Upon arriving at the neighboring pack, Celes found Old Sage deep in the midst of an intricate procedure, assisted by a young man who looked a little annoyed for his job.
And the scene before her was one of seamless coordination and expertise. They moved in perfect harmony, their communication fluid and efficient, often in a language she could not understand. The sight froze her in place, making her feel like an outsider in a world she was just beginning to comprehend.
After the procedure was successfully completed, Old Sage turned to her with an unexpected announcement.
“As you know, this will be my last procedure before my retirement.”
Celes turned at him shock. “Retirement?”
“It is time for a new generation to take over. I have decided that you, Celes will be assisting my son from now on.”
“Your son?"
He was his son? How come I haven't seen him before?
"But… I didn’t know you had one.”
“Larkin has been studying and preparing for this role. It is his time to step up, and you will be his apprentice.”
Larkin tried to hide his astonishment. "This is quite sudden, Father. Is there no room for discussion?”