Chapter 200: The Final Preparations

"Still think it's a whack appearance for a hero, dude." The bickering continued as soon as everyone entered into the inner chambers, with GWOG settling himself amidst a few boxes to serve as his chairs, being served the same Shish Kebab the children had to refuel himself. Harvard rolled his eyes at Solomon's comment, having a bit of fun with his new style by rolling them at the back of his head, freaking out how he couldn't be able to see. Despite such fear, his friends knew that the Card Magician was coming back as being the usual fool.

The boy would sigh as he rolled his eyes back to normal before arguing back. "It's a literal BARBARIAN! What do you think he should've been wearing!?" He'd holler, confused at his choice of words.

"MORE CLOTHES?! DUH!? He's gonna die in the cold once the temperature starts dropping!"

"Actually, In one of the Volumes-"

"Oh my god, really?? He survived THAT too??"

"The Genre IS called Fantasy for a reason!"

"You're stupid! This whole thing is stupid! Feel bad! Now! This is dumb, and you know it!" The boys continued to argue and bicker, even pressing themselves against one another and running around the place to see who can go further with their argument, though in such points they also try to keep themselves from laughing at the absurdity between one another. Stolas would roll his eyes as well before going towards the Gallant Barbarian, confidence with the replacement to help them, as well as being the carrier to Manipura's very will.

"So you met him, huh? What was he like to you?" Stolas would ask. The Barbarian let out a hearty laugh as he'd tell his perspective.

"He was as strong as I was! Despite being simple and quiet, the man had guts. He was facing with death itself, and never regretted his decision. Now, all that stands, is to ensure his word is carried out! He would be proud in how far you've come. I can tell by your big, round eyes that you've seen many trials, all of them being hell." GWOG's words would be coupled with Stolas giving a small laughter, looking back and seeing his friends. From Zazel improving his new secondary style of magic, making his way to the two, to Solomon and Harvard, despite arguing like an old married couple, still have the heart to care and never go overboard with one another. Short as it was, it was the most memorable thing he could have in his life. GWOG took notice of the boy's attention and leaned down, meeting with his own perspective. "They are truly something. To stick around and keep fighting despite it all. That is the essence of a Hero, y'now?" He would add, to which Stolas would nod as an agreement.

"Just don't say it to Harvard. Pretty sure Grumpy McGrumperson over here wouldn't hear the end of it." He'd joke, pointing towards Solomon, to which GWOG would laugh once more.

"Alright, Alright, I won't." He'd jest, before exploring the caverns itself, with Stolas and Zazel following. They didn't need to say any words. The Gallant Barbarian knew it just from the glimmer of their eyes: They need to prepare. He'd make his way to the secluded area and got within a stance, allowing the two boys to prepare for combat. Meanwhile, Solomon and Harvard would continue on brushing up their spells, with the latter testing out his new cards and trying to summon his monsters to learn about their abilities. Pygmalis and Fiona watched on, seeing the two boys work their life away, making sure they're at their peak condition. Workouts, Spars, Studying, Strategy. They work day and night to make sure this all came into fruition, the fruits of their labor blossoming more and more after each cycle. The boys even started to notice strong shifts in their bodies as they worked out, their muscles more toned and their abdomen now attaining a six-pack. Solomon would despise it since such muscles reminds him of GWOG, but Stolas and Harvard were enthusiastic at such progress. Zazel, meanwhile, was more shocked the body can achieve such a state. Pria would even take notice and try to achieve a similar build, taking notice of the Gallant Barbarian and sparing with such a warrior, though he would be defensive, under the assumption she was a mindless beast.

For the last few days, They would ensure they are prepared for war.

Dawn broke out amongst the horizon, the crack within the cavern seeping its light through the area. The children, now men, would wake up, seeing their body shifted into an adult. Harvard would take a deep breath, realizing their time is running short. It was now or never. If they do not escape from this world, they may not live for the next month. He'd get himself up early, having him make a spell to create extra arms to make some breakfast, the aroma slowly waking up the rest of the people, and having them take notice of the Card Magician's form. He was stern in his stance, his facial expressions reading strength above all else. "It's time..." He'd state. Those few words would be enough to explain. GWOG would be idle, looking over and realizing what they were going to do. He'd peek over to the side and see Fiona was still sleeping, holding close to Pria, using her almost like a pillow. The Barbarian simply sighed as he'd tap their shoulders, waking them up and making them prepare.

"It's time..." He spoke, his words as soft as a whisper, cracking his knuckles as he'd make his way to the table for such a morning feast. The two would wake up, separate themselves, recognizing what his words meant. They followed the warrior to eat, and once everyone has their fill, they made their way out of the cavern. Pygmalis and Vial however, would stay behind, setting up a few things to ensure the cavern is secure.

It was time...