The five years spent at Morneth's training camp had become a turning point for Darius and his friends. When he first arrived, Darius was just a small child — but now, he had grown into a strong young man, both physically and mentally. The survival skills he had learned on the streets were now combined with discipline, strategy, and swordsmanship.
Darius
Despite being alone from a young age, the camp had shaped him. At ten, he was already known for his quick reflexes and agility; by fifteen, he had become a true leader in the making. He had mastered sword training and often guided his friends during strategy lessons. The dark anger inside him had been tempered by discipline, making him one of the most respected members of the camp.
Lyven
Initially cheerful and somewhat playful, Lyven had remained the team's source of morale throughout the five years. He honed his agility and speed, supporting Darius during combat simulations. Once acting as Darius's protector, he was now his equal — a valuable strategic ally.
Seris
The quiet observer, Seris, had sharpened his intellect and tactical mind. By analyzing Darius's movements, he learned how to guide him effectively, becoming a key planner in group missions. He didn't speak often, but when he did, his words carried weight.
Mira
Once a shy child with little confidence, Mira now spoke her thoughts freely and supported her friends wholeheartedly. She had improved socially and became a vital part of Darius's growing leadership.
Tavric and Gorath
Both had greatly improved their physical strength and combat skills. Tavric contributed with his calmness and sense of strategy, while Gorath, with his harsh nature, brought discipline and constant challenge to the group. They became Darius's natural rivals, pushing him to improve.
Lyra
Energetic and talkative, Lyra continued to be the group's emotional spark. As her agility grew, she played a more active role in simulations, making group exercises both more effective and enjoyable.
During those five years at the training camp, Darius and his friends had each refined their abilities and mastered teamwork, strategy, and swordsmanship. They were no longer mere students — they had become the backbone of the camp, strong and united.
> That night, by the campfire, Darius thought silently:
"I learned to survive on the streets… but here, I've discovered true strength and the value of friendship. Five years have passed — and now, my friends and I are ready."
As the first light of dawn illuminated the vast training grounds, the students were divided into groups.
Their goal was to survive for a full day in the forest tainted by the Decay Virus — learning to endure with only limited supplies.
> Alrik: "Today, you won't just test your bodies — your minds and awareness will be pushed to their limits. Every step, every choice will have a consequence. Survival begins with trust in one another."
Darius, Lyven, and Seris were placed in the same group. As they moved through the forest, they constantly observed one another, forming small strategies on the go.
> Lyven: "Darius, you take the lead. I'll follow behind, but I'll warn you if anything seems off."
Darius: "Alright, Lyven. Stay alert — Seris is watching our rear."
Seris: "Quiet. Danger could strike at any moment here; not just sound, but scent and shadow can give you away."
Lyven and Seris occasionally scouted ahead while Darius focused on the ground beneath their feet. The narrow paths, slippery stones, and decaying vegetation constantly tested their focus.
Lyven set small traps for the group — marking weak branches that could break underfoot.
Seris scouted out hidden paths and safe water sources.
Darius took charge of navigation and rationing their limited supplies during short breaks.
As the day went on, they learned to survive by sharing their scarce food and water, analyzing their surroundings, and anticipating danger before it struck.
While exploring, Darius noticed a small cave hidden behind thick bushes. Curious, he approached and stopped at the entrance. Inside, he found a pitch-black ring — its dark aura even more visible under the dim light.
> Darius (inner monologue): "This… is just a ring? Why does it feel so silent here?"
He decided to examine it more carefully once they returned to camp at the end of the day.
Meanwhile, the others continued scouting:
Lyven selected a safe camping area and arranged where they would rest.
Seris checked nearby water sources and found a small stream for the group to set up by.
> Lyven: "Darius, come rest a bit. You're tired, but planning ahead matters."
Darius: "Yeah, let's take a short break."
As the sun set, the group returned to the main camp. Their experience in the forest had taught them more than survival — they had learned to trust each other and read the world around them.
> Alrik: "You all pushed your limits today. Every choice you made was a test. You've learned your environment, your teammates, and your own boundaries. Don't forget what you gained here."
That evening, while everyone ate by the fire, Darius sat quietly to the side, examining the black ring he had found. Lyven noticed him and smiled.
> Lyven: "That's a cool-looking ring. Why don't you wear it? I bet it would suit you perfectly."
Because of his affection for Lyven, Darius didn't refuse — he slipped the ring onto his finger. For the first time in years, he felt truly happy, surrounded by people who had become more than friends — a family.