Alf let out a soft sigh, rubbing his forehead.
"Haa… to think I was that young."
Erinnete crossed her arms, glancing at the painting.
"And Hesbeirn still looks annoying."
Hesbeirn grinned.
"And you still look bossy even as a kid."
Erinnete elbowed him.
Garius just smirked, but his fingers lingered on the edge of the painting.
This was a different time.
A simpler time.
But time never stops.
And neither did they.
The courtyard was quiet.
Even Giddie, sensing the weight of the moment, stayed still.
Garius let out a slow breath, then gently placed the painting aside.
He knew there was still more inside the chest.
More memories waiting to be uncovered.
And he wasn't done yet.
Garius lifted the chest effortlessly, his expression unreadable.
Without a word, he turned and began walking back toward his private room.
Alf, Erinnete, and Hesbeirn exchanged brief glances—then silently followed behind him.
