A shockwave erupted as two figures clashed in midair, their fists colliding with an explosive force that sent ripples of energy through the area. Both combatants were momentarily forced back, their gazes locked in unspoken acknowledgment of each other's strength. Then, a deep, hearty laughter filled the air as they burst into laughter, stepping forward to clasp each other in a powerful embrace.
"You've improved, brother," Aiden said, his eyes gleaming with admiration. "All that time at the border has made you sharper."
Zander smirked. "If I hadn't improved after facing wave after wave of beast tides, I might as well have died of shame."
The rest of the Phoenix family stood watching with amused expressions, their usual dignified composure replaced with warmth. The only exception was Ryker, who clung shyly to his mother's leg, staring up at his uncle with wide, uncertain eyes. He was awed by Zander's presence—the aura radiating from him made his small body tremble.
Zander turned toward the gathered family, greeting them one by one with warm embraces. When he reached Zelda, she pulled him into a crushing hug, her voice soft but firm.
"I've missed you, my boy," she murmured. "You never visit enough."
Zander let out a small chuckle. "Mother, you know I'd come home more often if I could, but the beasts don't give us much rest at the border. Every time we push them back, another horde emerges."
Zelda sighed but patted his cheek. "I know. You're protecting us all. I just wish I could see you more."
Zander then turned to his father, Blaze, who simply placed a firm hand on his shoulder. "You've done well, son. You make us proud."
A simple acknowledgment, but one that meant the world coming from Blaze Phoenix.
Finally, Zander knelt before Ryker, his fiery gaze softening as he studied the child.
Zender squatting before Ryker said, "Hey there, young fellow. I'm Zender. Who are you?"
"I'm Ryker."
"Hmmm, Ryker. Seems I've heard that name before. He is said to be an amazing little baby who can already walk, talk, and read despite being just six months old. Are you perhaps that Ryker?"
"I am," stuttered Ryker, the anxiety easing somewhat.
"Whoa! The legendary Ryker is before me. Bless the gods for this fortune. I wonder who the parents of this legendary figure are. Can you show me who your parents are?" said Zander with a serious look on his face.
Ryker awkwardly pointed at Aiden and Lila. "They are my parents," said Ryker, a little shy.
Zender, revealing a shocked expression, said, "The lady is an angel, I can see her birthing such an amazing baby, but that oaf next to her—impossible. Are you sure that's your father?"
"That's it, Zander. You need to learn some respect!"
The rest of the family burst into laughter, while Ryker quickly shook his head, his small fists clenching as he spoke up for the first time with conviction.
"M-my dad is not an oaf, and he is my dad. My dad is amazing. He is the most amazing dad," said Ryker, looking determined.
Aiden almost shed tears. "That's my son!"
"Is he really that amazing?"
"Yes, he is. He is even more amazing."
"So he is really your father?"
"Yes," said Ryker, nodding his head repeatedly.
Aiden's expression melted into one of pure pride. "That's my boy!"
Zander feigned deep thought. "Really now? Then doesn't that mean… I'm the uncle of the most amazing kid in the world? Oh, how the heavens have blessed me!" He opened his arms wide. "Come here, little nephew. Give your incredible uncle a hug!"
Ryker hesitated for only a second before rushing into his uncle's arms, giggling as Zander lifted him effortlessly into the air.
Just then, a commotion outside the estate gates drew their attention. A grand airship, bearing the sigil of the Aquira Clan, descended onto the prepared landing platform.
Zelda stiffened slightly, her fingers curling at her sides. Blaze, standing beside her, noticed and gently squeezed her hand.
"They've arrived," he murmured.
As the ship's doors opened, two figures descended gracefully. The first was a regal woman with flowing blue hair, her every movement exuding an air of nobility. Beside her was a younger woman, equally striking, her blue locks shimmering in the sunlight. Maxima Aquira and her daughter, Tasha, had come.
The Phoenix family stood in a formal greeting, their expressions varying from warmth to wariness. Aiden, ever the diplomat, stepped forward with a welcoming smile. "Maxima, Tasha. Welcome to our home."
Maxima nodded in acknowledgment, her eyes briefly scanning the faces before her. "Thank you, Aiden. It has been too long since our clans have met under peaceful circumstances."
Her tone was formal, almost distant. But when her gaze landed on Zelda, something flickered in her eyes—something deeper than mere politeness.
Tasha, on the other hand, wasted no time. She ignored all pretense of formality and strode directly toward Ryker, who was still in Zander's arms. "So this is the famous Ryker Phoenix," she mused, a mischievous smirk on her lips. "He's cuter than I expected."
Ryker, feeling her intense gaze, buried his face against Zander's shoulder. The adults chuckled at his shyness, but Tasha only grinned. "No need to be shy, little prince. We'll be seeing a lot of each other soon."
Maxima, observing the interaction, added, "Indeed. It's a pleasure to finally meet you, young one."
Ryker, gaining a bit more confidence, nodded. "Thank you. It's nice to meet you too."
Aiden cleared his throat, "Shall we move inside? We've prepared a feast to celebrate our reunion."
As they walked towards the entrance, Tasha couldn't help but admire the intricate architecture of the Phoenix estate. "Your home is beautiful, Aiden. The attention to detail is remarkable."
Aiden smiled, a touch of pride in his voice. "Thank you, Tasha. It means a lot coming from you."
Maxima, on the other hand, kept her eyes on a certain couple. She seemed to have a lot going on in her mind, which was reflected in her eyes as they seemed to flicker. Zelda, seeing the look on her sister's face, suddenly asked to be excused. She turned towards Maxima and the two walked off in a different direction. Blaze looked at the backs of the two women with a worried expression, Aiden sensed the tension between Maxima and Zelda but was as helpless as his father.
The past was not so easily forgotten.