Darian laughed heartily, stepping in before the tension could grow.
"Team B, great job! As veteran defenders, you should be proud. But you were nearly taken down by a newbie."
He pointed toward Alex.
"If Luther hadn't stopped him, we would've lost. So do better tomorrow. And don't take the new ones lightly—they learned a lot today."
He paused, giving his words weight.
Then smiled wide.
"Now let's celebrate our win at the cafeteria—my treat!"
Cheers erupted.
"Captain! Captain! Captain!"
The team chanted in unison, rallying around Darian like a war hero.
Alex slowly stood, wincing. His black clothes were soaked in blood and mud.
He looked down at himself, then over to Hati.
"Let's go to the dorms first," he muttered, scratching behind Hati's ear.
"We'll change, then head to the cafeteria."
As he turned, Selene approached.
"Are you okay?" she asked softly.
Alex glanced at her, his gaze narrowing, and gave a short nod.
She didn't back off.
