Aiden let out a small chuckle, ruffling her hair.
Time was cruel.
In a few years, she would outgrow this moment.
A time would come when patting her head would be inappropriate.
"…I see."
"…Yes."
"Then sit with me for a bit. The moon is quite bright tonight."
Even though Vera returned late at night, Marcus did not scold her.
He had simply waited—seated on the steps in front of Blooming Peak Pavilion's main gate.
Naturally, Vera saw him the moment she crossed the training grounds.
"…Senior Brother?"
"You're back. I heard everything."
"…Ah. I am sorry for causing you concern."
"It's fine."
Marcus sighed, rubbing his face before patting the empty space beside him.
"If you're not too tired, could we talk for a bit?"
"Yes. Of course."
Straightening her robes, Vera quietly took a seat beside him.
Like master, like disciple—
Marcus was also gazing at the moon.
A fully swollen full moon.
It glowed with a chilling radiance.
Tonight, its light seemed colder than ever.
