Phoenix Vanguard: Legends of Astravera

A Bond Forged in Battle

After their duel, the two decided to grind monsters for a bit longer until they grew tired and headed back to town.

Haruki stretched, shaking out his limbs. “Well, if I’m your ‘sleive’ for a week, what’s your first command, oh great warrior?”

Andres scratched his head, realizing he hadn’t thought that far ahead. “Uh… I guess we could start by grabbing something to eat. I’m starving after that fight.”

Haruki nodded, standing up and sheathing his katana. “That sounds like a plan. Lead the way, ‘master.’”

The two continue walking as they are ready to turn their duel into a budding friendship.

Haruki couldn’t shake his admiration for the boy who had bested him. “You’ve got some serious potential, kid. If you keep this up, you’ll be catching up with me in no time.”

Andres shrugged, a hint of humility in his tone. “I just did what I had to do. But thanks for the compliment.”

Light flitted around them, still somewhat annoyed about being offered up in the bet but also glad to see the newfound camaraderie. “Well, I guess I’ll have to keep an eye on you two, huh? You might just cause some chaos together!”

“Chaos?” Andres grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “You have no idea!”

As they approached the bustling Adventurer’s Hall, the energy of the place enveloped them. Adventurers of all levels were gathering, discussing quests and sharing stories of their exploits. Haruki glanced around, taking it all in. “This place is amazing! I can’t believe I’m going to be your ‘slave’ here.”

Andres laughed. “You better make it worth my while, then!”

Their laughter echoed through the hall, marking the start of an unexpected friendship forged through competition and mutual respect.

As they settled into the Adventurer’s Hall, Haruki grew quiet, reflecting on their recent duel. One moment stood out in his mind: during their final clash, he thought he saw a flicker in Andres’ eyes, a brief flash from black to red. It could have been a trick of the light or the adrenaline coursing through him, but it left him intrigued. What’s behind that boy’s strength? He pondered, deciding to observe his newfound friend a little more closely.

After placing their orders, the two boys took a seat at a wooden table bustling with activity. As plates of steaming food and mugs of frothy drinks arrived, they began to share their stories.

“So, what’s your story?” Haruki asked, taking a hearty bite of meat.

Andres shrugged, his expression shifting to one of contemplation. “I just woke up… I don’t remember anything before that. Everything feels like a blur.”

“Seriously?” Haruki raised an eyebrow, surprised. “That’s a bit unusual. I’ve trained as a samurai since I was a kid. My family expected me to follow in their footsteps. So, I left to find my own path, to forge my identity beyond their expectations.”

Andres nodded, feeling a sense of camaraderie forming. “I was lost in the forest with nothing. Just trying to figure out where I belong.”

As they continued chatting, Haruki’s gaze shifted to the bill they would need to pay. “By the way, how are we going to pay for all this?”

Andres burst into laughter, pointing a finger at Haruki. “You’re the sleive here, remember?”

Haruki chuckled, nearly in tears from laughter. “Fine! Tomorrow, we’ll hunt together to get items to sell and earn some gold to spend. But for now, I’ll pay for this.” He leaned back in his chair, a grin on his face. “But seriously, where are you going to sleep tonight?”