Earth, Zone C.
Inside a luxurious courtyard, Alaric sat cross-legged on the grass. The pond beside him was still, its surface broken only by the occasional ripple of a koi fish gliding beneath.
The sun's rays coated his entire body from the open roof, the small trees in the courtyard providing no shade — perhaps on purpose.
The atmosphere was serene. Tranquil. The life that most people longed for, but would never experience.
Spiritual Energy circulated through Alaric's body in carefully controlled cycles. His breathing was slow, each inhale drawing energy inward, each exhale refining it.
The new skill he had gained from the River of Paths needed integrating. And doing so into his existing foundation required sharp focus, it wasn't something that could be rushed.
So he sat. And he practiced.
Meanwhile, inside the villa, Emma was on the hunt.
"Alaric!" She called from the living room. No response.
"Alaric!" She tried the study. Empty.
The kitchen. Not a sight.
