Sho sat in the carriage, the rhythmic clatter of wheels against cobblestones mixing with the distant chatter of the bustling capital. From the window, he could see crowds lining the streets — all drawn by the Saint's visit.
And then… she appeared.
A young woman, just slightly taller than him, with long chestnut hair tied neatly, sharp yet kind hazel eyes, and an aura of calm authority that immediately drew attention. This was Alisa Yurica, the new Saint. Sho noted her age in passing — 16, only a year older than him and Princess Arisa.
> So she's the one the former Saint recognized… Sho thought, narrowing his eyes. She must be really exceptional if someone like that passed their authority on to her.
The carriage slowly made its way through the cheering crowds. Nobles and commoners alike bowed or knelt respectfully as Alisa passed, her expression serene but confident. Sho couldn't help but observe every movement, every subtle gesture — the way she held herself, the rhythm of her steps, the slight rise and fall of her voice as she acknowledged the people around her.
> She's… impressive. But also… human. Not overbearing, not flashy. That's rare for someone this powerful.
As Sho's eyes followed Alisa, a flicker of movement at the edge of his vision made him pause. A silvery-white strand of hair caught the sunlight, almost blending with the crowd.
> …Liyana?
He leaned slightly forward, trying to confirm, but the figure had already vanished, melting effortlessly into the throngs of people. Sho let out a small smirk.
> Of course. She's following. Always watching. She won't make herself obvious, but she's there. I can feel it.
The carriage continued to the Imperial Castle, and Sho's thoughts shifted between the two figures — Alisa, the acknowledged new Saint, radiating authority and potential; and Liyana, the enigmatic girl who seemed untouchable, whose presence was subtle yet undeniable.
Sho's system window flickered softly, noting the subtle energy traces of the two:
---
[SYSTEM WINDOW — REAL-TIME OBSERVATION]
Alisa Yurica — Lifeform Detected, Unknown Power Signature
Proximity: 50m ahead
Aura: Calm, authoritative, strong holy energy
Potential Threat/Ally: High
Observation Recommendation: Study and track
Liyana Lufinze — Lifeform Detected, Hidden Power Signature
Proximity: Nearby (undetectable)
Aura: Suppressed, immeasurable power
Potential Threat/Ally: Unknown
Observation Recommendation: High — unknown abilities, concealment active
---
Sho leaned back, crossing his arms, a faint grin on his face.
> Alright… let's see what this new Saint can do.
The carriage rolled toward the castle gates, and Sho felt his pulse quicken — not from fear, but anticipation. The city, the nobles, and the new Saint all converged into a moment that would change everything.