The Fall into the Sea

After hearing Nathan's desperate gamble, Thor saw him in a new light once again.

According to Thor's plan, Nathan should have taken the time to understand and confirm Thor's motives, grown closer to him, and only then gradually revealed his predicament.

But Nathan had hesitated for only two weeks—or perhaps less—before deciding to tell Thor everything.

That was quite a bold move. Of course, it was also possible the Water God had put him under too much pressure.

Either way, he had saved Thor a great deal of time.

"Since that's the case, let's go meet this Water God."

Nathan was both surprised and delighted. He hadn't expected Thor to decide on the spot to meet the Water God.

If even a Tier 3 Wizard couldn't defeat the Water God...

Nathan only let himself consider the thought vaguely before hurriedly shaking his head, refusing to dwell on it.

He was taking a gamble. Once he'd placed his bet, there was no backing out.

Nathan quickly led the way, then cautiously asked as they walked, "Mentor Thor, um... can I call you my mentor now?"

He was asking whether Thor agreed to take him as an apprentice.

Thor gave it some serious thought. "You can call me your mentor, but only for as long as I'm in Sky City."

Nathan froze, clearly not expecting Thor to attach a condition. Still, he wasn't in a position to bargain.

After only a moment, he hurriedly nodded. "All right, Mentor."

He was afraid Thor might change his mind.

There was no rule in Sky City forbidding residents from going out at night. But security was indeed worse after dark, and anyone who ventured outside was responsible for their own safety.

Nathan was always careful when he went out at night, and he never strayed