They returned to the quiet luxury of the private mansion, away from the prying eyes of the Council. Isabella led him deep into the heart of the estate, stopping before a pair of reinforced doors. As they swung open, they revealed a vast, sun-drenched library. Rows of shelves stretched toward the ceiling, filled with ancient scrolls, jade slips, and leather-bound tomes.
"My private collection," Isabella said, her voice echoing softly. "Every mission I've completed, every rogue group I've dismantled... I've kept the spoils. Some are rewards from the Navy, others are trophies. You may learn anything you wish here, but under one condition: nothing leaves this room. You stay here until every technique is memorized in your bones."
Ethan bowed deeply. "Thank you, Your Majesty. Your kindness is something I will not forget in this life or the next."
