As Shinon left the meeting room, his face bore a secret smile, hidden from the world, knowing that he had seized a unique opportunity and now knew a bit about the mysterious Eclipse leader.

"At least I got something from staying behind," Shinon mumbled as a notification popped before his eyes.

He had used his [Shadow Mimic] ability to great effect, acquiring a fragment of the Eclipse leader’s power and some stat points to bolster his own strength.

Unfortunately, he didn’t get any skill from him, but he was happy with what he got. It was a small but significant victory, adding to his growing arsenal.

Outside the room, he found Miro patiently waiting for him. The man had become a steadfast ally and mentor for Shinon, providing guidance in the complex dynamics of Heaven’s Refuge and helping him with matters surrounding Caleb.

As they exchanged greetings, Shinon couldn’t help but inquire about Caleb, being cautious not to address him as "father" should someone be spying on them.

Miro gave him a sad smile and replied, "Caleb had other guests to attend to and left with Jonah a few minutes ago."

Jonah, being the Masterbuilder, was a figure of authority in the factory and had his responsibilities to fulfil as well. Besides, having more helpful relations wouldn’t harm them in any way.

"The Mayor is a busy man," Shinon mumbled. "I can’t expect him to make time for someone like me."

Shinon’s disappointment was palpable, though carefully concealed. He couldn’t help but wonder if Caleb had been wrestling with the same dilemma, attempting to protect Shinon by maintaining some distance.

This notion, however, offered some measure of consolation, dispelling some of the bitterness that had lingered in his heart from his father’s abandonment.

Initially, he wanted to ask Caleb why he didn’t return to their earth and stayed in the forsaken place. But after the masked leader’s warning, Shinon realised it wasn’t the place or time to ask such questions.

"I don’t think there’s anything else for us to do?" Shinon asked Miro, who shook his head.

Even though they wanted to have a chat with Caleb regarding his letter, it wasn’t possible with all the guards and Eclipse members stationed across the place.

Resigned to the situation, Shinon decided to return to the factory for some well-deserved rest. He quickly made his way to the exit, not wanting to socialise with people he didn’t know. But just as he was about to depart, he heard a familiar voice calling his name.

"Shinon, do you have a second?"

Shinon sighed, turning to find Caleb standing there with a warm smile. By his side was Jessica, a woman of grace and elegance, and their young son, Shinon’s half-brother.

The family trio exuded a sense of togetherness, and it was evident that their bonds were strong, or they were very good at pretending as such.

"Who wouldn’t have time for the most important people in the city!" Shinon exclaimed, walking towards them.

"I’m not as great as people make me out to be," Caleb replied.

As Shinon approached them, his demeanour was formal and respectful.

"Thank you for the kind invitation," he began, his voice calm and composed. "It’s a pleasure to be here."

"Not at all. It’s good to have someone as talented as you amongst us!"

After exchanging a handshake with his father, Shinon extended a gracious gesture toward Jessica. He took her hand and bestowed a gentle kiss upon it, all the while introducing himself with elegant manners.

"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Shinon."

Jessica, charmed by Shinon’s gentleman-like demeanour, couldn’t help but comment on his polished behaviour.

"Oh my, Mr Shinon, you certainly know how to treat a lady," Jessica replied with a warm smile, "Also, it’s lovely to meet you. Since the meeting, Caleb couldn’t stop talking about your remarkable creations.

You must be incredibly talented to get him this excited, and I can’t wait to see your creations in action."

"Thank you for your kind words, ma’am," Shinon, ever ’modest’, responded, "But the one worthy of your praise is my father. After all, everything I’ve learned is due to him."

Caleb listened to Shinon’s words with a mixture of pride and restraint. At that moment, he wanted nothing more than to embrace his son, but he knew the importance of not attracting undue attention from the Eclipse.

Still, the sentiment behind Shinon’s words warmed his heart. These were the moments he had missed while trapped in a strange world.

"Oh, is your father here?" Jessica inquired. "I would love to meet him."

"Unfortunately, I do not know his whereabouts," Shinon sighed. "I was looking for him when I came across Heaven’s Refuge and decided to stay."

Before continuing, Shinon placed his hand on his chest, "But it seems like he is around me. I feel like he’s here at this moment!"

"I’m sure he is," Jessica replied with a pleasant, caring smile before turning to leave. "I hope you’ll find your father soon, Mr Shinon and please, don’t be a stranger to us when you do!"

Having said what she had to, Jessica gracefully excused herself and departed with her son. Leaving Caleb alone with Shinon.

He placed a reassuring hand on Shinon’s shoulder and, choosing his words carefully, remarked, "Keep up the good work, son. We’ll meet again soon."

It was a bold move, calling Shinon ’son’, and Caleb knew the risks involved, but he was willing to accept them. He intended to maintain plausible deniability should any questions arise from the Eclipse or anyone else.

If anyone asked him about it, he could always pass it off like he was complimenting a talented kid, and that was it.

And understand it, Shinon did. His expression softened, a hint of emotion breaking through the façade of formality.

It was a subtle but meaningful connection, proof of the enduring bond between father and son. At that moment, Shinon knew that Caleb hadn’t forgotten about him, his son, and that thought brought him peace.

"Of course, sir. Have a great night ahead..." Shinon replied and left for the factory with a smile.