A few days after the Star Fragment appeared, a “guest” arrived in the village.

I was sitting in the corner of the room, listening quietly as my parents spoke in the dining hall.

“…Someone from the Royal Academy’s Observation Bureau is coming? What does that mean?”

“They probably detected the fragment’s presence. If a Soul Shard manifests, it can be sensed—even from a distance.”

“…You mean we’re being watched?”

“The capital has eyes on all cases of ‘unusual evolution’—especially awakenings from low-ranked monsters.”

Father’s voice was heavy.

—So they did notice.

In my hand, the Star Fragment of Kindness gave off a soft, rhythmic glow. Almost like it could feel that it was being observed.

That night, the village gates creaked open.

“…Kanon, would you come with me?”

Mother called me, and I dressed in formal attire before stepping out to the front garden.

There stood a man in black.

A young man, mid-20s at most. Tall and slender, with refined features—but eyes that gleamed like frost.

“Pleased to meet you. I’m Sarius Kreutzer, from the Observation Bureau of the Royal Magic Academy.”

As he introduced himself, his gaze fixed on Rabbichu.

Rabbichu stared right back.

No words were spoken, but sparks flew in their silent exchange.

“…That’s quite the rare specimen. Rabbichu species don’t typically reach awakening states.”

“…He’s my partner.”

I said it clearly. No lies. No excuses.

“I see. A bond deep enough to form a soul crystal… I understand now.”

He pulled a small crystal orb from his coat. Softly glowing letters floated within.

Observation Target: Evolutionary Mutation
Classification: Unknown
Estimated Risk Level: B-

“…What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It’s part of my duty. If an undefined evolution is observed, I must report it to the capital and mark it for ongoing surveillance.”

Father stepped forward.

“You’ll go no further without this household’s permission, Sarius-dono.”

“Of course. I’m an observer, not an enforcer.”

Sarius smiled faintly as he spoke.

“But—where there are signs of evolution, there will be trials.
How long your peaceful days will last… that’s the question.”

It wasn’t clear whether that smile was a threat or a warning.

After he left, Rabbichu pressed close to my leg.

“…You scared?”

“Kyu.”

Rabbichu shook his head.

I gently rested my hand on his winged ears.

“It’s okay. We’re not running.”

Even if they watch us. Even if they test us.
There are things I won’t lose.

If it means protecting them—
I’ll fight. I’ll hide the truth. Whatever it takes.

Because the Star Fragment taught me one thing:

This bond… won’t break so easily.