"Thanks for coming last night, everyone. I never expected my ramen when I woke up, but there it was," Jackson said with a calm smile, his voice softer than usual. "I was lucky it was still warm. If not, it would've been all sticky."
Lucy set another steaming bowl on the table by his bed. "The appreciation is most necessary. Here's another bowl. Eat your fill and recover."
Alfie leaned closer, grinning. "Stay strong, redhead. Recover faster—we've got a lot of work to do together."
"Alright, can we head out now? We haven't eaten anything this morning," Sasaki said bluntly, leaning against the wall.
Lucy sighed, shaking her head. "Rest all you want, Jackson. Next week you're out of here. See you in the evening." She was already walking toward the teleportation circle.
---
At the training field, Alfie was locked into his routine. Sweat poured down his forehead as he struggled with his forty-fifth lift. His body trembled, yet his eyes burned with determination.
Lucy and Sasaki sat nearby, breakfast in hand, watching closely.
"He's been motivated by Jackson," Sasaki muttered, chewing slowly. "It's amazing to watch."
Lucy took a bite of her sandwich before responding. "I agree, but not a hundred percent. Alfie's growing stronger, all of you are. But Jackson's body couldn't keep up—that's why his thigh gave out. His body's improving, but not all parts can endure at the same pace." She exhaled. "I'll be pulling him out of stamina training even after his recovery."
Sasaki tilted his head. "Hmmm. Then why is Alfie still in one piece? He's been pushing harder than anyone."
"You have no idea the kind of power Alfie possesses," Lucy said, her tone dropping lower. "He's no ordinary kid. Going all out… even I would find it difficult to endure,he got no idea how to use that power, that's why I sealed almost all of it for now. Every muscle in his body is reinforced—there's no way a weak body could withstand such powerful Renshi flowing through it. That's why I've allowed him to keep going after Jackson's injury. But still… I worry. He's only ten. He started his life alone far too early."
Her gaze softened as she looked at Alfie straining under the weight. "I wish I could be there for him in every way… but sometimes, I just have to believe in him."
Sasaki was quiet. For once, he had no comeback.
Lucy glanced at him suddenly. "Tell me, Sasaki… did you ever think of having children of your own?"
The question struck him off guard. He chuckled dryly. "That's sudden. But… to be honest, I once thought about it. Then I changed my mind. Other humans can multiply our race. But me? I'm not capable of bringing another life into this world."
"That's your decision, huh?" Lucy smirked faintly. "I guess you're not as stupid as I thought."
"Hey—what's that supposed to mean?!" Sasaki snapped, his voice louder.
"Don't raise your voice at me," Lucy shot back, eyes narrowing.
"I didn't raise it! I just wanted you to hear me clearly!"
"I could hear you the whole time. Shouting doesn't change anything."
Silence. Sasaki exhaled heavily. Lucy's expression softened again.
"Don't disregard yourself. Don't look down on yourself. Everyone is capable of bringing new life into this world. Whether you choose to or not… that's your path. But don't ever say you're incapable." She returned to her sandwich.
Sasaki stayed quiet, chewing slowly. All my years of living… I've never felt this kind of love and acceptance. Alfie hasn't fully accepted me yet, but he treats me as someone important, as an ally. I never expected my life to turn this way. No matter what… I'll protect them. And I'll bring Rebekah back. That's a promise I'll keep for myself.
---
After twelve days…
Jackson was finally ready to be discharged. The hospital room buzzed with quiet anticipation.
Alfie was already up before sunrise, darting around the apartment like a whirlwind. He shoved on his long jacket, with lightning speed, and dashed into Sasaki's room.
"Calm down, Alfie," Lucy said from the couch, sipping tea. "Jackson isn't going anywhere. He's coming home today regardless."
Alfie ignored her, bursting into Sasaki's room. "Where's the comb?!"
Sasaki, still half-asleep, stood in nothing but a towel. "Learn to knock, fool! I'm not dressed yet!"
"Sorry, Mr. Reaper, I'm in a hurry!" Alfie grabbed the comb and bolted, moving at a speed nearly twice as fast as before.
Sasaki froze, eyes widening. That speed… not normal. Just how much stronger has this kid become?
Lucy had noticed as well, sipping her tea with narrowed eyes. He's changing faster than expected…
Minutes later, they were all ready. Lucy stood from the couch, her voice firm. "Before we leave, there's something you need to know."
Alfie spun around first. "What is it, Master?"
Lucy's gaze was steady, serious. "Your Phase Two stamina training begins now. Combat training. You three will form a group of three and fight together from this point forward."
Her hand reached her storage ring, pulled out Alfie's sword in its black scabbard. With a flick, she tossed it to him.
Alfie caught it with wide eyes. "My sword…! I thought I lost you back there." His face lit up as he kissed the handle.
But then he paused. "Wait… it's different."
He drew the blade slowly. The polished dark wood shimmered like metal, reflecting light in sharp gleams. The handle bore a unique engraved pattern, intricate yet balanced. At the tip, golden designs caught the light, glimmering faintly. The main grip remained deep black, absorbing the light around it.
Lucy's eyes were sharp. "That sword isn't ordinary."