Ace exited the bustling Immortal Market and reappeared in the tranquil expanse of the herb garden.
The sharp contrast between the two worlds, one filled with chaos and and the other calm, settled over him like a soft breeze.
With a thought, he turned his steps toward the riverside.
It's been a while… Aqua should be tending to the fish around this time, he mused.
The gentle rustle of leaves accompanied him as he made his way down the winding path, the distant sound of flowing water growing clearer with every step.
When Ace arrived, he found Aqua by the riverbank, gently tossing feed into the water.
The river shimmered under the soft light, reflecting the peaceful rhythm of Aqua's task.
"Aqua," Ace called out with a small smile. "Hard at work again?"
A translucent screen flickered beside Aqua's head, displaying a thought he hadn't voiced aloud:
[Huh? Master still remembers my name?]
Ace read it, but said nothing as he just smiled knowingly.
