The first light of morning crept over Elderglow Academy, casting a soft glow across the quiet grounds. Inside, however, the academy was already abuzz with activity.
Lord Terrace and Lord Acheon, prepared for departure, made their way toward Dean Godsthorn’s office for a final conversation before leaving. The previous day’s events lingered heavily on Terrace’s mind, and he had a parting request for the Dean.
The two Lords reached the office, where Dean Godsthorn awaited them, his expression both welcoming and serious. He gestured for them to take seats, sensing the weight of the conversation to come.
“Good morning, Lords,” Dean Godsthorn greeted, his voice steady. “I trust the morning finds you well?”
Lord Terrace nodded, though a flicker of tension showed in his eyes. “We’re well, Dean, but something came up during my time outside the academy,” he began. “There was an attempt on my life. And my son’s.”
Dean Godsthorn’s expression darkened. “I see. That’s… troubling. Do you know who orchestrated it?”
Lord Terrace’s gaze hardened. “A nobleman named Paul Haylen. It’s been dealt with, but I have concerns that he might recover after being spared by Damon’s sheer presence and may end up repeating his attempt,not learning his lesson.”
Dean Godsthorn nodded thoughtfully. “The influence of some of these noble families runs deep. You’re wise to be cautious.”
“That’s precisely why I’m here,” Terrace continued, leaning forward. “While I’m away, I want Damon kept under close watch. If anyone shows even a hint of interest in him that seems unusual, I expect immediate action to be taken.”
Dean Godsthorn met his gaze evenly. “Consider it done. Damon will be monitored closely.”
Lord Acheon spoke up next, shifting the conversation. “Dean, we have to prepare for the coming war. It will reach far beyond the battlefield—it will reach into every corner of our world, including this academy.” He paused, his eyes solemn. “You must prepare every set of students, from the youngest to the final years.”
Dean Godsthorn sighed but nodded in agreement. “We’ve known this day would come, though we had hoped to delay it longer. But you’re right. I’ll begin preparations immediately.”
Lord Terrace added, “Start by training them to face demons. I’ve seen what’s out there, and they need to be ready for horrors beyond anything they’ve faced here, not just the mana beasts.”
Dean Godsthorn’s eyes took on a steely glint. “I will make sure of it. Every student will be pushed to their limits, prepared for whatever awaits them. The academy’s strength will be our first line of defense.”
“Good,” Lord Acheon said. “And while we’re on the subject, we need to discuss Dean Dethrein’s recent visit to the Twelve Great Elders. I know he was summoned but it can’t be without reason.”
Dean Godsthorn nodded thoughtfully, his brow furrowing. “Yes, Dethrein’s appearance was… unusual. He’s kept his distance for years.”
Lord Acheon’s gaze sharpened. “Precisely. He came with an agenda, and it’s likely tied to the impending conflict. If he’s involved, it’s no simple matter.”
Lord Terrace leaned back, arms crossed. “When we leave here, we’ll return to the Twelve Great Elders. They must know something. I don’t think he honored the invitation without purpose.”
Dean Godsthorn glanced between them, his voice thoughtful. “I agree. He’s a figure who values his isolation, but if he’s moving now, it suggests his plans are far-reaching. Be cautious when you go.”
As the three men weighed their words, the door to the office creaked open. Damon and Daveon stepped in, each looking up at their fathers with a mix of resolve and apprehension.
“Good timing,” Lord Terrace said, standing and crossing to his son. “I wanted to speak with you before we left.”
Damon met his father’s gaze, his chin held high. “I came to say goodbye—and to thank you.”
Lord Terrace nodded, his tone softening slightly. “Focus on your training. And I’ll be sure Haelin receives all the materials she needs to complete your weapon. By the time I return, you’ll have a blade that’s worthy of your talent.”
Damon’s eyes shone with gratitude. “Thank you, Father.”
Meanwhile, Lord Acheon turned to his own son, Daveon, his expression more reserved. “Remember what I told you,” he said quietly. “We have a path ahead of us, and one day, you’ll walk it beside me. Until then, stay focused and learn all you can.”
Daveon nodded, his voice barely above a whisper. “I will, Father.”
Lord Acheon placed a hand on his shoulder. “Good. And I’ll be back soon enough to check on you.”
Dean Godsthorn watched the families with a small smile. “I think your sons will do well here,” he said, addressing both Lords. “They’re fortunate to have such mentors.”
The two Lords shared a brief glance, then nodded in agreement. Lord Terrace turned back to Damon. “Go on, now. Focus on your studies and training.”
Damon and Daveon exchanged a quick look, a silent acknowledgment of the weight of their fathers’ words, before nodding. They bid their fathers farewell, then exited the room, leaving the three men alone once more.
As the door closed, Dean Godsthorn stood, extending his hand to both Lords. “It’s been an honor to have you here, even if briefly. Your presence has been… invigorating for the academy.”
Lord Terrace accepted the handshake, his grip firm. “The honor is ours, Dean. And remember our conversation. Keep an eye on Damon.”
Dean Godsthorn nodded resolutely. “You have my word.”
Lord Acheon inclined his head. “Thank you, Dean. And now, we must be off.”
Dean Godsthorn led the two Lords to the teleportation hall, the journey silent but charged with purpose. As they reached the teleportation array, the Dean placed his hand over the array’s runes, setting the system in motion.
The runes glowed, the air filling with the hum of magic. Lord Terrace and Lord Acheon exchanged one last look with the Dean. “Farewell, Godsthorn,” Terrace said. “Until we meet again.”
The Dean nodded, a faint smile on his lips. “Safe travels, both of you.”
With a final flash of light, the teleportation array activated, sending the two Lords to their destination. As the light faded, Dean Godsthorn exhaled, feeling the weight of their departure settle on him. For a moment, he stood alone in the empty hall, the echoes of their conversation lingering in the air.
Turning back toward his office, he murmured to himself, “I guess these old bones will soon become active again.”
