That night, the atmosphere in the castle felt lighter than usual.
Everyone was gathered together, talking and laughing.
"That was seriously the best party," David said, stretching his arms.
"Your uncle is amazing, Daniel."
Noah nodded, "Yeah, I didn't expect that at all."
Felix added with a small smile, "Good food, good place… not bad."
Daniel just smiled quietly.
"I told you… he's like that."
Lucy laughed, "If every mission ends like this, I don't mind going again."
Lily teased, "Oh really? Or you just like free food?"
Everyone burst into laughter.
For the first time after their mission, they felt relaxed… like normal friends.
Next Morning
The next morning—
Mr. Stone called everyone to the training ground.
His expression was serious.
"Listen carefully," he said.
"Your next mission is ready."
Everyone became alert.
"This mission will be harder than the last one."
They exchanged looks.
"So this time, I will divide you into groups of four."
Murmurs spread immediately.
"All boys in one group and all girls in one group?" David asked.
"That's not fair," Lily said.
"Yes," Lucy added, "we should be mixed."
Mr. Stone paused… then nodded slightly.
"Fine. I'll adjust."
Everyone went silent.
"Daniel, David, Noah… and Mary—you're one group."
Daniel's eyes widened slightly.
Mary looked calm… but there was a soft smile on her face.
"And the second group—Zoya, Lily, Lucy… and Felix."
Felix raised an eyebrow.
"Guess I'm on their side now."
Lily smirked, "Don't slow us down."
A small laugh passed through the group.
Daniel felt something strange—
but he didn't say anything.
Mr. Stone stepped forward again.
"This mission… requires teamwork, trust, and control."
His voice became deeper.
"You will understand everything once you reach there."
Everyone listened carefully.
"No more details for now."
Silence filled the ground.
The excitement… and tension… both increased.
Something bigger was waiting for them.
And this time—
It wouldn't be easy.