"So, Iridelle," Alaric began, his voice steady and smooth, carrying the practiced confidence of someone accustomed to authority. "Once I use the elixir to restore your magic circuits, I want you to remain here at the Steele Manor. You'll assist me with the blueprint for the communication artifacts we discussed, and you'll work alongside me in crafting them in my workshop."
Iridelle blinked, her lips parting slightly in surprise. "Y-Young Master Alaric, you… you want me to stay here?" Her voice was soft, almost hesitant, as if she couldn't quite believe what she had heard.
