The boy and girl who had tried to ambush him stood tall, both wearing matching black-and-red armbands—proof they were elite. They looked about thirteen.
"You got lucky, commoner," the girl sneered, flipping her tied-up red hair over her shoulder. Her brown eyes burned with contempt.
Owen let out a quiet hum. "They're both thirteen. Most likely passed the trial four years ago."
Axelius shrugged, still grinning. "I was born lucky. Now, what do two past winners want from me, huh? Lost in the forest and need help?" He raised a brow and crossed his arms. "Ah, I see. So you guys are the reason this trial got harder. Interesting."
The boy popped his knuckles with a smirk. "Smart guess. Yeah, we're here for a little… extra credit. The older passers are allowed to return as blockers. Our job is to make sure trash like you doesn't make it out."
Axelius's grin widened. "And breaking the rules is part of that task?"
