Belle's voice cut through the quiet like a bell.
"Sebastian," she called from the doorway, her usual lazy tone replaced by something almost… energetic. "Final training session's in an hour. Don't be late this time."
I glanced up from the bed where Sacha still lay curled on my lap, half-asleep, tail flicking idly. "Final, huh? You sound like you're looking forward to it."
"I am," she said with a faint grin. "One last chance to beat the arrogance out of you."
"Bold of you to assume it's possible."
She rolled her eyes, already turning to leave. "Get ready, ego-boy. I'll see you outside."
The door shut softly behind her.
For a moment, the room was quiet again, only the faint hum of mana lingering from the night before. I looked down at Sacha — the white tiger blinked up at me, pupils thin slits in the morning light, her fur faintly glowing where it touched my hand.
"Guess it's time to see where we stand," I murmured.
