The dim glow of the evening sun filtered through the grand windows of the council chambers, casting long shadows across the ornate marble floors. JC had been summoned for two final conversations, ones he had been dreading yet knew were inevitable.
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A Mother's Warmth
JC made his way to the family quarters, a place he hadn't visited in years. The moment he stepped inside, the faint scent of lavender hit him, bringing with it a wave of nostalgia.
"JC," a soft, loving voice called.
He turned to see his mother, Amara Logia, standing in the doorway. Her long silver hair, streaked with strands of white, cascaded down her back, and her gentle green eyes sparkled with warmth. She was the kind of person who could make anyone feel at home with just a smile.
"Mother," JC said, his voice quieter than usual.
Amara rushed to him, wrapping him in a tight embrace. "You've grown so much," she said, pulling back to study his face. "And yet, you still have that same look in your eyes—always carrying the weight of the world."
JC managed a small smile. "I'm doing what I must."
Amara's expression softened further as she cupped his face. "I know. You've always had that fire in you. But remember, JC, even the strongest flames need rest. Don't burn yourself out trying to save everyone."
He nodded, appreciating her wisdom.
As they talked, Lissy entered the room quietly, not wanting to interrupt but unable to stay away. Amara noticed her immediately.
"And who's this lovely young lady?" Amara asked, her smile widening.
"I'm Lissy," she said, stepping forward. "I'm... with JC."
Amara's eyes twinkled. "Ah, I see. It's good to see someone who can keep up with my son. Thank you for staying by his side."
Lissy blushed but smiled, holding JC's hand tightly.
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An Awkward Reunion
After leaving his mother's quarters, JC prepared himself for his next conversation. His ex-girlfriend, Celeste Drayvor, was waiting for him in the council's private garden.
Celeste had always been an enigma—beautiful, ambitious, and fiercely independent. She had short, dark hair that framed her sharp features and piercing blue eyes that seemed to see right through people.
When JC arrived, she was leaning against a stone pillar, her arms crossed. "Well, if it isn't the prodigal son," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
"Celeste," JC greeted, his tone neutral.
"You've been gone for three years and suddenly reappear with a whole entourage," she said, her eyes narrowing. "Didn't think you'd need anyone else."
Lissy stayed close to JC, her presence a quiet but firm statement. Celeste's gaze flicked to her, and a faint smirk tugged at her lips.
"So, this is the new one," Celeste said, her voice laced with subtle venom. "I suppose you've traded up?"
JC's calm demeanor didn't waver. "Celeste, I didn't come here to rehash old arguments."
"No, of course not," Celeste said, pushing off the pillar and stepping closer. "You've moved on, clearly. But don't think for a second that I've forgotten how you left. Without a word, without an explanation."
Lissy finally spoke up, her voice steady. "JC didn't owe you anything, especially not after the way you treated him."
Celeste raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening. "Feisty, aren't you? Well, good luck, sweetheart. You'll need it."
JC stepped between them, his tone firm. "That's enough, Celeste."
She stared at him for a moment before sighing and stepping back. "Fine. Just don't forget, JC—this world doesn't care about feelings. Power is all that matters."
JC didn't respond as Celeste walked away, her laughter echoing faintly behind her.
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A Moment of Reassurance
As they left the garden, Lissy turned to JC. "Does she always talk like that?"
JC chuckled softly. "She hasn't changed."
Lissy frowned. "I don't like her."
JC smiled, pulling her close. "You don't have to. You're the one who matters to me now."
Her expression softened, and she rested her head on his shoulder as they walked back to their quarters.
For the first time in a long while, JC felt a sense of peace. Despite the challenges ahead, he knew he wasn't facing them alone.