Morning arrived gently.
Sunlight spilled through the city, washing away the tension of the night before as if Kael'Ar itself chose to breathe calmly for once.
Kaelen stood outside Tessandra's house, hands in his jacket pockets, posture relaxed but alert—as always.
The door opened.
John was already awake.
"Good morning, teachers," Kaelen said with a grin.
John glanced at him once… and sighed softly, amused.
"Good job with that lich, kid," John said. "You did excellent."
Kaelen scratched the back of his head. "Thanks."
John's gaze sharpened—not threatening, just aware.
"And I see you've gained another source of energy," he continued.
"Alyth's heart."
Kaelen blinked. "So… you noticed."
John laughed lightly. "How could I not?"
Before Kaelen could reply, Tessandra stepped beside John, holding a cup of tea. She smiled warmly at Kaelen.
"Don't worry," she said. "It's a good thing."
She then turned to John, her eyes softening.
"I'll be away tomorrow," she added. "I have to return to my family for a bit."
John nodded calmly, as if this was already accounted for.
"If you get bored," Tessandra continued, smiling, "you can visit Alzwalt in Arkion… or go to a famous restaurant there called Hoshigawa."
Kaelen's eyes lit up slightly.
"A restaurant?"
John nodded. "Yes. I recommend it."
Then—after a brief pause—he added:
"When you meet the owner, don't be surprised if he already knew you'd come."
Kaelen frowned. "What do you mean?"
John waved a hand dismissively.
"Go," he said. "I won't spell it out for you."
Arkion — Alzwalt's Residence
The air shifted.
Alzwalt returned quietly from Astria, stepping into his home as if he had never left. The clone he had stationed here dissolved seamlessly—its task complete.
Everything was normal.
Kael stood in the training hall, taller now, stronger. Not a child anymore.
"Master," Kael said, turning eagerly. "Can I go out today?"
Alzwalt studied him for a moment—then nodded.
"Yes," he said. "I've had you training too much. Your freedom isn't restricted."
Kael's face brightened.
"Tomorrow," Alzwalt added, "I'll take you to a place called Hoshigawa."
Kael nodded quickly. "Okay, Master."
The Next Morning
Tessandra departed for the Liones family estate, her expression calm—but resolute.
At the same time—
Kaelen set out toward Arkion.
And Kael prepared to leave the house with his master.
Different paths.
Different reasons.
All leading to the same place.
Hoshigawa.