Published: July 3, 2025
That day, Ilalion had been absent from the research facility due to some business since the day before.
He returned at three in the afternoon.
Naturally, in the office, the girls were gathered around enjoying snacks.
"I don’t think we need to eat here so deliberately…"
"This sofa is just too comfortable to resist," Rhea said happily.
Seeing her smile, even Ilalion couldn’t bring himself to say anything.
"Master, a swift horse from Stone Lake arrived yesterday. A message was left for you. It's on your desk," Lin informed him about the swift horse’s arrival.
"I see," was all Ilalion said as he read the message on his desk.
"…Ryo?"
It was a small murmur, but Lin clearly heard it.
"Ryo?"
Ilalion was startled by the name that slipped from Lin's mouth.
"I-I just remembered something I need to do. I'm heading out. Please tell Abel that I won't be back tonight."
"Ah, yes. Take care," Lin said, although a puzzled expression crossed her face as she saw Ilalion off.
Ilalion had the research facility's wagon running day and night.
His destination was Stone Lake.
"It's the water attribute magician Ryo that Abel mentioned. He wants my help at Stone Lake? That’s great! This will allow me to get acquainted with Ryo! I must see all his original magic. Hehehe, what serendipity! I won’t let this opportunity slip away!"
Ilalion’s misfortune was that he completely closed the wagon's window and didn’t pay any attention to what was happening outside.
Because of this, he didn’t notice when he passed a carriage escorted by the magical association on the way.
Naturally, when Ilalion arrived at Stone Lake, Ryo was no longer there...