Lionel intensified his efforts to track down the intruder within Unbound Haven, sending his most trusted mages to all districts and working closely with the district leaders. Despite thorough scouting and constant vigilance, no sign of the intruder emerged. This absence of danger left Lionel uneasy, especially since he saw Aileen nearly every day, yet sensed nothing amiss with her.
One afternoon, while they were together, Aileen noticed the strain on Lionel's face. "Lionel, why do I feel like you've been depressed lately? Is something troubling you?"
Lionel, trying to ease her worries, smiled gently and stroked her hair. "There's no problem I can't handle, Aileen. Even if the solution isn't clear now, it will reveal itself eventually."
Aileen wasn't entirely convinced. "Don't push yourself too hard. I worry about you."
