Click.
The sound of a door opening echoed through the empty halls.
"I could work with this," Kazuki muttered, surveying the interior with a critical gaze.
Dust clung stubbornly to the corners of the old mansion, and the faint scent of aged wood lingered in the air. The place had clearly been uninhabited for years—but considering its size and proximity to the academy, it was a steal.
He had acquired the property after a lengthy negotiation with the Mercan Merchants Alliance.
Even though Hikari had offered to cover the cost, Kazuki had refused to let the price spiral unnecessarily. Securing an old mansion this close to the academy was already a major victory.
Maybe the dining table should be closer to the center… and the sofa along the left wall, near the window.
Lost in thought, Kazuki began rearranging the furniture, dragging heavy pieces across the floor as he visualized how the space would eventually come together.
Click.
The door opened again behind him.
"You've finished the shopping already, Kuroha?" Kazuki asked without turning around.
"Yes, Master Kazuki," a calm voice replied. "The market is nearby, and there are plenty of shops offering daily necessities."
Ayame Kuroha—the maid he had hired through Mercan—stepped inside, carrying several bags filled with utensils and ingredients. She would be responsible for maintaining the house and preparing meals.
Kazuki paused, then turned toward her.
"Could you give me your opinion on the seating arrangement?" he asked honestly. "I'm not very good at this."
Kuroha placed the bags down and glanced around the room thoughtfully.
"If the dining table is moved closer to the kitchen," she said, "the living area will feel more open. It would also make serving meals easier."
Kazuki nodded. "That makes sense."
He immediately began shifting the furniture, adjusting the layout to match her suggestion.
Once the kitchen was cleaned and the supplies neatly arranged, Kuroha turned back to him.
"What would you like for breakfast, Master Kazuki?"
"Something light will do," he replied. "I'll be heading out soon. I have training with Hikari."
"I understand." She bowed slightly. "I'll have it ready shortly."
Kuroha moved efficiently, the sounds of light chopping and simmering soon filling the kitchen. Meanwhile, Kazuki inspected the training equipment Hikari had given him—each piece well-maintained, clearly chosen with care.
After a simple meal, Kazuki gathered his things and stepped outside.
His new home still felt unfamiliar.
But it wouldn't for long.
With that thought, he set off for his training session.