In a corner of the city park, on a bench.
Gray sat properly to one side. While waiting, she habitually took a thick book from her backpack, opened it on her lap, and quietly read to pass the time.
"Here, have something warm to drink."
Before long, Samael emerged from the bustling crowd in front of the beverage shop. Smiling, he handed a cup of hot coffee to his young apprentice before taking a seat beside her.
Gray accepted the hot coffee and shyly thanked him. Then, as if recalling something, she hurriedly searched herself for the silver pendant and respectfully offered it to Samael.
"Teacher, this is yours."
"This? It's for you."
Samael glanced at the pendant and waved a hand with a light laugh.
Gray immediately waved her hands in refusal.
"No, I can't! It's far too precious!"
To be honest, the moment Gray touched it, she could not help but feel fond of it. She sensed a strange resonance and a feeling of blood connection, as though they had formed a deep bond long ago.
But the item in her hand was exquisitely crafted, and the divine patterns engraved on its surface exuded an ancient, sacred aura. It was clearly immensely valuable.
Moreover, it had effortlessly torn through a barrier of that level in a single strike. The power contained within it was equally not to be underestimated.
To her teacher, this had to be something very precious. If he kept it on him, it should offer him a little more protection as well.
"Take it. It was originally meant to be your coming-of-age gift. Since we met early, I'll give it to you early."
However, Samael merely smiled, seemingly unconcerned, and firmly pressed the pendant into Gray's hand.
Holy Lance Rhongomyniad was precious, but to him,