The aftermath of the battle was a blur of hushed voices and hurried footsteps. Akira, his strength waning, tried to help his teammates to their feet, but the toll of the fight had taken its toll. With a final, desperate effort, he reached out, his vision blurring.
Everything went dark.
When Akira awoke, he found himself in a small, dimly lit room. Beds lined the walls, his teammates resting on separate cots. The faint scent of antiseptic hung in the air, a stark contrast to the damp earthiness of the dungeon.
Hiroshi, Kaito, Mika, and Pioni were awake, their eyes filled with a mix of relief and concern. As they caught sight of Akira stirring, a wave of emotion washed over them.
Hiroshi spoke first, his voice laced with gratitude. "You did it, Akira. You saved us back there."
Akira managed a weak smile, his body still aching from the ordeal. "We did it, Hiroshi. Together."
Their conversation grew more somber as they recounted the battle, piecing together the fragments of their collective struggle. They spoke of Akira's surge of light, a power they couldn't explain but were undeniably grateful for.
Mika, her eyes filled with a mix of wonder and concern, leaned closer. "You were like a beacon, Akira. It was as if the very essence of the dungeon responded to your presence."
Pioni nodded in agreement. "Whatever that light was, it turned the tide in our favor. You were a force to be reckoned with, my friend."
As they spoke, the door creaked open, revealing a figure clad in heavy, ornate armor. The woman's presence filled the room, her aura radiating strength and authority. Her eyes, though hidden behind the visor of her helmet, bore a sharp intelligence.
With a deliberate step, she entered the room. Her gaze, unwavering, swept over the team before settling on Akira. She stood there, a silent sentinel, her presence a testament to the reverence she held for their accomplishment.
Finally, she approached Akira. "I am from the Dungeon Administration Association," she said, her voice firm yet reassuring. "The mayor of the D.A.A wishes to meet your team."
To be continued...