Months had passed since Kael began his intensive training under the Blink Mage. His body had grown stronger, his mastery of elemental fusion more refined. Today, as he completed a complex sequence of fire and water maneuvers, he noticed the Blink Mage observing him with a rare hint of approval.
"Enough," she called, her voice echoing through the training arena. "You've shown considerable improvement."
Kael stopped, panting heavily, his body aching from the exertion. He looked at her, waiting for the next command.
The Blink Mage approached him, her expression less harsh than usual. "You've reached a level of competence that makes you useful to me and the council. It's time for a new phase of your training."
She raised her hand, and a faint glow emanated from her fingertips. Before Kael could react, she pressed her hand against his chest. He felt a sharp, invasive sensation as a magical tracking device was implanted in his body. He winced, the feeling of being controlled and monitored even more pronounced.
"You are no longer a prisoner," she said, her voice cold but clear. "You are now a resident of my estate. You will have access to the library, the gardens, and the nearby town. However, you are still under my control. Any attempt to escape will result in severe consequences."
Kael nodded, feeling a mix of relief and resentment. *So I'm not a prisoner, but I'm still a captive.*
"I suppose you should know my name now," she continued. "I am Selene."
Kael nodded again. *Selene... fitting for someone who controls space itself.*
She handed him a set of books. "These contain the magical runes and spells you need to study. Learn them well."
Kael accepted the books, their weight a comforting reminder of his days at the estate with Lysander. *It's been so long since I've had something to study.*
"Follow me," Selene instructed, turning on her heel and leading him out of the training arena.
Kael followed her through the grand halls of her estate. The stark contrast to the oppressive training environments he had been confined to was overwhelming. The estate was filled with magical artifacts, a vast library, and lush gardens. It was a place of beauty, yet Kael couldn't shake the feeling of being trapped.
"This is the library," Selene said, gesturing to a large room filled with shelves of ancient tomes and scrolls. "You may study here whenever you wish. The knowledge within these walls is invaluable."
Kael looked around in awe. *So much to learn... this could be useful.*
She led him through the gardens next, the vibrant flora a stark contrast to the dark corridors of the council's stronghold. "The gardens are enchanted to maintain their beauty year-round. You may spend time here to relax and meditate."
Kael took in the sight of the lush greenery, feeling a strange sense of peace. *This is... nice. A reminder of better times.*
Finally, Selene took him to his quarters. The room was spacious, with elegant furnishings and a large, comfortable bed. "This will be your room. You are free to move about the estate, but remember, I am always watching."
Kael nodded, trying to suppress the mix of emotions swirling inside him. *A room of my own... I never thought I'd have this again.*
Selene left, and Kael was alone for the first time in what felt like forever. He explored his room, marveling at the luxury. A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts, and he opened it to find a butler standing there.
"Good evening, sir," the butler said with a respectful bow. "I am Elias, the head butler. If you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask."
Kael nodded, still adjusting to this new reality. "Thank you, Elias."
Elias smiled warmly. "Dinner will be served shortly. Please follow me to the dining hall."
Kael followed Elias, feeling a strange mix of excitement and unease. The dining hall was just as grand as the rest of the estate. The chef, a portly man with a kind face, greeted him.
"Welcome, sir," the chef said with a smile. "I am Chef Marlowe. I hope you enjoy the meal."
Kael sat at the long dining table, the aroma of delicious food filling the air. He couldn't remember the last time he had a proper meal. The maids served him with impeccable manners, their movements graceful and efficient.
As Kael ate, he couldn't help but feel a sense of surrealism. *Is this really happening? Am I really here, eating a meal in this grand estate?*
After dinner, Elias escorted him back to his room. "If you need anything, please ring the bell by your bedside," Elias said with a bow before leaving.
Kael closed the door behind him and sat on the edge of his bed. He picked up one of the books Selene had given him and opened it, the familiar symbols of magical runes bringing back memories of his earlier studies.
*I can do this. I have to learn. I have to get stronger.*
He lay back on the bed, the softness and comfort almost overwhelming. It was a stark contrast to the cold, hard floors of his cell. For the first time in months, he felt a semblance of peace.
*Tomorrow is a new day. A chance to learn, to grow. I won't waste it.*
Sleep claimed him quickly, the exhaustion of the day finally catching up to him. His dreams were filled with images of fire, water, and the endless expanse of space. For now, he allowed himself to rest, knowing that the journey ahead would be long and arduous.
As the night deepened, the estate remained silent, a stark contrast to the chaos that had defined Kael's life for so long. He slept soundly, the comfort of the bed a welcome reprieve from the harsh reality of his existence.