Chapter 2: The Great Mage, Kazuki Hoshino

Once they got off the bus near the border of the Kingdom of Kuzuryu, Kazuki and his mother started walking down the road. They had been living in the capital city of Jiaozhou for a while now, but their house was still several hours' walk from the nearest town. Kazuki walked along silently. His thoughts were a jumble of confusion.

"I'm sorry," his mother apologized. "I shouldn't have pushed you so hard."

"It's okay," he said. "It's just my job. I don't mind."

They continued chatting as they walked. In fact, it felt like the awkward silence he used to feel around his mother was finally starting to fade away.

"By the way," his mother suddenly said, "isn't it dangerous to be traveling alone?"

"Not really. I can handle myself."

"Well, if you say so, then that's fine."

"Thanks."

"There's nothing else I can do."

Her words brought back memories of Kazuki's childhood. His mother had taught him how to defend himself from bullies. Though he was young, he learned quickly. He was very grateful to her.

"Hey, Kazuki."

"Yes, Mom."

"You're working hard, right?"

"Yeah, I am. I'll try my best