The afternoon sun poured over the courtyard, casting long shadows across the cobblestones.
Kaelen watched as his disciples practiced tirelessly.
Lian's swings were smoother now, the aura around him steadier and stronger.
Even the new recruit, Elara, moved with surprising precision.
Her aura danced like flames in the sunlight, controlled yet wild, as if it refused to be tamed.
Kaelen's eyes softened.
These children… every one of them has potential to reshape this world.
A sudden pulse of light appeared before him. The status window activated, its golden glow illuminating his features.
[STATUS WINDOW ALERT: Hidden Talent Detected Nearby – Potential: Rare Heavenly Prodigy]
Kaelen's eyes narrowed.
He scanned the surrounding area carefully.
Through the crowd of people in the town, a young man with dark hair and a confident aura stood practicing alone.
His movements were effortless, precise, almost as if his body itself had been trained for combat since birth.
Kaelen's lips curved into a faint smile.
Another one to recruit…
He approached calmly, letting the aura of authority and experience radiate naturally.
"I am Kaelen," he said, bowing slightly. "I can help you unlock your full potential.
If you follow me, your growth will be far beyond what you imagine."
The boy's eyes flickered with surprise.
He studied Kaelen, then nodded slowly.
"I… will join you," he said.
[RECRUITMENT SUCCESSFUL: Name: Rynor – Talent: Sword Aura Mastery]
Kaelen's window pulsed again, signaling another reward.
[REWARD UNLOCKED: Aura Amplification Stone x1 – Can be used during training to enhance aura synchronization]
He handed the stone to Rynor, who grinned, clearly impressed.
Evening fell, painting the courtyard in shades of orange and crimson.
Lady Mirelle appeared once more, carrying a small bundle of herbs.
"You're creating quite the following," she teased, her gaze sweeping over the new recruits.
"Soon you'll have more disciples than you can manage."
Kaelen smiled softly. "Perhaps. But every one of them matters. Each talent nurtured is a step closer to something greater."
Her eyes softened as she stepped closer.
"And you… who nurtures them… do you ever think about your own future? Your own family?"
Kaelen's heart skipped. He paused, considering the words.
This… this is exactly why companionship matters.
A warmth spread through him—not from cultivation, not from treasures, but from something else entirely.
Admiration, respect… and a subtle, growing bond.
Night descended, and the courtyard was quiet once again.
Kaelen sat on the stone steps, watching the stars. The status window pulsed faintly beside him.
[CHILD ADVANCEMENT BENEFIT READY – Seed Treasure Available]
He touched it lightly, feeling the faint surge of magical energy.
One day… all of these talents, all of these connections, will grow into something unparalleled.
And my family… my legacy… will reach heights no one can imagine.
The wind carried soft whispers through the trees. Kaelen smiled faintly, knowing that the journey had only just begun.
Five recruits today… ten tomorrow… and a thousand after that.
Every step, every moment, every bond… builds the future.
And beneath the silent stars, Kaelen felt the thrill of power, connection, and destiny.