The forest was alive with distant monster cries, the lingering chaos from Kairo's Limitless Spears slowly settling. Eclipse Faction moved as a cautious unit—Kairo in front, scanning the terrain with his crimson eyes, Riven beside him, sword ready, and Lily trailing slightly, fire flickering nervously at her fingertips.
Lily's voice trembled as she spoke, barely above a whisper.
"I… I wanted to join you," she admitted, glancing at the ground. "But… my magic is weak. I can't control it properly… and… my brother…" She hesitated, looking briefly toward the path Sukai had taken. "I can't leave him behind. I… I just can't do this."
Kairo's crimson eyes narrowed slightly, watching her intently. He didn't move, letting her admit her doubt. Inside, he recognized the girl Riven had asked about—the one who needed guidance to control her magic.
Riven stepped closer, trying to offer encouragement. "You're stronger than you think. Just… stay with us."
Lily shook her head, brushing back her hair, a faint spark of frustration in her eyes. "No… I'll manage. I can't keep up with you two. My fire is… unreliable."
Kairo observed silently for a moment, then spoke quietly, almost to himself:
"…This is the one Riven wanted to teach. She'll need help… if she stays close."
The moment passed, and the forest reminded them of its dangers. Monsters began to emerge—Grade 2 goblin-like creatures, fast and numerous.
Kairo extended a hand, slender bone spears hovering in anticipation. Riven moved fluidly, positioning himself to exploit openings. Lily flinched as a goblin lunged toward her, then instinctively released a small burst of fire. The flames sputtered, scattering rather than hitting perfectly, but Kairo's spears intercepted the creature, holding it still.
Riven's blade sliced through, finishing the strike. Lily exhaled, trembling but relieved. "I… I didn't mess up."
Kairo's crimson eyes met hers briefly, giving a subtle nod. "Potential doesn't need perfection. Remember that."
Riven grinned. "Slow, but you're improving. Keep it up."
For the first time, Lily felt a glimmer of confidence. Even trailing behind the other factions, Eclipse Faction had begun to show that skill, teamwork, and the right guidance could challenge the leaders.