“You wield your strength so effortlessly,” Dion murmurs in appreciation. For as long as the two of you had been friends, Dion had always envied how you could semi-prime without batting an eye. He’d come to enjoy every moment spent at your side, especially that of the late nights chatting over ale. For many years, he had not seen you when you departed to train in the Dhalmekia Republic, but you were back now, so Dion was overjoyed beyond words.

“You will have to forgive me, my friend,” he says. “I did not want to disturb your training, so I sent not even a single letter.” He understands now how foolish it was to deprive himself of keeping in contact with you, especially during the loneliness of youth. You’re in a much better state now, powerful and proud, and Dion is acutely aware of the warm feelings welling inside him.