The trio, Haruki, Lila, and Roderick, stood firm, ready to face the Queen once more. Haruki wielded his enchanted sword, channeling elemental magic into each strike. Lila notched her bow, infused with magical energy, aiming for precision and agility. Roderick, with shield and sword in hand, braced himself to shield his comrades from the Queen’s onslaught.

The Queen, radiating power, prepared to defend the line fiercely. She summoned winds that swirled around her, forming a protective barrier. Haruki charged first, his sword glowing with magical energy as he clashed against the barrier. Lila swiftly followed, her arrows dancing through the air, aiming to breach the Queen’s defenses.

Meanwhile, Roderick stood his ground, deflecting the Queen’s magical assaults with his shield while launching counterattacks to create openings for his companions. The battlefield crackled with magic as Haruki, Lila, and Roderick coordinated their moves, strategizing and adapting to the Queen’s defenses.

The Queen's power was relentless, countering each move with skillful precision. Haruki’s strikes were met with whirlwinds of air, Lila’s arrows diverted by bursts of elemental energy, and Roderick’s defenses tested by earth-shaking spells.

Amidst the clash of magic and steel, the trio pushed forward, inching closer to the line defended by the Queen. The battle intensified, the air charged with electricity as the combatants exchanged powerful blows and intricate maneuvers. Each member of the trio exhibited their unique strengths and coordination, refusing to yield despite the Queen’s formidable defenses.

The struggle continued, a test of wills and skills, as Haruki, Lila, and Roderick poured their energy and determination into breaching the Queen’s line, aiming to emerge victorious in this fierce and exhilarating battle.

Haruki, Lila, and Roderick, their strength flagging, continued their relentless assault against the Queen. The trio fought fiercely, their determination unwavering despite their fatigue. As they battled, Haruki noticed a slight lapse in the Queen’s concentration.

He swiftly devised a plan and signaled to Lila and Roderick. With a series of coordinated attacks, they managed to create a diversion, drawing the Queen’s attention away from their true path. Seizing the opportunity, they made a dash for the line she guarded, pushing past the remaining defenses.

The Queen, momentarily caught off guard by their maneuver, attempted to counter, but it was too late. With a final surge of combined effort, the trio breached the line, achieving victory against the formidable Queen.

Their success was met with a mixture of relief and elation. The Queen, despite her defeat, wore a proud smile. She praised their teamwork and resilience, acknowledging their growth and determination in the face of adversity.

The trio, exhausted but triumphant, bowed respectfully to the Queen, thanking her for the intense battle and the valuable lessons learned. Their victory marked a significant milestone in their journey, a testament to their growth and unity as a team.

Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

As the adrenaline of the battle ebbed away, the trio collapsed onto the ground, panting and exhausted. The Queen gently restored the surroundings to their normal state, stepping out of her otherworldly dimension. “What an exhilarating display,” she remarked with a proud smile. “You three exceeded all expectations. I must say, your growth and adaptability are truly remarkable.”

Roderick let out a deep sigh, “What a day!” The Queen’s attendants, Daisy and Kilin, stepped forward. “Your performance was commendable,” Daisy praised. “But remember, there’s always room for improvement. Keep refining your skills,” added Kilin, with a serious tone.

“Elara shows promise, she’s growing swiftly,” acknowledged Seraphina, her pride evident in her voice. “Indeed, she’s catching up to me faster than I expected.”

The trio, still catching their breath, exchanged looks of relief and accomplishment. Their victory against the Queen was a testament to their progress and newfound strength, but also a reminder of the challenges that lay ahead.

As the King arrived at the training grounds, everyone bowed respectfully. “How was your training with The Queen, Haruki-san?” inquired the King. Haruki, maintaining formality, responded, “It was a challenging experience, Your Majesty. However, through effective teamwork, we managed to succeed in our training.”

“Excellent news,” the King acknowledged warmly. As Elara stood before her father, her eyes gleamed with anticipation. “Father, I crossed the line during our training,” she exclaimed, hoping to elicit some praise from the King for her accomplishment.

The King looked at Elara with a gentle smile. “Well done, Elara. You’re growing stronger every day,” he acknowledged, patting her head affectionately. Elara beamed with joy, basking in her father’s words of praise.

“Haruki, may I have a word?” requested the King. Signaling to the others that he wished to speak to Haruki alone, the King beckoned him aside, prompting the rest of the group to move away.

“Do you recall what Daisy mentioned about a certain power that threatens to destroy this world?” inquired the King. “Yes, I do remember. What about it?” replied Haruki.

“Now, you’re aware that Garrick, along with SteelFury, will face the PhantomBlades?” questioned the King further. “Yes, I’m aware,” responded Haruki. “However, you might already know this, but the PhantomBlades have been accused of foul play in several matches, if not all. I dispatched a spy to investigate this issue, but unfortunately, I’ve lost contact with him.”

“I want you to do something for me. Two days from now, I need you three to travel with Garrick towards the Zephyr Empire, west of Eldoria. Investigate the PhantomBlades and report back everything you uncover. I’m assigning this as an S-ranked quest, coming directly from me. What do you say, Haruki-san?” the King asked with a worried expression. After a brief moment of consideration, Haruki accepted the mission. “I gratefully accept your quest,” replied Haruki.

“Well then, you’re dismissed. You can discuss with your companions for further planning,” said The King, and Haruki returned to the group.

Upon rejoining them, Lila inquired about the conversation with The King, but Haruki only mentioned that they would be accompanying SteelFury to the Zephyr Empire. “I understand the reason behind it,” Garrick remarked knowingly.

Seraphina attempted to speak to Haruki, stuttering slightly. “H-Haruki…” she began, her voice trembling. “What’s the matter?” Haruki asked, noticing her unease. “I-It was a good fight… Y-Your not h-hurt, aren’t you?”

“I’m fine. Besides, I appreciate your support during the battle,” Haruki reassured her. This response caused Seraphina to blush, realizing that despite her anxiety, he had noticed her encouragement during their battle against The Queen.