Aizel returned to the Xelgar as the sun dipped below the horizon, leaving behind a warm, golden light.
After his training session with Alora, Aizel felt both tired and satisfied, so he went to the inn to relax.
The happy giggling of kids echoed as he walked in.
Aizel rested for a time, then went to the kitchen of the inn to make a quick dinner. The sounds of clinking silverware and a crackling fire joined the delicious scents of spices and meat cooking over low heat.
Suddenly, he felt a soft pull on his heart. Small arms curled around his knees, enveloping him in a familiar warmth and directing his gaze downward on Emma.
Aizel's hand rested on Emma's head; his fingers gently brushed against her silky hair, a soothing caress that conveyed his deep affection.
They enjoyed the simple pleasure of eating a meal together around a table full of delicious food. The smell of warm food filled the room, making everyone hungry and making it feel cozy.
The children's eyes were bright with excitement as they listened intently to the stories Aizel was telling them. His words were like a painter's brush, taking them to faraway countries and fascinating adventures.
Suddenly, the door swung open, and Vespara and Daisy gracefully entered the room.
"Having food already?"
"I have made enough for both of you too," Aizel replied.
Vespara and Daisy swiftly took their seats, joining the children and Aziel. They settled in with anticipation, ready to savor the delectable feast spread before them.
"So did you have fun with the princess?" Aizel aksed.
"Of course, the hot spring was lovely, isn't it Daisy?"
"Yes,"
Damn, she has a hot spring too in her castle," Aizel thought. I should make one of mine too."
"Vespara even told us about the sword emperor and his past life," Daisy further said.
"Oh, is that so? Hag, were you screwing around with him in the past?" Aizel asked with a mischievous smile.
"I wish I could have someone like the sword emperor in my life."
"Yes, me too. He is the only person I have ever seen who loved her lady unconditionally and deeply in this world," Daisy replied too.
"So people can even love someone here, this is the first time I am hearing," Aizel said.
"Of course, there will be exceptional people, and he is one of them."
Aizel's eyebrows twitched. He felt a little mad after hearing that.
"You guys keep carrying on; I have something to do."
He left the room after saying that.
"Did we say something wrong?" Daisy asked.
"huhu Darling, how can you not see it? He is jealous that we both talked about another man right in front of him.
"I love teasing him; maybe this might be a way to quickly reach his heart. What do you say, Daisy?"
"Just eat your food."
Meanwhile,
With controlled and purposeful steps, Aizel made his way through the busy city streets. The bustle of the crowd surrounded him, but he kept his distance, preferring to travel alone.
With each stride, he was able to calm the inner turmoil that had been plaguing him.
Aizel avoided the loud crowds that congregated at intersections on purpose, their laughter and enthusiastic chats standing in stark contrast to his own somber musings as he went. He enjoyed being alone and valued the opportunity to think freely without interruption.
[Ma...tt...eerr]
Huh, who is it? Is that you, Alora?"
[it..s m....ee]
Who?"
[It's me, asshole, Sekki]
"Oi oi oi what this foul mouth and how do you speak directly to my mind?"
[I am the spirit sword, remember? I am bonded to your soul]
[My personality is shaped based on you, and I know everything about you, even that you are from another world]
Aizel eyes were wide open after hearing that.
[Why are you getting scared, you are my master. I am born to kill your enemies and teach the inferior creature some manner]
"You really took my past personality; I can see that. Do you also feel disgusted towards them?"
[Yes]
"What about the nobles and the royals? How do you feel about them?"
[I can't wait for you to snap on them. So that I will finally be able to cut them and drink their blood]
"hehe...it seems you are on the right path, Sekki."
[Yes master]
"What do you think about Daisy, Vespara, and the kids?"
[Are you an idiot or what? I fucking said I am bonded to your soul]
[I love them just like you do, master]
"Oye don't abuse me; I am your master."
[Stop asking me stupid questions then]
"I was just confirming,"
Onlookers cast curious glances his way, their eyes meeting his with a mix of concern and perplexity. The folks around him looked at each other with faces that combined doubt and interest.
The crowd murmured, apparently concerned about his mental health after seeing him shouting and talking alone.
[We should move somewhere else master]
"Hmm, you are right, let's go,"
Aizel hastily got a horse from a neighboring stable, his resolve propelling him towards the desolate area where he had practiced creating his own technique.
His hair flew in the wind as he rode through the barren landscape, his focus unwavering on the goal ahead.
Aizel quickly got off his horse upon arriving at the usual training grounds.
He summoned his faithful companion, Sekki, and the blade appeared in his hand. He stared intently at the sword as he traced his eyes over it.
[Don't stare me like that, I feel naked under your gaze]
"What the fuck are you spouting? You are a sword."
[I am a spirit sword, someday I will become a beautiful lady when your core will grow]
"You can't take your form now?"
[No master, your Grade II core can't provide me enough mental energy to take the form]
"You know I already know how to use you and have already decided what techniques I can use when you will be able to take form."
[It's from that action game again right?]
"Hehe, damn right. We should show Xelgar that the storm is approaching hihihehe..."