Goldie Neckie let out a soft, low whine, a deeply reluctant expression appearing on her majestic face as she nuzzled against her master's hand.
She clearly didn't want to leave his side after such a long journey, but after a moment, she obediently nodded her large head.
With a powerful flap of her massive wings, she unleashed a sudden gust of wind that swept across the courtyard, taking off into the clear skies.
The mana beast soared higher and higher until she became a small speck in the distance, leaving Ayu standing alone on the stone ground.
As soon as the beast vanished from sight, Ayu let out a quiet sigh.
In an instant, the gentle, playful expression he held for his companion melted away, his face hardening as it changed back to the cold, aloof mask he usually wore around humans.
As he turned toward the fortress entrance, his sharp gaze snapped toward two adventurers who were standing nearby, openly staring at him with wide, curious eyes.
