Vayan had allowed Ariadna to leave early that morning to greet the guest. Their parents had briefed her on the proper etiquette, especially since Velor was not only her new teacher but also the future heir of the God of Night and Secrets. Ultimately they decided to entrust the task to her eldest sister Elena. It was important to show him the respect he deserved.
That's how Ariadna found herself standing next to her sisters—Elena, Mina, and Lina—all waiting for Velor's arrival. Elena, with her auburn hair that mirrored Vayan's, stood out as a calming presence. Though brither and sister looked quite alike, Elena was gentler and more serene. The twins, Mina and Lina, stood behind her like eager puppies, following her lead.
Ariadna felt a sense of distance from her sisters. To her, it seemed they were complete opposites. Vayan had explained this difference as a matter of affinities—their connection to renewal, while hers lay with destruction. But Ariadna thought it ran deeper than that. There was more ; she also harbored resentment towards Vayan.
Casting her gaze away from her sisters, she looked for her brother Roderic, but he was missing once again. A frown creased her brow, but she held her tongue. The truth was, she felt so distant from Roderic that she wasn't even sure he would acknowledge her if they met by accident in the hallways.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of an approaching carriage. When it came to a stop, the young Velor stepped out, dressed in simple black travel clothes. Elena immediately stepped forward to greet him.
"Welcome to our domain, Lord Velor. We bless you with the holy flame.
O Great God of Destruction and Renewal,
In the ashes of yesterday, we find the seeds of tomorrow.
Guide us through the flames of our trials,
Illuminate our path with the light of transformation."
As she spoke, she placed her hands on his, and a gentle light enveloped them both. In that moment, Velor appeared more refreshed and energized. He smiled and bowed deeply. "Thank you, Lady Elena. From ashes we spring, to dust we return. Your blessing of the holy flame is greatly appreciated after such a long journey."
Elena smiled pleasantly, then turned to Ariadna. "Our youngest sister, Ariadna, will escort you to your chambers and serve as your guide in the castle. Please turn to her if you need anything."
With that, Elena bowed and left with the twins, leaving Ariadna with Velor. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of disapproval as she watched her sisters go before turning her attention back to Velor.
He smiled at her and said, "Can we go, Lady Ariadna? I'm a bit tired from my travels."
"Of course," she replied, forcing a smile. "Welcome. Please follow me."
As they walked through the castle, the servant trailed behind with Velor's luggage. Ariadna pointed out important rooms along the way, her lips moving in practiced descriptions, but her mind wandered elsewhere.
Finally, they reached his quarters, which were relatively close to hers. "Take your time, Master Velor. I will come before sunset to take you to dinner."
"Please come a bit earlier, my lady. I would like to discuss our schedule," he said, his tone more serious.
She nodded quietly, "I will do my best then. See you in the afternoon, my lord." With that, she exited the room, her head full of thoughts.
As she walked away, a mix of curiosity and apprehension filled her mind. What would her lessons with Velor hold? Would she finally find answers? The weight of uncertainty sat heavy on her heart as she headed down the corridor, determined to make the most of her new path.