Vell and Sonder went back to Languor’s home after settling matters with the king personally.

With a thoughtful expression etched on her face, Sonder strolled alongside Vell, her mind teeming with questions and wandering to places she wish it didn’t.

"Do you believe King Aduaine will keep his word?" she asked.

Vell shot back a question in response, "Don't you think a king is bound by his word?" He paused before continuing, "Typically, their interests and those of the people they govern are their primary obligations. If they ever fail to balance these priorities, the populace suffers, and if they suffer, the king will usually follow, sometimes with deadly consequences. As long as his kingdom isn’t suffering, he will be at ease. He wouldn’t want us to plague it; our threats could be realized if we don’t get what we want, you know."

Sonder nodded though those words didn’t assure her at all, and her mind was still plagued with worry. “And what about Inure? Why have you chosen someone who disdains you so much as my teacher?”

“Disdain? I don't believe he harbors any for me. He just follows the orders he is given. He merely follows the orders of his king. It's as simple as that. Besides, his prowess as a warrior is undeniable. But strength is not merely a matter of physical prowess. I'm confident he will see your potential and invest in you, given enough time.”

As they reached Languor's dwelling, Vell pushed the door open. The interior was dimly lit, the air thick with the scent of medicinal herbs and the faint glow of embers in the fireplace where a newly made pot of hot water was boiled not long ago.

Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.

“Languor!” Vell called out, his voice echoing through the small space.

The old mage emerged from the shadows, "Ah, Lignin! Back sooner than expected. I trust your conversation with the king was... fruitful."

“More like a negotiation of sorts,” Vell smirked. “I managed to secure a deal for the city's protection in return for Sonder's training and our indefinite stay.”

Languor's eyebrow arched in interest. "You certainly know how to negotiate. Two benefits in one stroke. Who's set to train her?"

Vell chuckled at the thought of the ensuing surprise, "It's going to be Inure."

Languor didn't share Vell's amusement: "He won't be thrilled to hear that."

“How is he anyway?” Vell asked.

Languor responded, "He's stable, though you certainly shook him up. What did you do?"

Vell waved a hand dismissively. “Let’s just say I reminded him of his own mortality. It's a potent reality check.”

Languor replied, his voice measured. "But it can lead to conflict, especially if Inure feels threatened or his pride is wounded. He’s a warrior, and warriors don’t take well to being challenged, even indirectly.”

Vell shrugged nonchalantly. "Let him simmer for a bit. It might do him some good. Besides, if he's as skilled as the king boasts, he'll understand the worth of mentoring Sonder."

Sonder voiced her apprehension, "But what if he refuses to train me?"

Vell was firm in his response, "Then you prove him wrong. You must show him that you’re willing to learn, to fight, and to grow. It won’t be easy, but nothing worth having ever is. And either way, it’s ordered of him.”

Sonder straightened her posture and squared her shoulders, determened to prove herself, "I'll prove my worth. I’ll train hard, and I won’t give him a reason to doubt either you nor me.”

Vell nodded approvingly, "Good."

"When do I start?" Sonder asked.

Sonder looked to Vell, and Vell looked to Languor.

The old mage said, “Given his robust constitution, I believe that by dawn tomorrow, he should be as fit as ever."