The sun hung low over the sanctuary, casting long, golden beams through the crumbling arches and gardens. Lee Sung and Akane moved cautiously through the quiet streets, the thrill of their recent victory still thrumming in their veins. Before they could plan their next move, a group of strangers approached — three figures, each bearing the unmistakable air of survivors. Weapons at their sides, eyes sharp with both hope and suspicion, they closed the distance, offering not threats, but something far more complicated: an alliance.
The first to speak was a lean young man with a bow slung across his back. "Hey, you two look like you've got some experience under your belts," he said with an easy grin. "I'm Jin. This is Elara, and that's Grimbold." He gestured to a girl clutching a rune-carved staff and a burly man whose sword looked heavy enough to crush bone. "We've been traveling together. Safety in numbers, you know?"
Akane gave a polite nod, her posture wary but open. "I'm Akane. This is Lee Sung. We've just passed the second test."
Elara's eyes lit up, her staff tapping excitedly against the ground. "You passed? What was the reward?"
Lee Sung allowed himself a small grin. "Necromancy," he said, flexing his fingers. A wisp of shadow coiled lazily around his wrist as if to punctuate his words.
Grimbold gave a low whistle. "That's serious firepower. We could use someone like you."
Jin stepped forward, his voice steady. "We're not just gathering people. We're looking for teammates. Skills that complement, strategies that work. You'd be valuable. Both of you."
Akane glanced at Lee Sung, her eyes flickering with unspoken thoughts. She turned back to Jin with a small, apologetic smile. "Thanks for the offer. But for now... we work better alone."
There was a brief pause — not hostile, but heavy with understanding. Jin offered a respectful nod. "Fair enough. Watch your backs. Maybe we'll meet again."
With that, the trio melted back into the throng of survivors, their presence lingering like an echo.