33 Grow

The following day, Desmond awoke and made his way to Alice's room, just as he always did. However, there was a noticeable difference this time—the presence of their parents.

Bastian and Leona had requested additional time off, citing the reason of "stabilizing our children's mentality." Seeing the state of Desmond and Alice, Noel, their caretaker, could only shake her head and grant them the requested time off. From that moment on, Desmond's family truly came alive, with Bastian and Leona becoming substitute teachers. Their peaceful life commenced, and three years swiftly passed.

...

Within an underground lair, a young boy of approximately six years old skillfully evaded a barrage of fireballs launched at him. His movements were agile, seamlessly crouching, jumping, and utilizing the walls as support.

Sweat trickled down the boy's body, his face flushed with exertion. Despite his fatigue, his eyes sparkled with an unwavering determination.