Floating Island - Triple S Talent

"It's already 11," Lein murmured lightly as he glanced at the clock on the wall.

It had been a long time since he last wandered around the city. His busy daily life often kept him from enjoying the surroundings. Today, he decided to try something different. Rising from his chair, Lein walked casually toward the garage.

His beloved bicycle, with its sleek black frame and sturdy pedals, was waiting for him there. He smiled faintly. It had been a while since he last used it, but it still looked in perfect condition.

It didn't take long to get ready. Five minutes later, he stepped out of his house gate, guiding his bicycle. The road in front of his home felt like a small oasis.

Rows of green plants, shady trees, and colorful flowers lined the path, creating a soothing atmosphere. About 100 meters from his residence, the residential area transitioned into a multifunctional zone with warehouses, ponds, and sports fields. Everything was neatly arranged in a modern yet natural design.

Lein began pedaling his bicycle leisurely. A gentle breeze brushed against his face, slightly ruffling his hair. His appearance was simple—just casual attire. Nothing stood out. If someone saw him now, they might think he was just an ordinary resident enjoying his morning. But beneath that simplicity, Lein remained a Guardian.

He pondered for a moment, trying to decide on today's destination.

"I'll visit the supermarket near Margo City Mall," he thought, nodding slightly. It would be a pleasant trip.

As Lein's bicycle passed the guard post portal, the guards stepped out of their post in unison. Their posture was upright, exuding respect in their movements.

"Salute to the Guardian!" they shouted in unison, their right hands raised to their chests.

Lein merely nodded slightly. To him, such gestures of respect had become routine. Without looking back, he continued pedaling, leaving the guards standing in place, watching him until he disappeared from sight.

Once he exited the residential area, he arrived at the main highway. Five large lanes stretched wide before him, as if offering boundless space.

While most transportation now utilized flying technology, ground routes were still in use, though not as crowded as before. Alongside the highway, there was a perfectly designed bike lane, just as wide and comfortable as the motor vehicle lanes in the middle of the main road.

Lein pedaled slowly along the bike lane, taking in the city's atmosphere. Occasionally, ground vehicles like cars or motorcycles passed along the main road.

There was no longer the noisy roar of engines or exhaust fumes polluting the air as before. All vehicles had transitioned to crystal technology as their energy source. The air felt fresh, as if newly cleansed after rain.

"So quiet," he murmured as he pedaled.

Memories of the past suddenly surfaced in his mind. He recalled his days on Earth, where traffic jams were a part of daily life. Roads were packed with vehicles, horns blaring incessantly, and the air felt heavy with pollution.

Now, this city seemed like a different world—orderly, serene, and clean. Yet, something was missing.

Lein stopped briefly under a large tree by the roadside. He gazed into the distance, letting his thoughts wander.

"Hanes… when will you fulfill your promise?" he asked silently. His voice was low, almost like a whisper.

He remembered Hanes' promise to return with a gift as an apology for his past mistakes. It had been over a month, yet there was no news at all. Lein sighed deeply, then resumed pedaling his bicycle.

Lein had yet to decide to explore realms beyond the Divine Sky because he felt he hadn't built a solid government across the entire territory. It wasn't that he was incapable of leaving, but Lein wanted to manage everything in a structured and steady manner, ensuring every aspect of governance functioned well before moving forward.

With the power he possessed, Lein was confident that very few in the universe could rival him. In fact, he felt there was almost no threat that truly concerned him at the moment.

In the distance, Lein noticed a group of young people wearing trendy outfits standing by the roadside. They seemed excited, chatting among themselves while occasionally pointing in his direction.

"See? I told you it's Lord Lein!" exclaimed a girl in the group excitedly, her voice nearly breaking the silence. Her eyes sparkled with conviction, while her friends still seemed hesitant.

"Calm down, let's just take a video. It's so rare to see the Guardian in person," responded one of her friends, immediately raising her phone to record without taking her eyes off Lein.

Lein observed them from afar, aware of their behavior but unfazed by it. He gave a faint smile, understanding their curiosity. If he were in their position, he might feel the same.

On Earth, it would be impossible to see a president walking alone without security. But then again, who could act as Lein's security? It would be merely for formality.

Lein continued pedaling, and it didn't take long for him to approach the group. As he drew near, the young people quickly hid their phones, pretending they weren't doing anything.

"Good afternoon, everyone," Lein greeted warmly. His voice was calm but carried a genuine warmth.

The three girls in the group instantly blushed, unable to hide their nervousness. They exchanged glances before one of them finally mustered the courage to respond.

"Good afternoon, Lord Guardian," they replied in unison, their broad smiles betraying their excitement.

One of the young men in the group, dressed in luxurious attire that signified his noble lineage, took a step closer with a polite demeanor.

"Good afternoon, Guardian. How are you?" he asked respectfully yet courteously.

Lein looked at the young man with a friendly gaze. From his eyes and posture, Lein could easily tell that this young man had received good education and etiquette training.

"Good," Lein replied briefly, smiling. "Are you all from a university?"

"Yes, Sir. We're from the University of Indonesia," the young man answered enthusiastically. He hesitated for a moment but then gathered the courage to ask another question. "May we take a photo with you?"

"Of course," Lein replied without hesitation.

Bright smiles instantly spread across their faces. They quickly arranged themselves, standing around Lein, who remained seated on his bicycle. The young man stood beside him, raising his phone high to take a selfie. Lein simply gave a faint smile, letting the moment unfold.

"Thank you, Lord Guardian," they said gratefully after the photo was taken.

"Thank you," added another, their smiles unwavering.