Faeloria''s pocket dimension was something 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 met. First, she had to have visited the ce 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 seemed, for the World Tree''s influence extended far and wide, crossing entire dimensions and touching many sacred ces.


    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 onest nce around Faeloria''s dimension with a sense of respect and nostalgia, and then stepped through. Faeloria was thest to pass, ensuring that all was in order before sealing the rift behind them. Enjoy new adventures from empire


    When they emerged on the other side, familiar faces awaited.


    A warm, booming voice called out, "Wee back!" It was Mayor Magnus, arms spread wide with a smile as bright as the sun.


    "Seeing that Miss Bright is with you, I assume the mission was a sess?"


    "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, Prisci, there were people from all corners of the city—managers from the Guild, staff from the ss 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 member of either the ck Numbers or the Hit Squad, ready to lend their support at any given moment.


    Prisci 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 moment, and he could feel dust and grime 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 nced 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 Prisci ced 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 voiceced with a hint of concern. "I managed to heal her somewhat, 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 judgment 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 recentck of proper meals, she was still somewhat 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 ck car waiting outside.


    ---


    "Mm..."


    A soft groan escaped Cassy as she drifted back to consciousness, only to be met with a world of darkness. Panic red momentarily in her chest before she remembered 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 memories came back in fragments.


    ''Aster… He came to save me…''N?v(el)B\\jnn


    she thought, a gentle warmth filling her heart. Her lips curved into a small, contented smile as she basked in the memory.


    *Thud!*


    "...!"


    Suddenly, Cassy felt herself enveloped in something 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 home!"


    "Stupid rabbit!" Kali''s voice trembled, her tone filled with relief and happiness. "Wee 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 themotion 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,forting scene.


    "Alright, let''s make them the best meal I can!" he encouraged himself, heading back to the kitchen to continue his cooking.


    The girls continued their yful 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!"