Although Gilead had offered him an escort, Eugene had vehemently refused. After all, wouldn’t it feel awkward being followed around everywhere by armed guards? 

“It’s not like Aroth’s public security is that bad, and I’m skilled enough to take care of myself,” Eugene had argued.

All five of the Towers of Magic were located in the capital of Aroth. Since he was moving to such a bustling capital city and not some remote village, he wouldn’t need any guards.

Gion had backed him up, “With Eugene’s skills, he shouldn’t require an escort.”

Since even Gion had spoken up for Eugene, Gilead could only nod in agreement. 

The two adults were well aware that Eugene had unbelievable levels of skills and experience for someone his age. On top of that, since he had also reached the Third Star of the White Flame Formula, they couldn’t treat him like a child any longer. At his age and skill level, Eugene needed to learn how to make his own decisions.

‘...Unlike Eward.’

Gilead washed down the bitter taste that this thought left in his mouth with a sip of wine.

The next day, everyone was there to see Eugene off as he headed to the warp gate in the outskirts of the estate’s forest. Gerhard, who had been smiling happily the day before, burst into tears at the sight of Eugene leaving.

“Make sure to eat healthily and don’t skip any meals.”

“Yes.”

“If you get sick, go find a doctor immediately.”

“Yes.”

“If things get too hard and lonely… don’t try to endure it and just come back, got it?”

“Yes, I’ve got it.”

Eugene responded to each of Gerhard’s reminders perfunctorily. 

It was hard for him to look at Gerhard directly as the man wept in love and concern for his son. In the past, Eugene’s acknowledgment of Gerhard as his father had been faint, but strangely, the older he grew,...