As the years pass, Ethan and Haruy find their rhythm. They earn well, live comfortably, and finally secure a place to call home.
"I can't believe we made it to A-rank in just ten years," Haruy beams, holding up a long-forgotten trophy. "And this apartment? Totally worth it."
"It's really been that long?" Ethan mutters, reminded of the 89 years he still has to defeat the hero. He stares at the ceiling as Haruy's laugh fades into quiet nostalgia.
"Remember when we saved that merchant from those wolves? The city gave us this." Haruy holds the worn trophy like it's sacred.
Then—a jolt. Like lightning slamming through their veins, freezing their bones. Ethan stiffens.
"Did you feel that?" Haruy asks, eyes wide.
"I did..." Ethan replies, stunned.
It couldn't be her... he thinks, his orb body pulsing. I thought she was gone… unreachable. But maybe...
"What do you mean by 'her'?" Haruy asks, glancing over.
"I said hurt," Ethan stammers. "It's been a while since I felt pain."
Haruy eyes him but lets it go, standing from the bed.
"Let's check it out," Ethan says, peering through the window—hesitant. How would I even talk to her after all these years?
"Alright. Let's chase this mystery," Haruy grins, setting the trophy down. "Just another adventure!"
He bursts through the door. Ethan follows, floating silently behind. A faint purple aura paints the sky ahead—ominous, familiar.
"Who could that be?" Haruy asks.
"I don't know," Ethan answers—but deep down, his thoughts scream: It can't be her... can it?
They weave through alleys, dodging horses and townsfolk, drawn toward the source of the aura. The guild looms ahead. Haruy throws open the door—
—and there she stands.
A girl. And beside her... a familiar.
Ethan freezes. Memories rush in: Emma. When he first met her. When he helped her escape.
"Emma...? Is that you?" Ethan whispers.
The spirit orb turns slowly.
"Ethan???" it replies.