The warm flicker of lantern light danced across the polished wood of the Calvier family's grand hall. After the joy of Taryn's recovery, the conversation flowed like an endless stream, ebbing with laughter, soft sighs, and quiet memories.
His mother, always composed and graceful, suddenly brightened with thought. "We must inform your siblings," she said. "They will be overjoyed, especially your second sister. You know how much she worried…"
Taryn's eyes flickered at the mention of her—his second sister.
"Second sister… she…"
His mother nodded, her voice gentle. "She procured rare herbs from a dangerous ravine in the west last season. Just for a hope, even a sliver, that they might be useful in healing you."
Memories stirred.
Sharp eyes. A commanding voice. Elegant in her white alchemist robes, hair bound in a silver clasp shaped like a lotus. Smart. Always two steps ahead. Calculating, yes—but never toward her own blood.
"She would do anything for us," Taryn said quietly. "And she did. Even when she was climbing the ranks in the Medicine God Sect."
"She's an inner disciple now, you know," his father added with pride. "Respected, sought after. Even sect elders consult her on rare concoctions. But she's never forgotten home."
Taryn smiled faintly. "That's just like her. Ruthless with enemies, warm with family."
He leaned back in his chair, eyes distant but heart full. "I miss her. I miss all of them."
His parents exchanged a glance.
"We miss them too," his father admitted. "But we are also proud. Each one of them has carved a place for themselves in this world. And now…" He looked at Taryn with something new in his eyes—anticipation. "Now, you've taken your first step as well."
His mother gently placed a hand on his arm. "They'll be here next month. We've already sent word to begin preparing the family estate for their return. When Rael arrives for the court recognition ceremony, your siblings will all come home."
The image filled Taryn's mind: a full table, voices echoing through the vast hall, teasing, laughter, jabs and jests—family. Not a photograph or a fading memory, but real, living presence.
He nodded slowly. "Then I'll wait. I'll train. And next time we meet, I won't be the weak one sitting in the corner. I'll stand with them. As a true member of this family."
There was a pause.
"Ohhh damn," the system whispered inside his mind, suddenly dramatic. "Was that your character development arc? Did we just level up emotionally? I'm tearing up—no wait, I can't. I'm code. Still, I felt that."
Taryn rolled his eyes discreetly and exhaled.
The fire crackled softly in the hearth, and for the first time since his arrival in this world, Taryn didn't feel like a misplaced soul. He felt like… home.