"After this, we're heading back to the estate," he said quietly, watching the lights ahead.
Liana gave a gentle smile from his right.
"As you wish, Young Master."
Gloria mirrored the expression from the other side.
"It'll be nice to sleep in our own rooms again."
Javier gave a low whistle.
"Buddy!"
"Cuquawked!!"
Buddy responded with his usual proud squawk, lifting his beak and puffing up his chest as if he'd just led a whole army. He strutted forward with exaggerated confidence, picking up pace toward the town gates.
Pikko and Peanut followed obediently, tails flicking and feathers rustling softly under the moonlight.
As Buddy strutted down the road, Javier let the quiet lull of conversation wash over him. The wind was calm. The stars were clear.
But his thoughts weren't.
"Maybe it's time I ask Father."
"How did he do it?"
"How did he raise not one—but three of the kingdom's strongest by his side?"
