AK : RISING MYTHIC

The afternoon sun hung high above the skies of Lumisgrave, casting a golden glow over the Mythic Base. The courtyard shimmered slightly from the lingering warmth, and all Mythics were wrapping up their mid-morning training with flushed cheeks and sweat-glazed foreheads. Laughter and casual conversation buzzed softly among the group—until the rhythmic sound of hoofbeats broke across the horizon.

Clop. Clop. Clop.

A swirl of dust danced up from the path leading to the base entrance as a column of Special Guards in royal gold-and-silver armor approached with grace and purpose. Their flag, bearing the sigil of King Farhan's royal emblem—a golden phoenix perched on a blazing crown—fluttered with authority.

As the gate creaked open, all Mythics turned, curious.

Leading the troop, a tall guard with a deep voice called out, "By order of His Majesty King Farhan, we bring forth the mounts for the Mythic-ranked warriors!"

Excitement rippled through the group. Each of the guards began dismounting and handing over the reins of majestic horses—each one bred strong, proud, and infused with a faint magical glint.

"Each steed is marked with a name tag, signifying its designated rider," the commander added.

The Mythics began approaching their mounts one by one.

Seris Vahla's eyes widened at her deep chestnut mare, who tossed her head with elegance. "She's perfect," Seris whispered.

Tarric Vohl patted the muscular flanks of a storm-gray stallion. "Looks like he could charge through a mountain."

Meanwhile, Arslan stood at a distance, watching them with a curious gaze. Then, from the last row of horses, a single black stallion stepped forward. The horse's coat shimmered like obsidian, his mane thick and flowing like silk night. His deep, dark eyes locked with Arslan's.

A special guard approached Arslan with reverence.

"Sir Arslan," the guard said, dismounting and leading the black steed closer, "this one comes directly from His Majesty's private royal stables. This breed—'The Thoroughbred'—is known throughout the provinces for being the fastest and strongest of all. The King himself ordered this horse for you as a mark of honor."

Arslan's eyes softened. A silent rush of warmth filled his chest. He bowed his head respectfully. "Please convey my thanks to His Majesty."

The horse whinnied lowly as if recognizing its new rider. Arslan stepped forward, slowly extending a hand. As he gently patted its head, the stallion's ears flicked forward, accepting his touch.

Kar'Thael's whisper echoed in his mind, amused and approving. "He's powerful. Like you. Call him... 'Aswad'. It suits the shadow you carry."

A smile touched Arslan's lips. He leaned close, brushing his hand along the horse's mane. "Then 'Aswad' it is," he said. "We'll fight together."

The horse neighed, low and affectionate, and—astonishingly—licked Arslan's cheek.

The other Mythics laughed.

"Seems like even horses like you, Arslan," Yuna teased.

Ismere, Tarric, and Vaelith had just finished fastening their own saddles when the royal guard commander approached them.

"You three," he barked gently, "prepare yourselves. The scouting team awaits you outside the gates. You ride to the Demon Site near the Iron Mine. Take what you need, and be ready for what hides in the dark."

Vaelith exchanged a glance with Tarric."I will show them my strength." he muttered under his breath.

Ismere furrowed her brow. "We're not nervous...right?"

Tarric shook his head, but his fists were tight. "Let's not mess this up."

Before doubt could settle in, Arslan stepped forward. His voice was calm, but his eyes steady. "You'll be fine. Remember, your strength is not just in your powers—but in your unity.

They all nodded solemnly.

Arslan added, "You're Mythics. The world expects miracles from us—but only when we stand as one."

A sudden gust of wind kicked through the courtyard, fluttering cloaks and manes alike.

The three mounted up, securing their packs.

Tarric turned once more, nodding firmly to teammates. "We'll make you proud."

The sound of hooves pounding across the stones signaled their departure as the three rode out under the high sun, disappearing past the front gate into the unknown horizon.

Arslan remained still, watching the dust trail settle.