Duke Raion sat in his study, the soft glow of candlelight illuminating the maps and documents spread before him. The decision to summon Raimon back from the Northern Frontier weighed heavily upon him. While Alaric had provided unparalleled training, the time had come for Raimon to step into his role within the duchy and the wider empire.
A knock at the door drew his attention. "Enter," he called.
The door opened to reveal Sir Edmund, his trusted advisor. "Your Grace, the arrangements have been made. The director of the Ducal Institute has agreed to personally oversee Lord Raimon's integration."
Raion nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Edmund. Ensure that all necessary preparations are in place."
"Of course," Edmund replied, hesitating slightly. "If I may, are you certain this is the right time?"
Raion sighed. "Raimon has made significant strides. The potion developed by the alchemists has stabilized his condition, and his training with my father has honed his abilities. Moreover, the empire is at a crossroads. He needs to be here, where he can build alliances and understand the shifting dynamics."
"Very well," Edmund conceded. "Shall I send word to the rest of the family?"
"Yes, please. I want Edward and Guillermina to be present when Raimon arrives."
As Edmund departed, Raion leaned back in his chair, contemplating the complexities of the situation. His friendship with the director of the Ducal Institute, Lord Viktor Halloran, was a fortuitous asset. Viktor was one of the ten Gold Rank 9 aura knights in the duchy, on the cusp of achieving the legendary Earth Knight status. His influence would provide Raimon with both protection and opportunity.
The door creaked open again, this time revealing Edward and Guillermina. At eleven years old, the twins had grown into curious and spirited children, though lately, he had noticed a certain fragility in them.
"Father," Guillermina began, her golden curls framing a face marked by concern. "Is it true that Raimon is returning?"
"Indeed," Raion confirmed with a smile. "He'll be here soon."
Edward's eyes lit up. "Will he stay with us?"
"Yes. He'll be attending the institute and living at the estate."
"That's wonderful!" Guillermina exclaimed. "We've missed him so much."
Raion observed them carefully. "How have your lessons been?"
Edward shrugged. "They're fine, but we've been a bit tired lately."
"Yes," Guillermina agreed. "Madame Clarisse says we should rest more."
Raion's expression softened. "Perhaps you've been overexerting yourselves. It's important to balance study with rest."
"We'll try," Edward promised.
"Good. Now, why don't you both prepare a warm welcome for your brother?"
They nodded eagerly and dashed out of the room. Raion's smile faded slightly as he considered their unexplained fatigue. The thinning of the family's ancestral magic was a concern, though neither Edward nor Guillermina had shown signs of the curse that once afflicted Raimon.
"Could it be manifesting differently?" he pondered aloud.
His thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of a messenger bearing a sealed letter. Breaking it open, he recognized Viktor's bold handwriting.
*"Raion,
Rest assured, I will personally oversee Raimon's time at the institute. His accommodations have been arranged, and I've taken the liberty of assigning him to classes that will both challenge and engage him.
On another note, there are matters we must discuss regarding the empire's current state. I propose a meeting at your earliest convenience.
—Viktor"*
Raion folded the letter thoughtfully. The undercurrents within the empire were becoming more turbulent. Reports of unrest, whispers of rebellion, and the ever-present threat from the Ebonwood weighed heavily on his mind.
He stood and walked to the window, gazing out over the sprawling estate. The gardens were meticulously maintained, a testament to order amidst chaos. But he knew that appearances could be deceiving.
"Raimon will need all the support we can provide," he mused. "The challenges ahead are not ones he should face alone."
That evening, the household gathered to welcome Raimon home. The grand hall was adorned with banners and lit by the warm glow of chandeliers. As Raimon entered, a hush fell over the room before erupting into applause.
"Welcome home, my son," Raion greeted, embracing him.
"It's good to be back," Raimon replied sincerely.
Edward and Guillermina rushed forward, hugging him tightly.
"We've missed you!" Guillermina exclaimed.
"And I you," Raimon responded, a genuine smile spreading across his face.
Throughout the evening, Raion observed his eldest son. Raimon carried himself with a maturity and confidence that surpassed his thirteen years. There was a steadiness in his gaze, a deliberateness in his interactions.
"He's grown," Mother remarked softly, joining Raion at his side.
"Yes," Raion agreed. "In more ways than one."
"Do you think it's too much for him? The institute, the responsibilities..."
"He can handle it," Raion assured her. "But we'll keep a close eye on him."
She nodded, her eyes reflecting both pride and concern. "And the twins?"
"I'm monitoring them. They've been experiencing fatigue. I may consult with the alchemists."
"Do you think it's related?"
"It's possible," he admitted. "But we'll address it."
As the festivities continued, Raion felt a mix of hope and apprehension. The threads of destiny were weaving in complex patterns, and he could only trust in his family's strength and the alliances they forged.