Mason sat on the edge of his bed in the city of Frandyln, Amelia’s letter crumpled in his hand. Her words weighed heavily on him—she was tired of his absences, his dangerous life, and the uncertainty of his return each time he left for another adventure. The threat of divorce was no idle warning; Amelia was serious. He realized he couldn’t keep running from the responsibilities that came with his marriage.   After contemplating for hours, Mason decided to act. He sought out a caravan headed to Isondale, a journey of three and a half days. As an artificer, Mason always traveled with tools and materials, and during the trek, he kept himself occupied by creating a new companion—a homunculus servant. He designed it in the shape of a mechanical koala, small but efficient, with intricate gears and enchanted parts. Naming it Mimi, he infused the homunculus with a portion of his own magic, ensuring it would be both loyal and useful. Mimi had small eyes made of polished gems that gleamed with curiosity, and its tiny metal claws clicked as it perched on Mason’s shoulder.   The caravan moved steadily through the countryside, though the autumn chill was sharp. Mason spent much of his time tinkering with Mimi, occasionally assisting the caravan guards with repairs to their equipment or sharing tales of his adventures. The nights were quiet, the firelight flickering as Mason stared into the distance, wondering how he would make things right with Amelia.   Mason reached Isondale late in the afternoon on the fourth day. The city loomed ahead, its great harbor bustling with ships and the unmistakable scent of the sea in the air. Arlo Tyne’s influence was clear—his shipping company was the lifeblood of this thriving city. Mason, with Mimi still on his shoulder, made his way to the Tyne estate. He felt a mix of excitement and dread. Would Amelia even want to see him after everything?   The Tyne mansion was imposing yet elegant, its gates wide open for business associates and friends. When Mason entered, he was greeted by the butler, who recognized him immediately and ushered him inside. He was led to a large drawing room where Amelia was waiting.   Amelia stood by the window, looking out at the city, her arms crossed. Her expression was unreadable as Mason approached.   “You came back,” she said, her voice neutral but edged with emotion.   “I had to,” Mason replied, his voice soft. “I know things have been... hard. I’ve been selfish. I didn’t realize how much I was hurting you by staying away for so long.”   Amelia turned to face him, her gaze sharp. “I love you, Mason, but I can’t live like this—wondering if you’ll come back every time you leave. I need you here, with me, not chasing danger in some far-off land.”   Mason took a deep breath. “I don’t want to lose you, Amelia. I’m willing to give up adventuring if that’s what it takes. But... I want to ask you something first. What if you came with me? We could explore together, see the world, experience everything.”   Amelia’s eyes softened, but she shook her head. “I can’t do that. My place is here, Mason. I belong in Isondale, running the household, helping my father. I enjoy the stability, the safety of the city. I could never live that life on the road.”   Mason’s heart sank, but he nodded, understanding her perspective. “Then I’ll stay,” he said quietly. “If that’s what you need from me, I’ll stay.”   Over the next several days, Mason did his best to reintegrate himself into the Tyne family. He met with Arlo, who was curt but professional, reminding Mason that his responsibilities in the company were still waiting for him. Arlo wasn’t unkind, but he was clear: if Mason wanted a future in Isondale, it would be one of hard work and dedication to the business, not a life of adventure.   Mason also spent time with Amelia’s mother, Zylzana "Zana" Tyne, a graceful woman who gently reminded him that Amelia had always dreamed of a family life. She urged him to consider what kind of future they could build together, a future that didn’t involve risking his life at every turn.   Mason couldn’t help but feel the tension between his old life and the new one he was being asked to accept. The thought of leaving behind his adventuring companions and the thrill of discovery gnawed at him, but he knew his marriage came first. Mimi, his mechanical koala, became a small comfort to him in those days, offering silent company as he wrestled with his decision.   After spending time with Amelia and her family, Mason knew he had a choice to make...   What will Mason's choice be? Will he forsake his life, and the promise of wealthy life as a noble working for Arlo Tyne and Tyne Shipping? Will Mason accept the place he made for himself so many years ago by saving Amelia and winning her hand in marriage?