Chapter 10:The Triumphant Return
After defeating the monster,the three of them felt utterly drained,collapsing onto the cracked ground and gasping for breath.Sweat mixed with the monster's disgusting slime slid down their cheeks,while their clothes were tattered and corroded by the monster's claws and venom,leaving them covered in wounds of various sizes and depths.Despite this,their eyes burned with the fiery glow of victory,a joy and pride earned through overcoming great challenges.
Lin Shen's hands trembled uncontrollably as he carefully picked up the second gem,which emitted a golden light.The gem seemed like a miniature sun,shining brightly in the dim valley.He gently touched it to the crystal that had accompanied them throughout their adventure.In an instant,the two lights intertwined joyfully like old friends reunited.A warm and powerful energy flowed from the fusion of the gem and crystal,spreading throughout their bodies and healing their wounds while soothing their weary souls.
"We did it,"Ye Ying said,his voice hoarse from exhaustion but filled with unwavering determination.He struggled to sit up,turned to his companions,and a relieved smile slowly spread across his face.Yin Yue also stood up unsteadily,her weak body rubbing affectionately against Lin Shen and Ye Ying's legs,letting out happy whimpers that expressed their joy at victory.
After a brief rest,the three regained some of their strength.They knew the mysterious power contained in the two gems and the crystal was of immeasurable importance to the academy and the entire world.Thus,they decided to return to the academy immediately,bringing back the precious treasures and their adventure stories.Lin Shen safely stored the gems and crystal in his pocket,patted it gently to ensure their safety,and led the way,with Ye Ying and Yin Yue closely following on either side.
Throughout the journey,they supported and cared for each other.Ye Ying would lend a strong arm when Lin Shen was too tired to continue,while Lin Shen would use his basic healing skills to ease Ye Ying's pain when his wounds hurt too much.Yin Yue remained vigilant,alerting them to any danger.Though physical fatigue constantly plagued them,their hearts were filled with longing for the academy and anticipation of the glory they would bring.This belief shone like a bright torch,guiding their path forward.
As they got closer to the academy,familiar sights gradually came into view:the tall towers,the spacious training grounds,and the tree-lined paths,all carrying their memories.Their steps unconsciously quickened,as if drawn by an invisible force.
When the academy's grand and imposing gates finally came into sight,Lin Shen and his companions,though disheveled and covered in injuries,stood with unwavering determination and bright eyes,reflecting the resilience and maturity gained through their trials.The guards at the gate were initially shocked,their eyes wide with surprise,but quickly snapped into action,with one rushing to report their arrival.
The news spread like wildfire throughout the academy.Faculty and students poured out of classrooms and dormitories,gathering in the academy square from all directions.Their faces were filled with excitement and anticipation as they waited to welcome their heroes.The moment Lin Shen and his companions stepped into the square,thunderous applause and deafening cheers erupted,wave after wave,echoing through the academy.
The academy's dean personally stepped forward,his eyes brimming with relief and admiration,his smile warm like a spring sun:"You've done it,children!You've not only brought back the precious gems but also hope."
With a sense of reverence,Lin Shen handed the two gems and the crystal to the dean,then recounted their adventure in detail.From exploring the ancient ruins and uncovering secrets,to battling eerie creatures in the Misty Forest,and finally facing the powerful monster in the mysterious valley,the audience listened in rapt attention,holding their breath in tense moments and gasping in awe,praising their courage and wisdom.
Surrounded by the crowd,Lin Shen,Ye Ying,and Yin Yue were led to the academy's Hall of Honor,the most sacred place that documented countless heroic deeds.Standing in the center of the hall,the dean announced in a loud and solemn voice that their bravery would be commemorated in the academy's history with the highest honor medals.
Standing on the podium,Lin Shen looked at the cheering crowd below,feeling a surge of emotion.He glanced at Ye Ying and Yin Yue,filled with gratitude for his companions.He knew this was just one phase of their adventure,and more unknown challenges lay ahead.But for now,they reveled in the glory and took pride in their growth and achievements.
Back in their dormitory at the academy,Lin Shen and Ye Ying collapsed onto their beds,quickly succumbing to exhaustion and falling into a deep,sweet sleep.In their dreams,they embarked on a new adventure,facing unknown surprises and challenges,with Yin Yue always by their side,journeying towards the unknown.