Jaden stepped outside, letting the fresh air hit his face. The morning breeze carried a soft scent of flowers and damp earth. He stood quietly near the garden, his hands in his pockets, eyes scanning the trees and blooming flowers that painted the temple grounds with color. Birds chirped gently in the distance, and the leaves rustled like they were whispering.
It was peaceful. Almost too peaceful for a man like him.
Luna joined him a few minutes later, stepping beside him without saying a word. She looked out at the garden, then at the sky. Her arms crossed as she took in the beauty of the moment.
"The weather looks bright and cool today," she said quietly, not looking at him.
Jaden gave a small nod. His eyes remained fixed on the trees.
Luna slowly reached out and held his hand, trying to feel his warmth. His hand was firm but calm. She squeezed gently.
"I thank Master Shang for saving your life," she said.
Jaden stood still, blinking slowly. His eyes didn't move from the bloomy flowers swaying with the breeze. After a moment, he nodded, then turned to look at her.
"I'll be leaving tomorrow," he said. "And I want you to come with me."
Luna froze. Her fingers twitched a little. She wasn't expecting that.
Her eyes dropped to the ground, and her lips parted, but no words came out. She had made this place her home. The people here were family now. Children depended on her. Ari depended on her. Her heart was heavy.
Jaden watched her carefully. He saw it on her face—the hesitation, the guilt. And he understood.
"You don't have to say anything," he said, voice low. "I know this place means a lot to you. It's okay. You can stay."
Luna looked at him, guilt in her eyes. "Jan, I… I don't…" she stammered.
"I understand," he said again, softer this time.
Luna's eyes welled up a little. "Thank you for understanding. I promise I'll come with you next time. But for now, these people… they need me. You're still coming back, right?"
Jaden gave a small nod. "I am."
Then he looked her in the eyes. "I love you, Luna."
Those words melted something inside her. She smiled—small, but real. It felt good to hear that again. Her brother, after everything, still loved her.
"I need to prepare for my leave," Jaden added. "I'll be gone by dawn. There's a job I have to handle."
Luna touched his shoulder lightly. "Promise me you'll take care of yourself."
Jaden turned to her, nodded once more, and walked off slowly toward his room.
Luna stood still, watching him disappear inside. She didn't know why, but part of her wanted him to stay just a little longer. Maybe to laugh with her again. Maybe just to see him smile like the old days. She wasn't ready to say goodbye again.
By dusk, Jaden was in the courtyard, sharpening his blade. The sound of metal scraping stone echoed through the quiet air. He was focused, calm, his face as still as ever.
Ari stood nearby, watching. He leaned against the wall, arms folded. He admired Jaden—not just for his strength, but for what he'd survived. He could see it in the way Jaden carried himself. Always ready. Always alert.
Ari understood. If his father had done to him what Lord Zu did to Jaden, maybe he would've turned out the same way. But Ari had no father. He was an orphan. The temple saved him, just like it saved Luna.
Night crept in.
The people of the temple had finished eating and were heading to their rooms. One by one, the halls went quiet. Jaden stayed outside a little longer, the cool air brushing against his face as he sat sharpening his blade. His eyes scanned the darkness—not out of fear, but habit.
Finally, he stood and made his way toward his room.
As he reached for the door, he saw her.
Luna.
She stood in the hallway, her hair falling softly to her shoulders, her face tired but calm.
"Good night, Jaden," she said, her voice warm.
Jaden looked at her. "Good night," he replied quietly.
She lingered, hoping to hear something more. But that was all he said.
She gave him a small smile, nodded, and walked away.
Jaden opened his door and stepped inside.
He didn't sleep.
He never did.