Chapter 186: The Lament Shroud
"...I met Professor Harken, Zephyr, and Aeron on the road while entering the Shield Families’ territory."
Lumin paused for a moment and continued.
"After... certain events unfolded, they asked me to accompany them. It was actually young friend Zephyr’s idea - he anticipated that either Lady Luthaire or you might take the news... poorly. Having a healer who understands mental afflictions seemed prudent. And since their goals somehow aligned with mine, I agreed."
"As for the rest..." He glanced at the baron. "We both know how that turned out, don’t we?"
The baron nodded slowly at Lumin’s words.
Though a sliver of suspicion still lingered, he found himself believing the half-elf. The world was vast, after all, and there were many like him—wanderers, free-spirited souls who traveled where fate took them.
There had been a time, long ago, when he too had dreamed of such a life. But not everything went as one wished, and truthfully, he was content with the life he had now.
Lumin added, his voice calm but firm, "And you don’t need to worry. I have no ill intentions. In fact, I may be able to help with this Hollowlands issue." He paused. "But of course, we’ll have to wait until this incident passes."
The baron chuckled, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. "You’re right. And... forgive me for doubting you again."
"No worries," Lumin replied, offering a faint smile.
They arrived at Lady Luthaire’s chambers soon after. The baron knocked lightly before pushing the door open, only to freeze in place.