Kazuki followed Lumi through the bustling streets of Eidolon, his thoughts still tangled with questions. The city around him buzzed with life—floating lanterns, shimmering skies, and winding streets that twisted in impossible directions. The air carried a strange mix of warmth and magic, yet Kazuki couldn't shake the unease in his chest.
"So, where exactly are we going?" he asked, trying to keep up with Lumi's energetic pace.
"You'll see!" Lumi sang, skipping ahead. "It's not too far, just… beyond the Golden Bridge, through the Spiral Street, and past the Dancing Clocktower!"
Kazuki blinked. "That sounds far."
"Far? Nah! It's more like… epic." Lumi grinned and twirled, her bag of snacks swinging wildly. "Besides, it's the best place for someone like you!"
They turned a corner and arrived at a bridge made of golden glass, stretching across a river that sparkled like liquid starlight. Kazuki stared in awe as shimmering fish swam beneath its surface, their scales glowing with soft blue light.
"Welcome to the Golden Bridge!" Lumi said, throwing her arms wide. "We're almost there!"
Kazuki couldn't help but marvel at the scenery, but the unease lingered. "Lumi," he said, his tone turning serious, "who exactly was Hotaru? She said she's a Trailblazer too, but something about her felt… off."
Lumi froze for a brief second, her playful expression faltering. "Hotaru, huh?" She gave a small, nervous laugh and quickly turned away. "We'll talk about that later. For now, let's focus on finding you a home!"
Kazuki narrowed his eyes but decided not to push. Lumi had her secrets, and if she wasn't ready to talk, there wasn't much he could do about it.
They crossed the bridge and entered a quiet alleyway lined with peculiar buildings that seemed to hum with life. At the end of the alley stood a small house with a glowing lantern above its door. It looked cozy, with ivy climbing up its stone walls and a wooden sign that read: Hearthlight Haven.
"Here we are!" Lumi said proudly. "This place is perfect for a new Trailblazer. It's safe, comfy, and has the best hot chocolate in all of Eidolon!"
Kazuki raised an eyebrow. "Hot chocolate?"
"Trust me," Lumi said with a wink. "Once you taste it, you'll never want to leave."
Kazuki stepped inside, and the warmth of the house immediately wrapped around him like a soft blanket. The air smelled of fresh bread and cinnamon, and a fire crackled in the hearth.
"Feels like home, huh?" Lumi said, watching his reaction.
Kazuki nodded, a small smile forming on his lips. For the first time since arriving in Eidolon, he felt a little more grounded. "Yeah… it does."
Lumi plopped down on a nearby couch and stretched. "Well, make yourself comfortable! Tomorrow, we'll get you set up with some essentials. You'll be an official Trailblazer in no time!"
Kazuki leaned against the doorway, his thoughts returning to Hotaru. "Lumi… thanks for everything," he said quietly. "I'm still figuring things out, but I'm glad you're here."
Lumi gave him a thumbs-up. "Of course! What kind of guide would I be if I didn't help my favorite Trailblazer?"