Gustav returned to the starfall grove at midday, the aura compass leading him to the edge where starfall grain beds met skyroot patches—precisely where starblossom petals were said to bloom. There, nestled between the golden stalks and dark tubers, lay clusters of delicate golden-pink petals, their aura shimmering like scattered stardust. He channeled a gentle stream of Gastronomic Aura to pluck them, careful not to bruise their thin edges.
Just as he filled his pouch, three Black Spoon members emerged from the trees—led by a man with a scarred jaw, their leader, Rook. "You've been a thorn in our side," Rook snarled, drawing a blade. Gustav tossed a handful of starfall grain into the air; it burst into a warm, blinding glow, disorienting the men. Suddenly, Kael leaped from behind a tree, knocking Rook's blade aside. "Thought you might need backup," he said, grinning. Together, they drove the syndicate members into the woods, where they fled.
Grateful but firm, Gustav said, "Thanks—this stays between us." Kael nodded and vanished. Gustav headed to Torvin's workshop, where he presented the starblossom petals. Torvin's face lit up: "Starblossom! We'll make a tart with skyroot cream—your aura infusion will make it sing." Gustav spent the afternoon teaching the chefs to weave their energy into the crust, creating a dish that glowed softly and tasted of starlight and honey.
After the workshop, he updated his log: "Today: found starblossom petals in the grove, fended off Black Spoon retaliation with Kael's help, crafted starblossom tart at the workshop. Aura-based distractions and combat coordination are sharpening. Two and a half years until the Hunter Exam—Torvin mentioned a waterfall nearby with aura-charged algae; planning to investigate."
He tucked the compass into his pouch, already visualizing the misty waterfall and the rare ingredients it might hold.