Connecting

Erik made his way back to the guild headquarters. As he walked toward his room, he called Rebecca, informing her he had found Catrina and she could come back.

"Really? Erik, that's wonderful news!" As Rebecca spoke, Erik could hear the joy in her voice, and he could almost envision the smile on her face. "I'll head back now. See you soon!"

With a warm farewell, Erik ended the call and continued down the corridor, his footsteps echoing in the emptiness. The victory felt hollow, tainted by the sinister undertones of his discoveries. 

When he reached his room, he found Noah waiting for him. The young clone had grown so much in just a few days, his eyes filled with a wisdom that belied his years. "Master," he greeted Erik, his voice tinged with respect and curiosity. "How did the day go?"

Taking a moment to examine Noah, Erik felt a sense of sorrow for losing his innocence. "I found my target," he replied, his voice weary.