Chương 91: The Third Day of Tests – Part 14

The magical bell that marked the end of the final test was still echoing softly through the arena when the group finally stepped out. They were visibly exhausted. Joker walked with one hand on his shoulder, still feeling the impact of the creature that had struck him earlier. Harley carried her hammer with less energy than usual, her face sweaty and her hair slightly messy. Astrid walked with heavier steps, Rina's tails were limp and flame-less, and Marina looked like she was about to collapse from fatigue.

Sylvara, Lirien, and Kuroe were also clearly worn out. The sky was already dark when they left the testing grounds. Magical lanterns lit the path back to the dormitories, and the cold wind from the forest blew harder now that night had fallen. No one spoke much on the way. The day had been long and heavy — both physically and mentally. Releasing even a small part of the seal had taken its toll, especially on Joker and Harley.

When they reached the dormitory wing, Harley was the first to break the silence, her voice hoarse: — I just want to take a shower and fall into bed… My whole body hurts. Joker gave her a tired smile from beside her. — Me too. Today I really felt what it's like to be tired for real. I'd forgotten how bad it was. A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Astrid grumbled: — I hate to admit it, but me too.

Before, I could keep going even after fighting all day. Today… I just want to sleep. Rina yawned and slowly wagged her tails. — Me too. My tails are so heavy I can barely lift them. They stopped in front of the entrance to the wing. Since the official dormitories were separated, they would have to say goodbye there. Joker looked at the girls and spoke in a lower voice: — Get some rest. Tomorrow… we just wait, right? Harley nodded, leaning her shoulder against his for a second. — Yeah. Three days until the results.

At least we won't have to fight anymore for now. Sylvara was the first to say goodbye, speaking softly: — Good night… and thank you for today. You two… took on a lot. Lirien nodded in agreement. Marina smiled faintly, even though she looked exhausted: — Rest well. You two more than anyone. Kuroe simply gave a discreet nod before following the other girls to their floor. Astrid was the last to go. Before turning away, she looked at Joker and said: — Don't do anything stupid while we're not together.

Joker gave her a crooked smile. — I'll try. Astrid muttered something under her breath and followed the others. When only Joker and Harley remained, the two stood in silence for a few more seconds. Harley was the first to speak, her voice softer: — Today was… heavy. Even for us. Joker nodded, looking at the ground. — It was. Releasing a little of the seal… helped, but it also messed with our heads. I was enjoying fighting way too much at the end. It was hard to stop.

Harley stayed quiet for a moment, then said: — Me too. It was hard not to just keep breaking everything. — She paused. — But we managed to hold it. Together. Joker looked at her and gave her a small, more sincere smile than usual. — Yeah. Together. Harley smiled back, tired but genuine. She stepped closer and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek — something rare for her to do in public (even though no one else was around anymore). — Good night, clown.

Joker lightly touched the spot where she had kissed him, still smiling. — Good night, Harley. The two parted ways and headed to their respective dormitories — Joker (and Harley, thanks to the exception) to the boys' floor, and the other girls to theirs. The third day of tests had officially ended. And now, all that remained was to wait. End of Part 14 (continues in Chapter 92)