Chapter - 56
"As I was saying, there's something of importance I need to discuss with you, and I believe you're perfect for the task," Althea said, perched on the table in front of Jacob.
Straightening in his seat, Jacob focused on what she was about to say. "I'm listening."
Althea explained, "There are numerous temples dedicated to the different goddesses across the lands of Mirntha. One such temple, located in Arcjund Valley, is dedicated to Liora, the Goddess of Temperance. This temple falls under the protection of Ironhelm, as it's the closest city to the valley." Jacob nodded, listening intently.
"For the past two weeks, there's been no word from the temple's caretakers," Althea continued, her brow furrowed slightly. "While it might be nothing more than a communication delay, there's another element that worries me. The nearby villages have been sending word of an unsettling atmosphere—an inexplicable fear among the people."
Jacob's expression grew serious. "You think there's something more going on?"
Althea hesitated for a moment, choosing her words carefully. "I'm not certain, but the silence from the temple and the unease in the villages are enough to warrant concern. I need someone to go there, assess the situation, and report back."
"And you're asking me to be that someone," Jacob said, meeting her gaze.
"Yes," Althea replied, her voice steady but encouraging. "I trust your skills, Jacob and I want you to take on this mission. I believe you have the potential to play a larger role in this guild. Consider this as an opportunity."
Jacob considered her words in silence, thinking it over before replying, "I'll head to the valley and find out what's going on."
Althea smiled, pleased by his willingness. "I'd also like you to take Seraphina with you. Her healing abilities and light magic could help you if there's any trouble, and I trust you both to handle whatever you find with the necessary caution. She's also much more familiar with the areas surrounding Ironhelm."
Jacob agreed. "I'll speak with her as soon as we're done here and start preparations immediately."
"Good," Althea said, her eyes lingering on Jacob. "I trust you can handle this."
"I'll need maps of the valley and any recent intelligence reports you have," Jacob asked.
"I'll have them ready for you," Althea replied.
Jacob stood to leave, his mind already focused on the logistics of the mission. As he turned, Althea rose as well, but her foot caught on the edge of a rug, causing her to stumble. With swift reflexes, Jacob reached out and caught her, pulling her against his chest before she could fall.
"Whoa, easy there," Jacob said, steadying her.
Althea looked up, her cheeks flushed, clearly embarrassed but also grateful. "Oh, thank you, Jacob. I don't know how I managed to trip like that." Her voice was soft, almost breathless.
For a moment, neither of them moved. Their eyes locked, and Jacob noticed a flicker of something deeper in Althea's gaze—a look of hunger, of unspoken desire.
"Miss Althea," he said gently, his voice steady, "I'll always do my best to catch you, but you should be more careful."
He lifted his hand, his fingers brushing lightly against her face as he tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "It's never a good idea to fall face-first into a chasm."
Althea's breath hitched at his touch, her pulse quickening. She felt a warmth spread through her body, a reaction she couldn't control. She knew she should step back, regain her composure, but she found herself lingering in his arms, savoring the intimacy.
Jacob gave her a reassuring smile and then stepped back, breaking the spell. "Take care, Miss Althea," he said with a nod before turning and leaving the room.
Althea watched him go, a swirl of emotions churning inside her. The room suddenly felt colder, emptier without his presence. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, but the encounter had left her shaken, her mind racing and her body betraying her with a desire she hadn't expected.
As the door closed behind Jacob, Althea let out a shaky sigh, her cheeks still warm. "Get a grip, Althea," she muttered to herself, but the words felt hollow. She was a reputed guild leader, known for her strength and composure, yet Jacob had a way of unraveling her, leaving her vulnerable and yearning.
"Focus," she told herself, trying to push the lingering warmth aside. But as she returned to her desk, she couldn't help but replay the moment in her mind: the feel of his arms around her, his touch against her skin. It was a distraction she didn't need, yet one she couldn't easily shake. Her body betrayed her, a persistent heat pooling between her thighs, a throbbing ache that left her panties soaked.