Saras walked gracefully down the stone corridor that cut through the inner courtyard of the Tirta Nirmala Sect. In the center of the courtyard stood a small pond, sunlight reflecting off its calm surface. At the heart of the pond, a quiet fountain burbled, its soft rhythm the only sound accompanying their silent steps. Gugum followed behind her, not a word spoken between them. The silence lingered heavily, as if the space between them was too dense for conversation to pass through.
They stopped before a pavilion carved from aged wood, its every detail whispering of ancient refinement. Saras halted abruptly. Gugum, caught in quiet awe at the architecture, nearly collided into her.
"Watch your steps," she said coldly, not even turning her head.
"Sorry. I wasn't paying attention," Gugum replied. "The buildings here... they feel majestic."
"Hmph." A scoff, sharp and low. Arrogance seeped from her every breath."So, you've been living in the woods all this time? These buildings are nothing compared to the great sects beyond these mountains."
"Yes," he answered simply. "I've lived in the forest all my life. It's only been a few days since I saw the world beyond."
Her eyes narrowed. Something in her gaze lingered this time—longer, deeper.She studied him again.
"I don't know what connection you have with the Sect Leader... or what ties your master has to him. But what I do know is this—he considers you important," she said quietly, almost to herself.
Gugum furrowed his brow. "What do you mean?"
"The Leader asked me to bring you here. This is the Honor Pavilion—reserved only for the sect's most esteemed guests. Not just anyone is allowed to stay here."
Gugum didn't respond. He lowered his gaze slightly. But in his heart, he understood.His mother... truly held a place in this man's heart.
"For now, rest here. You've been accepted as a guest disciple. Starting tomorrow, you'll be expected to join the sect's daily activities."
He nodded slowly. Saras turned without another word, her silhouette fading into the inner path.
Left alone, Gugum looked around. He approached the door and pushed gently.
It didn't budge.
He tried again. Still nothing.
"It's locked..." he muttered. "I can't force it open. That wouldn't be right."
He sighed deeply. Did she do this on purpose...? The question lingered unanswered.
Far away, Saras halted mid-step. Her brows furrowed.
"…I forgot to give him the key," she muttered, pressing her palm to her forehead.
Why… why do I always lose my composure around him? I'm never like this with anyone else...She sighed again. "I'll go back later… or send someone with the key."
And she walked on, her footsteps lighter than before.
In the Sect Hall, Sanjaya sat upon the throne carved into the stone dais. Before him, his four senior guards knelt respectfully.
"Banyu," he called.
One of the guards stepped forward. "Yes, Leader."
"Select our best men. I want you to investigate the Silent Wind Valley. Search carefully. There may be signs of a woman… someone I failed to find once before."
"She once saved my life," Sanjaya continued, voice low but weighted. "I never repaid that debt."
"I understand," Banyu replied. "I'll make the selection and head out immediately."
"Wait." Sanjaya's voice cut through the air before Banyu could turn.
"This mission is to remain secret. Only the five of us must know. And you—lead it yourself."
Banyu gave a deep nod. Then he turned and disappeared into the shadows.
Sanjaya closed his eyes.
If I failed to find you once… I swear… this time, I will.
Afternoon sunlight filtered through the trees. In the Honor Pavilion, Gugum sat calmly outside the still-locked door.
He made no attempt to wander. He knew nothing of the sect's inner rules and didn't wish to break them.
Footsteps.
Quick. Eager.
He turned and saw a familiar figure running toward him—hair tied back, eyes bright. Behind him, a girl with soft features and steady breath followed close behind.
"Jaka… and Lila," he murmured. "They're disciples here too…? But why were they—?"
"Sir! Finally! I found you!" Jaka cried, rushing up the path.
Gugum stood.
"Please—don't call me that. And don't bring up what happened at the lake. I didn't help you. I just… couldn't stand by and watch injustice."
"No matter your reasons, you still saved us," Jaka replied, firm and grateful.
"I heard your name—Gugum, right? I'm Jaka. This is Lila."
"Thank you, Sir," Lila said with a light bow. "If not for you... we..."
"Enough," Gugum cut in, raising a hand. "There's no need for thanks."
The two disciples exchanged a glance, then nodded, their respect undiminished.
Silence hung for a moment.
Then Jaka broke it.
"Yesterday, I heard about a fight at the main gate. Sagara versus some outsider. I ran over as fast as I could. I saw you fighting him... but when I arrived, you were already gone. And Senior Saras…"
"Jaka! Lila! What are you doing here?!"
A sharp, cold voice pierced the air.
And all three turned toward its source.