Family

Shun walked slowly toward the mansion gates, his mind still engrossed in the revelations Elysia had shared with him. While he had delved deep into the histories she recounted, the true extent of Sirius Xshasi's abilities remained elusive. Despite Elysia's insights, the nature of the 0th complete ethereal arm seemed no different from what King Eldran had previously disclosed.

Yet, amidst the lingering mysteries—like the origins of his own abilities—many truths had crystallized. He now understood Glynn Belkarn's unwavering loyalty, the genuine events of the war between the Three Champions and Tyrant Kolgwyn, and the intricate dynamics of the realm's current factions.

As Shun reached the front gate, he paused to take in the sight of the mansion that housed the SIGMA Academy students. It wasn't as luxurious as the estates of other powerful organizations, but compared to his past life, even a simple house like Elysia's would have been a blessing.

The rectangular three-storey mansion boasted a spiral staircase connecting each floor. On the first floor, a deluxe living room served as a common area for the students, some of whom were already lounging on the sofas. Mia and Jaylen were busy preparing food in the spacious kitchen, which was larger than Shun's old rented house.

Leon Ermy was the first to notice Shun's arrival. His face radiated an unusual confidence and brightness.

"I thought I was one of the last to return," Shun said, settling onto a sofa beside Silver. "Where is everyone?"

Silver smiled. "Rin and Ruby are still out. Emilia and a few others are swimming in the pool. Some are upstairs enjoying the entertainment area."

The third floor was equipped with various entertainment options, many of which were new to the students, so it was no surprise that some had already started to unwind there.

Jaylen emerged from the kitchen to announce, "Albert and Cloudy won't be joining us tonight. They have urgent matters to handle at the royal palace."

It wasn't unexpected. They had heard about Albert's past struggles. According to Emilia, Prince Albert Eldran had been born mute—a condition even Eriq Ranborg could not cure. His childhood was marked by shame and disappointment until, at age 11, he disappeared from the capital. King Eldran had noticed but chose not to intervene. Albert was later miraculously cured in the southern region of Lordrixis, though Emilia didn't know the full story or the identity of his benefactor.

"Anyway, back to our previous discussion," Gideon interjected. "What exactly is the White Crane Manor trying to achieve?"

Leon pointed skyward and shook his head. "It's a top-tier secret, not for outsiders," he said. Shun was taken aback by Leon's shift in demeanor, hoping his friend would remain as he had been.

Gideon sighed, understanding the limitations of their various affiliations. Even close friends in different organizations couldn't share everything. The same went for those in the army or the Belkarn Clan, each bound by secrets they couldn't disclose. On reflection, the information Elysia had shared with Shun was best kept private as well.

Gideon turned to Silver. "How is your gathering with the other complete ethereal warriors going?"

Before Silver could answer, Rin and Ruby tumbled into the hall from the front door, clearly exhausted.

"Why does my question always get interrupted?" Gideon lamented.

Shun sighed and asked, "Do you regret joining the Belkarn Clan?"

Rin looked up from the floor, too tired to move. "We won't be joining you for dinner. We need to rest."

"That's harsh," Gideon chuckled, picking Rin up. "Even the army wasn't this bad." Silver helped Ruby to her feet, and they carried the exhausted girls to their rooms on the second floor.

The second floor, with its abundance of rooms and a small library, was designed to accommodate all the students. However, they anticipated that only Leon would make much use of the library.

Mia and Jaylen, along with the absent Cloudy Adaires, were the only ones skilled in cooking, making them the temporary chefs. Soon, servants sent by the King would handle all household duties. Shun suspected that King Eldran might use these servants to spy on their conversations and activities, but he assumed the students would mostly be outside, preoccupied with their own pursuits.

The dinner was simple, prepared by just two cooks, but the quality mattered little. What mattered was the shared experience of dining with close friends. The camaraderie and warmth felt particularly special, surpassing even the collective meals at SIGMA academy. For Shun, this was a moment of genuine family warmth.

After dinner, Shun sat alone on the sofa, contemplating the future. Despite the happiness he had found at SIGMA academy, it did little to diminish the hatred in his heart. However, something had shifted within him. He wanted to keep these people safe and content, shielded from the vengeful quest he had never abandoned.

With Norton Es no longer around and SIGMA academy no longer watching over him, Shun could finally return to his ultimate goal. Compared to the beginning, he now aimed higher—at the ascended and perhaps even the complete ethereal arms.

The harvest was about to begin.