Time had moved swiftly, and soon, Travis's tenth birthday was approaching. However, the young master was nowhere to be seen in his mansion.
Instead, he rode through the mountain trails accompanied by a thirteen-year-old boy, a loyal attendant named Vlad. The older boy's brow was furrowed, his posture stiff atop his steed. Meanwhile, Travis, now visibly taller and more composed than before, led the way on his own horse.
"Why so tense, Vlad?" Travis asked without turning back. "We're just out here for a little sightseeing. You act like I'm dragging you into a lion's den."
Vlad's eyes narrowed, but he said nothing. His thoughts, however, churned with worry. If the Duke finds out we ventured into the inner mountain region without escort… I might be in bigger trouble than you, young master. And if anything happens to you—
Travis smirked knowingly, sensing the apprehension. But this trip wasn't just for adventure. Time was running short, and his father had already arranged for him to report to the Lost Hell Hounds Battalion, one of the most dangerous military units in the kingdom.
It would be a brutal place. Not just for commoners, but even for noble-born children, it was a rare and almost unthinkable posting. Yet here he was—expected to join at such a young age.
To prepare, Travis had purposely slowed his cultivation efforts in the past year, masking his potential and lulling those in House Sean who were watching him into false comfort. Now, with eyes turned away and doubts settled, he began seeking something deeper—insight into the world of Edhas, and perhaps answers to questions he still hadn't voiced.
Travis slowed his horse, glancing at Vlad. "Wait here. I'll go on ahead alone."
"Young master—" Vlad protested.
But Travis was already riding off, his steed galloping confidently toward the peak of the mountain granted to him by the Duke himself.
By sunset, two horses trotted back down the trail toward the estate. Vlad carried two heavy sacks of herbs and minerals in his saddlebag, his expression tight with frustration.
Travis dismounted near the mansion gates and waved him off. "Give these to the guard, and take care of the horses."
Vlad sighed but obeyed, guiding both mounts toward the stables, where his father was already tending to the livestock.
"Back already, son?" the elder asked with a weathered smile.
"Yes, Father. I'll take it from here," Vlad said, brushing past him with practiced ease.
Though still a youth, Vlad had matured quickly. Raised by a humble man in service to nobles, he had grown proud and independent. But under Travis's strange charisma and unshakable will, even Vlad found himself influenced. In years to come, some would even call him a pillar of human resistance—but that tale belonged to another time.
After a quick bath, Travis stepped into his study—his makeshift laboratory. A faint smile tugged at his lips, rare for someone who often wore a mask of cool composure. Aria, his maid and closest confidante, was there, dutifully cleaning alchemical tools with delicate precision.
"Big sis," Travis greeted, sneaking up behind her and pulling her into a sudden embrace.
Aria jumped slightly at the contact but quickly relaxed in his arms. She was used to his unexpected hugs by now. Still, she tried to sound annoyed. "Where have you been these past two days? You didn't even come by to see me."
Travis chuckled softly, resting his chin on her shoulder. "I was exploring. Thinking about... things." He didn't elaborate.
She turned to face him. "You look a little different. Did something happen?"
"Nothing," he lied with ease. "Just that my birthday's coming up, and Father hinted at a surprise gift." But inwardly, he thought, The true gift lies in what I discovered in the mountains… and what it means for my future.
There was a flicker of sadness in Aria's expression, quickly hidden behind a polite smile. But Travis caught it.
"You know," he said gently, "if it weren't for your care, your presence, I wouldn't be where I am. You're one of the greatest gifts I've received in this life."
Her cheeks turned pink at his words, and she averted her gaze. "Young master, I… I'm not worthy of such praise."
Travis stepped closer, lowering his voice. "You're more than worthy. And that's why I've arranged for your enrollment at the Royal Academy. You'll study what you love, far away from this dusty lab."
Her breath caught in her throat. "But… what about you?"
"I'll be leaving soon. To the battalion," he said softly.
Aria's eyes shimmered with tears, but she forced a smile. "Then I'll work hard too. I'll do whatever it takes to be useful to you."
Travis nodded. "And I'll come back stronger. I promise."
A silence lingered between them, warm and vulnerable. Then Travis asked with a playful tone, "You won't go falling in love with some academy scholar while I'm away, will you?"
Aria laughed through her tears. "No chance. In this life, I serve only one person. Unless you cast me aside, I'll stay yours."
Travis's chest tightened with a strange mix of pride and longing. He stepped forward, gently cupping her face.
"Then let me seal that promise," he whispered.
Before she could respond, he kissed her cheek softly.
Aria's face turned scarlet. She backed away, flustered, murmuring something incoherent before rushing out of the room, her heart pounding in her chest.
Travis watched her go, a small smirk on his lips. At least she'll remember me… even if our paths part for a while.
He turned to his desk, surveying the tools and ingredients he had gathered.
"Time to prepare a parting gift," he said to himself. "One they won't forget."