Chapter 17: victory
After the intense battle, Team 3 members retreated to their rooms, a mix of exhaustion and victory in the air. The crowd's cheers resonated outside as they closed the doors behind them.
"Wow, that was... intense," Porus said, breathing heavily as he sat down on a nearby chair.
"Yeah, we really pulled through," Sonia chimed in, her voice tinged with a mixture of relief and amazement.
Beru, lying on a bed and wincing from his injuries, managed a smile. "And Rak... he fought valiantly too."
Dante, leaning against a wall with bandages wrapped around his torso, nodded. "Rak was a true warrior. He'll be remembered."
Galen, his usually silent personality more evident than ever, stood by the window, staring outside. He clenched his fists, an unspoken determination in his eyes.
As the room fell into a moment of silence, Beru's voice broke it. "We really did it, didn't we? Defeated Zelto."
Porus grinned, looking at Beru. "Yeah, and it was all thanks to our teamwork."
Sonia's eyes sparkled. "Remember how Dante and Galen took down that ice wall Zelto crashed into?"
Beru chuckled. "And Porus, your barrier held up like a fortress."
Dante winced slightly but managed a smirk. "Don't forget Sonia's healing magic. Kept us on our feet."
Galen's lips quirked up for a split second before he turned back to the window.
Beru sighed contentedly. "We've come a long way. But there's more ahead."
Dante's gaze met Beru's. "Right. We've got the finals coming up."
Porus pumped his fist. "And we're gonna be ready. For Rak."
Sonia's smile was soft but determined. "And for everyone who's supported us."
Meanwhile, Beru's recovery didn't stop him from training. In a quiet corner of their room, he focused on his breathing and began his exercises. He knew that the finals were approaching, and he wanted to be at his best to honor Rak's memory.
Dante's injuries kept him from training as he wanted to, but his mind was sharp. He sat at a table, maps and notes spread out before him. He was strategizing, thinking of how to face the challenges ahead despite his limitations.
Galen's silent presence remained, his icy powers under control. He observed Beru's training, occasionally sparing a nod of approval. His actions spoke louder than words.
As the days passed, the room became a haven of preparation and determination. Beru's training intensified, and Dante's plans became more intricate. Porus and Sonia practiced their techniques, each member of Team 3 contributing in their own way, the room bathed in a gentle light from a nearby lamp. The team, though battered and weary, stood united in their shared purpose. With the finals on the horizon, they were ready to face whatever challenges awaited them, fueled by their camaraderie and the memory of Rak's sacrifice.