Phoenix Vanguard: Legends of Astravera

The Aftermath of Recklessness

With the Frost Giant Leader defeated, Andres and Haruki hurried to where Ashton was tending to the wounded Paladin. Haruki knelt beside him, gently lifting the Paladin’s helmet to pour a healing elixir into his mouth. In a few moments, the Paladin stirred, his eyes fluttering open, and he managed to sit up with a groggy but grateful expression.

Seeing him regain his senses, Andres crossed his arms and began to scold. “You shouldn’t jump into a fight without a solid plan. What were you thinking?”

Haruki couldn’t hold back his amusement, chuckling, “Coming from you, that’s rich!” His laughter filled the mountain, and even Ashton cracked a smile.

With the tension lifting, Haruki nudged Andres, urging him to let it go, “Come on, let the guy breathe. Let’s go grab our loot from the pit!”

As Andres moved towards the pit, Andres couldn’t hide his excitement. His eyes gleamed at the shimmering loot scattered around the massive hole left from the explosion. "Look at this haul! We’re going to be set for weeks!"

Haruki raised an eyebrow. “You mean days, knowing your appetite,” he teased, earning a playful shove from Andres.

They begin to sift through the remains, carefully collecting various crystals, enchanted weapons, and glistening shards left behind by the defeated giants. Each item felt like a hard-earned prize, and their hands were soon full of spoils that would make any adventurer jealous.

In the meantime, Ashton helped the Paladin back to his feet, his voice calm and reassuring. “Take it easy. That was a close call back there.” The Paladin managed a grateful nod, though his expression grew more serious.

The Paladin extended his hand to Andres and Haruki. "Thank you both for stepping in. I’m not sure what I was thinking, charging in like that. I thought I had the strength to handle it alone. Guess I misjudged." He paused, a grateful look in his eyes. "The name’s Max Rodriguez."

Andres overheard and shrugged. “That’s the thing about big, tough monsters—they’ll surprise you every time.” His gaze softened, showing a rare moment of empathy before he added, “But we’re glad you were here. That boulder move you pulled? That was impressive.”

Andres’ eyes widened in surprise. “Wait... Max Rodriguez? That’s an impressive name!” He playfully punched Max on the shoulder. “Welcome to the team... at least for now.” Haruki smiled and nodded, pleased to see Max in better spirits. He then activates the Ruler’s Eye to check his new friend's stats.

Name: Maxine Rodriguez

Origin: American Mexican

Class: Paladin

Level: 24

Rank: Awakened

Strength: 235

Agility: 75

Intelligence: 25

Endurance: 290

Attack: 218

Total HP: 7640

Total Defense: 400

Andres blinked in confusion as he read the name. “Wait, what? Who is Maxine?” A moment of silence followed. Max, feeling shy, quickly covered Andres’s mouth to prevent anyone from overhearing.

“Mmm?” came Andres’ muffled voice. “You mean you’re a girl?”

Max didn’t verbally respond but nodded instead. Ashton chuckled, adding, “I just found out when I was treating her wounds.”

Haruki smiled reassuringly. “That’s perfectly okay.”

Andres, ever curious, bombarded Max with questions. She explained that she had to hide her identity for a reason and hoped they could understand. Ashton’s expression showed agreement with Max's sentiment.