Midnight Countdown

December 24 4005 11:16 PM

The fiery monster continued its rampage through the city, leaving destruction in its wake. Buildings crumbled, debris scattered, and the surroundings burned with an infernal fury. Terrified civilians ran for their lives, desperately seeking safety from the colossal creature's wrath.

Rathalos, fueled by boundless rage, scanned its surroundings, its burning gaze fixating on Light. With its sword held high, the monster prepared to engage in a battle of epic proportions. Its fiery aura radiated anger and violence, a stark contrast to Light's composed and tranquil demeanor.

As the monster charged towards him, its blazing eyes filled with malice, Light remained undeterred. His calmness stood in stark contrast to the raging chaos that surrounded them. With his sword poised in front of him, he awaited the monster's approach, his unyielding resolve evident in his stoic expression.

The creature let out a primal scream that reverberated through the air, shattering the silence and rattling the very foundations of the city. Its intention to maim and kill was unmistakable, a stark contrast to Light's unwavering motivation—to protect those around him.

Unfazed by the ear-piercing scream, Light stood his ground, his expression unchanging. Without emotion, he responded to the monster's aggression. His emotionless demeanor carried a touch of sarcasm

As the monster closed in, its sharp claws gleaming in the fiery glow, Light remained focused and ready. There was no room for fear or hesitation in his heart. He understood the weight of the responsibility he carried—to defend the innocent and bring an end to the rampage of this fearsome creature.

Their clash was inevitable, a clash between two beings with opposing motivations. One driven by an insatiable thirst for murder, the other fueled by an unwavering determination to protect. As the monster lunged towards Light, their fates intertwined in a battle that would shape the course of the city's future.

The battle began with a clash of swords and a dance of flames. Light's movements were precise and calculated, his strikes aimed at exploiting any weakness in his monstrous opponent. His lack of visible emotions did not diminish the intensity of his focus or the skill with which he wielded his weapon.

The monster fought with a blind rage, its attacks wild and ferocious. It swung its claws and unleashed torrents of fire, aiming to overpower its adversary with sheer brute force. But Light, driven by a higher purpose, moved with grace and precision, dodging and countering each devastating blow.

The clash between Light and Rathalos was a sight to behold. The intensity of their struggle reverberated through the city, a testament to their unwavering determination. Light's unwavering resolve, coupled with his honed skills and unyielding spirit, made him a formidable opponent.

As they battled on, Light's mind remained focused, his emotions locked away. He analyzed the monster's every move, searching for patterns and weaknesses. With each passing moment, he grew closer to unraveling the secret behind the creature's existence and finding a way to bring it down.

The fate of the city hung in the balance as Light and Rathalos clashed, the battleground illuminated by the flickering flames. The sounds of their battle echoed through the night, a symphony of steel, fire, and unwavering determination.

In this monumental struggle, Light's stoicism was his greatest strength. It allowed him to keep a clear mind amidst the chaos and make calculated decisions in the face of adversity. With each strike, he inched closer to unlocking the key to defeating the monster and restoring peace to the

"Come and get some, cookie monster..." Light's sarcastic remark echoed through the chaos.

With a tremendous display of strength, Light held back the onslaught of Rathalos's fiery claws, his sword acting as a formidable barrier against the monstrous creature's assault.

Light's eyes widens as his gray eyes spotted a nearby pillar towering above him. He glanced back at the enraged monster, his mind racing with a plan.

Backing up slowly, Light maintained his defense against Rathalos's relentless attacks. As his back pressed against the cold wall, he seized the opportunity. With a swift leap, he propelled himself off the wall, his feet finding purchase on its surface. With each subsequent step, he gained momentum, the anticipation building.

With a powerful swing of his sword, Light struck the pillar with all his might. The impact sent a shockwave through the structure, causing it to topple and crash down upon the fiery monster. The pillar's weight and force managed to inflict harm upon the seemingly invincible creature, eliciting a resounding cry of pain.

"RAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!" Rathalos's agonized scream pierced the night air, momentarily stunned by the unexpected turn of events.

The monster leapt from building to building, its sharp claws digging into the structures with ease. With a swift motion, it launched itself toward Light, its claws poised to strike. Light reacted swiftly, rolling to the side and narrowly evading the deadly attack.

Undeterred, the monster bounded onto another nearby building, its gaze fixed on its elusive target. With a menacing growl, it unleashed a torrent of scorching flames toward Light. Reacting on instinct, Light stood tall, gripping his sword tightly with both hands as he positioned it to block the onslaught.

The intensity of the fiery assault pushed against Light's defenses, but he held his ground, determination etched across his face. However, as the flames intensified, he began to feel the strain. The searing heat tested his resolve, threatening to overpower him.

"Shit..." Light muttered in desperation, his grip on his sword tightening.

The monster, sensing an opportunity, drew in a deep breath, preparing for an even more powerful blast of fire. Light's muscles strained as he pushed back against the relentless heat, but it was becoming increasingly difficult to maintain his defense.

As the monster unleashed its intensified inferno, the temperature soared, and Light struggled to withstand the searing assault. His grip on his sword weakened, the intense heat threatening to overpower him. Claire and Liene watched in fear from a distance, their voices filled with urgency.

"Light!!!" Liene yelled, her voice filled with concern.

"Get out of there!!!" Claire's plea echoed through the chaotic scene.

Claire, fueled by desperation and determination, swiftly reached for her bow, which materialized from its hidden place behind her back. With her quiver filled, she deftly retrieved three arrows, readying herself for a precise and swift shot. Taking aim, she unleashed her stellar art, -Swiftshot Precision-, sending the arrows hurtling toward the massive Rathalos.

However, her attempt to divert the monster's attention failed miserably. The arrows barely made an impact, their effect on the raging creature minimal. The fiery onslaught continued unabated, slowly overpowering Light as he valiantly defended against the onslaught.

Fear and desperation gripped Claire as she frantically searched for a solution. Her body trembled, but she refused to let despair consume her. With an unwavering resolve, she quickly selected a few arrows and swiftly fired them at the building where Rathalos had latched on. The impact caused the structure to crumble, sending the monster tumbling to the ground, buried beneath the rubble.

"Light!" Claire's voice rang out, filled with concern and urgency.

Claire rushes towards Light, her relief evident in her voice as she calls out to him with a loud exclamation.

"Light!" she yells, her voice carrying a mix of relief and excitement.

Light, however, remains his stoic self and responds with a hint of sarcasm, not letting his emotions show through.

"I'm just a few feet away from you. Why are you yelling so loudly?" he retorts dryly.

Claire gasps, caught off guard by his response, before bursting into giggles. She embraces the weakened Light, holding him close, and smiles warmly at him.

"Heh, thanks... I guess," Light murmurs, his tone betraying a hint of gratitude.

Claire, keeping up with the playful banter, responds with a sarcastic remark of her own.

"I'd say the same for you, but you're welcome then," she quips, a smirk playing on her lips.

Their brief moment of lightheartedness is abruptly interrupted as the ground shakes, signaling the emergence of Rathalos from the rubble. The fiery monster fixates its enraged gaze on Light and Claire, its intent to continue the battle clear in its eyes.

"RAAAAAAAA!!!" roars the monster, its fiery wrath intensifying.

Without a moment's hesitation, Light swiftly rises to his feet and pushes Claire out of harm's way, his voice filled with urgency.

"Get out of here, Claire!!!" he yells, his tone commanding.

"No way!!!" Claire responds defiantly, her voice projecting determination.

"I'll be fine!!! Move it!!!" Light's voice echoes with conviction.

Claire's eyes widen as the fiery monster charges relentlessly, closing in on the weakened Light. Time seems to slow down as she watches the impending collision, a mix of fear and despair gripping her.

In that moment, Claire realizes the limitations of Light's strength. Though he possesses physical prowess, he cannot overcome a monster if he can't even touch it with hid sword. Her heart aches as a single tear escapes her eye, her outstretched hand a futile attempt to reach out to Light, knowing her efforts may be in vain.

"Light... Don't... You can't..." Claire's voice trembles with desperation as she pleads with him.

"Please don't die on me... Don't..." her voice trails off, choked with emotion.

In that moment, a vivid flashback takes hold of Claire's mind, transporting her to a time of devastation and survival.

"Claire?" echoes a male voice.

The scene unfolds before her eyes—a city in ruins, engulfed in flames and chaos. She looks down at her own bruised hand, then shifts her gaze to a young man with yellow hair, a figure standing taller and older than her.

"Claire!!! Come on!!! Stand up!!!" the urgency in the male voice pierces through the chaos.

She shakes off her disorientation, taking in the horrifying sight of the city under siege by ruthless bandits. Fear grips her heart, and she instinctively covers her head, trembling with terror. But a strong hand reaches out and grabs hers, pulling her along.

"Claire... Let's go!!!" the male voice urges, his determination palpable.

"I don't wanna die!!! I don't wanna die!!!" young Claire's voice echoes with raw fear.

Claire, her younger self, cries uncontrollably as she is guided to safety, the young boy leading her through the chaos.

"Claire, we're gonna be fine, just hang on..." reassures the male voice, his embrace offering a sliver of comfort amidst the turmoil.

Her tears gradually subside as the young boy's presence envelops her in a sense of security. But tragedy strikes once more as a massive debris collapses upon them, enveloping them in darkness.

As Claire returns to the present, her eyes meet Liene's, who valiantly defends against the monster's vicious claws with her own blades.

"Hmm... Hngg!!!" Liene grunts, pushing back against the force.

"Liene?" Light questions, his voice filled with recognition.

"Well, who do you think I'm supposed to be?" Liene retorts sarcastically, her words laced with a touch of annoyance and relief.

The monster diverts its attention to Liene, momentarily forgetting about Light as it swats away her blades. In a display of agility, Liene rolls and evades the monster's assault. Seizing the opportunity, she swiftly retrieves her kyoketsu-shoge and hurls both blades towards a nearby wall. With skilled precision, the blades find their mark, inflicting harm upon the creature.

"RAAAAAAAA!!!" The monster roars in fury, its rage reaching a crescendo.

Undeterred by Liene's taunts, the monster leaps once more, this time targeting Liene directly. Unable to avoid the attack, Liene finds herself pinned to the ground by the monster's formidable claws. Its fiery face draws closer to hers, a menacing threat.

"You're not so tough, are you, little monster..." Liene teases, a flicker of confidence in her voice.

"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!" The monster's ear-splitting scream fills the air, a symphony of wrath and pain.

"LIENE!!!" Claire's voice echoes with sheer panic, her concern for her friend pouring out.

Meanwhile, Light swiftly assesses his surroundings, his gaze landing on a nearby water hydrant. Without hesitation, he flings his sword towards it, triggering a powerful eruption of water. With a hint of sarcasm in his voice, Light challenges the fire monster's elemental prowess.

"Fire monster, huh? Let's see if water can really extinguish fire..."

Light deftly manipulates the surging water, skillfully directing it towards the towering monster. The deluge crashes against the creature's searing form, causing it immense agony. The monster's anguished cries fill the air as it convulses, spewing fire uncontrollably from its enraged maw.

"RAAAAAAAAAAA!!!" The monster's wail of pain reverberates through the chaos, its fiery assault momentarily subdued by the power of water.

The monster's furious gaze locks onto Light as he swiftly retrieves his sword, readying himself to face the creature head-on. With a thunderous charge, the monster lunges at Light, its claws poised to tear him apart. Light skillfully parries the first two attacks, evading the majority of the monster's vicious slashes. He leaps backward, maintaining a defensive stance, preparing to withstand the relentless assault.

However, in the midst of the intense battle, a familiar voice breaks through the chaos—Clank.

11:28PM

"Marcus?" Light's voice reveals his confusion as he recognizes the newcomer.

"Hey Light, what's up? You look messed up..." Marcus responds with a smirk, effortlessly blocking the fiery monster's assault with his sharp scythe, preventing it from clawing Light.

Marcus chuckles, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "I couldn't let you have all the fun, could I? Besides, it seems like you could use a hand."

Marcus swiftly pulls Light down, causing the monstrous Rathalos to stumble and crash to the ground. The creature shakes its head, emitting thin streams of fire from its nostrils, growling in frustration. Its massive claws dig into the earth, leaving deep gouges in the ground as it glares at Marcus and Light with intense fury.

With a determined stance, Marcus grips his formidable scythe tightly, poised for another attack. He leaps towards the fiery monster, swinging his scythe with precision and intent. However, to his surprise, the scythe merely passes through the monster's fiery form.

"Uhmm...?" Marcus utters, perplexed by the unexpected turn of events.

As the scythe phases through the fiery monster once again, Marcus's shock is quickly replaced by a sharp death glare from the creature. It claws at Marcus, but Light swiftly intervenes, using his sword to block the attack.

"You can block its attacks with your hoe..." Light remarks sarcastically.

"SCYTHE!!!" Marcus retorts, correcting Light's choice of words.

Light pulls Marcus back, and they both quickly strategize. They realize that physical attacks won't work against the illusory monster. The realization dawns upon them that they need a different approach.

"Not important!!! Nevertheless, you can't attack it with your pointy farm weapon..." Light states matter-of-factly.

"It's a damn scythe..." Marcus responds, slightly exasperated.

Marcus valiantly continues to block the monster's attacks with his scythe, creating an opportunity for Light to execute their plan. Light nods in understanding as Marcus points towards a water tank on top of a nearby building.

"I see it," acknowledges Light.

"I'll distract the monster. Water beats fire, right? You need to find a way for the water to flow through here! I'll hold it off," Marcus explains, determination shining in his eyes.

"Oh look, you're becoming a brave hero... Your sacrifice will be worthy, and you'll be remembered as the hero who had a pitchfork," Light remarks sarcastically.

"Come on, that's not even close. Just go," Marcus retorts with a smirk, unfazed by Light's comment.

Light quickly dashes towards the building where the water tank is located, while Marcus swiftly ducks and initiates the - Stygian Siphon- art, causing the ground to tremble and broken pillars to soar into the air. With a skilled leap, Marcus kicks the majority of the pillar fragments towards the monster, inflicting damage upon it.

"RAAAAA!!!" bellows the monster.

"Heh..." smirks Marcus confidently.

Meanwhile, Light, in a state of shock, scans the tall building and rapidly devises a plan. He surveys his surroundings before turning to face Liene and Claire.

Suddenly, the sound of bells rings out continuously, capturing Light's attention. He hastens his pace towards Liene and Claire.

11:39 PM.

"Hey... I need your help," Light implores desperately.

"Oh?" responds Claire.

"Claire, do you see that water tank?" Light points towards the water tank.

"Yeah," Claire acknowledges.

"Use your stellar art, Precision Strike on it's stand... and Liene," Light instructs.

Light then turns towards Liene, placing his hands on her shoulders.

"Yeah?" Liene asks, her cheeks blushing.

"Use your kyoketsu-something and wrap it around the water tank, and as Claire hits the stand... And pull with all your might," Light instructs.

"First of all, it's called a kyoketsu-shoge," Liene points out.

"Not important right now," Light responds.

"Okay!!!" both girls exclaim in unison.

"Do it on my signal," says Light.

Light rushes towards Rathalos to aid Marcus in distracting the monster, skillfully parrying its attacks with his sword.

"As the water flows, jump out of the way," Light commands.

"I know that," Marcus responds.

The two boys continue to keep Rathalos occupied, diverting its attention from the girls who await Light's signal. The continuous ringing of the bells marks the approach of midnight.

11:49 PM.

"DO IT!!!" Light yells.

"RIGHT!!!" both girls respond.

Liene hurls her kyoketsu-shoge towards the water tank, its blades expertly wrapping around the structure. Meanwhile, Claire utilizes the -Precision Strike- art, aiming her arrow at the stand supporting the water tank. With a precise shot, she brings down the stand, causing water to cascade from the top of the building. Rathalos, sensing the sudden change, turns around just as Light and Marcus leap off to a nearby building, evading the oncoming flood.

"RAAAAAAAAA!!!" Rathalos screams.

The deluge of water engulfs the monster, sealing its fate. In a desperate struggle to save itself, Rathalos emits anguished roars, but the relentless torrent slowly dissolves its fiery form, bringing about its inevitable demise.

Light, Marcus, Claire, and Liene watch as the monster melts away, gradually succumbing to the overwhelming force of water. Within a few minutes, the flood recedes, flowing through the city canals and eventually vanishing entirely.

"Finally..." Marcus says with a relieved sigh.

Liene and Claire observe the scene from a distance, exchanging glances before bursting into laughter at the sight of Light and Marcus lying on the rooftop.

"That's Light for you," Liene says between giggles.

"Absolutely," Claire agrees, joining in the laughter.

Just then, the clock strikes 11:59 PM before slowly reaching 12:00AM, and the anticipation builds. At the stroke of midnight, the bells ring out loudly, startling Marcus momentarily in contrast to Light, as he continues to settle down onto the rooftop, unfazed. Christmas has arrived, and the sound of jingling bells fills the air. Reindeer roam the city, and the chilly wind blows through the dark Christmas evening.

Claire walks around and notices the badly damaged plushie that Light had won for her. She picks it up, a smile gracing her face as she admires the broken but cherished toy. Her gaze then turns to Light.

"I love it, Light," Claire thinks to herself, her heart filled with warmth.

In the midst of the dark Christmas midnight, with the wind blowing and snowflakes gently falling, the ringing of bells signifies the arrival of the holiday. Despite the challenges and obstacles faced by the young heroes, the beauty of the starlit sky on this magical Christmas night more than makes up for it. The four teenagers come together to celebrate and embrace the joy of the holiday season.

December 25 4005 1:42 PM

Back in the academic medical room, Marcus, Light, Claire, and Liene enter with visible bruises on their bodies. Cain, the medical staff, looks at them with a puzzled expression.

"I thought you guys went out for a walk," Cain says, scratching his head in confusion.

"Yeah, something like that," Marcus replies slowly, trying to come up with an excuse.

Light pats Cain's shoulder and gives him a blank stare. "Merry Christmas to you too, Cain," Light says sarcastically.

Cain raises an eyebrow, still perplexed. He shakes his head and asks, "So, why do you all look like you've just fought a monster?"

"Well..." Marcus begins, scratching his head, "we kind of... tripped on the way here."

Liene, feeling embarrassed, chimes in, "Yeah, it was a bit clumsy on our part."

Cain sighs and shakes his head again. "Right," he responds, not entirely convinced by their explanation.

Before Cain could finish his thought, Ken, the friendly dog, bursts into the room with a cheerful bark.

"Woof woof!" Ken exclaims loudly.

Light sits down, patting Ken on the head before standing up. He looks visibly exhausted from the battle they had just fought against Rathalos, the fiery monster. Light gives Cain one last pat on the shoulder before making his way towards the door.

"Right... I'm going to bed," Light announces.

Claire, with a concerned expression and a tired voice, agrees, "Sure..."

Light walks off and exits the room, maintaining his emotionless expression, with Marcus following closely behind.

"Wait... Light," Marcus calls out.

Light hesitates but eventually stops midway through the hallway. It becomes apparent that they share the same thoughts in their minds. Marcus, known for his cheerful and quirky remarks, now looks at Light with a sincere expression as his auro circulates around the dark hallway. With their thoughts aligned, Marcus asks Light a question.

"It was Derek... wasn't it? He sent that monster," Marcus inquires.

Light responds with a sincere face, confirming Marcus' suspicion.

"Yeah."

There is a surprising look on Light's face as he turns toward Marcus. Although devoid of emotions, there is something different in Light's demeanor, and Marcus can somehow feel the intensity of the emotions he is experiencing. Light's aura permeates the hallway as he continues speaking.

"This is getting more serious than I thought," Light admits, his face still filled with sincerity.

Marcus raises another question, asking if Light plans to inform anyone about the situation.

"No... I can't involve more people here... This is my fight... Derek is after me... I will fight him... I don't need to involve anyone else," Light responds firmly.

Understanding Light's perspective, Marcus nods with a concerned expression.

"Right..."

Light turns away and resumes his slow walk, but then he stops once again, sighing audibly.

"If you want to help, protect them," Light instructs in an emotionless tone.

Marcus begins to respond, but Light interrupts, not even facing him.

"I'll be fine, seriously. I've been in more dangerous battles than you could count," Light reassures.

"Well, you seem to know what you're doing then," Marcus acknowledges.

"Marcus!" Light reiterates.

"I will," Marcus agrees.

"Great, I guess we're done here..." says Light

Light starts walking forward, but then Marcus calls out to him once more.

"Wait, Light..."

Without stopping, Light responds.

"Mmm?"

"You know we're here for you, right?" Marcus points out.

Light continues walking into the distance, but he replies to Marcus's remark.

"I'll keep that in mind..."

"Just call us if you need us. We're your friends after all," Marcus offers.

Light stops midway in the hallway, turning around to find no one behind him. Marcus has already returned to the medical room. Light places his hands in his pockets and proceeds down the hallway toward their dorm room.

From a distance, Liene and Claire as well as ken, hide behind a wall to listen to their conversation

Needless to say, their heard everything...

"Light..." says both girls with concerned faces

"Woof..." barks Ken with a soft voice

December 26 4005 5:58AM

Light awoke early, his guilt over ruining Cain's bed weighing heavily on his conscience. He rose from the floor and grabbed his sword before leaving Cain's dormitory. As he walked down the hallway, he paused, closed his eyes, and drew his sword, ready for any confrontation.

"You can come out if you want to," Light called out sarcastically.

"Oh, hello, Light," came Derek's chilling response.

Derek emerged from behind a wall, wearing a menacing smile on his face. Light couldn't help but notice the deep eye bags under Derek's fatigued eyes, as if he hadn't slept in days. It was a slightly jarring sight, even for Light.

"What's up? How are your failed attempts to kill me? Are any of them reaching their mark or are you just here to show off your non-existent skills?" Light taunted, his sarcasm dripping from his words.

"Oh, that's just a fraction of my plan," Derek replied confidently.

"Is that so?" Light retorted sarcastically.

"You know I could kill you right now if I wanted to," Derek threatened.

Light's retort was swift. "That would be an exaggeration coming from a man who looks like a monkey strangled after stealing a banana."

Derek glared at Light, his anger evident. Flames flickered in his palms as he prepared to attack.

"Are we fighting or what? I'm just glad you're so generous with your time, considering you don't even have time to sleep," Light continued with his sarcasm.

"You seem overconfident in the face of the man who defeated Marcus and Cain," Derek smirked.

"Says the idiot who fainted after using up his energy on me," Light countered, unflinching in the face of Derek's rage.

Derek's eyes burned with fury as his hands remained wreathed in flames. He seemed ready to snap at any second, while Light maintained his emotionless demeanor.

"So, are we going to stand here all day, or are we going to fight now?" Light quipped sarcastically.

Light slipped on a pair of black gloves, grasping his sword firmly. Derek's fatigued eyes turned red as he prepared for battle.

"ACCENDATION!" Derek chanted, unleashing a powerful beam of energy towards Light. With swift reflexes, Light blocked the attack with his sword, causing an explosion and a cloud of smoke. Emerging from the smoke, Light leaped towards Derek, slashing his sword with ferocity.

Their blades clashed with a resounding clang, but Derek's smug smile remained. An invisible barrier protected him from Light's strikes as he chanted once more.

"Eclipse Thunderstrike!"

"Shit," Light muttered, realizing the danger.

A bolt of lightning struck Light's shoulder, sending him hurtling towards a wall. As he collided with the wall, Light fought to regain his composure.

"It's surprising, really," Derek taunted with an intimidating gaze. "A former member of the Black Cross Sword faction, I thought you'd be stronger."

"What did you just say?" Light responded, his eyes widening with intensity.

"ACCENDATION!" Derek chanted once again, summoning a powerful beam of light. Light dodged the attack, causing the beam to collide with the wall, creating cracks and a small crater. Emerging from the smoke, Light glances emotionlessly and kicked a nearby table towards Derek.

"Eclipse Thunderstrike!" Derek retaliated.

The lightning beam struck the table, triggering a massive explosion and enveloping the area in smoke. Light used the cover to his advantage, leaping from the smoke with a blank look, launching multiple blade strikes with his art -Stormbreaker Assault- at Derek. In a surprising turn, Derek countered with his own attack.

"ACCENDATION!" Derek chanted, unleashing a more potent blast of light energy. The resulting explosion knocked Light back and caused debris to rain down, separating the combatants and halting their battle.

As the dust settled and debris continued to fall, Light caught a fleeting glimpse of Derek's enraged eyes. In that moment, Light's expression turned sincere. He knew that he would face Derek again another day. With an unwavering emotionless look on his face, Light walked away, tightly gripping his sword adorned with a small black cross. The battle had ended for now, but both knew that their clash was far from over...

December 28 4005 12:00PM

Amidst the bustling atmosphere of the Darkfire Academy assembly, students from Celestial Sword Academy and Darkfire Academy come together as the visiting students prepare to bid farewell to Peltas and return to Stracia. The assembly hall is filled with a cacophony of sounds - chatter, footsteps, and the occasional ringing of phones. However, all noise abruptly ceases as Isaac Whiteheart steps onto the stage, commanding the attention of everyone present.

Addressing the gathered students with a warm smile, Isaac begins his speech with gratitude in his voice.

"Greetings, students of Darkfire and Celestial Sword Academy. As we prepare to depart from this remarkable institution, we wish to express our deepest appreciation for the hospitality you have extended to us."

Isaac's words permeate the hall, capturing the hearts and minds of the assembled students. The air is thick with a mixture of excitement, nostalgia, and gratitude.

"During our time here, we have been privileged to witness your incredible talents, witness the bonds you have formed, and learn from your unwavering dedication. Darkfire Academy has provided us with an invaluable experience, showcasing the strength and determination that thrives within these walls."

A momentary pause follows Isaac's heartfelt words, allowing the significance of their time together to sink in.

"As we bid farewell, let us reflect on the memories we have created, the friendships we have nurtured, and the invaluable lessons we have learned. Though we may physically depart, the impact of our shared experiences will forever resonate within us."

Applause and cheers fill the assembly hall, the students from both academies applauding with genuine appreciation and a touch of wistfulness.

"As we return to Stracia, let the bonds we have forged and the values we hold dear guide us in our future endeavors. Let the spirit of Darkfire Academy continue to inspire us, driving us to reach new heights and unite us as we strive for excellence."

The students of Darkfire and Celestial Sword Academy join together in applause and cheers, resonating with the words spoken by Isaac. The majority of students warmly welcome their visiting counterparts, embracing the bonds formed during their time together and expressing sadness at their impending departure. However, a minority holds reservations, feeling inconvenienced by the sharing of dorms and perceiving the visiting students as upstaging their fellow classmates.

Among the applauding crowd, Light observes with his customary emotionless expression. His gaze remains fixed on Isaac as the head of the Celestial Sword Academy continues his speech on the stage. Isaac's words strike a chord, acknowledging the recent challenges faced by Darkfire Academy and offering sincere apologies for any inconveniences caused.

The sight of Isaac, a respected figure, formally bowing to the assembled students sends shockwaves throughout the assembly. Even the teachers, from both academies, watch in awe and surprise. Herald, unable to contain his astonishment, voices his objection to Isaac's humble gesture.

"Isaac, you don't need to bow to us," Herald points out, his voice filled with admiration.

Isaac straightens himself, his gaze meeting Herald's with unwavering determination.

"I see all of you as equals, not as inferior or weak," Isaac asserts. "I, too, was once in your shoes, lacking strength and resilience. As teachers of both academies, we strive to impart knowledge and foster your growth, equipping you with the skills necessary to navigate this world."

Isaac's words ignite a wave of applause and cheers among the students. His speech strikes a chord, motivating and inspiring them to embrace their own potential. Even those who initially harbored resentment join in the applause, recognizing the sincerity and wisdom in Isaac's words. Claire, Marcus, Cain, Liene, and Rose clap enthusiastically, their hands coming together in a resounding show of support.

Amidst the applause, Light remains seated, his expression unchanged. His silence and detachment create an air of mystery, as if he holds thoughts and emotions hidden from the outside world.

As Isaac slowly exits the stage, accompanied by the teachers of Celestial Sword Academy, Herald steps forward, eager to address the crowd.

"Ahem, anyway... Darkfire, let us bid the Celestial Sword Academy a proper farewell," Herald announces.

The students from both schools continue to applaud and cheer enthusiastically, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. Amidst the jubilant atmosphere, Light's gaze fixates on Derek, who rises from his seat and slowly makes his way out of the assembly hall. A shiver runs down Light's spine as he realizes that all the troubles and challenges they faced during the trip were orchestrated by Derek. He knows that one day he will have to confront him alone, and the weight of that realization fills him with a sense of foreboding. Light continues to watch Derek until he disappears from his line of sight, a silent determination growing within him.

As the applause gradually subsides, Light's gaze lingers on Isaac for a brief moment before shifting to the students around him. He observes the camaraderie and shared enthusiasm, yet his own expression remains stoic and distant.

Outside the Darkfire Academy, the massive airship slowly touches down in front of the school, awaiting the departure of the students from Celestial Sword Academy, prepared to carry them back to Starlight.

"Well, I suppose this is goodbye..." Cain remarks, a touch of melancholy in his voice.

"I guess so..." Light responds, his face void of any visible emotion.

Light gazes downward, unsure of how to continue the conversation. Though his expression remains impassive, his silence speaks volumes.

"Well, take care of yourself, buddy... try not to stumble too often," Marcus chimes in, attempting to lighten the mood.

"Yeah, I'll try my best," Cain replies, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

Rose springs forward, wrapping her arms tightly around Cain in a warm hug. He embraces her in return, cherishing the moment before they reluctantly part. As Rose withdraws, a bright smile graces her face.

"Maybe you can join our academy next year. With your exceptional skills, you might just make the cut," Rose suggests optimistically.

"Well, I'm not sure..." Cain hesitates, contemplating the possibility.

"Oh, come on! Stay positive, Cain," Rose encourages with an energetic tone.

"Yeah, I'll keep that in mind," Cain responds, his voice tinged with a mix of uncertainty and gratitude.

With a lively skip, Rose dashes toward the awaiting airship, leaving Cain awestruck. He watches her disappear into the vessel before turning to face Claire, Marcus, and Liene, who offer warm smiles and well-wishes.

"Well, take care, Cain," Claire says sincerely.

"We'll meet again soon," Marcus assures him.

"Goodbye, Cain," Liene adds softly.

Cain acknowledges their sentiments with a nod, their words lingering in the air. One by one, his friends enter the airship, leaving only Cain and Light standing outside.

"Well, I suppose this is it," Cain remarks, a hint of sadness underlying his words.

"Yeah," Light responds simply, his tone devoid of emotion.

Light extends his hand in a surprising gesture, offering a handshake to Cain. Taken aback, Cain accepts the gesture, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. Slowly, Light makes his way onto the airship as it begins to ascend, preparing for departure.

Within a matter of minutes, the airship lifts off, leaving the Peltas Continent and Darkfire Academy behind as it heads toward the Starlight Continent and Celestial Sword Academy. From the outside, Light and Marcus peer through the window, catching a final glimpse of Cain standing alone, his face marked with a tinge of sadness. As the airship disappears into the clouds, their view becomes obscured, bidding farewell to their friend until they meet again...