Magik - CHAPTER FIVE

Upon his entrance into the relatively warm and cozy manor, Sam spotted their Chief Butler, Gerard, on his way from across the great hall, most likely from the kitchens. Striding towards the man, Sam kept pace as he asked to confirm his appointment.

"Gerard, are you heading to father's? Is he in his study?"

"Welcome back Sire Vallarus. Master Sallazar is indeed in his study. Would you like to accompany me? I'm delivering his luncheon at this time."

"Yes. I hope he remembered I was set to return today."

"I'm sure he will Sire. Master Sallazar is kept busy due to his responsibilities, but both you and I know that he does not ignore his children."

"While that is true Gerard; you will remember that tomorrow is my inauguration, right?"

Just for a moment, Sam thought he saw the immaculately dressed and almost perfect in every way butler pause, before restarting his stride.

"Of course Sire. Miss Clarice has been whipping the kitchen the whole week to prepare the festivities. I am sure Master has not forgotten either."

"Let us hope so Gerard. Often times I wonder if I am invisible to father or not."

Before the conversation could stretch into an awkward silence, the duo had found themselves in front of a well-lacquered door leading into his father's study. Knocking thrice, waiting, and upon hearing a gruff "Enter!", Gerard walked in with the cart and his father's meal, followed closely behind by Sam.

"Thank god you're here Gerard. Don't know how much longer my stomach could have kept me."

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A tall, somewhat thickset man, with maroon-chalk hair and a devilish beard commented, seated on a large executive's chair, across from an even larger and expansive wooden desk. Wearing a simple black suit and comfortable dress pants, the presence of the man filled the room with his booming voice.

"I am glad to have made it in time then Master. Young Sire Vallarus has also arrived, I believe he had wanted to speak with you?"

"Ahh! Sam, my boy, you've finally returned. How are you even paler than before child, I had thought you were vacationing at the bay!"

"Greetings father, I admit that I might have spent more time inside than I had intended. It's actually a part of what I wanted to speak with you about, if you wouldn't mind."

"We'll speak, come join me for lunch Sam. Its been months since we've last shared a meal together."

"As you wish father."

Sam, deferring to his father's wishes, sat himself in front of the expansive desk. Unfortunately, his short stature barely allowed him to peek above the edge.

"Perhaps it might be more prudent to share the meal at the lounge Master."

Gerard spoke, directing the cart towards a corner where a set of couches and a low-table had been set, usually used by his father during afernoon tea. While Gerard started to set up their lunch, the Hyzaar duo made to get up and situate themselves at the couches.

"Sam, I hope you're not disappointed that I haven't talked with you over these last few months. These last couple of years have been tough, what with Charles setting up his venture off-shore and James readying to take over my position, I feel as if I blinked and you are at the doorstep to your inauguration."

Sam listened to his father quietly, somewhat surprised to hear him apologize. He did not understand why he would; Sam did not remember the last time his father had directed a comment at him, trusting his mother and sisters to help arrange everything for him. From an even younger age, the young Samuel had always been somewhat independent and able to spend most of his time inside his room, typically only going out for his lessons or to attend meals.

"I understand father. But I am excited about what I'm about to share with you today. Before you ask any questions though, I would like you to listen to my experience in full."

Pausing to consider the boy's words, the older Hyzaar acceeded to his request. "That I can do Sam, that I can do." his father nodded towards Sam, a spark of curiosity floating in his eyes. As the meal had been set out and prepared for the two, Gerard took his leave, and the Hyzaars started to dine.