Exploring the footwork catalog, my attention was drawn to one in particular that seemed to have similarities with the Shadow Sword I had just acquired. This footwork was called "Shadow Leap," classified as grade 4. The skill's description further piqued my interest, as it promised the ability to conceal oneself within surrounding shadows, especially if one had a high affinity with darkness.

According to the description, the higher my affinity with darkness, the more effective the ability would be to hide in the shadows of my surroundings. However, it also warned that prolonged use of this ability would quickly deplete my mana reserves.

Though the description hinted at the skill's usefulness for stealth or discreet surveillance, the last part about the possibility of silently eliminating someone made me contemplate the darker side of this ability.

Despite my reflections, it was clear that both the Shadow Sword and the Shadow Leap would be valuable investments for my growth and security. I decided to acquire the Shadow Leap, which had the same price as the Shadow Sword, totaling 3000 system points. Glancing at my points balance, I noticed I still had about 600 points left over.

I observed Lyasndra, who was seated absorbing some mana crystals, while Elsa practiced her sword handling in another corner. With the intention of getting Lyasndra a gift, I turned my attention to the magical artifacts catalog in search of something she might like.

After a few seconds of searching, my eyes settled on a red cape adorned with flowers. According to the system-provided description, this cape enhanced affinity with flowers and, therefore, with nature in general. Additionally, it had a higher mana absorption level, though this depended on the user. The cape was classified as a mid-grade artifact and had a cost of 300 points.

Considering Lyasndra's characteristics and her deep love for nature, I decided to acquire the red cape as a gift for her. I was sure she would appreciate the gesture and find great utility in this magical artifact. With this decision made, I proceeded to make the purchase and eagerly awaited Lyasndra's reaction when she received her gift.

With a mysterious smile on my lips, I approached Lyasndra and softly whispered, "I have a gift for you, darling. Could you please stand up and close your eyes for a moment?" Lyasndra, with a surprised expression in her eyes, stood up and obeyed my words, slowly closing her eyes.

As she stood before me, I positioned myself behind her, admiring her beautiful dress highlighting her delicate back and charming rear. A spark of mischief gleamed in my eyes.

"Bang! Kyaa!"

The melodious cry of astonishment that escaped Lyasndra's lips resonated in the room, an echo of surprise and delight. Quickly, she turned towards me with eyes filled with disbelief and anticipation. "Do you like my gift, darling?" I asked with a smile, appreciating the mix of emotions crossing her face.

However, her expression suddenly changed, morphing into an annoyed pout, and she looked at me resentfully before turning around to walk away.

Not willing to let her anger linger, I gently wrapped her in a hug from behind, carefully draping the red cape adorned with flowers over her shoulders. Lyasndra stayed still for a moment, feeling the soft touch of the fabric on her skin. As she did so, I appreciated the delicate silhouette of her back and the subtle charm of her figure.

Slowly, Lyasndra turned to face the garment, her eyes scanning the details of the cape with keen interest. Excitement sparkled in her gaze, transforming resentment into a spark of curiosity and enthusiasm. In that moment, I decided to add an extra touch, taking another identical cape and carefully placing it over her shoulders.

Lyasndra's expression changed drastically upon feeling the second cape, and before she could utter a word, she enveloped me in a tight hug. "Yes, I loved it," she whispered with a soft voice, almost like a sigh.

After a few minutes of browsing the catalog, my eyes stopped on an item that seemed perfect for Elsa: a mid-grade bracelet. According to the description, it granted the wearer increased affinity with ice and enhanced control over it. This would surely be useful for Elsa, considering her innate ability with the element.

I decided to acquire the bracelet without hesitation, knowing it would be an ideal gift for her. After completing the purchase, I carefully stored the artifact, planning to give it to Elsa at the right moment, possibly when it was time for us to part ways. With the bracelet in my possession, I felt satisfied.

We gathered and decided it was time to return to the city. Our goals, both mine and Elsa's, had been successfully achieved. Everything had gone perfectly according to plan. In my ring, I kept two seven-star flowers, one of which I intended to give to Ema. With her bloodline and my help in her training, I was sure she would become a true prodigy, a budding powerhouse.

Of course, we relied on Lysandria's indispensable collaboration to achieve this.

The three of us took out a scroll from our rings, our smiles reflecting mutual satisfaction and understanding. With a joint gesture, we activated the scroll. In the blink of an eye, we disappeared from the place, leaving behind a void filled only by eternal silence. The journey back to the city had begun, and we were ready to face whatever destiny had in store for us.

The three of us appeared in our room, the familiar and cozy environment of our home welcoming us warmly. Before leaving, Lysandria traced some runes on the floor, preparing the

return ritual. A familiar fluttering sensation in my stomach overtook me, cursing internally although I had managed to awaken my bloodline and my body was much more resistant than before, I couldn't get used to this feeling.

As my discomfort intensified, a clear and biting mockery resonated in the room. I recognized Lysandria's unmistakable voice, who never missed the opportunity to make some sarcastic remark. "Some things never change."