Kaal turned to Jane and Mia, his expression softening under the warm light that lingered from the pillar of the Stone of Will.
"You two should try the trial as well," he said, voice calm but firm. "Even Ashen, who was once a servant incapable of cultivating, became stronger by passing it."
Jane and Mia exchanged a brief glance, understanding passing between them like an unspoken promise.
"We will," they said in unison, their voices steady with resolve.
With that, Jane stood up and dusted off her robes. "I'll go fetch the food," she added, disappearing toward the forest with her usual quiet efficiency.
Mia, however, remained standing beside Kaal, her eyes locked onto the freshly prepared meal he had begun eating. Her gaze shimmered with longing, her mouth slightly parted, the scent of roasted spirit beast meat making her stomach growl audibly.
Kaal raised an eyebrow, amused. He noticed her not-so-subtle hunger and let out a chuckle.
