The aftermath of their second victory in the Shadow Games was electric.
Ryker's team had just returned from the arena, their adrenaline was still high from the intense match.
The corridors of Argentum Academy buzzed with whispers about their success; students who had once doubted them were now casting admiring glances as they passed by.
As the team made their way to the common area, Alaric was the first to break the silence.
"Two victories in a row," he said, his voice brimming with pride. "I think that calls for a celebration."
Lyra nodded enthusiastically.
"Absolutely! We've worked hard, and we deserve to let off some steam."
Ryker smiled, feeling a rare moment of satisfaction.
The team had come together in a way that exceeded his expectations, and their hard work was paying off.
"I agree. We need to keep our morale high, and a little celebration could be just what we need."
"Any ideas?" Zara asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
Kaid, always the planner, was already considering the options.
"We could keep it simple—some good food, music, maybe even a little dancing. Nothing too crazy, but enough to remind ourselves why we're doing this."
"Sounds perfect," Lyra said, her mind already racing with possibilities.
"I'll handle the music! We can set up a playlist with some of our favorite tracks."
"I'll take care of the food," Alaric offered, cracking his knuckles. "It won't be as fancy as our picnic, but I can whip up something special."
Zara looked thoughtful.
"I'll see if I can get us access to the rooftop terrace. The view of the city at night is incredible, and it'll give us some privacy."
"Great," Ryker said, nodding approvingly.
"Let's meet back here in a couple of hours. And remember, this is our night to unwind. No talk of strategies or tactics—just fun."
As they split up to make preparations, there was an air of excitement and anticipation.
The team had earned this moment, and they intended to make the most of it.
A few hours later, the rooftop terrace of Argentum Academy was transformed.
Lanterns were strung across the railings, casting a warm, golden glow over the space. In the center, a long table was filled with food—delicious sandwiches, fresh fruit, and an assortment of sweet treats.
Alaric had even managed to procure some sparkling juice, which added a festive touch.
The view from the rooftop was breathtaking. The city lights twinkled in the distance, and above them, a blanket of stars stretched across the night sky.
The team gathered around the table, their faces lit by both the lanterns and the smiles they couldn't contain.
Lyra, ever the life of the party, was already queuing up the music.
The first song was a lively tune, the kind that made you want to move, and within moments, she was pulling Kaid to his feet, insisting he dance with her.
Kaid looked a little embarrassed at first but quickly gave in to Lyra's infectious enthusiasm.
"You know I'm not much of a dancer," he protested half-heartedly.
"Nonsense," Lyra replied with a grin. "It's not about being good—it's about having fun!"
As the music played, the team slowly let go of their usual seriousness.
Zara joined Lyra and Kaid on the makeshift dance floor, her usual composure giving way to genuine laughter as she attempted to teach them some more formal dance moves.
Alaric, meanwhile, was busy serving up food, insisting that everyone try the sandwiches he'd made.
"These are my specialty," he said, offering one to Ryker. "Trust me, they're worth it."
Ryker took a bite and nodded in approval.
"You've got a real talent for this, Alaric. Maybe after the Shadow Games, you should consider opening a restaurant."
Alaric chuckled. "I'll keep that in mind. But for now, I think I'll stick to fighting."
As the night went on, the group fell into an easy rhythm. They talked about everything and nothing—favorite books, childhood memories, even embarrassing stories that had them all in stitches.
The pressure of the Shadow Games seemed far away, and for a few hours, they were just a group of friends enjoying each other's company.
At one point, Zara suggested a toast. She raised her glass of sparkling juice, her eyes reflecting the light of the lanterns. "To us," she said, her voice filled with warmth.
"To our victories, our friendship, and the challenges ahead. Whatever comes next, we face it together."
The others raised their glasses, echoing her words. "To us."
As they clinked their glasses together, Ryker looked around at his team—no, his friends.
They had come a long way in a short time, and he knew they still had a long road ahead. But tonight was a reminder that they didn't have to walk it alone.
As the night wore on and the music slowed, the group gradually settled into a comfortable silence, simply enjoying the moment.
The stars above seemed to shine a little brighter, and for the first time in a while, Ryker allowed himself to relax completely.
They were ready for whatever the Shadow Games would throw at them next. But tonight, they were just celebrating the small victories along the way.