Dominik's grandfather, Lord Yammant, walked alongside Mistress Tamar through the lush gardens of Stonehenge. The air was cool and filled with the scent of blooming flowers, an escape to the turmoil within the underground chambers. They strolled in comfortable silence for a moment, the familiarity of their friendship evident in their unspoken understanding.
Mistress Tamar finally broke the silence with a sigh. "You always did like walking in the gardens when something was on your mind. What's the plan now?"
Lord Yammant gave her a rueful smile. "I've decided to take Dominik to Narnerin. Fetaine's the only one I trust to train him to control the fire."
She nodded, understanding the weight of his decision. "Have you sent word?"
"A few hours ago. I'm waiting for his response. Knowing Fetaine, he'll likely agree, especially since it's Dominik. Despite everything that happened back then, he wouldn't reject Kaine's son."
Mistress Tamar's eyes softened with empathy. "How's Dominik holding up?"
"We've had to put him on tranquilizers. He's burning down everything in sight. I'm sorry for the mess," he said, his voice heavy with guilt.
She placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "It's alright. You know, he used to do that too as a kid. Besides, this place could use a little renovation," she added with a light laugh. "Saul suggested you take Aqua, Wes, and Igor with you. It's a good idea. It will train them and help build bonds."
"I agree. I'll make sure they're prepared," Lord Yammant replied. "Actually, I'll be going with him. Someone needs to keep an eye on him. Rika also agreed to come."
"Rika doesn't surprise me," she said, a wistful tone in her voice. "I wish it could be like the old days again."
"Those days are gone, Tamar. The best we can do now is protect the younger generation. It's a tough road ahead," he said.
They came to a stop as one of the servants approached Mistress Tamar, bowing respectfully. "Master Yu has arrived with young masters Wes and Igor. They are at the dining hall."
Mistress Tamar excused the servant with a nod. "Let's go welcome them, shall we?"
As they approached the dining hall, they heard the sounds of excited chatter and laughter. The doors swung open, revealing a scene of celebration and warmth. Master Yu stood at the head of the table, his presence commanding yet gentle. Wes and Igor, despite their travel-worn appearance, were animatedly recounting their recent adventures to an eager audience.Aqua was already seated, her bright smile lighting up the room as she listened to the boys' stories.
"Ah, old friend, it's been too long!" Master Yu exclaimed as he embraced Lord Yammant.
Lord Yammant returned the embrace with a hearty laugh. "Indeed, it has, Yu. It's good to see you."
He turned to Wes and Igor, who stood respectfully, their eyes shining with admiration and excitement. "Welcome, boys."
"Thank you, Lord Yammant," they said in unison, bowing deeply.
Igor's eyes widened as he took in the extravagant dining hall, filled with a feast fit for royalty. "This is incredible. Thank you, Mistress Tamar."
"Now, now, boys, take a seat, I see you've been telling everyone about your expedition. You have to fill me in" she said, pointing at the seats next to Aqua."By the way, allow me to welcome you back to Stonehenge, master Yu" she said with a bow.
The boys took their seats, and Aqua greeted them with playful nudges and whispered jokes, immediately easing the tension of their arrival.
Master Saul stood up, raising a glass of wine.
"A toast to Stonehenge," he said.
Everyone else at the table stood and clinked their glasses. "To Stonehenge!"
The atmosphere was electric, a blend of relief and anticipation. The masters exchanged knowing glances, the weight of their responsibilities momentarily lifted by the return of Wes and Igor. The boys, fueled by the excitement of their journey, animatedly discussed their experiences, their voices filled with pride and wonder.
Aqua chimed in with her own stories, her laughter infectious.
After the welcome dinner, Mistress Tamar, Lord Yammant, and the boys walked through the dimly lit corridors of Stonehenge.
Mistress Tamar cleared her throat, her voice resonating with a mix of urgency and solemnity. "I know you've just arrived, but there's something important we need to discuss. Aqua has been informed already but I wanted to tell you personally. You might be traveling to Narnerin."
The boys stopped in their tracks, eyes wide with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Wes, the older of the two, spoke first. "Narnerin? Isn't that where Master Fetaine trains?"
Igor's face lit up with excitement. "Master Fetaine, the southern bloodhound? This is incredible! But why now?"
Mistress Tamar took a deep breath, her expression serious. "Dominik has lost control of his fire. He's in a dangerous state, and we believe Master Fetaine is the only one who can help him. You'll be traveling with Aqua, Master Rika, and Lord Yammant."
The boys exchanged glances, the weight of the situation sinking in. "Is Dominik here? But we didn't see him at the dining hall. It's been years, we used to train here together" Igor asked, confusion etched on his face.
Lord Yammant stepped forward, his voice steady but filled with concern. "Dominik is here, but he's been sedated. He's been burning down everything around him. This journey isn't just about training for you; it's about helping Dominik regain control."
They approached the training hall, its doors slightly ajar. As they peered inside, the sight before them took their breath away. The once pristine hall was charred and blackened, remnants of Dominik's uncontrolled power evident in the scorched walls and floor.
"What happened here?" Wes whispered, his voice trembling.
Mistress Tamar's eyes were somber. "This is why you're going to Narnerin. We need to ensure this never happens again. Once Master Fetaine has agreed to host us, We'll leave as soon as possible."
The gravity of their mission weighed heavily on the boys. They bowed deeply, their expressions a mix of determination and reverence. "We understand," Wes said firmly.
Mistress Tamar and Lord Yammant exchanged a glance, a silent acknowledgment of the challenges ahead. "Get some rest," Lord Yammant said.
The boys bowed and departed while Mistress Tamar and Dominik's grandfather continued with their walk. They were interrupted by Master Rika, who reported, "We've received word from Master Fetaine. He'll be happy to host us at Narnerin."
Relief washed over Lord Yammant's face. "Thank you, Rika. Please prepare everything for our departure."
Mistress Tamar nodded, a hopeful smile on her lips. "It seems like things are finally moving forward. Let's hope this journey brings Dominik the peace and control he needs."
Lord Yammant sighed, looking towards the horizon. "Let's hope for the best. It's a long road ahead, but I believe Dominik will overcome this. He has to."