At the end of the term, the academy entered its first extended seasonal break.
Most students eagerly prepared to return home, carrying stories of examinations, friendships, and hard-earned progress.
For Krishak, the break represented something more valuable than rest.
It was an opportunity to reunite with his family, assess the progress of his hidden disciples directly, and continue laying the foundations of the future he envisioned.
When he informed Headmaster Rudra that he would be leaving campus for several weeks, the old man nodded.
"You've earned the time."
He handed Krishak a sealed letter.
"Your Special Student privileges remain active during the break. Return one week before the expedition to the Starlit Ruins."
Krishak accepted the letter with a respectful bow.
"I will."
Krishak traveled with a small academy caravan heading toward his home region.
Lunafang attracted considerable attention from other passengers.
The silver wolf had grown into a striking young beast, and his calm, intelligent demeanor impressed everyone who met him.
Several children asked if they could pet him.
Lunafang accepted the attention with surprising dignity.
Krishak watched the familiar landscape pass by and allowed himself a rare moment of quiet reflection.
Only a few years had passed since his rebirth.
Yet the foundations of many long-term plans were already in motion.
When the carriage stopped near his village, Luna was the first to spot him. "Big Brother!"
She sprinted forward and threw herself into his arms.
Krishak caught her effortlessly.
Veer and Ama followed close behind, both smiling proudly.
Ama embraced him tightly.
"You've grown."
Veer placed a firm hand on his shoulder.
"We've heard nothing but praise."
Lunafang stepped forward and lowered his head politely.
Luna gasped.
"He's even bigger!"
Within minutes, Lunafang had become the center of her excitement.
The house felt exactly as Krishak remembered.
Warm.
Simple.
Peaceful.
That evening, the family shared a meal while Krishak described academy life in broad terms.
He spoke about classes, professors, and his midterm results, though he omitted the more sensitive aspects of his activities.
Veer listened with obvious pride.
Ama alternated between joy and concern that her son was advancing so quickly.
Luna declared that she would attend the same academy one day.
Krishak smiled.
"I'll help you prepare."
The following morning, Krishak visited the secluded valley where his clone had been training the five disciples.
The students immediately straightened when they saw him.
Although they still knew him only as the mysterious benefactor behind Master Kiran, they sensed an aura of calm authority that commanded respect.
Krishak reviewed their progress personally.
Rohan
Had made excellent progress in forging and body tempering.
Meera
Had memorized herb texts and demonstrated strong medicinal insight.
Arun
Showed growing understanding of finance and resource management.
Tara
Displayed impressive perception and mental discipline.
Karan
Had developed steady improvement in formations and tactical thinking.
Krishak was satisfied.
Their foundations were solid.
For several days, Krishak trained them personally.
He corrected subtle flaws in posture, breathing, and concentration.
He tested their understanding of the moral principles and practical disciplines they had studied.
He also distributed improved cultivation resources and additional reading materials.
The students were astonished by the depth of his knowledge.
Their respect deepened further.
Krishak used the break to refine the clone' s teaching methods.
He expanded lesson plans and prepared more advanced materials.
Eventually, the clone would be capable of managing larger groups of students.
This was another step toward his future academy.
Despite his busy schedule, Krishak spent ample time with his family.
He trained with Veer.
Helped Ama organize medicinal herbs.
And taught Luna basic exercises to improve coordination and concentration.
These moments were simple, but deeply meaningful.
For all his grand ambitions, this quiet happiness remained one of his strongest motivations.
As the break neared its end, Krishak stood outside beneath the stars.
Lunafang sat beside him.
His disciples were progressing well.
His family was safe.
The academy awaited his return.
And the Starlit Ruins expedition was approaching.
Krishak exhaled slowly.
Every part of his life was moving forward.
And soon, he would take another step into the unknown.