The sun filtered through the canopy as Kaito led the husky outside the city gates, away from the bustle of the market. The wide field stretched into open hills, perfect for training. The husky padded at his side, tail swaying, icy eyes glinting with curiosity.
"Dexter," Kaito said, testing the name out loud. The dog's ears flicked at the sound, and it barked once, sharp and approving. A rare smile tugged at Kaito's lips.
"Dex, then. Short and simple."
The Circle lingered at the edge of the field, watching as Kaito removed the leash. Dex trotted forward, sniffing the grass, muscles taut with excitement.
"All right," Kaito muttered, kneeling. "Let's see how sharp you are."
He pulled out a small piece of dried meat and tossed it into the air. Dex leapt, catching it mid-flight with perfect timing. Another toss, a little farther—Dex darted across the grass, paws swift, and snatched it before it hit the ground.
"Fast," Kaito said, pleased.
The training escalated quickly. Kaito guided Dex through voice commands, gestures, and signals. He set up makeshift obstacles with spare crates and poles, guiding the husky through weaving patterns and quick turns. Dex obeyed almost instinctively, as if it had been waiting for this kind of challenge.
When Kaito planted his spear into the earth, Dex's attention locked on it. The husky crouched, tail wagging, as though sensing something deeper in the weapon's faint blue glow.
Kaito's chest tightened. You feel it too, don't you? The fire I can't let out.
Instead of testing it, he whistled sharply. Dex sprinted back to his side, sitting obediently, tongue lolling. Kaito scratched behind its ears. "Good. You'll do just fine."
From the sidelines, Ryo whistled. "You sure you didn't buy a demon dog? It learns faster than I ever could."
Mira snorted. "That's because it's smarter than you."
Aria, though, stayed silent. Her eyes never left Dex, nor Kaito. She noticed the way Kaito held himself—calm but heavy, as though the dog was more than a companion. It was… an anchor.
The session ended with Dex lying beside Kaito, calm and watchful. The bond between them was already forming, clear and strong.
Kaito leaned back, staring at the wide sky. "We'll make you ready, Dex. Ready for what's coming."
The husky's icy eyes met his, gleaming with a silent promise.