The village behind them grew smaller as Kaito and Eryo walked side by side toward the academy. Dex trotted in circles ahead, tail wagging, occasionally glancing back at the two of them.
Kaito's gaze was fixed on the sprawling structure ahead, memories of battles and chaos lingering in his mind. Eryo walked quietly, still absorbing the intensity of their reunion, instinctively matching Kaito's pace.
Once inside the academy gates, Kaito paused and glanced at Eryo. "Listen," he said, voice calm but firm, "there's… a lot you don't know yet. About me, about what's happened here."
Eryo's icy blue eyes met his. "I don't need everything right now," he said softly. "Just… guide me."
Kaito nodded. "Good. Then I'll start simple. I was… a friend. Someone who's been keeping an eye on things, making sure my other friends stayed safe."
Eryo tilted his head slightly but didn't question him. His trust in Kaito, built across lifetimes and rekindled instinctively, made him accept the answer for the moment.
As they walked through the academy's corridors, students and staff noticed them. Whispers spread:
"Who is that with Kaito?" Liara asked.
Aria stepped closer, concern in her voice. "Kaito—who is he?"
Kaito didn't hesitate. He smiled faintly, keeping his tone light. "Just a friend," he said.
Mira and Ryo exchanged glances, curiosity evident, but Kaito's calm, confident presence made them accept the explanation—for now. No one pressed further.
They reached the training halls, still marked by the scars of past attacks. Kaito gestured toward one of the classrooms. "This is where you'll start catching up. Eryo, get used to the surroundings, learn the routines. And everyone else…" He cast a glance at the others. "…treat him like a friend. That's all that matters right now."
Inside, the air was heavy with the scent of worn wood and ink from the grimoire shelves. Kaito's grip tightened on his spear briefly, memories of battles and companions flashing through his mind. He reminded himself: the secret stays hidden.
Eryo followed him, watching Kaito carefully, sensing trust and protection in every movement. "Friend," Eryo whispered softly. "I'll remember that, for now."
Kaito nodded, satisfied that the bond could grow without exposing the truth.
Outside the window, the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows over the academy. Time moved forward, and their journey together had only just begun—but for now, secrecy was their shield, and trust their guide.