"I think you're right," Ren murmured to Taro, a spark of hope igniting in his chest. "Even though I lost it, I could feel it for a moment... I still have a slight connection. It's still the foundation of my development even though it's dormant. I still can... I can move forward."
Julius and Selphira exchanged meaningful glances. They knew exactly what Ren was about to show everyone, and the implications of allowing it.
But they had agreed that the people in this room could know. They had always been Ren's allies, possessed discretion, and understood that some secrets were worth protecting.
Ren looked at those present, seeing recognition in their faces. "I'm going to do it," he announced. "I'm going to become the world's first 'natural' four-beast tamer."
The silence that followed was absolute. Even those who had suspected this was possible were left speechless hearing such a direct declaration.
Ren positioned the mantis egg in front of him and began the contract process.
