They followed behind him, their hearts still heavy but walking a little lighter now—because he was still the same Javier, even on the edge of war and separation.
Tonight, they would eat together, laugh together, and pretend—just for a while—that everything was still as it always had been.
"Liana… Gloria…" Javier's voice softened as he paused just outside the dining room, golden rays of the late afternoon sun casting long shadows on the polished marble floor.
They stopped as well, turning to face him properly.
"Yes, young master?" they replied in unison, both looking at him with calm expressions—but their eyes betrayed the tension in their hearts.
He looked at them, really looked.
These two had been by his side since childhood. They had protected him, cared for him, and stood beside him through danger, laughter, and loss. And now… he had to leave them behind.
"Make sure you both finish your training while I'm gone." His voice was firm, without hesitation.
