The gentle morning breeze continued drifting across the training grounds as the leaves of the towering oak tree rustled softly beneath the warm sunlight. The training ground that had only moments ago echoed with the deafening clash of spear and sabers had now fallen completely silent, leaving behind only the peaceful sounds of nature and the distant voices of knights continuing their drills elsewhere within the estate.
Kyle looked at Luca with an unmistakably puzzled expression.
Then he looked toward the old oak tree.
Then back toward Luca again.
His brows slowly furrowed.
"What exactly did you—"
Before he could finish speaking, the branches of the ancient tree swayed gently once more.
A familiar figure slowly stepped out from behind its broad trunk.
Long crimson hair shimmered beneath the morning sun.
Violet eyes carried a mixture of nervousness, embarrassment, and hesitation unlike anything Kyle had ever seen from his older sister.
Aurelia stood there quietly.
