On the way back from the plains outside the village, the setting sun stretched their shadows long.
The atmosphere, however, was rather delicate.
Rudeus was still basking in the excitement of successfully casting Water Saint-level magic and graduating.
But Teacher Roxy's rather strained refusal to teach him King-level magic at the end.
Had still left a small knot in his heart, along with doubts he could not shake.
Sylphy sat quietly on the saddle in front of Roxy.
Her little head seemed to be replaying the earth-shattering Saint-level magic she had just witnessed.
As well as that strange exchange between Teacher Roxy and her senior, Rudeus.
Every so often, she would steal a glance behind her at Cui Ciyou, who was sharing Gale with Rudeus.
Between Cui Ciyou and Roxy, meanwhile, hung an even harder-to-describe silence.
Roxy led the way, her petite back perfectly straight.
As though she hoped that impeccable posture would conceal the turmoil within her.
But Cui Ciyou could clearly sense that ever since she had refused Rudeus's request on the plains.
Her mood had been somewhat... "strange."
After taking Rudeus and Sylphy to their respective homes.
Cui Ciyou and Roxy returned to the little wooden house they shared, by which time night had fully fallen.
Inside, Lilia was softly soothing Aisha to sleep.
When she saw them return, she smiled and greeted them.
Then she went back to what she was doing, leaving the two of them some space.
Soon, only Cui Ciyou and Roxy remained in the living room.
The flames in the fireplace crackled.
The dim, warm light illuminated Roxy's small, lovely profile.
Casting faint shadows beneath her long lashes.
Roxy silently removed the broad, pointed hat that marked her as a mage.
Revealing her smooth, long blue hair, as clear as a sunny