Kael remained silent for a few seconds after her words.
The fox in his lap watched him intently, its tails swaying slowly, as if sensing the weight of his hesitation. The wind swept through the training field again, carrying with it the distant scent of sun-warmed stone.
He exhaled slowly.
"Ahri…" he called, his voice low, serious now. "If… if we truly renew the contract… do you really want that?"
She blinked.
There was no irony. No joking.
The little fox lifted herself slightly, resting her front paws on his chest, bringing her face close to his.
"I do," she answered without hesitation.
Kael raised an eyebrow slightly.
"Even knowing that this will bind you even more to me?" He reached for her fur, stopping just inches away, as if asking permission without realizing it. "That it will change the way you exist… and the way I exist?"
Ahri smiled.
It was an old smile. Aware.
