Just as Nolan turned to leave, Celia suddenly reached out and grabbed his hand. He paused, looking back at her in surprise.
"Master… I want to tell you something," Celia said, her eyes flickering with hesitation.
"What is it?" Nolan asked gently. "You can speak freely."
Celia lowered her gaze, then raised it again with quiet determination. "I want to ask you… when we return from the Empire, if I do well—if I defeat my opponents and prove myself—would you grant me anything I want as a reward?"
Nolan studied her for a moment, then gave a small nod. "As long as it's within my capability, I will. But I'm busy right now, Celia. We'll continue this discussion later."
Her hand slipped from his as she gave a small bow of acknowledgment. "Okay, Master," she said softly.
Without another word, Nolan turned and stepped out of the mansion, the heavy doors closing behind him.
Has he reached,
