"Remember," Yang warned as the assistants selected which Stone Lurker they would face, "they are ambush creatures. Don't let their apparent passivity fool you until the end."
The team entered the designated area, their footsteps echoing in the sudden silence that had fallen over the training field.
Students pressed forward to watch, eager to learn from either success or failure.
The chosen Stone Lurker was released, immediately melting into its surroundings like just another rock.
"Begin!"
Han took the initiative, his spider's hexagonal patterns rippling across his skin as he moved forward with his spear held at the ready. Sora followed close behind with her shield. Jun covered the flank, his monkey's markings shifting nervously as he gripped his sword.
"Maintain formation," Lin suggested from the sidelines. Her experienced eye could already see the gaps in their coordination, the subtle signs of uncertainty in their movements.
