It was over. They had rid the Eastern Caverns of the tyrannical leader that ruled it with an iron fist. The realm was at peace finally after twenty long grueling years. The citizens were overwhelmed with emotions that they decided to hold a celebration in honor of the Eastern Champion and all his allies. Night set over Peach Blossom Springs, soon lit up with fireworks coloring the air. Overseeing it all was the duo of realm champions, Eli and Junjie. Their legs dangled off the edge of the palace's roof as they watched the courtyard.
"So... you and our friends are to leave come daybreak." Junjie hummed softly.
"Yeah, wish we could stay longer," the young boy nodded. "It's really peaceful here."
"Indeed, thanks to you and the others." His eyes gazed towards the distance.
Eli looked up at his mentor, "And you too. Don't count yourself short, Junjie."
The eastern defender did not respond.
"Junjie?"
"Huh?" his face turned back, the whites beginning to water.
"Are you... sad that we're leaving?" Eli grew worried.
He blinked the tears down back into their ducts. "I am a little sad, but that is how everyone is when someone leaves."
"I guess that's the case..."
"I can not hinder your search for your father. We in the Eastern Realms will search for him as well."
"Thanks Junjie." Eli smiled. He looked ahead as well. His feet pulled up as his chin rested on his knees. He hugged this legs with a frown forming. "I just... want to find him. Five years ago he disappeared because of Dr Blakk..." His knuckles turned white at the mention of the man's name. His fingers dug into his pant legs.
"Eli."
The boy glanced up at the man.
"Revenge is form of rot. That rot grows within a person before it begins to show along the skin. Do not let it consume you... like it did me."
"When you were wanting to save Master Lian..."
"That inferno of revenge was directed towards the wrong person. I was the one whom should have foreseen the tradgey. But... that is now within my past. You. You helped me see that. I thank you and your friends for that. You were able to help myself and the other heroes of the East defeat the evil. I learnt as much from you as you learnt from me."
Eli's smile returned as he looked up at Junjie. The boy lifted a hand and patted his arm. "Thanks Junjie. I needed to hear that." His body bobbed to the side as the elder man's arm wrapped around the boy's shoulder.
They did not know what would be in their future, but knew deep down that they would always be able to rely on one another. To never forget the memories they created as they trained together, ate together, and battled together. Their bond was more than just that of mentor and student. They sat there, as brothers.
