Faeloria's pocket dinsion was sothing of an enigma, an extension of her very essence and connection to the World Tree.
She could open entry and exit points virtually anywhere, as long as two conditions were t. First, she had to have visited the place before. Second, it had to be within reach of the World Tree's sprawling roots or its towering branches. These boundaries were not as limiting as they seed, for the World Tree's influence extended far and wide, crossing entire dinsions and touching many sacred places.
In other words, it wasn't difficult for her to open a path back to Orinfeld City.
With a smooth wave of her hand, Faeloria conjured another portal beside them. Just like before, Vanessa was the first to enter, stepping forward to scout the exit. Aster followed, casting one last glance around Faeloria's dinsion with a sense of respect and nostalgia, and then stepped through. Faeloria was the last to pass, ensuring that all was in order before sealing the rift behind them. Enjoy new adventures from empire
When they erged on the other side, familiar faces awaited.
A warm, booming voice called out, "Welco back!" It was Mayor Magnus, arms spread wide with a smile as bright as the sun.
"Seeing that Miss Bright is with you, I assu the mission was a success?"
"Thankfully, yes..." Aster replied, a wry smile tugging at his lips as he took in the gathering.
They had returned directly to the lobby of Gravene Tower, which now buzzed with activity. In addition to Mayor Magnus and his wife, Priscilla, there were people from all corners of the city—managers from the Guild, staff from the Class Exchange Hall, and even the red Oni Uncle from the dungeon entrance, watching with a slight grin.
Aster hadn't expected such a crowd, and he was mildly puzzled as to why everyone had gathered here. What he didn't realize was that each one of them was a dedicated mber of either the Black Numbers or the Hit Squad, ready to lend their support at any given mont.
Priscilla stepped forward, her face soft with concern.
"You all look exhausted," she noted with a motherly smile, her gaze lingering on Aster and Faeloria. "You should return to your lodgings and rest. We'll handle the rest."
"... Alright," Aster agreed, sighing in relief at her suggestion.
His body felt heavier by the mont, and he could feel dust and gri coating him from head to toe. It wouldn't have been surprising if Magnus had simply insisted he go straight to the infirmary, given his disheveled appearance.
He glanced toward Faeloria, who looked flushed and slightly unsteady, her cheeks tinted a deep red, and a dreamy, almost intoxicated smile on her lips. Aster knew he couldn't linger—her current state hinted at potential "dangers" if he didn't take his leave soon.
"Then, I'll take Cassy back," he added, turning toward Vanessa, who was still carrying Cassy in an unceremonious position—like a sack of potatoes.
Magnus looked as if he might object, but Priscilla placed a gentle hand on his arm, shaking her head with a slight smile. Understanding her intent, Magnus stepped back, watching as Aster prepared to leave.
"Are you sure?" Vanessa asked, her voice laced with a hint of concern. "I managed to heal her sowhat, but taking her to the hospital seems like a safer option."
But Aster remained stubborn and shook his head firmly. "No, it's fine."
During their fight with Arima, Cassy had whispered to him, asking him not to take her to the hospital upon their return. Though Aster had no idea why she preferred to avoid it, he trusted her judgnt and was determined to honor her request.
Vanessa studied his expression, her eyes narrowing slightly, and then nodded. "Alright, if you insist."
She gently passed Cassy into his arms. Despite her recent lack of proper als, she was still sowhat heavy, and Aster's weakened body protested as he took on her weight. Yet, he held her steady, his arms wrapped protectively around her in a princess carry. Cassy's face was peaceful in her sleep, and he felt a renewed sense of purpose seeing her safe.
After a respectful bow to everyone, Aster turned and left, the weight of their gazes following him as he crossed Gravene Tower's lobby and stepped into the black car waiting outside.
---
"Mm..."
A soft groan escaped Cassy as she drifted back to consciousness, only to be t with a world of darkness. Panic flared montarily in her chest before she rembered her condition.
'Right, I'm blind,'
she reminded herself, drawing slow breaths to calm her racing heart.
"... Stupid Rabbit?"
The familiar voice reached her ears, unmistakable in its tone and choice of words. She wouldn't mistake it for anyone else.
"K...?" she responded, her voice faint, as if still disoriented. Her mories ca back in fragnts.
'Aster… He ca to save …'
she thought, a gentle warmth filling her heart. Her lips curved into a small, contented smile as she basked in the mory.
*Thud!*
"...!"
Suddenly, Cassy felt herself enveloped in sothing soft and warm. She didn't need to guess—it was Kali, unable to contain her emotions, who had leapt into her arms, clutching her tightly.
Her emotions stirred, and with a joyful smile, Cassy whispered words that had been in her heart for so long. "I'm ho!"
"Stupid rabbit!" Kali's voice trembled, her tone filled with relief and happiness. "Welco back..."
"Cassy?!"
"Oh, you're finally awake."
Drawn by the touching reunion, Liz and Tina approached. Liz rushed forward, hugging both Cassy and Kali tightly, almost squeezing the breath out of them. Tina, though acting indifferent, sat nearby, watching with a small smile. Her tail swayed, its tip wiggling—a subtle sign of her own quiet happiness at Cassy's return.
After a while, Aster noticed the commotion and peeked through the open door. He saw Liz receiving a scolding from Kali, Cassy's amused smile, and Tina quietly observing from a short distance. His lips curved up with content as he took in the familiar, comforting scene.
"Alright, let's make them the best al I can!" he encouraged himself, heading back to the kitchen to continue his cooking.
The girls continued their playful banter until the enticing aroma of Aster's dishes drifted into the room. As if drawn by an invisible thread, they followed the scent to the dining area, where a small banquet awaited them.
"Oh, everyone's already here!" Aster called out, noticing them gathering. "Tonight, let's celebrate Cassy's safe return. It's a feast! Eat to your heart's content!"
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