Chapter 8A The Virtual World and Havone’s Light Festival

The warm sunlight bathed Lia’s face, rousing her from slumber. As she blinked her eyes open, she found herself in a spacious room. Beside her, white curtains danced gently in the breeze filtering through an open window. Lia sat up slowly, the memories of the intense battle from the night before flooding back. Her arms and legs were wrapped in bandages, the wounds still tender.

“This must be the royal infirmary,” she murmured, casting her gaze out the window. Below, a picturesque courtyard unfolded, adorned with vibrant flowers meticulously arranged and tended to. Havone guards stationed at each exit, while royal servants bustled about, attending to their duties.

As Lia savored the tranquil view, Duen entered the room accompanied by Leon and Steve, his expression tense with concern. “Lia, how are you feeling?” Duen inquired as he stepped inside. Lia turned to him, offering a warm smile. “Duen, Leon, Steve, good morning. I’m feeling much better, thank you,” she replied with a hint of relief.

Just then, Mr. Anderson entered the room. “Papa, you’re here too,” Lia greeted him warmly. Mr. Anderson returned her gaze with a gentle smile before his eyes shifted to the three boys, lingering on Duen for a moment longer.

“Good morning, Mr. Anderson,” Duen greeted respectfully, bowing slightly, while Leon and Steve followed suit. Mr. Anderson’s gaze settled on Duen. “It’s you again,” he remarked, his tone layered with a slight disdain.

“Lia, it’s great to see you on the mend,” Leon said, his face glowing with relief. “I’ve heard that Silverwolf gave the intruders a good spanking!” he added with evident admiration.

“Absolutely, the whole town’s buzzing about last night,” Steve chimed in. “We’re just glad everyone’s safe and the weapon’s secure,” he added, nodding.

“Thank you, the care here is exceptional,” Lia replied, her smile brightening the room. Duen, holding a bouquet of freshly picked flowers, delicately arranged them in a nearby vase. Catching Lia’s admiring glance, their eyes met, and she blushed, turning her gaze toward the window. Mr. Anderson observed the exchange with a faint frown, his expression unreadable.

“I believe there were special instructions to ensure you receive the best medical care,” Steve remarked.

“You are correct. The best doctors attended to her,” Crown Prince Anton affirmed as he entered the room with Pete and a group of guards. “I hope you are well, Lia Nightingale,” he addressed Lia. Everyone in the room kneeled as the crown prince entered. “Your Highness!” Leon exclaimed, gesturing for Duen to kneel, who responded slowly.

Seated on the bed, Lia bowed her head. “I’m very well, Your Highness. Thank you,” she replied respectfully.

“Please, be at ease. It is good to hear that you are well, Lia. I trust the care given has been satisfactory?” Prince Anton inquired with a smile.

“Your highness, I’m Lia’s father, Anderson Nightingale. I want to express my deepest gratitude for the exceptional care you’ve extended to Lia. We couldn’t be more thankful,” Mr. Anderson said, his tone sincere.

“You’re most welcome. Nightingale Weaponsmith’s craftsmanship is truly commendable. The Stone of Wings is a masterpiece,” replied Prince Anton, nodding in appreciation.

“Lia’s courage and unwavering loyalty to the Holy Kingdom were evident last night. As her father, you must be immensely proud of her,” Prince Anton added, acknowledging Lia’s valor.

Mr. Anderson gazed earnestly at Lia, and Lia met his eyes for a moment. Duen noticed the pride reflected in Lia’s eyes as she received her father’s approving glance. “I am proud of her,” Mr. Anderson said, his words causing Lia to feel emotional, prompting her to quickly avert his gaze.

“As a token of appreciation for completing the Stone of Wings, the Holy Kingdom will reward you with 10,000 silvers, along with this,” announced Prince Anton, motioning for Pete to bring forth a case. Lia and her father exchanged a smile, knowing this payment would greatly benefit them as business had been slow.

Pete handed Lia the case, and she paused, staring at it before opening it. “I don’t understand. This is…” Lia’s voice trailed off as she gazed at the white shield she had crafted, resting inside the weapon case. The quartz white stone gleamed as sunlight filtered through it.

“His Highness is captivated by your beauty and strength. As such, he wishes to bestow upon you the title ‘Wing of the Goddess,’ Lia Nightingale. The Stone of Wings will henceforth be entrusted to your care as you serve the kingdom,” Pete announced proudly.

“It is my gift to you. With the Stone of Wings at your side, you’ll be safeguarded during any future hunts undertaken on behalf of Havone,” Prince Anton added.

Lia’s face lit up with excitement, and her father beamed with pride. “Thank you. With this, we can embark on even more hunts moving forward,” Lia said, turning to Duen, who nodded eagerly in agreement.

“In addition, Nightingale Weaponsmith will now be the official bladesmith for Havone’s secret weapons. We’ll have you work on one very soon,” Prince Anton announced, a smile playing on his lips.

“A secret weapon? An Ancient Stone, perhaps?” Lia asked eagerly.

“Perhaps, but I can’t reveal anything,” Prince Anton replied, his smile teasing. Lia gasped in excitement, exchanging a glance with her father.

“Oh, Your Highness, how can we ever repay you for your kindness?” Mr. Anderson expressed his gratitude.

“Think nothing of it. I simply admire Lia’s work, and it’s my wish that she continues serving the Holy Kingdom,” Prince Anton replied warmly. He then turned to Steve and Duen, acknowledging their efforts.

“Steve and Duen, I’d also like to commend you on your good work. Your track record has been most satisfactory, and I believe the Kingdom will require your services again soon,” Prince Anton said.

“Certainly, Your Highness,” Steve replied, smiling at Lia and Duen.

“I have an audience with Father, and I will take my leave,” Prince Anton announced, turning and walking out, followed by the guards.

As Prince Anton departed, Mr. Anderson accompanied him, continuing their conversation. “Thank you so much, Your Highness. The townspeople of Havone are truly fortunate to be under the Holy Kingdom’s leadership,” Mr. Anderson expressed his gratitude. “Is there anything I can do for you?” he asked, eager to offer his assistance.

“That’s good networking, isn’t it?” Duen remarked, observing Mr. Anderson. He recalled his manager, Pete, mentioning the importance of networking in Sphere and wondered how he could learn this skill to gain an edge.

“What’s networking? You mean bootlicking?” Leon joked with a smile. Duen smiled but remained observant. “The Havone Light Festival? An invite? Surely I can arrange something!” Mr. Anderson’s excited voice echoed in the background. As their voices faded into the distance, Duen refocused his attention on Lia.

“Lia, I guess we’ll leave you to rest up for now,” said Duen, glancing at Lia with a soft smile.

“Thank you,” Lia replied, her smile reflecting her gratitude as she settled back.

“I’m looking forward to another hunt real soon,” Duen said, his gaze shifting to the weapon case holding the Stone of Wings. The thrill of their previous adventure still lingered, and he eagerly anticipated the possibilities that lay ahead. With Lia now in possession of the Stone of Wings, alongside the Stone of Eternity, their prospects for survival and success in hunting rare beasts had taken a significant leap.

Lia, attuned to Duen’s thoughts, chimed in, her smile tinged with a hint of bashfulness. “I’m certain we will,” she affirmed, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

“Don’t you dare leave me out this time!” Leon interjected, his tone laced with playful warning as he fixed a pointed stare on Duen.

“You’re part of the team, always,” Duen assured him, returning the smile.

As the trio left the royal infirmary, Steve, who had business to tend to, bid farewell to Duen and Leon. The two of them then headed to the mines for a day of work.

That evening, Duen returned home tired, his face streaked with dirt from the mines. After leaving the royal infirmary, he had gone straight to work with Leon. “You’re back just in time for dinner,” Gus greeted, placing a dish of potatoes on the dining table. “How is Lia doing?” he added, concern evident in his voice. “She’s recovering fast. At this rate, she’ll be home tomorrow,” Duen replied, settling down at the table.

“Wow, I’m starved,” Duen exclaimed, eyeing the spread on the table. “That’s good to know. And how was your day?” Gus inquired as he served vegetables onto Duen’s plate.

“It was alright. But I couldn’t help but notice, even here in Havone, there are so many people trapped, isn’t it?” Duen reflected somberly.

“What do you mean, son?” Gus inquired, his brow furrowing with concern.

“Some of these miners, they toil endlessly to earn a wage, only to squander it all on drink and revelry,” Duen explained, a hint of frustration in his voice. “They work sober for a day in the mines, then once they have money, they spend it all to drown their sorrows.”

“They’re turned away from work when they show up drunk and wasted, only for the cycle to repeat,” Duen continued, his observations painting a bleak picture. He recalled the beggars and destitute in Solzen, the rich and poor disparity being similar in both worlds. “There are desolates here as well. Trapped in hell by the tormentors,” thought Duen, reflecting on the unfortunate circumstances of many in Havone.

“Why would they willingly subject themselves to such suffering?” Duen pondered aloud.

“How can you be certain they’re suffering?” Gus countered, his gentle smile masking a depth of insight as he fixed his gaze upon Duen. Sensing the weight of wisdom about to be imparted, Duen returned the smile, his curiosity piqued by Gus’s cryptic response. “What do you mean, old man?” he queried. He had grown accustomed to receiving pearls of wisdom from Gus at the dining table in his world. But to also receive it here in this world, made him smile.

“So, you’re saying they choose this lifestyle?” Duen mused. “Living day to day, indulging in pleasure, and numbing themselves out?” he continued, trying to make sense of it all.

“It’s possible. In their own perception of reality, they might not see it as suffering,” Gus explained thoughtfully. “The unconscious mind is not tortured by the truth,“ Gus added, his gaze steady as he observed Duen, allowing the weight of his words to settle and fostering a moment of introspection.

“Only the conscious mind… only the awakened mind is tortured,” Duen affirmed, his eyes widening with comprehension as he absorbed Gus’s words. Gus nodded in approval at Duen’s insight.

“The conscious mind suffers because it recognizes the wrongness of drifting in such a manner,” Gus elaborated. “It faces a choice: confront this inner dragon and vanquish it, or be forever tormented and paralyzed by its presence, unable to evolve,” Gus explained, his words carrying a weighty significance.

“The path to liberation from this suffering lies in slaying the dragon,” Gus concluded, his expression firm yet compassionate. “Only then can you access the treasure—the jewel of becoming, the knowledge that you can improve and grow.”

As Duen pondered the battles he faced against the tormentor in the depths of hell, memories of his struggle for liberation from despair and darkness flooded his mind. Lost in his reflections, he felt Gus’s gaze upon him, silently observing his introspection.

“Wow, that was profound. How is it that you’re both so alike?” Duen murmured, his admiration for Gus evident in his voice. Since relocating to the city, he had been consumed by the hustle and bustle, realizing now how much he missed moments like these—simple conversations and shared meals with the wise old man.

“What was that, son?” Gus inquired, his voice breaking through Duen’s reverie.

“Nothing, just lost in thought,” Duen replied, snapping back to the present as he dug into his vegetables.

“Talking about the Jewel, that last beast hunt was incredible, old man,” Duen remarked between bites. “I felt truly alive in Girden Heim Forest,” he continued, relishing the memory as he contrasted the vibrant wilderness with the cold streets of Solzen.

“It’s a breathtaking place,” Gus agreed, his appreciation evident as he joined in the meal. “You’ve been to Girden Heim?” Duen inquired. “You’ve truly forgotten everything? What did that botched hunt do to you, my boy?” Gus’s concern creased his brow.

“I lived in Solgandr for a while, remember?” Gus gently reminded him. Duen acknowledged with a blank look. “I had to use it, the Stone of Eternity. That beast, Zycosas, would have killed us,” Duen confessed.

“So, Lia knows about it now,” Gus mused, clearly deep in thought. Duen nodded, the weight of their shared knowledge settling between them.

“So… you’re really going to pursue this path?” Gus inquired, his expression tinged with concern as he served Duen a portion of potatoes, his movements deliberate. Duen watched him closely, sensing the weight of Gus’s words.

“I had hoped you’d consider other options after that unfortunate beast hunt, but it seems you’re drawn to the life of a mercenary and hunts,” Gus remarked, his tone heavy with thoughtfulness.

“I can’t be confined to mining forever. I have to be rich. A man must have ambition, right?” Duen replied, his smile tinged with determination. He sought not only Mr. Anderson’s approval but also sought to prove himself worthy of Lia.

“A man must forge his own path,” Gus murmured, his voice laden with wisdom as he sank into contemplation.

“I’ll hunt down an Ancient! That’ll make me rich!” Duen exclaimed with excitement, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. “Surely, that will impress him,” he added.

“Duen, hunting an Ancient is no simple feat,” Gus cautioned, his gaze intense. “You do realize that to capture an Ancient, one must possess powers surpassing it, don’t you?”

“But I do have an Ancient, don’t I? The Stone of Eternity,” Duen countered confidently.

Gus nodded slowly. “But if you carelessly release the Stone of Eternity, what happens when kingdoms and bounty hunter organizations learn of it?” he asked.

“Lia said the exact same thing,” Duen replied, reflecting on Lia’s earlier warning.

“That’s just logical. You can be a knucklehead at times. It’s always good to be careful,” Gus remarked. “I’ve been through wars and seen so much. But you’re not a child anymore. I don’t want to make the mistake of shielding you too much,” he added. “You have to make your choices and find your path.”

Duen nodded, his admiration for Gus evident as he smiled gently. The familiarity of being surrounded by familiar faces in a different world was surreal. The warmth of the old man’s presence, which he hadn’t felt in a while since moving to the city, was comforting. “I’ll make you proud too, old man. Just wait,” Duen resolved silently.

After dinner, fatigue weighed heavily on Duen as he retreated to his room. Esh appeared, snuggling up to his ear as he closed his eyes, seeking solace in the embrace of sleep.

Ring! Duen’s eyes flickered open, greeted by the familiar sight of his apartment ceiling. Sitting up, he glanced at the clock: “Tuesday, 6:30 a.m. I’m back here!” he mused, a perplexed frown creasing his brow. “This is so bizarre,” he muttered, fingers instinctively finding the pendant resting against his chest.

During his commute to the central business district, aboard the train, Duen’s mind churned with thoughts of the recurring phenomenon. Was it merely a dream? He couldn’t shake the feeling of déjà vu, the haunting sense of a reality just beyond his grasp. “How can you continuously have the same dream though? And that world seemed so real,” he pondered, his brow furrowing in contemplation. Despite scouring his phone for answers on recurring dreams, little insight emerged. “It’s not just a similar dream that I’m in. Whatever is happening is progressing, like a parallel world,” he concluded, his thumb swiping through articles in search of clarity.

“It’s more than just a recurring dream. Whatever’s happening feels like progression, like a parallel world,” Duen reflected, his gaze fixed on the glowing screen of his phone as he scrolled, seeking clues to unravel the mystery that was unfolding.

Amidst his musings, Duen’s attention was abruptly seized by the enthusiastic chatter of a boy wearing a virtual headset nearby. “This world is so real! That dragon’s moving, woah!” The boy’s excitement reverberated through the train carriage, drawing curious glances from fellow passengers.

In the Sphere Inc auditorium that morning, virtual reality training was in full swing, with everyone from the Sphere team sporting virtual headsets.

“This is immersive, but I’m already getting a headache,” Duen remarked as he navigated through a futuristic cityscape.

“Close your eyes for a bit; it might help,” Evelyn suggested, leaning in to whisper to Duen.

“You sound like a pro. Do you have one of these at home?” Leon inquired, his tone tinged with curiosity.

“What are you talking about? Everyone has one nowadays,” Evelyn replied nonchalantly.

“You can do so much with this; it’s a lot of fun,” Evelyn added, her voice carrying a hint of temptation.

Simone chuckled at Evelyn’s remark, while Leon, beside Duen, chimed in mischievously, “I’ll show you some sites that’ll take this experience to a whole new level, buddy.”

Duen nudged Leon to refocus his attention. Amidst the banter, Duen contemplated the significance of virtual reality. “With this technology, the virtual world becomes incredibly immersive. I can see why it’s widely used for entertainment—social media, augmented reality games, movies, and perhaps mindless pleasure,” he mused, recognizing the diverse impact of VR in modern society.

“Everyone, the virtual headset you’re currently wearing is your official Sphere Inc headset,” Pete’s booming voice reverberated through the auditorium. “Moving forward, some of our meetings and conferences will be conducted virtually using this technology,” he explained.

“Alright, let’s begin the virtual presentation now,” Pete announced, signaling the commencement of the training.

As the lights dimmed, Duen watched as Sphere Inc’s logo materialized, signaling the transition into another realm. Suddenly, his surroundings shifted, transporting him into a new world, accompanied by the soothing voice of an AI lady.

“In professional circles where optimization is paramount, drugs like Flow and Eden offer therapeutic benefits,” the AI lady explained. “Forming new habits can be challenging, but with Eden, it facilitates the creation of new pathways of thinking. Subsequently, your brain becomes more receptive to suggestion, enabling the process of rewiring to take place.”

“Organizations are increasingly turning to drugs like Eden to optimize professional performance,” the AI lady narrated as the VR video continued. “Therapeutic sessions offer clarity, creativity, and increased productivity in both personal and professional realms. In our trial meditation retreats featuring Eden, teams experienced an extraordinary 35-minute ESP (extrasensory perception) journey. This led to creative breakthroughs and reduced workplace friction.”

A man in a suit shared his perspective: “I can’t afford to take weeks off to chant with monks and meditate. Eden has provided me with a new perspective,” he affirmed.

“Meditation…” Duen murmured, his attention captured by the ongoing virtual presentation.

“The icing on the cake,” the AI lady continued, her voice maintaining its steady narration as the VR video unfolded. “Early-stage trials have yielded phenomenal results, particularly for individuals in at-risk groups.”

The AI lady elaborated further, “Trial subjects ranged from normal individuals to those with mental disorders, substance abuse issues, and even serial criminals. The outcomes of these trials have been highly promising, and we are now in the final stages of approval for Eden 2.0. The drug is poised to be a societal solution for at-risk groups, with anticipated reductions in crimes such as rape, violent offenses, and murder. Additionally, severe depression and suicide rates are expected to see significant declines.”

As Sphere Inc’s logo flashed, signaling the end of the virtual presentation, the room erupted into enthusiastic applause.

Duen, removing his virtual headset, couldn’t contain his excitement. “Wow, I’m impressed. Eden seems to be a drug that could truly benefit society,” he remarked. “And I get the opportunity to sell something that contributes to making society a better place,” Duen added, his sense of purpose evident.

“Not to mention earning a hefty paycheck,” Leon chimed in with a chuckle, highlighting the financial incentives that accompanied their roles.

The intense day of training concluded, and after work, the group headed for their usual ritual: drinks at the bar. However, feeling tired, Duen decided to head home instead to rest up. Later that evening, he tinkered with his new virtual headset from Sphere Inc. and logged in to explore the virtual world.

As he entered the immersive virtual world, he was greeted by endless sites all vying for his attention. Social media platforms, video platforms featuring suggestive content, and online games featuring virtual worlds populated the digital landscape. “Wow, it’s no wonder people don’t get bored. You can really spend hours here,” Duen thought, marveling at the abundance of virtual entertainment. A pop-up window appeared as Duen explored the interface. “Add contacts? Lia Curtiss… okay, but she’s offline currently,” he murmured as he added Lia as a social contact in the virtual world.

“This is immersive, but nothing compared to the parallel world I traveled to,” thought Duen. He reminisced about the adventures in Girden Heim Forest and pondered what other escapades awaited him in that realm. Did he truly journey there, or was it merely a dream? He couldn’t be certain. However, one thing remained clear: the Stone of Eternity seemed to be the gateway to that world. But what was the reason for it? Why was he able to traverse to that world, and for what purpose? Duen’s mind swirled with questions as he clasped his pendant.

Removing the virtual headset, Duen resolved, “Let’s embark on a real adventure.” With a smile, he settled onto his bed, crossed his legs, and began to meditate, ready to explore the depths of his consciousness.

Entering a deep state of meditation, Duen’s spirit form departed from his physical body. Confidently, he passed through the mirror and ventured into the enigmatic corridor of time and space. Brilliant lights danced around him, shifting through various hues of red, blue, green, yellow, and a myriad of colors, guiding his path. As he journeyed, the radiant form of the Phoenix flew past, illuminating the path with its brilliant lights. “Wait, Esh!” exclaimed Duen with a smile, eagerly chasing after the Phoenix.

Suddenly, the light became blindingly bright, prompting Duen to close his eyes. When he dared to open them again, he found himself back in his room in Havone.

The bright sun streamed in through the window, casting warmth onto Duen’s face. With excitement bubbling inside him, he exclaimed, “I’m back here!” as he blinked away the lingering glare. Glancing out the window, he beheld the picturesque scene of Havone, bathed in the gentle glow of the morning light.

Eager to immerse himself in the vibrant energy of the town, Duen sprang out of bed and dashed into the bustling town center. Along the way, he observed the townsfolk adorning the streets with festive decorations. Ladders were propped up, lanterns were hung, and signs were erected, each contributing to the festive atmosphere. Reading the signs that proclaimed “Havone Light Festival,” Duen’s curiosity piqued.

Approaching a plump man diligently setting up his stall, Duen inquired, “Excuse me, sir, what is this festival all about?”

“You’re not from here, son? It’s the Havone Light Festival, the most anticipated event of the year,” said the plump man, his voice brimming with excitement. “Every year, we celebrate Lord Father’s light with games, food, and ale! It’s bound to be a lively affair tonight,” he added, his enthusiasm palpable.

“I see, thank you!” replied Duen, his eyes sparkling with excitement. With a brisk nod, he hurried off towards the Nightingale Weaponsmith. As he pushed the door open and stepped inside, the bell chimed melodically—ring.

“Good morning!” greeted Lia, emerging from the corner of the store to welcome him. “Lia, how are you feeling?” asked Duen, a warm smile gracing his lips.

“Oh, hi Duen, I’m doing well, thank you. My wounds have mostly healed up,” she replied, smiling gently as she brushed her hair back, a faint flush coloring her cheeks.

“That’s good to hear,” Duen said, his smile beaming. He found himself momentarily captivated by Lia’s presence, but soon realized he might have been staring at her for too long. The atmosphere was starting to feel awkward. Scratching the back of his head, he continued, “Oh yeah, it’s the light festival tonight. They say it’s Havone’s most popular festival. I’m excited to see what it’s all about,” Duen exclaimed.

“What do you mean by that, Duen? You’ve been to it countless times, ever since we were kids,” Lia replied, her expression tinged with concern. “As a matter of fact, you party until dawn every year and get wasted,” she added, raising an eyebrow.

“Hahaha! Really? Geez,” Duen chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. Lia joined in with a giggle of her own.

“Erm… You know… I was thinking…” Duen stammered, gathering his courage to express his thoughts. “What is it, Duen?” Lia asked impatiently, her brows furrowing as she tried to anticipate his words. “You want to ask me out for the light festival?” Lia blurted out, her face turning scarlet as soon as the words escaped her lips.

“Yes! Yes! Do you want to go to the light festival with me?” Duen blurted out, his heart pounding with anticipation. “God, why am I so nervous?” he wondered to himself.

Lia paused, her brows furrowing slightly. “What? It’s okay if you’ve got other plans,” Duen said softly, attempting to mask his disappointment.

“I’d like to, but…” Lia began, her thoughts racing. “But what?” Duen asked eagerly, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.

“Papa’s arranged an important dinner with a buyer this evening,” Lia explained. “Oh…” Duen responded, his shoulders slumping slightly with disappointment.

“But, I’ll try to end it early and meet you,” Lia added, a hopeful smile lighting up her face. “Let’s meet at the plaza before the light ceremony,” she suggested.

“Yay!” Duen exclaimed, his fist shooting into the air with excitement.

The bell chimed as Mr. Anderson walked in, his chin held high as he cast a stern gaze toward Duen. “Is everything okay, Lia?” he inquired, his eyes still fixed on Duen.

“Mr. Anderson, good day,” greeted Duen politely, bowing his head in respect. “Everything’s in order,” Lia replied calmly.

“Alright, tonight’s meeting is really important. Do dress up; it’s the light festival as well,” Mr. Anderson instructed with a broad smile.

“Yes, Papa,” Lia acknowledged, glancing at Duen and offering a warm smile. The bell chimed suddenly, and Leon strode in, dressed in a nobleman’s attire with elaborate sleeves and cuffs. “There you are! I’ve been looking all over for you,” he exclaimed urgently.

“Leon, why are you dressed like that?” Duen asked, barely suppressing a laugh at Leon’s extravagant outfit. He couldn’t help but find it a bit ridiculous.

“Quick! We need to go to Havone’s throne room and meet the King for our next mission. Steve’s already there, and we can’t be late,” Leon declared, grabbing Duen by the arm and pulling him along.

Duen stole a glance at Lia, a smile exchanged between them, both aware of their promise for the evening as he was whisked away by Leon.