The two hours had slipped away like water through fingers. Nero sat on the tatami, his eyes open, his breath slow. The fire still hummed in his chest, a warm ember that would not fade. He should have left. The session was over. His credits were spent.
But he did not move.
The idea still burned. The understanding he had touched—the feeling of becoming fire—was not complete. It was a glimpse, a taste, a whisper. He wanted more. He needed more.
He pulled out his phone, typed a quick message to Khione and the others. Training longer. Don't wait up. Then he stood, walked to the control panel by the door, and booked another two hours. This time, he added a special feature.
Advanced Grade Golem Knight. Law of Water. Advanced swordsmanship. Domain capable.
The screen displayed the cost. He paid without hesitation.
