The train cut through snow-blanketed mountains like a phantom, its windows fogged with frost. Inside, bundled in coats and scarves, the group from Class A-2 sat in a rare moment of peace.
Zian leaned against the window, watching the icy forest speed past. "This place really is in the middle of nowhere."
Kaen sipped from a thermos of dark tea, his breath fogging the air. "That's the point. It keeps curious eyes away."
Mira tapped her phone, taking photos. "I still can't believe you invited all of us. Even Lirien."
Lirien sat across from Kaen, legs crossed, expression unreadable. Her white hair shimmered in the morning light, red eyes watching Kaen like a puzzle she had yet to solve. "It was unexpected," she said, quietly. "I don't usually take holidays."
Kaen raised an eyebrow. "Then I'll consider this a victory."
The train screeched to a halt at a snow-buried station. No other passengers disembarked. The cold struck them instantly as they stepped into the silence.
A winding path through the frosted forest led them to a large clearing—there, nestled among whispering pines and frozen waterfalls, stood Kaen's home. A massive Japanese-style manor with black tiled roofs, tall wooden gates, and stone lanterns glowing softly with blue fire.
Waiting at the gate was a broad-shouldered man with silver hair, dressed in a fur-lined jacket. His presence radiated calm strength.
"Welcome home," he said, his deep voice steady.
Zian blinked. "Who's that?"
Kaen walked forward, a rare flicker of softness in his eyes. "This is Rourke. He found me outside the gate all those years ago."
Rourke smiled faintly. "Used to be an S-rank hunter. Now I'm in surveillance team of hunter and raise troublemakers."
Zian whispered to Mira, "He's the one who raised Kaen?"
Rourke clapped Kaen's shoulder. "Still no manners, I see. But you've brought company this time."
Kaen introduced each of them, and Rourke gave them rooms. That night, the house buzzed with soft chatter and the smell of warm food.
Later, Lirien stood alone on the balcony, eyes watching Kaen cook beside the hearth. Something tugged at her chest.
"He's… different here," she murmured.
Zian joined her, nodding. "He is."
Lirien didn't respond. She only watched, and for the first time, a small smile touched her lips.
Winter had begun—and with it, hearts began to thaw.