When Arthur returned home, a wave of warm air hit his face as soon as the door opened. The scent of freshly cooked food drifted in from the kitchen. In the middle of the living room, Nola had lined up her small dolls, talking to herself as she played. Ronald and Samantha were sitting at the table, trying to shake off the day's fatigue.
At the sound of the creaking door, Nola lifted her head. Her eyes lit up and she shouted instantly:
"Big brother!"
She ran with tiny steps and jumped into Arthur's arms. Arthur gently removed his mask, embraced his sister, and stroked her hair.
"I'm home, my little star," he said softly.
Samantha looked at her son, her face showing both love and a touch of worry.
"Arthur, you said you'd only be gone for two days. We were worried anyway."
Arthur smiled and took his mother's hand.
"I know, Mom. I need to be more careful. From now on, I won't leave without telling you."
Ronald rose from his chair and patted his son lightly on the shoulder.
"A man keeps his word. At least you came back, even if briefly—that's enough," he said with a smile. But in his eyes lingered a suspicion, as though he sensed what his son was hiding.
Arthur nodded. "Don't worry, I'm here."
At the Dinner Table
A little later, everyone gathered around the table. Warm dishes filled the spread. While sipping her soup, Nola kept her eyes on her brother, bombarding him with questions.
"Big brother, why did it take so long? Did you forget about us?"
Arthur chuckled, shaking his head.
"It was only two days, Nola. But I guess time works differently for you."
Nola pouted, her face sulking.
"Two days feels like a whole month to me!"
Everyone at the table burst into laughter. Samantha stepped in:
"I sent the care package I prepared for Ren. I also put a letter inside. If you want to add something, there's still time."
Arthur fell silent for a moment. Ren's face appeared in his mind. He hadn't seen his brother in a long while, yet their bond remained strong.
"I'll send him a message separately. There are things I want to tell him," he finally said.
Samantha nodded, satisfied. "That would be wonderful."
At the Park
After dinner, Nola immediately grabbed her brother's hand.
"Big brother, you promised! Now you have to take me to the park!"
Arthur smiled, lifting his sister into his arms.
"Alright, little star. Your brother never breaks a promise."
At the park, Nola laughed as she swung back and forth, sliding down the slide over and over again. Arthur watched from the side, his face carrying a peaceful smile. Despite the dark thoughts inside him, he was determined not to let them ruin this moment.
"Big brother, come slide with me!" Nola shouted.
Arthur stood up and walked to her side.
"Alright, I'll race you."
They slid down together, Nola's laughter echoing into the night sky. For that brief moment, Arthur felt nothing but the joy of simply being a brother.
A Message to Ren
That night, Arthur withdrew to his room. Sitting on the edge of his bed, he picked up the communication stone. Taking a deep breath, he began to write:
Message from Arthur to Ren
"Ren, I'm writing this not just as your brother, but as someone who believes in you.
Life at the academy won't be easy. You'll grow tired, feel lonely, maybe even think about giving up. But what I want you to know is this: you're not alone.
I can see the potential you carry within you. Your strength isn't just in your mana—it's in your heart. Your ability to rise after every fall, your determination, and your willpower will carry you above everyone else.
I've only been away from home for two days, but I thought of you. If you ever truly need help one day, just give me a sign. No matter where I am, I'll come to you. Because you're not just my brother—you're my greatest pride.
Take care of yourself, Ren. No matter what happens, I'll always support you."
When Arthur sent the message, the stone glowed faintly. He lay down in silence, setting his mask aside. As his eyes closed, only one thought lingered in his mind:
"Our paths will cross again soon… and when that day comes, I must be even stronger."