Erend had just received news from Eccar about what had been happening with the quest so far. Eccar had reported nearly everything important, and Erend felt that things would be fine. There didn't seem to be any reason to worry.
Even though something did feel strange, with Adrius's help—and that new adventurer—the problem wouldn't last too long. They'd be able to find a solution soon enough.
Erend wasn't sure whether the case of the missing criminals had anything to do with the awakening of the forest god or not.
"That Eccar… even though he seems a bit brash and reckless at times, he can compose himself when the situation calls for it. I'm sure he can handle this on his own until I get there."
Feeling reassured, Erend got up from his bed. He'd just woken up earlier and immediately contacted Eccar. He had been worried there might be trouble, and that he'd have to leave for another world sooner than he wanted.
But it turns out everything was under control. Eccar could be trusted, and Erend could enjoy a little more time with his family.
He got up and stepped out of his room. The smell of his mother's cooking filled the air and tickled his nose.
This home—it was like a sanctuary with a healing effect. After going through a difficult mission and dealing with mentally exhausting burdens, at least he had this place to return to.
He hadn't realized it until he was back here again: this home and this family were truly precious. Even as a Dragonborn now, with terrifying and incredible power, he still needed his family to feel peace.
That thought made him worry about Eccar. He didn't have a family anymore… How must he feel?
Erend let out a sigh. After the relief and happiness, he now felt a little sad again, thinking of his brother.
But it was a problem he couldn't solve right now. So for now, Erend could only push that aside in the back of his mind.
He walked into the kitchen where Artemis, his sister, was already up and waiting at the dining table. She still had that half-asleep look—wrinkled face, messy hair—but none of that dimmed her beauty.
Their mother was placing dishes on the table one by one. Once the food was ready, they all sat down with warm smiles.
"Arty usually doesn't wake up this early on a Sunday. But because you came home, she suddenly appeared," their mother said with a smile.
Arty didn't deny it and shrugged. "Hey, I mean. I've got a brother who's a hero, running around solving problems in other worlds without even knowing if he'll come back alive. I at least want to see him when he returns."
Erend sighed. That had been a recurring issue whenever he came back. Arty had said before that problems in other worlds weren't entirely his responsibility—because he had a family waiting for him here at home too.
She had begun complaining that Erend spent more time dealing with dangerous affairs in distant worlds than spending time with his own family.
"Well, what matters is that I'm back now," Erend said. "And you know my power. How could I ignore people in need?"
Arty just nodded. "Yeah yeah, alright," she said, clearly annoyed.
"Enough. Let's not talk about that right now. Just eat," their mom said.
So, they began to eat—and really did drop the subject. Even Arty decided not to bring it up again. This short time meant too much for her to waste on fighting with her brother.
As they ate, Arty leaned back in her chair and casually stirred her food.
"So… school's been alright. Nothing too crazy lately." She took a bite, then added with a smirk, "Though there is this one guy who's clearly into me."
Erend froze mid-bite. His eyes flicked up, sharp and alert, and he slowly turned to stare at her. "What guy?" he asked, no longer chewing.
Their mother stifled a laugh, while Arty noticed the sudden change in his demeanor and chuckled.
"Relax, Erend," she said, raising her hands defensively. "He seems nice. And do know I can take care of myself, right? I've got some of your power, remember?"
Erend leaned back, still eyeing her for a moment longer before nodding.
That much was true. Because they'd been around him for so long after he got the power—so close to the Dragonborn's soul—his power had subtly influenced them.
It wasn't something he'd planned or even noticed at first, but over time, the Magic in his presence had awakened something in both his mother and Arty. And not just faint traces either—their strength wasn't something to underestimate.
That was why, despite the dangers he often faced and the enemies he made in other realms, Erend didn't worry too much about leaving his family behind.
They didn't look like much—just an ordinary mother and daughter living in a peaceful house—but if anyone tried to threaten them, they could defend themselves better than most trained fighters.
They finished their meal without further incident, laughter and quiet chatter filling the space between bites.
When the plates were cleared, Erend took care of the dishes, humming softly under his breath as the running water splashed into the sink.
Afterward, the three of them stepped outside to the backyard. The sun was warm, a gentle breeze rustled the trees, and the sky was painted with light blue streaks.
They each settled into their favorite spots in the comfortable chairs arranged in a small semicircle beneath the shade of an old tree.
There was no need for words right now. Just being together in that simple moment was enough. The weight of Magic power, his quests that just started, and distant worlds could wait a little longer. For now, peace lived here.
Erend didn't say anything too much to his mom and Arty. The problem in the other world should just stay in another world, he can't bring them back here. To his sanctuary.