Starfania lowered her head down in shame. Lyam, clad in his emerald armor, stepped forward, his gaze locked on the gem. Recognition dawned in his eyes, and his expression shifted from stern disbelief to something resembling shock.
" Cantina… " he breathed, as if barely able to process what he was seeing. His gaze flicked between Starfania and the jewel, and suddenly, she saw understanding settle over him like a crashing wave. His posture straightened, and when he spoke again, his voice carried a newfound gravity.
" Apologies, Cantina, " he said, bowing his head. " I failed to recognize this young lady as the new Dragon Savior. "
Starfania blinked, startled by the sudden shift. Before, Lyam had treated them with skepticism, even hostility, yet now he addressed her with respect. Cantina's sharp gaze turned to him, her eyes narrowing slightly before she let out a dry chuckle.
" Why, if it isn't the one and only Lyam! So, Starfania actually managed to track you down. I suppose her and her companion succeed in that mission, at the very least. " She crossed her arms, her tone laced with amusement. Then, her expression hardened. " Now, Lyam, do enlighten me–what exactly happened here? "
Lyam straightened and took a deep breath. His tone was firm, yet filled with regret.
" I take full responsibility, " Lyam said. " I allowed my men to disrespect the Dragon Savior and her dragon, Atlas. I should have corrected them. I should have corrected them immediately instead of letting the situation escalate. And instead of handling things rationally, I chose to detain them. That was a mistake. "
He clenched his fist before exhaling. " I should have acted differently. This is on me. "
Cantina regarded him in silence for a moment before finally nodding in understanding.
" So, Lyam, " she said evenly, " I can rest assured that this won't happen again, right? "
A slow smile spread across Cantina's face, her approval evident. " Excellent. That is exactly what I wanted to hear. I trust you take care of the newest Dragon Savior Starfania and her companions. "
Lyam felt a mix of relief and determination wash over him at her words. "Yes, Cantina. I promise to protect her and guide her as best as I can."
He straightened his shoulders, feeling the weight of responsibility settle firmly on him. The air in the room shifted slightly; it was as if the stakes had suddenly risen. Cantina's expression softened. "You know, this isn't just about handling threats. It's about understanding the path she must take. The journey isn't always easy."
He nodded, the seriousness of her message sinking in. "I understand. There's a lot at stake here. I'll make sure she knows that."
"Good," she replied, her tone turning sharper. "Because there will be challenges ahead, ones that may test her resolve and yours. Prepare her for that."
"I will," Lyam assured her, a newfound resolve engulfing him. "I'll stand by her side and ensure she knows she's not alone."
"Remember, Lyam," Cantina said, her voice low, "trust is built through actions, not just words. "
"I won't let you down," he replied, a quiet fire igniting within him. With her faith behind him, he felt he could face anything.