In a corner of the village, Viviane and Dante found themselves enjoying what felt like a small picnic. This was the place where Viviane's mother used to bring her frequently, a spot filled with childhood memories.
Viviane had insisted on bringing Dante here, and of course, he loved the idea. Seeing Viviane happy had been one of the main sources of his own happiness lately.
So they came calmly, enjoying the scenery and the warmth of the sun. Viviane brought a small basket, a cloth to spread on the ground, and another basket filled with sweets.
At that moment, both of them were lying down, wrapped in each other's arms, chatting cheerfully about many things. As usual, Viviane was the one talking the most.
"You know, Dante, when I was a child, my mother always brought me here. It's almost like a family ritual—it's been happening since my great-great-grandmother," she said happily.
"That's why I always wanted to bring you here, to continue this tradition."
"Do you see that tree?" she continued, pointing. "My grandmother planted it when she was young and named it the Star Tree, because it represents the hope of every generation."
"And if you look up at the sky, you'll see a cloud shaped like a bee," she said, pointing upward. "That cloud-bee has been there for generations. It's the only one that never changes."
"My grandmother used to say it was a hopeful combination. After all, bees play the most important role in creating an ecosystem."
"And the tree is what protects the ecosystem. So she said this place doesn't gather just hope—it shows us foundation and stability, which are the essential steps toward hope."
Viviane spoke animatedly, while Dante listened quietly, paying attention even to the smallest details. He was genuinely happy.
"But you know something, Dante… actually, my grandmother planted that tree because she was angry with my grandfather, Tu Sheng," Viviane added with a faint smile.
"He had lied to her."
"She always told him the tree was a symbol of hope, but it was something deeper than that. It was her way of expressing her feelings."
Then she fell silent for a moment before speaking again.
"So, Dante… should I plant a tree too?" she asked calmly. "Because you've been lying to me."
Dante, having just heard that, couldn't help but sigh. She probably already knew, and there was no reason to hide it anymore.
"You know?" he asked, turning to look her straight in the eyes.
"No, but I can imagine," she replied calmly, as if she were certain.
"It's probably something that would break the promise you made to me… or am I wrong?"
"Almost," Dante answered honestly. "I was talking to Tyler, and he recommended that I start hunting again. But this time, he said I should take you with me."
That surprised Viviane slightly. She had expected at least some resistance.
"Go back to hunting? And take me along?" she asked. "It seems we're returning to this topic again, aren't we?"
"Why didn't you tell me earlier?" she asked, a little confused. After all, she had never been irrational about this. She might think differently, but she had never stopped him.
"I was uncertain," Dante admitted. "Facing battles against demonic beasts again means leaving my comfort zone and putting myself at risk."
"I truly don't mind it, but I've been thinking about this a lot. I really enjoy spending time with you, and I thought I could drag this on for a few more years—keeping my promise to you."
"But after reaching five stars, my cultivation seems to have slowed down a lot, and my combat experience feels like it's hitting a limit."
"And then there's you… Tyler suggested you come with me so you wouldn't stop me or feel worried. Still, I'd end up worrying about you," Dante finished, placing a hand over his face.
Viviane stared at him in silence before speaking.
"You know I'm stronger than you, right?" she said with a soft laugh.
"I know," Dante replied. "But strength alone won't put my mind at ease. Things can always spiral out of control."
Viviane looked at him, fully aware of Dante's protective nature—and she liked it. Being in his arms was always calming.
She thought of countless answers she could give him, but only one felt necessary.
"Dante, no matter what you decide, I support you," she said, her face filled with determination as she looked him in the eyes.
Dante sighed quietly, unsure of what to say. But Viviane didn't wait. She stood up calmly and picked up her basket.
"You know, deep conversations make me hungry," she said, taking out some sweets and placing them on the cloth spread over the ground.
Seeing that, Dante laughed, feeling more relaxed—perhaps even too relaxed.
"You really chose the perfect place to corner me, didn't you?"
"Of course," Viviane replied. "What this place represents wouldn't let you lie for long. And besides, there's no need for lies between us. When something like this happens, just tell me. We'll figure out what to do together," she said, her expression slightly serious.
They then began to eat in silence.
"Sometimes, true courage isn't found in returning to hunt monsters, but in choosing to tell the truth—and accepting the outcome."