Morning light streamed through the cathedral windows, casting a warm glow over the dining hall as the children finished their breakfast. The air was filled with laughter and the clatter of dishes, a welcome sound that lifted Luke's spirits. He joined the children for breakfast, enjoying their company and the lively atmosphere. As they scattered to their various activities, Luke lingered behind to help Sister Maria clean up.
"Thank you for staying to help, Luke," Sister Maria said, her voice soft and kind as she handed him a dish to dry.
"It's my pleasure, Sister. I enjoy spending time here," Luke replied, drying the plate and placing it on the shelf.
Once they finished, Sister Maria handed Luke a neatly packed bundle of food.
"Would you mind taking this to Gareth at the barracks? I made some extra, and I know he would appreciate it."
"Consider it done, Sister," Luke smiled, accepting the package.
After getting ready, Luke left the cathedral, the morning sun warming his face as he stepped onto the bustling streets of Purewood. It had been a while since he last walked around town, and he enjoyed the lively atmosphere. With no immediate work, he focused on honing and learning new magic tricks in secret. Recently, Luke had discovered a hidden compartment in his briefcase, where an old lighter had slipped in. It wasn't for smoking, but rather a tool for his magic tricks.
As he walked, he mentally checked the amount of money he had saved. It was enough to support his travel to Virencia, but not enough to afford any luxuries. He knew he needed to find more work to earn extra money, but he also wanted to wait for the rumours about him to die down first. He didn't want to draw too much attention to himself.
Lost in thought, Luke finally arrived at the barracks. The familiar sight of the knights training and preparing for their duties greeted him. He approached the main building, where Gareth was likely to be found. As he entered, he saw Gareth speaking with a few knights, giving them instructions for the day.
"Hey, Luke! What brings you here this morning?" Gareth looked up and saw Luke.
"Sister Maria sent me some food for you. She made extra and thought you might like it," Luke held up the package with a grin.
"That's kind of her. And of you to bring it. Thanks, Luke," Gareth's face lit up with a smile.
They walked to Gareth's room, where Luke handed over the food. Gareth set it on his desk, looking genuinely grateful.
"I appreciate this. It's been a busy morning already."
"No problem at all," Luke replied. "I'm glad to help out."
As they chatted, Luke couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging. Despite the uncertainty of his future and the lingering rumours, moments like these reminded him of the connections he had formed and the people who cared about him. It was a comforting thought as he continued to navigate his path in Purewood, preparing for the journey that lay ahead.
As Luke prepared to leave, Gareth insisted on seeing him out to show his appreciation for the food delivery. They exited Gareth's room, chatting amiably as they walked through the barracks. However, their conversation was interrupted when Gareth suddenly stopped in his tracks. Luke followed Gareth's line of gaze and saw a woman standing by the main door.
She was young and strikingly beautiful, with an air of elegance that set her apart from the typical inhabitants of Purewood. Unlike the rustic, countryside attire common in the town, her clothing exuded regality and nobility. Her dress was adorned with simple frills at the collar and sleeves, a style that reminded Luke of the goth fashion from his world, though there was a stark difference. This woman symbolized purity and grace, whereas goth attire back home was often associated with gloom and death.
The woman's composed demeanour and controlled body language suggested she was accustomed to maintaining her poise, likely due to her noble upbringing. As Luke observed her, he noticed a distinctive insignia on her dress, a token fastened to one side of her waist. The symbol was familiar to him—it was the same one he had seen on Mayor Kingsley's carriage during the mayor's return. This could only mean one thing: she was likely a member of the Kingsley family, perhaps even Mayor Kingsley's daughter.
Gareth broke the silence, addressing her with formality and respect.
"Anastasia, what brings you here to the barracks?"
Anastasia's gaze shifted to Gareth, her expression unreadable.
"I was looking for you," she replied, her tone measured and controlled. Luke noted how difficult it was to discern her emotions, given her refined manner and training.
Gareth appeared slightly taken aback but quickly composed himself.
"How can I assist you, Lady Anastasia?"
She stepped forward, her movements graceful and deliberate.
"There are matters that require your immediate attention. It's regarding the recent monster sightings and the measures being taken."
"I believed that Sir Carrick is explaining everything to Mayor Kingsley, am I wrong?" Gareth composed himself.
"Well," She reasoned. "Father requested your attendance as well. For whatever reason there may be."
Luke listened intently, intrigued by this unexpected encounter. He had not anticipated crossing paths with someone of such high status, and he wondered what implications her presence might have for the ongoing efforts to secure Purewood.
"Of course, let's go after the meeting room shall we?" Gareth nodded, his expression serious.
As they turned to head back inside, Gareth glanced at Luke.
"Please come as well, Luke. I still have to introduce you to our mayor."
Luke hesitated for a moment before agreeing. He was curious to see where this conversation would lead and what role he might play in the unfolding events. Together, they made their way back to the castle, specifically the meeting room, where the conversation would take a more formal tone.
As they walked towards the castle, Luke took in the familiar yet still awe-inspiring surroundings. He remembered his first visit when Gareth had shown him around, and the grandeur of the castle still felt new. As they walked, Luke leaned in and whispered to Gareth.
"You seem to know her well. How come?"
Gareth whispered back.
"Have you forgotten? Mayor Kingsley and Father Wingate are close friends. I met Anastasia many times growing up. We were friends until our paths diverged—me for knight training and her for education in leadership. This is the first time we've spoken since."
Luke nodded, understanding the history between them. Gareth continued in a quiet monologue, noting the changes in Anastasia. She had transformed from a shy, cautious girl into a confident, charismatic young woman. This shift surprised Gareth, who was seeing her in a new light.
Arriving at the castle, Anastasia led them to the meeting room. Luke and Gareth walked side by side behind her, reflecting on the unexpected reunion. Luke's curiosity about Anastasia grew, wondering what role she would play in the unfolding events. As they entered the room, they were greeted by the sight of Mayor Kingsley and Sir Carrick, who were deep in discussion.
Mayor Kingsley, a distinguished figure with a robust, solid build, was a symbol of authority and responsibility. His weathered face, deep lines, and well-groomed beard reflected his years of experience. His sharp blue eyes were both stern and warm. He exuded refined nobility, dressed in rich, dark fabrics with subtle embroidery. A golden chain of office, with the emblem of Purewood prominently displayed, symbolized his status and the town's leadership.
"Ah, Stacia, Gareth. Perfect timing. We were just discussing the recent developments. Please, join us," Mayor Kingsley looked up, a welcoming smile spreading across his face. Noticing a young man he was not acquainted with, which was Luke, he asked. "And who might you be, young man?"
"Well, Mayor Kingsley. That is Luke. The man who helped us during the purge," Sir Carrick introduced Luke to Mayor Kingsley. And of course, Luke was taken aback by how easily Sir Carrick had told of Luke's involvement with the purge, to which Luke had said that it was classified.
Anastasia took a seat next to her father, her presence adding an air of gravity to the meeting. Luke and Gareth sat opposite them, ready to delve into the matters at hand. The atmosphere in the room was tense yet charged with a sense of purpose. They were all here for the same reason—to protect Purewood and ensure its safety. Well, most of them were, as Luke was rather here after being invited by Gareth.
As the meeting commenced, Luke felt a renewed sense of determination. The path ahead was uncertain, but with allies like Gareth, Sir Carrick, and now possibly Mayor Kingsley and his daughter Anastasia, he felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. This gathering was not just a meeting of minds but a convergence of hopes and ambitions, united in their quest to secure the future of Purewood.