The morning sun poured over Shinzai City like a golden tide, bathing the streets and skyline in soft light. The air buzzed with the usual energy of a growing metropolis, but within the hearts of Kael and Hana, something far greater stirred—joy, excitement, and a sense of purpose deeper than either had felt before.
Kael stood beside Hana in the main courtyard of Nova Tower, the city's central building and training hub. Surrounding them were their closest friends—Tetsu and Eri, Ryuu and Liora, and Kael's new allies: Valen, Mira, Daru, Aiko, Zeek, and Nali.
"We have an announcement," Hana said, barely containing her blush as she leaned into Kael's side.
Kael took her hand and raised it, showing the glimmering ring now resting on her finger.
"We're getting married," he said with a calm but proud smile.
The group erupted in cheers, laughter, and congratulations. Tetsu shouted, "It's about time!" while Eri smirked and nudged Hana, whispering something that made her face flush even deeper. Ryuu clapped Kael on the shoulder. "You better not be late to your own wedding, Mr. Leader."
"Finally some light in this world," Liora added with a grin.
Zeek let out a loud whistle. "Guess love ain't dead after all."
The warmth of his friends' support gave Kael strength, but as the group continued celebrating, his mind drifted to another responsibility he hadn't forgotten—Renzo.
—
Later that afternoon, Kael walked through the training grounds where Renzo, the spirited young trainee, was attempting a basic Will-channeling exercise. He struggled but didn't give up, determination etched in his furrowed brows.
Kael approached from behind and watched silently for a moment before speaking. "You've improved."
Renzo spun around, eyes lighting up. "Big bro Kael! You're back!"
Kael nodded, folding his arms. "Let's see how much stronger you've gotten."
They trained together for the next hour—Kael correcting Renzo's footwork, guiding his breathing, and pushing him through short bursts of Will techniques. Sweat dripped from the boy's brow, but his spirit never waned.
As they took a short break, Renzo looked up. "Big bro… someone told me you're getting married."
Kael gave a faint chuckle. "Word travels fast. Yeah… Hana and I are getting married."
Renzo's eyes widened with excitement. "Can I come?! Please?! I'll behave and wear a suit! I'll even practice my bow!"
Kael placed a hand on Renzo's head, ruffling his hair. "Of course, little bro. I wouldn't have it without you there."
Renzo grinned, jumping into Kael for a sudden hug. "I'm really happy for you. Hana is super nice. You two are like, the strongest couple ever!"
Kael smiled, holding back a rare laugh. "Thanks. That means a lot."
As they resumed training, something about Renzo's words stuck in Kael's mind. "The strongest couple ever." He hadn't thought about it that way, but maybe they could be—two people united not just by love, but by duty, strength, and purpose.
That night, as Kael returned to Hana's side, both of them began quietly planning the next steps—gathering friends, choosing a venue, and deciding just how grand or simple they wanted their wedding to be.
But one thing was certain: it would be filled with love, surrounded by the people they cared about most, and blessed by the strength they'd forged through every trial.