The lessons with Rusty had been relentless. While Wataru managed to learn how to read the sacred characters, mastering them required much more. Not only did he need to memorize each symbol's structure and flow, but he had to replicate them perfectly—down to their exact proportions and sequence.
It was like an intense version of a schoolchild's kanji practice, with the stakes multiplied tenfold. Mistakes in the characters' strokes or order wouldn't just make them useless; they could result in catastrophic consequences.
After hours of exhausting practice, Wataru finally emerged from the dimly lit chamber. Outside, Mariel and Stella, who had waited patiently the entire time, greeted him warmly despite what must have been a long, boring vigil. Their quiet loyalty filled him with gratitude.
But then…
"Master! You're finally back!" exclaimed Air with her characteristic energy.
