The Dust Settles

Tristan stood wobbly, his body trembling as he felt the last vestiges of strength leave him upon hearing the announcement declaring his victory. The sheer willpower that had driven him to confront and ultimately eliminate Justin—who had posed a lethal threat—began to fade into the background. With his adrenaline draining, he felt the world around him tilt and shift, and he realized with a sinking sensation that he was losing consciousness, ready to collapse onto the ground.

But before he could hit the earth, he felt himself being caught by someone. Strong arms enveloped him, cradling him gently. "Leader... August..." he murmured, struggling to focus through the fading fog of his senses. The hazy figure of August appeared before him, a comforting presence amid his turmoil.

"Don't talk, just rest," August urged.