See you later

After collecting enough tree mana, Solomon returned to the mansion and began preparing to leave. Ashan, Leone, and Maria gathered in the living room to bid him farewell. Solomon entered the room to greet them.

"This is a small gift from us," Leone said, handing Solomon a finely crafted wooden box.

"If there are any shortcomings, I sincerely apologize." Leone bowed his head respectfully.

"Please, Third Lord, stop that. You're making me feel guilty," Solomon said with a warm smile.

"I'm the one who should apologize for disrupting your memorable event."

"It's nothing to feel sad about, Sir," Leone replied with a reassuring smile.

Solomon cleared his throat. "Third Lord, Lady Maria, I have something important to share. I think it will please you both."

Leone and Maria exchanged curious glances before Leone spoke. "Of course, Sir. Please, go ahead."

Solomon glanced at Ashan, who stood between his parents. Ashan smiled and nodded, encouraging him to continue.

"All this time, I've observed your son closely and found something extraordinary. Ashan possesses both spiritual talent and physical aptitude, making him suited to becoming both a swordsman and a mage. After much thought, I've decided to take him as my disciple."

Leone and Maria were stunned, their faces frozen in shock. Maria's eyes welled up with tears of joy.

"Could you... please repeat that, Sir? I think I might have misheard," Leone stammered.

Solomon smiled gently and placed a hand on Leone's shoulder. "You heard me right. I want to take Ashan as my disciple. I hope you're pleased with my decision."

Maria burst into tears, clutching Solomon's hand. "Thank you, Sir! To think you would go to such lengths for us. We'll never forget this kindness."

Solomon patted her head affectionately. "Lady Maria, this is not a favor. Your son deserves this. It's I who am fortunate to have someone as gifted as Ashan."

Leone stepped forward and bowed deeply. "As parents, we are overwhelmed with happiness. It's a great honor, Sir. We are forever indebted to you."

"I'm glad you see it as an honor. I've already discussed this with Ashan, and he has agreed. I also have a plan for his future."

"What plan, Sir?" Leone asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Well," Solomon began, stroking his beard, "I assume you were planning to enroll Ashan in the All-Nation Academy of Dragoria as the Third Lord's son?"

Leone nodded. "Yes, that was my intention."

"Good. That simplifies things. As you know, students are admitted at age fifteen. Until then, you can teach Ashan swordsmanship, though I doubt it will not take him long to master it. Let him explore everything he's interested in. Once he's fifteen, I'll take him to the academy as my disciple. That will benefit us all and make things smoother."

Maria hugged Ashan tightly, tears of joy streaming down her face. Ashan smiled serenely, his expression calm but full of happiness.

(So, now you have what you truly desired, Ashan?) Solomon's telepathic voice was warm.

(Yes. Thank you for making it happen.) Ashan's smile deepened.

Solomon addressed the room once more. "Everything is settled. I look forward to seeing you all again. Now, let me return to my hometown."

"Safe travels, Sir," Leone said, bowing respectfully.

After Solomon's departure, Leone turned to Ashan, his face alight with joy. "Son, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Make the most of it." He patted Ashan's head with pride.

"You heard what he said. Now, focus on honing your swordsmanship. I know you'll excel."

Maria and Leone's faces radiated happiness, brighter than Ashan had ever seen them. Their joy was all he needed to feel content.

Later that night, Ashan meditated in his room, hovering slightly above the ground. This was no ordinary meditation—it connected him to nature itself. In this state, even a god with ill intent could not harm him. The floor beneath him was coated in frost, while a small flame flickered above his head.

When he finished, his face was thoughtful, filled with questions.

(Something is different. My body is growing stronger at an unnatural rate—far beyond my past lives. My mana absorption, aura production, and elemental manipulation are accelerating. What could be causing this?)

He stood and walked to the mirror, studying his reflection.

(Hmm... I'm definitely going to be handsome in the future. Will this disturb my peace? Best not to dwell on it. Now, let's examine my body.)

Using his unique ability to see through objects, Ashan scanned his body meticulously.

(Nothing abnormal… Wait. What's that?)

He noticed a small, dark spot on his back. He removed his shirt and examined it in the mirror.

(A black mark? This wasn't here before. It doesn't look like a birthmark or disease. Could it be something else? I must remain cautious.)

Just then, he sensed something in the sky. Looking out the window, he saw a shooting star streak across the heavens.

A smile crossed his face.

(No matter the world or the body I'm born into, this sight always gives me the same feeling—hope.)

He leaned closer to the window, watching the star's descent. Its beauty was breathtaking.

"This wish may be hopeless, but I hope everything will turn out fine in the future," he murmured.

To be continued...