*** Epilogue ***

"I have to admit, I didn't think everyone could pass that last test," Ash said, scratching the back of his neck sheepishly. "I hope the guild master isn't mad…"

"But all of us did pass. So we're all in, right?" Eren asked, twitching slightly in his bed. The other mages had all gathered at his bedside, even Kena.

After the test, Yuki was in no state to do anything, the aftereffects of Lyra's lightning rendering her unable to move without shaking. Eren was also injured, his plan was successful but also self harming. Fortunately, Ash arrived almost immediately with potions to help treat lightning injuries. It was almost as if he knew someone would be getting electrocuted. He then took them to the guild’s medical centre to receive further treatment.

Despite all the fighting, Kena's only injury was slight magic exhaustion. Her stab wound had already healed itself; it was like it had never even happened. The healer had been confused, but moved on quickly to focus on the injured mages. Eren required much more thorough treatment and also received a much more severe scolding in taking unnecessary risks with his health. But ultimately, after an hour or so, the medic moved on, prescribing him rest and a few tonics.

Ash had refused to answer any questions while this was happening, insisting they wait until they knew everyone was healthy despite Kena's protests. As soon as the healer left, the four junior mages all pounced on him, demanding to know whether they were in the guild or not.

"Huh? Oh yeah. I mean..." Ash scratched his chin, looking uncertain. "It was probably designed that way on purpose… or whatever."

"You don't seem very sure," Jin pointed out, frowning.

"Hm, well…" Ash stared into space for a few seconds. "Good enough, yeah. You guys pass."

The four newly approved mages all stared at him for a long moment. Finally, Lyra asked what they were all thinking.

"That's it?"

"Hmm, well yeah. I guess we'll do a ceremony with the other new members at some point. They haven't finished their final test yet, though. So it'll have to wait," Ash said, shrugging casually. "But don't worry, I checked with the guild master personally. You're in."

Telepathy, probably, Eren thought, shrugging. Kena hollered loudly, making Eren jump at the sudden sound.

"Yeah! I did it. I won. Who's the greatest? I am, that's who."

"Seriously?" Eren deadpanned. "You only won because we worked together, have a little humility."

"Stop being such a buzzkill. I won; that's what matters. Little details like you can just be forgotten."

"Little details? That's rich coming from you, shortie!"

"Yeah, well, this shortie kicked your ass five ways to Sunday! So there!" Kena stuck her tongue out.

"You stupid-"

"Eren, stop arguing," Lyra shouted. "It doesn't matter. We passed, and we're officially guild members."

"Heh. I guess you're right." When Lyra turned away, he stuck his tongue out at Kena.

"I'm amazed it was so hard. I knew it would be, but this test really is something else," Jin muttered, shaking her head.

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"The Trials are just the first test," Ash said. "You're joining the strongest guild in the world. We'll never stop testing you."

"And I'll beat them all," Kena responded without missing a beat. "So bring it on, do your worst. No way I'd stick around in some boring guild."

"Whatever. When do we get access to the library?"

"Nerd."

"Shut up, this is -"

"Neeeeerd."

"Hey, don't call me a nerd, shortie!"

"Nerd."

"Flaming idiot."

"Nerd!"

"At least come up with a different insult, dumbass."

"N-"

"Ash left," Lyra cut in, pointing to the doorway.

"Damn it, if it wasn't for your childish-hey, where do you think you're going?"

***

"Hey Ash, I'm part of the guild now, right?" Kena said, chasing Ash out into the hallway.

"Yep. Some stuff needs sorting to make it official, but yeah, you're one of us," Ash confirmed.

"Then tell me something; did you know Elestine?"

"I knew him," Ash confirmed.

"I need to ask you some questions about him." Ash hummed, tilting his head. "Hey, I'm a guild member now. It's my right to know."

"That it is. But I think you're thinking about this wrong," Ash said. "Elestine told you to join the guild to learn about yourself. Not to learn about him."

Kena opened her mouth, then shut it. He's right.

Ash smiled, then walked around the corner, shouting over his shoulder, "Don't worry; I'm sure you'll find out what he meant soon enough."

Kena sighed, leaning against a wall. Just like you to leave me a puzzle, ya jerk. Her eyes felt wet, but at the same time, she was smiling. "I guess I better- hang on a second. I never told you what Elestine said!"

Kena rushed around the corner, but Ash was already gone.

"Creepy bastard. You can't hide forever!"

***

She passed, Ash sent via telepathy. Standing atop the roof of the hospital, he watched as the sun set behind the Cact mountains. It wasn't easy, but I don't think anyone noticed.

I never had any doubt you would, a voice replied telepathically. Even though it was telepathy, and by definition impossible to overhear, the voice was disguised, sounding deep and unnatural. One could never be too careful.

She's impressive for her age. I'll give you that. But are you sure she's worth all the trouble? Ash sent back.

She isn't worth the trouble, the voice said. It's what's inside her that we need. Teach her to utilise its power; show her how to reach her full potential.

It won't be easy, especially considering I can't tell her anything, Ash replied.

She's not ready. If we move too fast, she may be… resistant.

I know. But we can't hide this forever. She'll figure it out.

Let me worry about that. You have your orders. Do not disappoint me.

Ash let out a tired sigh, nodding softly. I won't.

The connection snapped shut, Ash's thoughts no longer available to his companion.

"Did you get all of that?" He said, seemingly to no one.