As time passed, the mages who had gone out for training gradually returned as well. Ang was sorting through the books he had just bought when he suddenly heard a familiar voice outside. "Haha, I knew you could do it!"
Gao An pushed open the door, followed by Lulugood and Angeli. They were travel-worn, as though they had only just rushed back to Akreli, their eyes unable to hide their excitement and exhaustion.
"Gao An!" Ang rose to greet them and embraced each of them in turn.
"When did you get promoted, you bastard?" Gao An clapped Ang on the shoulder, his tone full of joy and admiration at their reunion after so long apart.
Ang smiled faintly. "Not long ago. I finished the promotion registration and certification, then hurried back to prepare for the investiture."
Gao An nodded with a relieved smile. "I knew it. With your ability, there was no way you'd fail."
However, when Ang looked around, he realized that Bonage alone was missing from the four familiar companions. He could not help frowning. "Where's Bonage? Didn't he come back with you?"
The moment those words were spoken, the lively atmosphere fell silent. Gao An lowered his head, sorrow welling up in his eyes as he remained quiet for a long time. Lulugood and Angeli also said nothing, their expressions complicated, as if they had recalled some painful experience.
"Bonage... he's gone." Gao An's voice choked as he clenched his fists, seemingly struggling to suppress his emotions.
Ang was stunned. "Gone? What happened?"
Gao An raised his head, tears glimmering in his eyes as he spoke slowly. "A few of us followed a Great Noble and joined his Magic Corps. We wanted more experience, and maybe a chance to make a name for ourselves. Later, that Great