The battlefield was now empty, with the young men silently dispersing in different directions through the forest. Aphir's group followed a separate path, their words wavering between weariness and frustration.
"I can't believe our queen sent us to this challenge just for a tournament in a secluded kingdom," Jhin said, his voice thick with irritation.
"She always does this," Alrik added, still rubbing his aching arms. "Throws us into impossible situations as if it were training. It's unfair!"
Aphir, walking ahead of them, sighed heavily. "If she wants us to prove our strength, there are better ways than this. But... complaining won't change anything now."
As they continued through the forest, the tension began to ease. The trees around them formed a natural dome, with the sunlight filtering through in golden hues, creating an almost magical ambiance.
