As Leon continues his training, he notices a peculiar pattern: his powers seem to respond more strongly whenever he thinks about Atlas. It's subtle at first—like a slight hum of energy whenever Atlas's name crosses his mind—but it becomes more noticeable as the days pass. When Leon brings it up to Master Rowen, the old Guide strokes his beard thoughtfully.
"A Guide and Esper bond is a curious thing," Master Rowen muses. "When two people share such a connection, the energy flows between them even when they're apart. It's a sign of a strong compatibility."
Leon is surprised by the revelation. "You mean… my powers are reacting because of Atlas?"
"It's possible," Master Rowen replies with a knowing smile. "There is something unusual about the way your energy moves, as if it's seeking something—or someone."
Leon can't deny the truth in Master Rowen's words. He thinks back to his encounters with Atlas—the electric feeling whenever they touched, the warmth that seemed to spread through him. It's unlike anything he's ever felt before, and now he has a possible explanation.
Later that day, as Leon practices a technique to sense energy, he finds himself instinctively reaching out for that familiar pull he associates with Atlas. The sensation is faint but unmistakable, like a distant heartbeat echoing back to him. It leaves him feeling strangely satisfied, though he's unsure if it's because of his progress in training or the thought of Atlas himself.
This realization motivates Leon to work harder at his training. Though his body remains frail, his determination strengthens, and he starts to make more noticeable progress under Master Rowen's guidance. As his abilities grow, he finds that his connection to Atlas becomes more apparent, as though an invisible thread binds them together, pulling them closer even when they are miles apart.