The next evening, after dinner, Morgan called David into her study. The room was unlike any he had seen before—walls lined with shelves of ancient tomes, glowing crystals floating in the air, and intricate magical diagrams etched into the wooden floor. A cauldron bubbled in the corner, and the faint scent of herbs and incense filled the air.
Morgan stood by her desk, her purple hair gleaming in the soft light of a levitating orb. She adjusted her glasses, her piercing gaze fixed on David as he entered.
"David," she began, her voice smooth yet commanding, "we need to talk."
David stood straight, his instincts warning him to remain cautious. The room's magical energy was thick, almost oppressive.
Morgan gestured for him to sit, then crossed her arms, studying him intently. "You've intrigued me in ways I cannot ignore. I've seen many prodigies, studied countless magical phenomena, but you..." She paused, leaning forward slightly. "You're an enigma. A second heart? The ability to absorb nature's mana without harm? And that spell—magic so advanced it rivals even the holy arts? You're something the world has never seen before."
David held her gaze, his expression unreadable. "Why does it matter to you? You're a powerful witch. Surely there are others more worthy of your attention."
Morgan chuckled softly, her smile both amused and enigmatic. "Do you know who I am, David? Truly?"
He shook his head, sensing that this was a pivotal moment.
"I am Morgan Le Fay, the Witch of Daylight," she said, her voice resonating with authority. "One of the Four Great Witches of this world. I am revered and feared for my mastery of magic, my knowledge of ancient spells, and my unrelenting pursuit of the unknown. I've devoted my life to unraveling the secrets of magic, and yet, here you stand—defying everything I thought I knew."
Her words hung in the air, heavy with significance.
She continued, her tone softening. "I want to make you my second disciple. I will teach you everything I know about magic, guide you in mastering your abilities, and help you uncover the truth about yourself. In return, you will allow me to study your unique talents and share in your discoveries. Together, we could reshape the understanding of magic in this world."
David hesitated, her offer both tempting and overwhelming. He thought of Emma and Lily, of the fragile bond he had formed with them. "What about Emma?" he asked. "She's your disciple too. I won't take anything away from her."
Morgan smiled, a rare warmth in her expression. "Emma is like a daughter to me. She's my first disciple, and nothing will change that. You will not replace her, David. Instead, you will be her equal—a partner in learning and growth."
David's mind raced. He had always been a survivor, relying on his wits and strength to navigate his harsh life. But now, for the first time, he saw a path forward—one where he could learn, grow, and perhaps even protect the family he had found.
"I have one condition," he said finally. "You must promise never to harm me or my family."
Morgan's expression turned serious. She extended her hand, her gaze unwavering. "You have my word, as the Witch of Daylight."
David took her hand, sealing the pact.
The next morning, Morgan announced David's new role to the household. Emma was thrilled, clapping her hands in excitement, while Lily remained stoic, her sharp eyes scanning David as if searching for hidden motives.
"You're her second disciple now," Lily said, her tone neutral but her words pointed. "Don't think that means you've earned my trust."
David met her gaze, his voice steady. "I'm not asking for your trust, Lily. I'll earn it in time."
Her expression remained unreadable, but she gave a small nod, as though acknowledging his determination.
Morgan wasted no time, immersing David in rigorous training. She introduced him to the basics of spellcraft, the principles of mana flow, and the delicate balance between imagination and control that magic required.
To her astonishment, David absorbed knowledge at an astonishing rate. His unique ability to manipulate nature's mana gave him an edge, allowing him to experiment with spells that most novices couldn't even attempt.
Still, there were challenges. Morgan pushed him relentlessly, testing his limits and demanding perfection. She treated him not as a child but as a fellow seeker of knowledge, expecting him to rise to her high standards.
Despite her stern demeanor, David began to see glimpses of another side to Morgan—a mentor who genuinely cared for her disciples, even if she rarely showed it.
---
Meanwhile, Lily continued to watch David closely. She remained skeptical of his intentions, her protective instincts toward Emma stronger than ever.
One evening, as David practiced his spells in the garden, Lily approached him. She crossed her arms, her gaze sharp.
"I don't know who you really are," she said bluntly. "But if you ever hurt Emma—or anyone in this family—I won't hesitate to stop you."
David paused, lowering his hands as the spell fizzled out. He looked at Lily, her fierce determination reminding him of someone from his past.
"I understand," he said quietly. "And I wouldn't expect anything less from you. Protecting your family... I respect that."
For a moment, Lily's expression softened, but she quickly masked it, turning away. "Just don't forget it," she said, her tone brisk as she walked back into the house.
---
With Morgan's mentorship and Lily's watchful eye, David's journey as a disciple of the Witch of Daylight began. Little did they know, their fates were intertwined in ways none of them could yet comprehend, and the secrets of David's past would soon unravel, bringing challenges that would test them all.