Alex woke up early in the morning, just as the sky began to glow with the first rays of sunlight. He turned onto his side, staring out the window, and muttered to himself:
"Why did I wake up this early…"
He tried to fall back asleep, closing his eyes and sinking into the pillow, but sleep stubbornly refused to return. A few minutes later, Alex gave up. Getting out of bed, he pulled on a shirt and headed downstairs to the kitchen for a glass of water to wake himself up completely.
As he descended the stairs, he suddenly heard faint sounds coming from the kitchen. At first, he thought it was his mother already up, but upon entering, Alex saw Alpha and three other maids quietly working at the table, preparing breakfast.
"Sirena, am I the only one seeing this?" Alex asked mentally.
"Please don't tell me you didn't expect something like this," Sirena replied calmly.
"It's going to take me a while to get used to this," Alex answered, then spoke aloud,
"Good morning. I see you all can't sleep either, huh?" he added with a gentle smile.
The girls, absorbed in their work, only now noticed him. They exchanged glances, then responded in unison, their tone serious:
"Good morning, Master."
"I hope we didn't wake you?" Alpha continued, speaking on behalf of the group.
"Oh no, I didn't hear a thing until I came down. But why are you all up so early?"
"It's our duty, Master Alex," Alpha replied calmly. "The task of a maid is to wake before the master and prepare everything for his comfort."
"What kind of master am I to you?" Alex sighed deeply. "I'm not going to treat you like Montamery did. I want us to have a friendly relationship, none of these formalities," he said, studying the girls' surprised expressions.
Their faces showed genuine confusion, and after hesitating for a moment, Alex turned to Sirena:
"Did I say something wrong?"
"They just need some time, Master," Sirena responded thoughtfully. "Such an approach is new to them."
"If that is your sincere intent," Alpha gathered her thoughts, and now there was a lighter tone in her voice than the formal one before, "we will try, Master Ale— I mean, we will try to see you as a friend. But… please don't be upset if it's hard for us to break old habits at first," she said, and for the first time, a faint, almost imperceptible smile appeared on her face.
"That's already a great start," Alex smiled, pleased with how things were turning out. Then, noticing only four girls in the kitchen, he asked:
"And where are the others?"
"Three are already working in the garden," Alpha explained. "And the rest went shopping as soon as the stores opened."
"Wonderful! I was hoping to convince at least one of you to take the day off, and you've all scattered already," Alex sighed theatrically, smiling at them. "Well then, at least let me help you."
Rolling up his sleeves, Alex joined the maids. At first, the girls exchanged surprised glances, but seeing his enthusiasm, they quietly accepted his help. The kitchen was filled with a warm, friendly atmosphere. It seemed as if everyone had forgotten about yesterday and their worries. The girls shared short jokes, and Alex, clumsily trying to do something, earned restrained smiles from them.
The table gradually filled with simple but appetizing dishes: golden homemade bread, a bowl of fried eggs, vegetables, cheese, and herbal tea. The aroma of freshly baked apple pie filled the kitchen.
Suddenly, Gabrielle and Emma entered. Emma paused at the doorway, inhaling the delicious scents.
"What's going on in here?" she asked in surprise. "And what smells so good?"
Alex turned around, brushing flour from his hands.
"We decided to do a bit of cooking," he said, gesturing for his parents to come in.
Alpha stepped forward, politely lowering her head.
"Please, have a seat. Breakfast is ready."
Gabrielle and Emma, still a bit surprised, sat at the table, and Alex took a seat across from them. While they ate, the maids quietly bowed and left the kitchen. Alex watched them go and thought:
"In the new house, we definitely need a big table so we can all eat together."
Breakfast passed in a warm silence. Alex, his parents, and even the simple food created a special sense of comfort.
As soon as they finished, there was a knock at the door. Alex immediately stood up, tossing over his shoulder:
"I'll get it."
Opening the door, Alex saw Count Astárion on the threshold. He stood there with a soft but confident smile.
"Good morning, Alex," said Astárion. "I hope I'm not too early?"
"Not at all, we just finished breakfast," Alex replied, stepping aside to invite the count in. "Come in, we've been expecting you."
The count entered the house, giving a slight, polite nod, and made his way to the kitchen where Gabrielle and Emma were already waiting.
As soon as Astárion stepped into the kitchen, Gabrielle and Emma stood up from their seats and gave a graceful bow in greeting.
"Count Astárion, good to see you," said Gabrielle.
"Thank you for everything you've done for our family," added Emma with a grateful smile.
"No thanks necessary. I'm simply doing my duty," Astárion replied with a gentle smile. "If everyone is ready, I suggest we head to your new home at once."
A moment later, a magical ring appeared beneath their feet, and in the blink of an eye, they found themselves in front of a grand mansion.
Before them stood an elegant aristocratic estate with white columns, large windows, and a red tiled roof. Expansive lawns, manicured to the last blade of grass, were decorated with flowerbeds full of rare plants. A gravel path led to the entrance, framed by marble steps, and two symmetrical fountains on either side of the path added a sense of luxury.
Astárion began a leisurely tour of the mansion, pointing out its key features.
"This manor was built from the finest materials. The architecture blends classic style with modern improvements. For instance, the garden was designed by the top masters from the capital," he said, gesturing toward the picturesque park behind the estate, where paths intertwined with artificial ponds and sculptures.
The outdoor tour concluded, and they stepped inside. High ceilings were adorned with crystal chandeliers that reflected light and created playful shadows on the marble floor. Golden patterns on the walls harmonized with dark red carpets. Spacious halls with massive mirrors and mahogany furniture exuded luxury, and a wide central staircase led to the second floor.
Astárion showed them several rooms: the dining room, library, a spacious living room, and the kitchen. Every detail of the interior demonstrated the taste and status of the previous owners.
"Well, what do you think?" the count asked, stopping in the central hall.
Emma looked around, still slightly overwhelmed.
"This… this is incredible," she admitted. "It's hard to believe we'll be living here."
Gabrielle nodded, glancing around the grand hall.
"You've exceeded all our expectations, Count."
Astarion smiled softly.
"You've earned it. Get used to it—this is your home now."
Gabriel and Emma exchanged glances, then nodded with gratitude.
"It suits us perfectly. It's more than we could have imagined," Gabriel finally said.
Astarion nodded in satisfaction.
"Excellent. In that case, I suggest you head back home and bring all the maids here. As for Alex, I'd like to borrow him for a conversation."
Emma looked at her son, seemingly hesitant, but Alex nodded confidently.
"It's okay, Mom. I'll be back a little later."
"Alright," she finally agreed. "And Count," she shifted a warm but serious gaze to Astarion, "please come to dinner with Adam tonight. It will be our first family evening in the new house, and we'd be happy to share it with you."
Astarion smiled faintly and offered a slight bow.
"Thank you for the invitation, Lady Emma. Adam and I would be delighted to accept your hospitality."
With those words, Astarion conjured a magical circle for Emma and Gabriel. In a second, they vanished, leaving Alex alone with the Count.
"Well then, Alex, it's time for us to go," Astarion's tone grew more serious, and they both teleported to the Count's estate.
The men appeared in the Count's study.
"Finally, you're here," rang a bright female voice behind Alex.
The boy turned around immediately, recognizing the voice, and saw her—the Academy Director, one of the most powerful vampires, nearly unmatched in blood magic. A woman who could melt a man's heart with just a glance, thanks to her stunning beauty. And the very one who had played the greatest role in developing Alex's magical skills.
"It's been a while, Alex," the woman smiled.
"And I see you've already had an entire bottle," Astarion said calmly, eyeing the empty wine bottle. "How many times must I tell you not to sit at my desk?"
"Hey, don't make me look like a drunk in front of my nephew," the woman stood up from Astarion's desk and approached Alex. "And how long are you going to stand there frozen? Aren't you happy to see your dear Aunt Elizabeth?" she sighed theatrically.
"Words can't even describe how happy I am to see you, Elizabeth," Alex smiled at her.
"So you do remember me!" Elizabeth's voice turned childishly joyful as she took Alex's hands. "I was so worried you wouldn't recognize me."
"Elizabeth, please, pull yourself together," Astarion spoke, having quietly observed the scene. "You're the Academy's Director, for heaven's sake, yet you're acting like a child."
"I'm only a Director within the Academy walls. Right now, I'm a guest of my best friend, who so graciously allowed me to see the nephew I haven't laid eyes on in ten years. Isn't that reason enough for a bit of excitement?" Elizabeth shot a sly smile at Astarion.
"Do as you wish," Astarion sighed heavily and moved to his desk. Leaning on it, he continued, "I'm glad you got to see Alex, of course, but don't forget why I brought him here."
"You're right," Elizabeth turned her gaze to Alex. "We're expecting an interesting story. Don't disappoint us," she smiled and let go of his hands.
"This story will be more interesting than you can imagine," Alex thought, as Elizabeth sat beside Adam, who had been quietly watching the entire time.
"Grab a chair," Astarion nodded toward one near Alex. When the boy sat, the Count continued, "I trust you already know why you've been brought here."
"I have an idea, yes. The only question is—will you believe me?" Alex replied calmly, looking the Count in the eye.
"That depends on you. And I suggest you tell us everything, exactly as it is, because—"
"You can hear people's heartbeats, I know."
"How did you—" the Count glanced at Adam, but his expression revealed that he hadn't expected that answer either. "Very well, you may begin," he said, turning back to Alex.
"Alright then," Alex began confidently. "Believe me or not, but I…" he paused briefly, took a deep breath, and continued, "I'm from the future."
Adam's eyes widened, and he nearly jumped out of his seat.
"From the future? Seriously?" he exclaimed, completely losing his usual composure. "You're joking, right?"
Elizabeth's face remained relatively calm, but she couldn't hide a flicker of surprise. She clasped her hands together and tilted her head thoughtfully before speaking with a hint of sarcasm.
"Well, that's... interesting. Perhaps even too interesting."
Astarion, unlike the others, remained impassive. He quietly studied Alex's expression, gauging the honesty behind his words. The Count analyzed carefully—Alex's heartbeat remained steady, with no sign of deceit or nervousness.
"It sounds absurd," Astarion thought, glancing away, "but his heartbeat is calm. And that knowledge about the Montamers… But there's no magic that allows time travel. Or is there?"
Returning his gaze to Alex, the Count nodded slowly.
"I'll need more proof."
"As you wish," Alex replied calmly, extending his hand forward to show his resolve. His wrist suddenly began to redden, as if blood was surging beneath the skin in an unstoppable flow.
"I hope this will be enough."
Suddenly, thin streams of blood began to pour from his wrist. The blood wrapped around his arm like a living thing, gradually forming into a denser mass. Everyone watched as the blood rapidly transformed, taking the distinct shape of a blade. Within seconds, Alex held a fully formed sword of blood—its blade gleaming in a rich crimson hue, almost metallic, yet radiating a peculiar living glow.
"Elizabeth, could Gabriel have taught him this technique?" Astarion asked, inspecting the sword with interest.
"Definitely not," the woman replied seriously. "I tried to teach him many times, but it was always in vain. He knows every detail of this magic, but for some reason, it never worked for him. I honestly thought you'd fail too," she looked from the blade to Alex. "I'm glad I was wrong."
"And it's all thanks to you," Alex said softly. "How many days and nights we spent so I could finally create this sword. And then how much time I needed on my own to match your level… Three years, if I recall."
"Oh-ho, so you've mastered this magic as well as I have. Well, we'll just have to test that. And if it's true, you might be able to help me with something… but we'll talk about that later." Elizabeth smiled, her tone returning to calm.
"Let's say you're telling the truth," Astarion spoke again. "Then I have two questions: how did you manage to travel through time, and why did you come back?"
"That's going to take a while to explain," Alex leaned back in his chair. The sword lost its shape, and the blood returned to his wrist.
"We have time."
"In that case…"
"And I told them everything I knew. First, I spoke of the war between the races. Each of them reacted differently: Adam occasionally muttered quiet comments about certain events; Elizabeth initially tried to maintain a serious expression, but the longer I talked, the more emotions flickered across her face—surprise, sometimes sadness, even fear. For me, Elizabeth was an open book, as we had spent a great deal of time together in the past, and I could read those changes easily. Astarion, on the other hand, stood silent. He just listened quietly and never took his eyes off me. That's what I valued most about the Count—his ability to stay calm and rational in the face of any revelation."
"Then I moved on to the meeting with Lumenia. I quickly summarized our conversation, then said a few words about what I had been doing before the Academy entrance exam, and finally got to the events of today."
"The end," Alex said with a heavy exhale. "I think I've told you everything."
Alex finished his story, and his words hung in the air as if they themselves needed time to take root in the minds of those present. A few seconds of silence followed. It felt as though even the air in the room had grown heavier.
Astarion, arms crossed over his chest, stepped forward and, leaning slightly, said thoughtfully:
"Interesting story. And how exactly do you plan to protect our world from war?" Astarion turned his attentive gaze on Alex. "Clearly, Lumenia didn't choose you for this role without reason."
Alex lowered his eyes for a moment, as if weighing his words.
"I have no idea what guided Lumenia's decision in choosing me. In my previous life, I was just an ordinary young man who didn't even get to finish the Academy, since the war started a year before graduation. Then I became your assistant,"—Alex glanced at Elizabeth—"and the rest of my life consisted of only two things: training and battles. So I don't know what could've interested Lumenia in my past enough for her to entrust me with the fate of an entire world."
"But you've already achieved quite a lot," Elizabeth interjected, her gaze tender as it fell on Alex. "You've only been here three months, and you've already dealt with the Montamers."
Alex shook his head slightly, his voice quiet, almost uncertain:
"That was just luck, nothing more. Meeting Cyril at the exam, you and Adam believing me right away, Alpha taking the risk to trust me… It was all just a series of fortunate events."
"Indeed, it's just luck. Luck, and nothing more. I even told them everything because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to do it alone. Astarion—the Count, one of the most influential vampires of our time. Adam—his son, who will become a legendary warrior in the future. Elizabeth—the head of the Academy, capable of taking out a hundred enemies on her own. And I'm just an ordinary guy who happened to meet them. I got lucky then, and I'm still getting lucky now."
Astarion, as if sensing his doubts, placed a hand on Alex's shoulder. His voice was firm and confident:
"You say it was just luck?" The Count leaned forward slightly, forcing the young man to meet his gaze. "I'd argue otherwise. You didn't defeat Cyril with luck—you did it with your skills, which Adam recognized. The impression you made on my son, and the confidence with which you spoke back then—that's what convinced me to trust your words. Think that's luck? I don't."
Adam stepped forward, his expression full of determination:
"Father's right. Your actions proved that you're someone we can trust. So don't even think about doubting yourself, got it?"
Elizabeth, still seated, spoke calmly now, though her voice held firm conviction:
"Alex, the fate of the world is in your hands now. And Lumenia wouldn't entrust such a task to just anyone. If it weren't for you, the Montamers would still be murdering aristocrats, holding maids hostage, and, according to your story, causing even more harm."
She stood up, looking Alex directly in the eyes:
"Enough talk about luck. You earned this with your own strength. We're ready to believe in you, but first—you need to believe in yourself."
Alex looked from one speaker to the next. Their support touched the deepest parts of his soul.
"Thank you," Alex said quietly, and though his voice was soft, it rang with confidence. "I won't let you down."
"Now that's more like it," Astarion smiled lightly and removed his hand from Alex's shoulder. "You're not alone anymore, and together, we can protect this world. First, though, we need to figure out who the Montamers were so actively funding. After reading through all the documents several times, I noticed one curious detail—they were transferring money every month to someone called 'the Jester'. Do you know who that is?"
"Unfortunately, no," Alex frowned. "Even under the effects of truth serum, the Montamers never revealed his identity. All we managed to learn in the past was that this 'Jester' appeared at the same time every month. Remil would hand him a sack of coins, and then they'd part ways."
"And no clues at all?" Elizabeth asked.
"The only consistent detail was his attire—a black cloak and a black mask. We don't know his real name or appearance. But one thing is certain—he's connected to those who started the war."
"So, we don't have much information," Astarion stated calmly. "What do you plan to do next?"
"All I can for now—get stronger," Alex sighed and bowed his head slightly. "That's why I joined the Academy. Even though I wield blood magic and handle a sword decently, it's not enough. I want to learn dark magic. And for that, I need the best teacher I can find."
"You're talking about Krul, aren't you?" Elizabeth raised a brow, her voice turning stricter.
"Right on," Alex replied shortly.
"Ha, she's definitely a first-class teacher," Elizabeth said with a hint of irony, "but she rarely takes on students. You'll have to work hard to impress her."
"I'll think of something," Alex smiled slightly, though his expression quickly grew serious again. "The ones behind the war have always worked from the shadows. They pulled the strings of their puppets. Even after the war began, they stayed hidden. We have no choice but to keep developing and wait for their next move. Hopefully, the loss of the Montamers will force them to show themselves, even a little."
Astarion nodded, taking in what was said. Then, sitting at his desk, he spoke:
"Here's what we'll do. I'll try to dig up more information about 'the Jester'."
He turned his gaze to Adam and Alex.
"Your job is to level up. And the faster, the better."
The Count looked at Elizabeth.
"And you—"
Elizabeth caught his look and added with a soft smile:
"I know, I know. Keep an eye on these two."
"That's one of your tasks," Astarion agreed. "But there's another. Check the Academy for any traces related to 'the Jester'. The Montamers' fall will definitely push them to act, which means we're already on their radar. They know who took them down. So be careful—especially with whom you choose to trust."
Everyone present nodded in silent agreement, understanding the seriousness of the situation.
"Alright, that's all I wanted to say," Astarion leaned back in his chair. "Now everyone knows their role."
Alex stood up and looked at the Count:
"Thank you for the talk, Count."
"No, thank you—for trusting us," Astarion smiled easily. "And by the way, I've got one more gift for you and your family." He stood up from behind the desk and walked over to the young man. "I think it's time you returned to them. Adam, you coming?"
"Yes," Adam stepped up to his father and Alex without hesitation.
"And you, Elizabeth?" the Count turned to the woman still seated in her chair.
"Tempting offer, but I'll pass. I doubt my brother would be happy to see me," her voice carried hints of sadness. "Alex, give my regards to your father," her tone shifted back to its usual calm. "And I'll see you at the Academy." She smiled at her nephew.
"As soon as I get there, visiting you will be my first order of business," Alex smiled back at Elizabeth.
With that, the three men disappeared from the office.
Alex's family had gathered in the new, spacious dining room. Elegant tapestries hung on the walls, and warm light poured from a crystal chandelier, a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. In the center of the room stood a large oak table, generously laden with dishes lovingly prepared by the maids. Metal trays shimmered on the table, filled with steaming fragrant soups, juicy roasted meats, and light salads.
Everyone was seated: Alex with his parents, Astarion and Adam, and even the maids, who were allowed to dine with the family for the first time. The size of the table allowed everyone to sit comfortably, creating a cozy, even familial atmosphere. Emma, seated between Gabriel and Alpha, occasionally glanced at those around her, her face radiating peace and gratitude for the moment.
"Let them get used to their new life," he thought, watching as Alpha carefully served herself a portion of vegetable salad. Alex simply observed as everyone spoke quietly and exchanged smiles.
After a few casual toasts and some talk about how the family planned to settle into the estate, Astarion suddenly stood from his seat. All eyes immediately turned to him.
"My dear friends," he began, holding a glass in his hand, "I would like to thank you for inviting my son and me to this dinner. This moment has become possible thanks to your efforts and your courage."
Emma tried to say something, but Gabriel gently touched her hand, allowing Astarion to continue.
"But this is not just a home. It symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter for your family. You've proven that you deserve more. Alex, your determination and bravery, even in the hardest moments, have shown that you are a true leader."
Alex gave a faint smile but said nothing.
"Therefore," Astarion raised his glass higher, "I officially declare that from this day forward, the family of Gabriel and Emma shall bear the title of nobility."
For a few seconds, there was silence. Everyone froze, trying to process what had been said.
"We… we can't accept such a gift," Gabriel finally broke the silence, his voice calm but tinged with surprise. "It's too great an honor."
"This is not a gift, Gabriel," Astarion replied, his voice soft but firm. "It's recognition of your merit. You are no longer mere townspeople, but those who have proven their worth to our society."
Emma, deeply moved, simply nodded in gratitude, then quietly turned to Alex.
"Son, this is all thanks to you."
Alex, a little overwhelmed by the attention, answered with a slight smile.
"I just did what had to be done."
"To new beginnings, and to your family!" Astarion raised his glass.
"To new beginnings!" the others echoed, filling the room with warmth and gratitude.
Alex felt the weight of responsibility grow lighter—he was no longer alone; there were now people who believed in him.
Alex entered his new room and paused for a moment, taking in the space. A large bed made of dark wood, adorned with intricate carvings, was covered with a soft blanket. Landscapes hung on the walls, and beneath his feet lay a warm-patterned rug that added coziness. Yet, Alex still couldn't get used to this new luxurious life.
"So another day comes to an end," he thought, collapsing onto the bed.
"How would you assess today's success, My Lord?" asked Sirena. Her voice, as always, was soft but serious.
"Success?" Alex laughed, raising a hand to his face. "I'd sooner call it a miracle. Without the help of others, I doubt I'd have achieved any of this."
"Your contribution should not be underestimated," Sirena replied calmly. "You've managed to gather important people around you and shown the ability to act decisively and make difficult choices. These are signs of a true leader, My Lord."
"A leader, you say?" Alex smiled, turning onto his side. "It's nice to know others follow you. But it also means you're responsible for them."
"This responsibility will make you act with more caution and wisdom. And knowing your character, I'm glad that this burden grows heavier by the day."
"Well, thank you," Alex said sarcastically, then fell silent for a moment. His gaze rested on the window, beyond which stars glittered.
"Maybe you're right," he continued quietly. "It'll force me to be more careful. The enemy already knows I've made my move. Now I have to think about how to protect those who trust me."
"Caution is your greatest ally, My Lord," Sirena said, her voice sterner than usual. "Don't reveal your plans too early. Choose wisely whom to trust and always leave room for maneuver."
"You speak as if I plan to go into open battle."
"You yourself said the enemy works from the shadows. You must learn to do the same."
Alex lay in thought, hands behind his head.
"You know, Sirena, I'm tired of always being cautious. I just want to live, to forget about this war and these intrigues—just for a day."
"That desire is understandable, My Lord. But your choices affect more than just yourself. You've already become someone who inspires others."
"Inspires, huh?" Alex smiled, closing his eyes. "Either way, thank you. You always know what to say."
"Thank you for the compliment, My Lord," Sirena replied softly.
Sleep quickly enveloped Alex, and Sirena fell silent for a moment, as if watching over him.
"Be careful, My Lord," she added before letting him rest.
Adam approached his father's study door and knocked softly before entering. Astarion sat at his desk, examining documents, but upon seeing his son, he set them aside and smiled gently.
"Is something wrong, Adam?" the count asked, leaning back in his chair.
"Nothing serious, Father," Adam replied, sitting in the chair opposite. "I just wanted to talk."
"I'm always glad to," Astarion replied warmly. "How do you find our new ally?"
Adam tilted his head thoughtfully, as if weighing his words.
"Alex… is strange. In a good way. He manages to stay calm even in tough situations, and he always seems to know what he's doing. But at the same time, he seems… lonely."
Astarion nodded, listening intently.
"He's had a difficult path, that much is clear. But his determination and certainty in what he's doing—that's something that can inspire many. Don't you think?"
"Yes," Adam agreed. "But what surprises me the most is how much he trusts us. I think we must have been good friends in his past."
Astarion crossed his arms over his chest.
"I believe so too. His openness with us is already an important step. That's why we must support him and show him that he no longer walks alone."
Adam fell silent for a moment, looking at his father. Then, after a moment of hesitation, he finally asked:
"Father, if Alex really is from the future… do you think he might know how to help Mother?"
Astarion tensed but quickly pulled himself together. His gaze grew serious.
"I've thought about it, Adam," he said. "But today, the right moment never came to ask."
"Maybe I could ask him at the Academy?" Adam suggested hesitantly.
Astarion shook his head, his voice calm but resolute.
"No. That conversation has to be personal. I'll find the time and opportunity to talk to him myself. Don't pressure him."
Adam nodded, though there was a trace of disappointment in his eyes.
"All right, Father. I promise I won't ask him."
Astarion gave a faint smile, placing his hand back on the documents.
"Thank you, son. Now go get some rest. Tomorrow you leave for the Academy, so make sure you sleep well."
"Good night, Father," said Adam, rising and heading toward the door.
"Good night, Adam," Astarion replied softly, watching his son leave the study.
When the door closed, the count lowered his gaze back to the papers, but his thoughts were far from them.
The night sky stretched over the field, lit only by the stars and the moon. A gentle breeze rustled the grass, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere.
In the center of the field, on a small clearing, stood a man in a long black cloak and a mask that concealed his face. He remained still, shadows cast by the moon dancing across his dark attire.
Before him, in a flash of magical light, appeared another man. His clothing was simpler, though his face was also hidden behind a mask resembling the Jester's own. He dropped to one knee and bowed his head.
"My Lord, news from the Montamer estate," the subordinate began. His voice trembled, whether from fear or reverence was unclear. "They... have been eliminated."
The Jester crossed his arms over his chest, tilting his head slightly, as if weighing the news.
"Eliminated, you say? What a pity," he said, his voice low and laced with cold irony. "And who was responsible?"
"According to our sources, Count Astarion," the man replied, lifting his eyes. "But he wasn't alone. He was helped... by a commoner family."
"Commoners?" The Jester chuckled softly, though with a hint of surprise. "That is interesting. I doubt they understood Lorina's magic. How could the Montamers have lost?"
"We have yet to learn the details," the man said, bowing his head again. "We await your instructions."
The Jester raised a hand, signaling for him to stop.
"Very well. What matters now is finding a new patron. The Montamers were far from ideal, though useful. But don't worry—I already have a candidate in mind," his voice turned thoughtful, yet remained cold. "Duke Lorenzo de Carval. Send him my invitation. He'll make an intriguing ally for our cause."
"As you command, my Lord," the man bowed even lower, then vanished in a brilliant magical circle, leaving the Jester alone.
The Jester lifted his gaze to the starry sky, and though his mask hid his face, one could almost sense the smile behind it.
"And Count Astarion... he is fascinating. Very fascinating," he mused, hiding his hands within the folds of his cloak. "His speed and decisiveness are impressive. Regardless, I never liked the Montamers' methods. They brought us money, yes—but their ways were crude."
He paused for a moment, as if considering his next thoughts.
"And these commoners..." the Jester's voice became almost a whisper. "We need to find out who they are and keep a close eye on them. I don't want them disrupting our plans again."
The Jester laughed softly, his chuckle melting into the night air. A moment later, his figure vanished into the darkness, as if he had never been there at all.