The routine had become... comfortable.
Too comfortable, Alex thought as he stared at the Guild's notice board.
Three weeks in Coral Port. Daily missions. Training. Meals with the team. Mrs. Thorne's cookies. An almost... normal life.
Almost.
Because every night, when he closed his eyes, the Fragment whispered. And every morning, he woke wondering how much longer he could resist.
He needed distraction. He needed purpose. He needed—
"Interested?"
Alex turned. Captain Sera was behind him, studying the same poster that had caught his attention.
CORAL PORT MONTHLY TOURNAMENT!
50-Year Tradition - Everyone Welcome
64 Participants - Single Elimination
Prize: 5,000 Crowns + Rare Magic Item
Average Participant Level: 40
Register Now!
"Just looking," Alex said.
Sera crossed her arms, that sharp gaze that always seemed to see too much.
"Not as prestigious as the Novice Tournament."
Alex tensed slightly. She knew. Of course she knew who he really was.
