Their conversation kept sputtering out. After barely two exchanges, silence would fall again. Even Kevin noticed the thickening awkwardness. Time to head back.

"Let’s return," Kevin said slowly rising. They adjusted their worn cloak, tucking away that breathtakingly beautiful face. Fewer troubles that way. Glancing at the drowsy Lorin beside them, Kevin’s voice softened. "I’m leaving. If you want to nap here, pretend I never spoke."

"My apologies, Miss Kevin," Lorin hurriedly said, realizing his rudeness. "I’m just... unusually tired today."

"Don’t mention it. I’m the one who sucked your magic dry. My fault." Kevin waved dismissively. Truth was, they felt grateful Lorin had shared his power at all.

"To make amends," Lorin pressed, polite but eager, "please let me give you a gift. Don’t refuse." His tone held genuine sincerity—and something like long-laid plans.

"I couldn’t," Kevin replied, uninterested. Their flawless face offered a regretful smile, pure as a night-blooming flower—lovely yet untouchable. All they wanted was sleep. Tomorrow’s Magic Airship awaited, then mountains of work. No time for Lorin’s games. *Absolutely not. Absolutely not. No. Damn it...*

They stood now in a lavish mall. Late-night emptiness hollowed the space despite the crowds. Kevin’s expression screamed reluctance—but the Heroic Spirits Festival contract still bound them. *A man of honor keeps his word. Probably.*

"Browse freely, Miss Kevin," Lorin beamed, satisfied. "Take anything you like." He was already imagining her in formal gowns. Who didn’t appreciate beauty?

"Hmm." Kevin’s reply was flat. They’d agreed to *visit* the mall—not buy anything. Luxury clothes and glittering trinkets lined the aisles. A glance was enough. Useless without defensive magic.

...Time passed...

"Time’s up." Kevin halted abruptly, words timed to the second. They softened slightly: "Thank you for the offer, Lorin. But I want nothing."

"Then take this." Lorin produced a gold shoebox. Its opulent wrapping screamed value.

"Oh? Rich kid, huh?" Kevin’s tone turned teasing, but they made no move to accept it.

"Don’t like it? It’s my own money—I haven’t taken a cent from home since adulthood."

"Still not interested."

"Consider it a farewell gift. I enjoyed our time together." Lorin extended the box, beaming. His tall frame and handsome face drew stares in the glittering hall. Utterly elegant.

To Kevin, it felt unnerving. *Like looking at my old self. Strange.*

"Ew. Don’t say creepy stuff." Kevin recoiled, stepping back. Genuine revulsion.

"Really refusing it?"

"When did I ever say I wanted it? You overthink things. Goodbye, Lorin." Kevin turned away without hesitation, striding off with brisk, unhurried steps.

"Where are you headed?" Lorin called after the retreating figure, hand half-raised—then lowered. Their paths would diverge soon. *Maybe this is best.*

No reply. Only that perfect, vanishing silhouette.

Near the grand Magic Airship, a short figure in a tattered cloak moved lightly through the crowd. Silver strands escaped their hood.

"I’ve got magic to spare... a little won’t hurt," Kevin muttered, scanning the waiting passengers—rich and poor alike. Metal screeched against pavement as boarding began. The crowd pressed in, shrinking Kevin’s space.

"It’s hot..." Sweat slicked their hidden skin, dampening silver hair beneath the cloak. *Why suffer this?* No choice. With no magic refills ahead (no Lorin), conserving power was vital. Space magic could backfire mid-flight.

Kevin slipped unnoticed aboard. One last glance through the window at this familiar-yet-alien hometown. Then they looked away.

"K-Kevin... Miss... f-found you..."

A familiar, breathless voice cut through the cabin noise. Kevin turned, puzzled.

"Huh? Lorin? How did you follow me?"