It's about keeping you safe. And if you keep attracting attention, that could lead to trouble."

"Oh, please! The only trouble I'm attracting is your jealousy!" Cale teased, enjoying the back-and-forth.

Raon, On, and Hong, who had been quietly munching on their food, exchanged curious glances. "Are you guys fighting?" Raon asked innocently, tilting his head.

"Not fighting, just... debating," Choi Han said, forcing a smile, though his eyes betrayed the playful rivalry simmering underneath.

"Yeah! Debating who's Cale's better protector!" Alberu chimed in, a mock-serious tone lacing his voice.