The early morning air was crisp and cool as the sun began to rise over Mining City. Jaxon, Lando, and Marie stood at the city gate.
Marie, clutching the magic staff Jaxon had given her, looked up at Jaxon with gloom. Her usually bright eyes were tinged with sadness. "You'll come back soon, right, Jaxon?"
Jaxon knelt down to her level, his expression softening. "I don't know. Maybe I'll see you next time when the two of you are already adults."
Marie nodded, trying to muster a brave smile, though her lower lip quivered slightly. "Be careful."
Jaxon chuckled gently, reaching out to ruffle her hair. "This is the second time I've said my goodbyes to both of you, but I still return."
Lando, standing a little apart but clearly affected by the farewell, stepped forward. "Jaxon, I know I will not be as talented as you. But I will do my best to become a knight, if not, at least be a famous adventurer."
