Meanwhile, in a secluded area, a horse carriage was passing through the bushes. The carriage was pulled by two horses, and a person wearing a black face mask was controlling the harness. The only visible parts of the person were their normal black eyes.
As the carriage arrived at a forest, the person stopped it and got down. They wore a black kidnappers' suit that fitted them perfectly, along with black gloves. A wooden scabbard painted black hung at their side, holding a sword.
The kidnapper opened the door of the carriage, and another person with a black face mask and brown eyes got down. "Let's get the girl," the kidnapper with the brown eyes said.
They went to take Reina out of the carriage. She was covered with a rope and was still wearing her white princess dress. She was panicking, her voice shaking as she said, "Weave me alone! Big bro, come and save me!"
"Quiet down, little girl," the kidnapper with the black eyes said. "It won't go well for you if you don't shut up."
"We are not supposed to do anything to her," the kidnapper with the brown eyes said. "We need to sell her neat and clean so we can earn more money."
Reina heard their words and panicked even more. "What? Don't sell me! I want to go to Mama, Papa, and Big Bro!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with fear.
The kidnappers ignored her pleas and took her deeper into the forest. Reina struggled and cried, but they didn't seem to care. As they walked, the trees seemed to close in around them, casting deep shadows that made Reina feel even more scared.
"Big bro will come for me." Reina said, "I have to bewieve it."
In the deep forest, the two kidnappers carried Reina to a clear area surrounded by tall, strong trees. The trees were a mix of different types, and the clear area was wide and open. Reina was placed down beside the biggest and tallest tree, its shade covering them all.
Reina looked up at the tree and then down at her bound hands. With a determined look on her face, she tore the rope apart and was free. The kidnappers were surprised, and the one with brown eyes said, "I'm sure I tied the rope very tight."
The kidnapper with black eyes glared at him angrily. "You dummy!" he exclaimed. "How did she manage to break free?"
Reina stood up, her eyes shining with confidence. "Big bro will come for me," she said, her voice firm.
The kidnapper with black eyes sneered, pulling out his knife from its wooden scabbard. The long, shiny blade sparkled in the sunlight. "Keep on dreaming," he said. "There's no way someone will save you."
Reina's face set in a determined expression. "I'm not afwaid of you," she said, her voice clear and strong.
The kidnapper laughed, but Reina wasn't deterred. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and then opened them again. "Then I will fight you," she said. "I will show you what Mama and Dada taught me."
With a fierce cry, Reina jumped high into the air, her fist aimed at the kidnapper's face. But he caught her hand with his palm. "You're just a child," he said. "There's no way..."
However, before he could finish, Reina pulled her hand free and grabbed his, spinning around and using his momentum against him. The other kidnapper watched in surprise as Reina spun his partner around, making him dizzy, and then threw him across the clearing. He hit the tree with a thud, his sword falling to the ground in front of the kidnapper with brown eyes.
The kidnapper with brown eyes was shocked. "What the...?" he thought. "Is she a magic user or is that her ability?"
He quickly picked up the sword, holding it up. "Don't move," he warned Reina.
But Reina wasn't intimidated. She took the sword and threw it, and it pierced through the tree trunk with a loud thud. The sword didn't fall out, and Reina's eyes sparkled with pride. "I'm stronger than you," she said, her eyebrows furrowed in anger.
The kidnapper with the black eyes groaned, clutching his head. "Ah! My head hurts so bad, I can't think well." He glared at Reina, his anger boiling over. He quickly pulled out a short knife from his shoe and rushed towards her.
Reina, anticipating the attack, prepared to block it. But before she could, the kidnapper with the brown eyes punched her stomach with all his strength. Reina doubled over in pain, falling to the ground.
The kidnapper with the brown eyes sneered calmly, "You let your guard down, little girl." The kidnapper with the black eyes seized the opportunity, moving to stab Reina.
"You're dead!" he snarled.
But the kidnapper with the brown eyes intervened, his voice laced with worry. "Don't kill her. She's still young. We need to earn money from her. Let's just tie her up with the rope."
Just then, a calm, emotionless voice cut through the air. "Don't you dare take my sister away from me."
Aster emerged from the forest, his eyes fixed intently on the kidnappers. Reina's face lit up with excitement. "Big Bro, I knew you would come save me!"
The kidnapper with the black eyes snarled, "Who the hell are you! How did you find us here?"
Aster didn't respond, instead continuing his steady approach. The kidnapper with the black eyes grew desperate, grabbing Reina and pointing the knife at her neck.
"You move, she dies," he threatened. "Don't even make a move."
Reina shifted uncomfortably, but the kidnapper with the brown eyes held her hand, restraining her.
Aster's response was calm and detached. "I'm faster. It doesn't matter what you do."
In a flash, the two kidnappers found themselves bound together with rope. Reina sat beside the big tree, looking surprised. Aster stood beside the tree, holding the wooden scabbard with the sword inside that had pierced the tree earlier.
The kidnappers were stunned, "What the... When did you do this?"
The kidnapper with the black eyes pleaded, "No, we are sorry. If you let us go, I promise we won't come back. It's a deal. Have mercy on us."
Aster's voice remained calm and cold. "Did you seriously think I would let you lay a finger on my sister?"
The kidnappers exchanged fearful glances, realizing they were no match for Aster's skills. Reina, on the other hand, looked up at her big brother with admiration and trust. "Big Bro is so cool!" she thought to herself.
"Please, have mercy on us," the kidnapper with the black eyes said, looking at Aster, his voice pleading. "Mercy?" Aster repeated coldly, already behind them, standing in the middle. The sword inside the wooden scabbard pointed at the kidnapper with black eyes' neck, and the knife pointed at the kidnapper with brown eyes' neck.
"You're not worth saving," Aster said. "But if I ever see you or you try kidnapping people again, you'll be eliminated."
"We promise," the two kidnappers said at the same time.
Aster then cut the rope with the knife, and the rope fell down, freeing them. The kidnapper with the black eyes started to hurry away, yelling, "Hahaha! Did you really think I would..."
Aster's expressionless face didn't change, but he removed the sword inside the wooden scabbard a little and placed it back inside quickly. The kidnapper with the brown eyes didn't move but watched Aster and thought, "Why did he remove and place the sword back inside?"
The kidnapper with the black eyes continued to run, almost reaching the side with plenty of trees as his escape route. Then, the tree in front of him started shaking, and the tree was falling down.
"Watch out! In front of you!" the kidnapper with the brown eyes yelled.
The kidnapper with the black eyes started screaming as the tree was falling down, but before he could make a move, the tree fell on him. Blood started pouring out from his head.
The other kidnapper with the brown eyes got frightened. Aster then walked to the kidnapper with the black eyes as the tree was on him and he couldn't move. Aster lifted the tree, placed it on his shoulders, and then opened his hand to the kidnapper with the black eyes' face as he was bleeding and unconscious. Then, he healed in an instant, and the blood was gone as if it wasn't there before. The kidnapper with the black eyes started to wake up.
The kidnapper with the brown eyes got surprised, and even Reina herself got surprised. "Big Bro is so cool!" she thought to herself.
Aster then brought his hand to the kidnapper so he could get up. The kidnapper with the black eyes got surprised and held his hand and stood up.
"Be careful of your actions next time if you want to live," Aster said, his voice calm.
"Thank you for saving my life," the kidnapper with the black eyes said. "I was totally dead, and you revived me."
Unfortunately for him, he didn't know Aster was the one who had caused the tree to fall down on him.
"You're a kidnapper, right? You have sold many people's lives for your own gains. It makes me regret ever saving your life." Aster said calmly and coldly. "You don't deserve to be alive."
"You're right. But..." the kidnapper with the black eyes yelled angrily with guilt.
"I could have let you die as a kidnapper, but I revived you." Aster said calmly and coldly. "That's because you've been given a chance to change your life and get a better job. Use the rest of your life wisely. Live your life without regrets. This is your only chance."
The kidnapper then felt even guilty and took a deep breath and said finally, "M-Maybe you're right. I will try changing my ways."
Then, the kidnapper with the black eyes turned to the kidnapper with the brown eyes and said, "I'm sorry. But is better if I can't continue living my life as a kidnapper. I will change my ways."
Aster's emotionless face didn't change, but he listened. The kidnapper with the black eyes then turned to Aster. "Thank you." He said with a smile filled with regrets.
Then, the kidnapper went with a bright new life. Aster's words had changed him in a good way
The kidnapper with the black eyes then left, and the only people left were Aster, Reina, and the kidnapper with the brown eyes.
"You caused the tree to fall, didn't you?" the kidnapper with the brown eyes said, his voice laced with a mix of fear and admiration. "It was so swift that no one noticed. As soon as you drew your sword, you struck the tree. Your speed was incredible. Who exactly are you?"
Aster didn't respond. Instead, he walked forward to the kidnapper with the brown eyes. The kidnapper got frightened and stepped back slowly, his eyes fixed on Aster's calm face.
Aster continued to walk forward until he stood a bit far in front of him, with a noticeable distance between them. "You kidnapped my sister," Aster said calmly, his voice devoid of emotion. "And the person who was working at the store, right."
The kidnapper's eyes widened with surprise. "So you knew," he said, removing his mask. Aster was right; it was the male stylist from before, who had helped Aster pick out clothes in the store.
"How exactly did you know that's me?" the kidnapper asked, his voice calm, but with a hint of curiosity.
"I determined it by observing your eyes," Aster said, his voice even. "But mostly, I was aware it was you the entire time, even before this moment."
The kidnapper's eyes narrowed, intrigued. "It started when I entered the store and observed my surroundings. You weren't there initially, but then you appeared in the men's section, claiming you were looking for me," Aster continued, his voice calm and analytical. "That seemed unusual, so I kept a close eye on you. When we were browsing clothes, you attempted to take something from me, likely looking for money without getting my attention. However, you didn't find what you were looking for and left, citing something important. Shortly after, I received news about my sister's kidnapping. Given the sequence of events, it became clear that you were involved."
The kidnapper's face fell, his eyes wide with surprise. "What the... You totally saw through all my plans..."
Reina still sat under the big tree, listening to Aster's explanation. Though she couldn't fully understand the complexity of Aster's words, she knew her big brother was amazing.
"I regret the trouble I've caused," the kidnapper said, his voice low and even. "I intend to stop... to change. What you said to my friend, it resonated with me as well. I'll do my best to become someone different."
"So, you haven't figured it out," Aster said, his voice even, with a faint chill underscoring his words. "I'm suggesting you return to the store, resume a normal life. You were competent there. I'm not compelling you, of course. Merely pointing out that you're isolated, abandoned. Why not seize this opportunity to change... and return to that store?"
The kidnapper's eyes locked onto Aster's, searching for something. "Really?" he said, his voice filled with a mix of hope and desperation. "Do you think I have the chance?"
"As stated previously, I am not compelling you," Aster said calmly. "The decision is yours alone. Your existence is your responsibility, to be utilized as you see fit. You may leave."
The kidnapper nodded, deep in thought. After a moment, he started walking, leaving the forest behind. As he disappeared into the trees, Aster turned to Reina.
"Big bro, I knew you will save me!" Reina exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement and gratitude.
Aster's expression remained calm, his eyes fixed on Reina.
"Let's chat and sit here for a while," Aster said calmly to Reina.
"Big bro, come sit here!" Reina exclaimed, tapping the spot beside her with her hand. Aster sat down beside her, his back against the tree, his knees up, and his left hand rested on his left knee.
"Are you a magic user?" Aster asked calmly.
"Yesh!" Reina said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Mama and Dada teach me how to control my powers. They say I gotta stop using them till I can control 'em good, 'cause it might cause problems."
Aster's expression remained calm, his eyes fixed on Reina. "She probably inherited it from them," he thought to himself.
"Were you holding back when you decided to fight the kidnappers?" Aster asked calmly.
"How you know?" Reina asked, her excitement growing. "You're so cool, big bro!"
Aster's thoughts were calm and collected. "That's because I was there the whole time," he thought.
"I will help you learn how to harness your power in every way," he said, his voice calm. "But not now."
Reina's face lit up with admiration. "Big bro, you're so cool! I wanna be like you!"
"Just be yourself," Aster said, his voice even. "All I expect is for you to be happy, live a happy life, and keep that lovely smile on your face. That's why I want to protect you, Mom, and Dad, even till my last breath."
Reina's cheeks turned pink, and she looked down, embarrassed. "Awww, big bro, you're so cool and amazing!" she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Aster's thoughts were calm and collected. "She's totally like Mom," he thought.
Suddenly, something struck Reina's mind, and she looked up, her eyes wide with curiosity. "Aha, big bro, how did you know I'm here?" she asked.
"I noticed the kidnappers' footprints near the store entrance," Aster replied calmly. "Later, I saw a store employee wearing the same type of clothing, and I followed the trail. However, the footprints disappeared, and I picked up the trail again from a horse carriage. I followed it to this location."
Reina's eyes widened in surprise. "AH! I didn't figure it out!"
Aster's thoughts were calm and collected. "This is a reunion of sorts," he thought. "I trained here with Dad when I was young, and now she's sitting under the same tree."
Aster then got up calmly and stood up, then he brought his hand out for Reina to get up. "Let's go home," Aster said. Reina smiled, showing her lovely smile, and held his hand, standing up.
"Big bro, carry me! My legs are tired!" Reina said, stretching her arms, expecting Aster to carry her. "I never said anything about walking," Aster replied calmly.
Reina's curiosity was piqued. "Are we going to fly?" she asked.
"We are going to use a faster method," Aster said.
Aster then held Reina's hand, and they teleported to the store they had visited before. Reina looked up at the sign and saw the bold letters "STYLUM". She knew she was back at the store.
"We're at the store back," Reina said, "See the thing on the top? When we came here the first time." "That's great," Aster said calmly. "It's great you remember the name of the store."
As they walked into the store, Reina felt the cold air in the room. "Big bro, did you come here to pay for the clothes you bought?" she asked. "That's right," Aster replied calmly.
"Will you pay for the dress I'm wearing? It's expensive," Reina said, her voice pleading. "Yeah, I will also pay for the rest of the clothes I bought for you," Aster replied.
Reina's eyes widened with excitement. "You bought more clothes for me? But your money will finish!" she exclaimed, getting worried.
"That doesn't matter," Aster said calmly. "As long as you want those, then wasting money doesn't matter to me."
Reina smiled, and her cheeks turned red with happiness. "Yay! Thanks, big bro!" she said, squeezing Aster's hand.
As they walked to the checkout counter, the same woman who had taken care of the clothes Aster bought was standing there, holding four big bags of plastic rubbers filled with clothes. She saw Aster and Reina coming and rushed to them, kneeling down in front of Reina and hugging her tightly.
"Sorry for not taking responsibility," she said, her voice filled with worry. "I'm sure you were frightened." Reina looked up at her with a smile. "Why would I be scared?" she said. "I believed big bro would come and save me."
The woman smiled, noticing Reina's faith and love in her big brother, Aster. "I'm here to pay the bill now," Aster said calmly. "I won't stay for long."
The woman got up and took the rubbers, calculating the total. "The total comes out to be 50 gold coins. Alternatively, if you're using silver, the equivalent would be 2500 coins. If you're settling in copper, the amount would be 5000 coins," she said professionally.
Reina's eyes widened in surprise. "5000 is a big number," she said, astonished by the amount. "Big bro is really rich," she added, looking up at Aster with admiration.
Aster's expression remained calm as he listened. He opened his brown coat and then snapped his fingers then two full sacks of coins appeared and he took out the two sacks filled with coins. "This is a sum of 100 gold coins," he said, placing the sacks on the counter.
The woman was taken aback. "But I said 50 gold coins," she said, refusing the extra payment.
"You lied to me," Aster said calmly, his gaze unwavering. "The figure of fifty gold coins is incorrect. My calculations for all purchased clothes I bought, excluding the one Reina currently wears, was a total of seventy-five gold coins. Therefore, based on your implicit division, Reina's garment would be approximately twenty-five gold coins, bringing the theoretical grand total to one hundred gold coins, which would then be divided into two, making the 50 as you said earlier."
The woman felt guilty, realizing Aster was right. "You are exactly right," she said, her voice trembling. "But this is what I can do since I caused you this much trouble." "You know that could get you fired, and you won't be able to work here anymore," Aster said calmly.
The woman took a deep breath. "Y-You are right. But I can handle that," she said, her voice filled with determination. "I will use my time payment to get it paid."
Aster's emotionless expression didn't change. "No need," he said calmly, reassuring her. "You've done well, and that's enough." The woman's eyes widened in surprise and admiration. "Ah, but..." she said, then realized there's nothing she could do to change. "There's no way to convince you, huh. Then that's alright... Thanks so much."
Aster then took the four bags of plastic rubbers filled with clothes and left. Reina waved goodbye to the woman, saying, "My big bro is so cool, right?" The woman replied, waving goodbye back, "Yeah, he is so cool."
After a few minutes of walking, Aster still searched his surroundings without anyone noticing. He then noticed the kidnapper from before with the brown eyes standing there, wearing the clothes of the stylists who worked at the store. The clothes fitted him perfectly. Aster didn't bother to go there, but the kidnapper had just noticed him.
The kidnapper gave a smile and ran to Aster. He then rushed and stood in front of Aster, bowing down in appreciation. Reina saw the man and whispered to Aster, "Big bro, isn't that those people who took me away? Why are they here?"
"He won't take you away anymore," Aster replied calmly. "This is my first day working here," the kidnapper said. "So I would like to thank you."
"Don't thank me," Aster said. "It was your decision, not mine." The kidnapper then pulled a card from his pocket and showed it to Aster. "This is proof that I'm working here," he said. "My name, age, date I started working here, and many more."
Aster looked at it and said, "It wasn't necessary for you to show it to me." The kidnapper, now the male stylist working in the store, giggled. "One more thing," he said. "My friend from before is also looking for a better job too."
"That's great," Aster replied calmly. "Have a great day." The male stylist said.
Aster then walked with Reina.
While Reina didn't understand anything of what was going on, she knew her big bro did something good to change him.
Reina turned and pulled her tongue out, teasing the male stylist. But that didn't him, instead he waved a lovely good bye.
Outside the store, as Aster and Reina stood in the afternoon sun, Aster said, "Hold my waist." Reina did so, and then they quickly teleported back home, standing in front of the door of their home.
Before they could open the door, Aster said, "Reina, can you remove something from my left pocket?" Reina checked Aster's left pocket and, to her surprise, found a toffee. Her cheeks puffed out, and she blushed with excitement. The toffee had all the colors of the rainbow, and Reina quickly tore the wrapper and ate it in excitement.
"Big bro, you have it with you and didn't give it to me a long time ago!" Reina said, happily eating the toffee.
"I bought it on the way when searching for you," Aster said calmly. "I gave it to you now because I figured you were hungry... but now that I have given you the toffee, don't tell Mom and Dad about what happened today."
"Don't worry," Reina said, sucking the toffee. "Alright, then check my right pocket," Aster said calmly. Reina expected an even better gift and rushed to check what was inside. To her surprise, it was another rainbow toffee, and she quickly took it, excited.
"Big bro, how do you know I like these toffees?" Reina asked, holding onto the new toffee.
"Is that so," Aster said calmly. "Then I'm lucky I bought this."
"Fank you," Reina said, licking the toffee.
In Aster's mind, he thought, "I used to take a liking to these toffees when I was young, and I knew she would like it too."
"Take this as the toffee I promised to buy," Aster said. "Oh, yeah..." Reina said, remembering what happened yesterday. "You mean yesterday. I forgot that one."
"You can open the door now," Aster said. Reina then opened the door in excitement and ran inside, yelling, "We're home! We're home!" Aster walked inside calmly, still holding the rubbers filled with clothes.
Sophia quickly rushed out of the kitchen, "You're finally home!" she said happily, with a smile. Then she got astonished when she saw the things Aster was carrying. "Oh my, you bought quite a lot of things," Sophia said in disbelief.
Sophia then rushed to Aster and helped him carry the things. "Let me give you a hand," she said. "
Don't worry about me. I'm okay," Aster said, walking to the sofa and placing the things on it.
"Is Dad at work?" Aster asked.
"Oh no, he decided to take the day off," Sophia replied gently.
Then Ethan was coming downstairs, stretching his arms and giving a yawn. "Hey, everyone," he said, greeting them.
Aster, meanwhile, was observing the scene calmly, his eyes taking in everything. Reina, still excited from the toffees, ran to her parents, hugging them tightly. "Mom! Dad! Big bro bought me lots of clothes!" she exclaimed.
Sophia smiled and hugged Reina back. "That's great, sweetie. Let's take a look at what big bro bought for you."
"Let's take a look at what your big bro bought, for you." Ethan said to Reina.
"I bought clothes for everyone," Aster said, picking a rubber and giving it to Sophia. "This is yours," he said. Then, he picked another one and gave it to Ethan. "This is yours, Dad," he said. Next, he picked a rubber and gave it to Reina. "This is yours, Reina." Then, he took the last one.
Sophia, Ethan, and Reina thanked Aster in unison. "One last thing," Aster said calmly.
"Sure, what is it?" Sophia asked, her curiosity piqued.
"I've put some thought into it, and finally, I've chosen a profession I want to do," Aster said, his voice even. His actions were influenced by today's experience.
"We're all ears, go on," Ethan said, his voice gentle.
"We'll support you all the way to the end," Sophia added, her eyes filled with love and concern. The whole family was ready to listen.
"I want to become a hunter," Aster said calmly, his expression unchanged.
Sophia's eyes widened in surprise. "What? Being a hunter can be dangerous!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with worry.
Reina, however, took it the wrong way, her eyes shining with excitement. "Big bro, you're so cool!" she yelled, licking the toffee in her mouth.
Ethan smiled gently. "There's no way we can change his mind when he decides what to do," he said. "Besides, he's no longer a child, and his powers are unsealed. Who knows what kind of power he's keeping."
Sophia nodded, considering Ethan's words. "Maybe you're right," she said finally, her voice filled with resignation. "If this is what you want, then I'm rooting for you."
Reina jumped up and down in excitement, "Yay! Big bro's going to be a hunter!" she exclaimed.
Aster's expression remained calm, his eyes fixed on his family. "Mom, you do know that I wanted to become a hunter since I was young," he said, his voice even.
Sophia sighed, a small smile on her face. "Yes, I remember," she said. "You were always fascinated by the stories of hunters your Dad told you about."
Aster nodded, his expression unchanged. "I've thought about it a lot, and I'm sure this is what I want to do."
Ethan placed a hand on Aster's shoulder. "We'll support you, son," he said. "You're old enough to make your own decisions."
Sophia nodded in agreement. "Yes, we'll be behind you every step of the way," she said.
Reina looked up at Aster with admiration. "Big bro's going to be a great hunter!" she exclaimed.
Aster's emotionless expression didn't change but he said, "I won't let you all down."
"When would you like to start going and training to be a hunter?" Sophia asked, her eyes filled with concern.
"Tomorrow," Aster replied calmly, his expression unchanged.
Sophia was taken aback by this. "So soon?" she asked, her voice laced with surprise.
"Don't you think you should take it easy, son?" Ethan said, supporting Sophia. "Your Mom and I used to be hunters, and I tell you, it isn't that easy that one can complete quickly."
"The distance to the Hunter Association differs depending on the location," Sophia added. "Some branches might be a half-day journey away, while others could take longer."
"I've already made up my mind," Aster said calmly, his voice even.
Ethan and Sophia knew they could do nothing when Aster said those words. "I guess you're really prepared for everything," Ethan said, a hint of admiration in his voice. "Then I guess I can't stop you."
"That's fine for me too," Sophia said, a small smile on her face. "If you have decided on what to do, then I'm supporting you. Let's start packing your things for the next day."
Reina watched the whole thing in silence, her eyes fixed on the toffee in her hand. She was too busy enjoying the sweet treat to care about the conversation. "Mmm... toffee!" she exclaimed, licking her fingers.
Aster's expression remained calm and expressionless as he watched his family discuss his decision. He knew they would support him, and that was all that mattered.
Sophia said to herself, reminding her task, "I've got something to place Aster's things inside." She then went and rushed upstairs, her footsteps light and quick.
Reina followed her, saying "Mama, I will help you," her little voice filled with excitement.
Reina also followed Sophia upstairs, and the only people remaining were Aster and Ethan.
"Aster, shall we have a little spar to get you warmed up?" Ethan said calmly and gently, his eyes fixed on Aster's.
"I'm fine," Aster replied, his voice even and detached. "You have a certain perception of me, but you also possess a significant capability that you're restraining. I don't anticipate you'll utilize your full potential, as you're aware of its immense scope and potential consequences. Moreover, I'm already prepared for what's ahead."
"Yes, you're right," Ethan said, his expression thoughtful as Aster's words struck a chord. "I'm aware of the potential consequences. If you're confident you're ready without a spar, then that's fine," he said calmly, his tone soft and even.
Ethan then turned and left, his movements gentle and controlled.
Meanwhile, in Aster's room, Sophia and Reina were inside, surrounded by Aster's belongings. "First, we need to pick out everything and select what Aster will wear," Sophia said, her voice filled with a mix of sadness and determination. "I hope you're with me in this, Reina."
"Yesh," Reina replied, her little voice filled with uncertainty. "But why are we packing his things?"
"That's because Aster isn't going to stay here for a while if he's going to train to become a hunter," Sophia said, her voice filled with sorrow. "I wish I could prevent him from going, but there's nothing I can do to change his mind."
Reina was taken aback by this, her little face falling as she realized what was happening. "I don't want big bro to leave," she said, getting sad.
"I understand you too, sweetie," Sophia replied, trying to comfort Reina. "But he will come back soon."
"I don't want him to go," Reina said, running out of the room, her little legs moving quickly as she tried to process her emotions.
Sophia knew how Reina was feeling, and she couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness herself. She took a deep breath and continued packing Aster's things, her mind filled with thoughts of her son's departure.
...
As the afternoon sunset turned to evening, Aster sat alone in his room, upright on his bed.
His things for tomorrow was already packed and ready inside a big black bag sitting at the other side of his bed.
The black bag is a large duffel that reaches from waist to knee level when carried, made of durable msterials that looks like modern bag, designed for ample storage. Its substantial size accommodates extended trips or heavy use, with features like reinforced straps and multiple compartments.
Then with a calm and calculated tone, he spoke, imbuing his words with creative power. "I create you and give you life."
Two figures began to take shape before him, their forms shifting and solidifying into humanoid shapes with remarkably lifelike features. "Have the qualities of looking like a human," Aster added, his voice even and detached.
The two figures stood tall, their eyes gleaming with a sense of vitality and purpose. "Be brave and strong," Aster continued, and their postures shifted, radiating an aura of courage and resilience.
In this moment, Aster's words brought the two beings into existence, shaping their form and imbuing them with the qualities he specified. They were identical twins, with the same features, hair length, height, and weight. Their facial appearances and body parts took shape, one looking more feminine and the other more masculine.
Aster snapped his fingers, and black jumpsuits appeared, covering their nakedness. "Aiden and Adira, that will be your names," he said calmly. "You can call me Aster."
Aiden, the male, and Adira, the female, bowed down to Aster in unison. "We are honored to be created by you, Aster," they said, their voices synchronized.
Aster's expression remained calm and emotionless as he continued, "I've set your capabilities at approximately Planet-level, and you've transcended fundamental human limitations. Your primary objective is to oversee this town, maintaining order and ensuring peace is preserved. Additionally, you'll be responsible for watching over my family, with particular attention to my sister, without their knowledge."
He paused, his voice unwavering. "You will adhere to these instructions precisely. If you deviate or pursue alternative agendas, I will terminate your existence. That is the arrangement."
Aiden and Adira nodded in unison, their faces expressionless. "As you wish," they said at the same time. "We will take our leave now and start doing what we are assigned to."
With a swift motion, they turned into shadows and passed through the wall, disappearing from Aster's room in an instant.
Aster's gaze lingered on the spot where they vanished, his mind processing the events that had just transpired. "Now that everything is settled, all I have to do is wait for tomorrow," he thought, his mental calculations already shifting to the next phase of his plan.
...
Next morning, as the sun shone brightly, the whole family gathered in the kitchen for breakfast. The breakfast consisted of modern sandwiches for everyone, accompanied by their preferred drinks. Aster and Sophia sipped tea, Ethan enjoyed coffee, and Reina drank milk. Reina, still in her white pajamas with adorable baby-like designs and patterns, looked like a sweet little doll. Ethan wore a black top with a skeleton design, paired with black trousers and a black coat, exuding a sense of youthful elegance. Sophia, with her blue trousers and orange top featuring a design of two hearts joining together, had her hair tied back as usual, accentuating her youthful beauty.
The clothes everyone was wearing were some of the outfits Aster had bought and given to them the previous day. The atmosphere was quiet, with Reina and Sophia looking particularly sad.
"Good luck, Aster," Sophia said, her voice tinged with sorrow. "Hope you make great friends over there." Aster's expression remained calm and emotionless, but he could sense Sophia's distress.
"Big bro, Mama and Dada told me you won't stay here and you will go and stay at the place you're going," Reina said, her voice filled with sadness. "Is it true?"
"That's right," Aster replied calmly. "But I won't stay there forever."
"But I want you to stay here," Reina said, her voice trembling with more sorrow. "Same here," Aster said, his tone even and detached. "But I have to become a hunter."
"If you're leaving, then I don't want you to become a hunter," Reina said, pouting.
"Reina, stop it," Sophia interrupted gently. "There's nothing you can do to change his mind." Reina fell silent, knowing her mom was right.
After breakfast, Aster stood up, ready to leave. "Hold on," Sophia said, Aster paused, waiting for her response.
"You aren't going anywhere unless you get your hair well cut," Sophia said firmly.
"No need," Aster replied, his tone unchanging.
"You gotta be joking," Sophia said with a hint of amusement. "You know since childhood, I've hated getting haircuts."
"No, no, no," Sophia said, her voice firm but gentle. "You're older now, and you need to get a haircut. If you don't, I won't let you go anywhere."
Aster remained silent for a moment, weighing his options. "Alright," he said finally. "But don't cut it short."
Sophia quickly got up and rushed out of the kitchen, returning with a small yellow scissors and a red comb.
"Let's get started, Aster," Sophia said, her voice warm and gentle. "I've wanted to cut your hair for a long time, but you never let me."
Aster sat down without a word, his calm and collected demeanor a stark contrast to Sophia's warmth. Sophia quickly wrapped an apron around his neck, the same one she always used for him.
"I remember when you were little, your hair was always so soft and silky," Sophia said, her hands moving deftly as she rolled Aster's long hair into a ponytail. "But now it's grown so long and thick."
Aster remained silent, his blue eyes fixed on some point in front of him. Sophia smiled to herself as she began to cut his hair, the scissors snipping through the strands with ease.
Reina watched as Sophia was cutting Aster's hair, her eyes still sad. Her mind still processing the fact that her Big bro is leaving her.
As the hair fell to the ground, Sophia couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. Aster's long hair had always been a part of his charm, but she knew it was time for a change.
"I'm almost done, sweetie," Sophia said, her voice soft and soothing. "Just a little more."
When she finished cutting, Sophia rushed to the sink to fetch a glass of water. She poured it over Aster's hair, the cool liquid running down his neck and onto the apron. She combed his hair back, her fingers moving gently through the strands.
"I'm done," Sophia said, stepping back to admire her handiwork.
Aster's hair now fell just above his shoulders, framing his handsome face perfectly. His blue eyes seemed to gleam in the light, and Sophia couldn't help but feel a surge of pride.
"You're so handsome, Aster," Sophia said, her voice filled with emotion.
Reina, who had been watching from the sidelines, piped up, "Big bro is so handsome!"
Aster stood up, his movements calm and controlled. "Now can I go?" he asked, his voice devoid of emotion.
"Yeah," Sophia replied, smiling. "A deal is a deal."
"Let's go, Dad," Aster said to Ethan, who had been watching from the doorway.
Ethan nodded and followed Aster out of the room. As they left, Sophia waved goodbye, her eyes shining with tears.
Reina quickly followed Aster to the main hall, her little legs moving quickly as she tried to keep up with him. "Big bro! I wish you the best of luck!" she exclaimed.
Ethan opened the door and said gently, "I'll leave you guys to talk." He closed the door behind him, leaving Aster and Reina alone.
Reina looked up at Aster, her eyes wide with excitement. "I will wait for you," she said, her voice trembling with emotion.
Aster turned to her and brought his fist closed, a small smile playing on his lips. "When I come back, I want you to become stronger than you are now," he said, his voice calm and serious. "If you do that, I'll take you with me when I start my journey."
Reina's eyes widened in surprise, and she brought her own fist closed, joining it to Aster's. "Yesh," she said, her voice filled with determination. "I will come stronger."
Aster patted her hair, his touch gentle. "Make sure you keep that promise," he said, his voice firm but kind.
Reina smiled, and Aster turned to leave. The big black bag was waiting for him at the door, and he picked it up effortlessly.
"I'll be waiting," Aster said, looking back at Reina. "Don't forget your promise."
Reina's smile faltered for a moment, and then she grinned. "I won't forget, big bro!" she said, her voice filled with determination.
Aster nodded, his expression calm and collected. He opened the door and stepped out, the sound of his footsteps fading into the distance.
As the door closed behind him, Reina's smile faltered, and she looked down at her feet. She took a deep breath, her small chest rising and falling. "I will become stronger," she whispered to herself. "I promise."