Raiden spent a night bursting with joy alongside his mother, aunt, and the Empress. They lost themselves in various entertainments—intense games and blockbuster movies on the palace's massive screen. The body of a magical user is truly blessed with endurance far surpassing even the most elite ordinary humans. No wonder they awoke the next morning without a trace of fatigue, ready to continue their activities as if nothing had happened.
Given the packed schedule ahead, they agreed to postpone their discussion until a more appropriate moment.
After bidding farewell to the Empress, Raiden stepped out of the palace accompanied by his mother, aunt, and Melinda. Without wasting a breath, Melinda activated her translocation magic. Mystic energy shimmered around them as she opened a pathway connecting two different space-time points—from the palace to the courtyard of Heliosbane Estate.
Having previously visited their destination, Melinda didn't bother creating a coordinate marker circle. She simply channeled her magical energy, and in the blink of an eye, the four figures vanished from the imperial domain—leaving not even a whisper of their presence behind.
∆∆∆
Seven days had passed since Lisa began accompanying her younger sister, who showed remarkable recovery after being freed from her long coma.
With indescribable tenderness, Lisa fed her sister rabbit-shaped apple slices. The spark of life had returned to the little girl's face. Though still wearing a hospital gown, her skin now looked fresh and radiant—clear evidence that the previous hospital hadn't genuinely addressed her condition.
Lisa once again thanked the fates for bringing her to such a generous and attentive master. Her sister's long-lost smile had finally returned, bringing happiness that naturally expanded Lisa's devotion and loyalty toward Raiden.
"Sis," her sister's gentle voice broke the silence, her eyes sparkling with curiosity, "is it true that a kind master helped cure me? Isn't treatment for terminal arcane disease insanely expensive? Why would he go out of his way to help us?"
That innocent question momentarily left Lisa speechless. Once, she too had wondered the same thing. But after several meetings with Sylvia, Lisa began to understand why. Her master saw great potential in her—potential to become a respected magical user, a status coveted by almost everyone in this world. For those lacking talent or access, awakening as a magical user was a dream too lofty to even hope for.
With simple yet loving words, Lisa explained to her sister, repeatedly emphasizing that the little girl shouldn't worry about such matters.
"Sometimes," Lisa whispered softly while stroking her sister's hair, "kindness comes without a reason we need to understand. What matters most right now is your health."
The little girl nodded softly, absorbing the meaning behind her beloved older sister's words. She chose not to dwell further on the topic and instead shifted the conversation toward the many things she longed to do once fully recovered—activities typical for a teenage girl her age.
With visiting hours drawing to a close and knowing her sister needed to rest longer, Lisa reluctantly ended their chat with a warm farewell. Sylvia's gaze lingered on her little sister, whose sweet smile accompanied a gentle wave, before turning to leave with a heavy heart.
Arriving at the hospital lobby, Lisa's eyes immediately fell upon a sleek black SUV waiting patiently—it was Sylvia's luxurious ride. "Sis, did I keep you waiting too long?" Lisa asked in a soft, worried tone, her eyes reflecting the anxiety welling inside her.
Sylvia approached slowly and wrapped Lisa in a tender embrace. She stroked the girl's silky black hair lovingly, her warm form gently caressing the small face, soothing nerves with quiet comfort. Speaking in a calm, almost maternal voice filled with wisdom, she whispered words saturated with affection—words that eased the knot of worry in Lisa's heart.
Driving the black SUV along the highway at a steady pace, Sylvia melted into the rhythm of the music playing softly through the speakers. Meanwhile, Lisa sat quietly beside her, savoring the rare moment of togetherness. Normally, they would spend their time revolving around the city—sampling fine dining at renowned restaurants, indulging in various entertainments—before eventually returning to the hotel where Lisa was staying temporarily.
But today, their plans shifted abruptly.
Sylvia had just received direct orders from the young master himself: to bring Lisa to the Heliosbane estate. The moment Lisa heard this, a spark ignited within her; her eyes gleamed with excitement, eager to meet the young lord.
Instead of heading toward the mansion's main lobby, Sylvia steered the vehicle across the vast estate, aiming for the imposing fortress towering on the eastern flank of Heliosbane grounds.
The Heliosbane estate was famed for its highly sophisticated magical barriers enveloping every inch of the land. These defenses rendered the fortress impervious to any threats—be it hostile forces, advanced surveillance technologies, or even high-level artifacts. Thanks to such formidable protection, the Heliosbane family could construct their colossal stronghold in peace, without fear of intrusion from outsiders, including national intelligence agencies.
The massive iron gates creaked open slowly, making way for Sylvia's vehicle as it glided smoothly into the fortress. Inside, the Holy Knights were busy with various activities. Some practiced close-quarter combat with lightning-fast movements, others developed magical techniques with intense concentration, while the rest meticulously inspected and tinkered with advanced weaponry. Besides the knights, employees with diverse expertise moved about, carrying out their respective duties, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere.
"Wow... these buildings are incredibly magnificent!" Lisa gasped in amazement, her eyes perfectly round as they swept across the colossal structures towering within the fortress.
A slight smile played on Sylvia's lips seeing Lisa's enthusiasm. She glanced briefly to the side, toward an elegant majestic building standing at the innermost edge of the fortress. In a café with transparent glass walls beside it, Raiden could be seen casually enjoying hot chocolate and a plate of cronuts.
Sylvia parked the vehicle right in front of the café. She and Lisa got out, then Sylvia guided the girl toward Raiden.
Seeing her savior and master, Lisa's eyes sparkled. She stepped forward, bowing deeply at 90 degrees, greeting him with utmost respect. "Good afternoon, Young Master. I hope your day is pleasant," she greeted in a gentle tone, her sweetest smile blooming on her lips.
Satisfied seeing Lisa looking so radiant, Raiden nodded slightly. His hand reached out, stroking Lisa's black hair attentively, like an older brother would to his little sister.
Like a pampered cat, Lisa closed her eyes, enjoying the gentle caress.
Raiden invited Lisa and Sylvia to sit, then ordered drinks and various light refreshments from the café waiter. While enjoying the treats before them, Raiden made small talk, asking about Lisa's younger sibling and discussing other light matters.
Until finally, Raiden steered the conversation to the core issue. "Lisa, today we will begin the process of awakening your magical talent," said Raiden, his gaze intently locking onto the girl's beautiful eyes.