There were a couple of reasons why Alden wanted to enter the Glacial Belt.
First, it gave him a chance to hone his skill further, and grow used to his [Adept] powers. Secondly, it allowed him to leave the house and not worry about any awkward encounters with Celeste. The frigid tundra mirrored how cold he felt internally. Why not make his physical body experience bitter, biting cold as well?
There was no harm in that.
…He couldn't get any colder, anyway.
The only issue was Ignia. Alden felt bad that she would have to brave the freezing environment. After all, phoenixes were not suited to the cold. He was being selfish. That fact wasn't lost on him.
However, Alden knew Ignia would follow him wherever he went. It did not matter where, or what the environment was, his lovable familiar would always be by his side. A hint of warmth ignited in his heart.
That tiny ember was snuffed out only a moment later, though.
Alden sighed.