Selena opened her eyes, her gaze meeting Adrian’s. “The church believed you were destined to change the world, Adrian. They never knew whether it would be for better or worse, but they believed it with all their hearts.”

  Adrian felt a chill creep through him, despite the warmth of his flames coursing beneath his skin. He leaned back, digesting her words. A prophecy about me? I don’t know if I’m ready to carry something like that. If it’s even true.

  “Do you believe it?” he asked quietly.

  Selena hesitated, then nodded. “I’ve always believed in you, Adrian. The church saw it, and I see it too. You’re meant for something greater.”

  Adrian sat in silence, the weight of Selena’s words pressing down on him. Honestly, not sure how to feel about all this.

  Selena watched him quietly, her expression gentle but unreadable. After a moment, she spoke again, her voice softer this time. “I know it’s a lot to take in, Adrian. I don’t expect you to have all the answers right now.”

  He looked up, his eyes meeting hers. “It’s not just that, if this prophecy is real… then what am I supposed to do with it?”

  Selena gave him a small, understanding smile. “I think that’s something only you can figure out. Prophecies are rarely straightforward. They guide, but they don’t decide.”

  Adrian nodded slowly, though the tension in his chest remained. He exhaled heavily, running a hand through his hair. “It’s just… a lot."

  Selena reached out, placing a hand lightly on his arm. “I know it’s not easy, Adrian. But you don’t have to figure it all out alone. You have people who care about you.”

  Adrian gave her a faint, grateful smile. “Thanks, Selena.”

  She nodded, then straightened slightly, as though remembering something. “Speaking of people who care… Kael and Galtier are in one of the guest rooms. I had them settled there while we sorted everything out. I can take you to them if you’d like.”

  Adrian stood immediately, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. “Yeah, I’d like that. Thanks.” At least that's one less thing to worry about tonight.

  ***

  Adrian stopped in front of a door identical to his own. He knocked lightly, the sound muffled by the thick panels. “Kael? Galtier? It’s me.”

  There was a brief pause before the door creaked open, revealing Kael standing barefoot on the thick carpet. His headband was slightly askew, brown hair poking out in uneven tufts.

  Despite his casual demeanor, he turned toward Selena and Adrian with uncanny precision. “Oh, it’s you. And Adrian’s here too. Took you long enough.”

  "A lot happened."

  Adrian stepped inside and spotted Galtier, who was leaning against the far wall, arms crossed over his black armor. The towering figure regarded Adrian with his usual impassive air, though there was a faint nod of acknowledgment.

  Kael plopped onto one of the armchairs, tucking his legs beneath him as he gestured dramatically. “So, what’s the deal?"

  Adrian chuckled, shaking his head. “You're both free to go, I'm quite sure Lysander just wants me to stick around."

  "And this Lysander is… who?"

  "Natasha's father."

  "Ooh, that purple-haired girl's dad? How is he?"

  "He's interesting, to say the least. Definitely dangerous though."

  “That's an understatement,” Selena added as she took a seat beside Kael, smoothing her robes once again. “Lysander is dangerous, but he’s not our enemy. At least not for now.”

  Kael leaned forward, his expression thoughtful despite his casual tone. “Well, that’s comforting. So what’s the plan, Adrian? Stick around and play nice?”

  Adrian exhaled, resting his elbows on his knees. “For now, yes. I don’t trust him entirely, but if he wanted to pull something, I'm sure he would've done so already."

  Galtier finally spoke, his voice low and deliberate. “Lysander doesn't seem like the type of man who does favors out of kindness. If he’s offering help, it’s because he sees value in keeping you around.”

  “I know,” Adrian said, meeting Galtier’s gaze. “But I’ll take what I can get."

  Kael leaned back, folding his arms behind his head. “Well, as long as the food’s good and no one’s trying to stab us in our sleep, I’m actually feeling okay."

  Adrian’s grip on the door tightened, his mind racing. Kael? Why him? He turned to Selena and asked, "what do you think? Should we trust this?”

  Selena’s brows knit together, her expression thoughtful. “Master Lysander is… intense, but he’s not impulsive. If he asked for Kael, it’s probably because he genuinely wants to speak with him. That said…” Her voice trailed off, and she glanced toward Kael, her concern evident. “I can’t say why Kael specifically.”

  Kael stretched his arms over his head and stood, his movements casual. “Guess I’m popular now,” he said with a crooked smirk.

  The servant remained in the hallway, waiting with impeccable patience, his hands clasped behind his back. “Master Lysander does not tolerate delays."

  Adrian turned back to Selena, his voice quieter. “Do we have a choice?”

  Selena hesitated, her lips pressing into a thin line before she finally shook her head. “Not really. It’s better to face him directly than to make him come to us. That would only escalate things.”

  Adrian sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “If we do this, then at least we’re going together.”

  Kael shrugged lazily. “Fine by me. Let’s not keep the big boss waiting.”

  The servant inclined his head. “Very well. Follow me, please.”

  The group moved into the corridor, their steps falling into rhythm behind the servant, who led them to a set of heavy double doors, their intricate carvings depicting coiled serpents and roses entwined in a deadly embrace.

  He pushed the doors open, revealing a smaller but equally lavish study. Lysander sat behind a grand oak desk, a decanter of amber liquid at his side and a faint smile playing on his lips. His silver-gray eye immediately landed on Kael, though it flicked briefly to the rest of the group.

  “I see my invitation has grown legs. I asked for Kael, not a parade.” Lysander said with a light chuckle.

  Adrian stepped forward, his jaw tight. “If you need to talk to Kael, we’re staying. No exceptions.”

  Kael stepped forward, his posture loose but his voice carrying a surprising weight. “You called for me. So here I am. What do you want, old man?”

  Lysander’s amusement faded into a more serious expression as he regarded Kael. His silver-gray eye held a weight that hadn’t been there moments ago. “I'll cut to the chase then, you have to go."

  Kael crossed his arms, tilting his head in mock defiance. “Go? You think you can get rid of me that easily? If you want me out, old man, you’re going to have to fight me.”

  For a moment, the room fell silent. Then Lysander’s booming laughter filled the study, the deep sound reverberating off the walls.

  If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it's taken without the author's consent. Report it.

  He leaned forward slightly, his rings catching the light as he rested his hands on the desk. “Oh, you’re a spirited one, aren’t you? I don’t mean it like that, boy. You’re not being thrown out of here. It’s just that your grandfather, Sigmund, is looking for you. And trust me when I say, I’d rather not keep him waiting.”

  “Gramps? How would you even know that? Last I checked, he wasn’t exactly pen pals with anyone down here.” Kael asked.

  Lysander reached into a drawer and retrieved a neatly folded envelope. The paper was thick and embossed with an unfamiliar seal. “This arrived just a short while ago. Delivered by a magical familiar, no less.”.”

  He unfolded the letter and cleared his throat before speaking aloud. “To Lysander Whitewynn: I hope this message reaches you promptly. I’ve received word, through reliable channels, that my foolish grandson is currently in South Tusk. Ensure his safety until he can return to me, or else I won't be so generous the next time we meet."

  Kael groaned, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yep, that’s Gramps alright. The ‘foolish grandson’ part seals it.”

  Adrian stifled a smile as he watched Kael’s reaction. Amusing, but the more important part here is learning that Lysander seems to respect Sigmund, or at least, he respects the guildmaster's strength.

  Lysander’s expression turned thoughtful as he folded the letter again. “Sigmund and I have history. Not all of it pleasant, but enough for me to take his words seriously. I’ll arrange for an escort to take you to him immediately.”

  Kael held up a hand. “Hold on, old man. How did Gramps even find out I’m here?"

  Lysander raised an eyebrow, unfolding the letter once more. “Ah, there’s a postscript. Let’s see...”

  “‘If my grandson is foolish enough to ask how I know of his whereabouts, kindly remind him that he disclosed his plans during dinner not long ago."

  “Okay, that definitely sounds like him.”

  Selena chuckled softly. “You told him your plans over dinner and forgot?"

  Kael waved a hand dismissively. “I didn’t forget. I just didn’t think he’d actually track me down."

  Lysander stood, tucking the letter into his coat pocket. “Well, Sigmund clearly cares enough to make an exception for you. I’d suggest you don’t keep him waiting any longer. I’ll have my men ready to escort you within the hour.”

  “Fine, fine. I’ll go. But only because it’s Gramps.” He stood, stretching his arms lazily. “Guess I owe him that much.”

  Adrian stepped forward, placing a hand on Kael’s shoulder. “We’ll hold things down here. Just... stay safe, alright?”

  Kael’s grin widened. “Safe? Please, Adrian. I’ll be fine. It’s you guys who should watch out. I’m not there to keep you out of trouble.”

  "Yeah… we'll be fine."

  Lysander clapped his hands once, his commanding presence filling the room again. “Good. It’s settled, then. Let’s get you on your way, boy. Sigmund will appreciate the punctuality.”

  As Kael followed the servant out of the study to prepare, Adrian lingered behind, his thoughts swirling. Sigmund. Another piece of this puzzle. How many more people are tied to all of this?

  He exchanged a glance with Selena and Galtier before turning back to Lysander. “What exactly is your history with Kael’s grandfather?”

  Lysander’s smile returned, though it carried an edge. “Ah, that’s a story for another time, Adrian. For now, focus on what’s ahead.”

  Kael was escorted out shortly after by a group of servants, his easy grin lingering as he waved over his shoulder. “Don’t miss me too much,” he called out. Adrian crossed his arms, watching the group disappear down the corridor.

  Once the room settled into silence, Adrian turned to Lysander. “This is a bit suddenly, but there’s actually something I need to ask.”

  Lysander raised an eyebrow. “Go on.”

  “I’d like to send a letter to an adventurer couple in Willowbrook. They’ve been looking after me, and I want them to know I’m alright.”

  “Marcus and Anisa, correct? I’ve heard of them.”

  He gestured toward the desk in the corner of the study. “Write your letter. Once it’s ready, I’ll see it delivered myself by one of my familiars. They’re reliable, faster than any messenger.”

  ***

  Adrian sat at the desk in Lysander’s study, the soft glow of a nearby lamp casting warm light over the blank sheet of paper before him. A quill rested lightly in his hand, and for a moment, he hesitated, staring at the empty page. How should I start this?

  He exhaled slowly, dipping the quill into the inkwell and letting his thoughts flow onto the paper.

  Dear Marcus and Anisa,

  I hope this letter finds you both in good health. I know you’re probably worried about me, and for that, I’m sorry. Things have been… complicated. But I want you to know that I’m safe here in South Tusk.

  I’ve met people I can trust, and I’m learning more about myself and what I’m meant to do. It’s strange, being so far from Willowbrook. I miss it. I miss you both. You’ve done so much for me, and I want you to know how grateful I am.

  There's still a lot I need to do here in South Tusk. But I'll make sure to come back to Willowbrook as soon as I can.

  Adrian set the quill down gently, his fingers brushing away an errant smudge of ink. He leaned back in the chair, exhaling deeply, the weight of his thoughts lingering even as the letter began to take shape. That should be enough for now.

  “Mimi, mind coming out?” Adrian called softly.

  Within seconds, a soft trill echoed through the room, and a small burst of green flames spiraled upward, coalescing into the familiar form of the spirit fox. Her emerald eyes gleamed in the lamplight, and she padded over to him with an excited chirp, her flame-like tail flicking playfully.

  Adrian chuckled as Mimi nudged his hand with her warm, flickering nose. “Alright, alright,” he murmured, rubbing behind her ears. “You missed me, huh?”

  Mimi hopped onto the desk with a graceful leap, sniffing curiously at the paper before him. Adrian quickly moved the letter aside. “No touching that, please."

  The fox trilled again, her tail swishing as she playfully batted at the quill still resting on the desk. Adrian laughed, leaning forward to scoop her up, her small, flame-like body weightless in his arms. “You really don’t care about personal space, do you?” he asked, holding her up to meet her luminous eyes.

  She gave an approving chirp, nuzzling against his chin before darting out of his grasp, landing on the chair with a soft puff of green light. He watched her dart around the room as if she were trying to draw him into a game.

  He indulged her, crouching low as she disappeared behind a stack of books, only to reappear from another corner, her eyes gleaming with mischief. But the lighthearted moment was interrupted by a soft knock at the door, startling him slightly. Mimi immediately darted toward the shadows, her flames dimming as she blended seamlessly into the dim corners of the study.

  Adrian straightened in his chair as the door creaked open, revealing Selena’s familiar silhouette. “Am I interrupting?”

  The boy shook his head, setting the quill down carefully. “No, it’s fine. I’m just finishing up.”

  She stepped into the room, carrying a tray balanced with an assortment of small snacks and a steaming teapot. The gentle clink of porcelain echoed as she walked. “I thought you could use a break,” she said, placing the tray on a small table by the window.

  Adrian stretched slightly. “Thanks, Selena. That’s thoughtful of you.”

  She smiled faintly, pouring a cup of tea and offering it to him. “You’ve been through a lot today. A bit of tea and something sweet won’t hurt.”

  Adrian took a sip of the tea Selena offered, its warmth spreading through him like a calming wave. He reached for one of the snacks on the tray—a delicate pastry filled with a soft, sweet cream. The moment he bit into it, the rich flavors melted on his tongue, bringing an unexpected smile to his face.

  “This is great,” he said, glancing at Selena. “Really, really good.”

  Her expression brightened. “I’m glad you think so,” she said, folding her hands neatly in her lap. “I made them myself.”

  “You did? I wouldn’t have guessed, these taste out of this world."

  “I used to bake with the sisters back at the convent. It was one of the few times we could truly relax. I guess I picked up a few skills.”

  Adrian nodded, finishing the pastry and pouring himself another cup of tea. “You should bake more often. This is incredible.”

  Her smile lingered as she watched him enjoy the food. “Maybe I will. You’re not the easiest person to look after, you know, but at least you’re appreciative.”

  Adrian smirked, setting his cup down. “Speaking of people who aren’t easy to look after, how’s Galtier doing?”

  “He’s fine. I checked on him before coming here. He’s in his room, probably brooding, as usual.”

  “Sounds about right.”

  As he reached for another snack, a soft green light flickered near the edge of the room. Selena’s gaze shifted, and her eyes widened slightly as Mimi trotted out from under the desk, her emerald-green flames casting a gentle glow in the dim room.

  “And who's this?” Selena asked, leaning forward with curiosity.

  Adrian smiled, watching Mimi circle Selena’s chair with playful energy. “This is Mimi. She’s... well, you could call her a familiar.”

  Selena held out a hand, and Mimi approached cautiously, sniffing at her fingers before nuzzling against them. The flames didn’t burn, but their warmth was palpable.

  Selena’s smile grew as she gently stroked Mimi’s head. “She’s beautiful. I’ve never seen anything like her.”

  Adrian shrugged, watching the interaction with a hint of amusement. “She’s pretty friendly, as long as she trusts you."

  Selena tilted her head, her fingers trailing through Mimi’s flickering mane. “Does she speak? Or... communicate in any other way?”

  Adrian shook his head. “Not exactly. She can sense energy, though, and she’s good at guiding people when they need it."

  Mimi eventually curled up at Selena’s feet, her green flames dimming slightly as she rested. Immediately after, Selena turned her attention back to Adrian. “So, how do you feel about tomorrow? Meeting Seven, I mean.”

  Adrian leaned back in his chair, his expression tightening slightly. “I don’t know. It’s... complicated. I want answers, but I’m not sure what to expect from her."

  Selena studied him quietly, her voice soft when she spoke. “Seven isn’t what you’d expect. She’s... different. She believes in helping people, even if her methods can be hard to understand. But I think you’ll see that for yourself.”