Chapter 57: Use
The air outside Baines’s quarters was crisp, tinged with the faint scent of pine from the surrounding Darkan forests. Tasha stood at his door, her eyes alight with excitement, clutching a parchment emblazoned with the Solaris Imperial Family’s seal.
The announcement of the "Rising Star" tournament had set her heart ablaze. She thrived on competition, and this was no ordinary contest. Darkos, the capital of the Darkan lands, had become a focal point of intrigue in recent months, drawing the empire’s gaze. The tournament promised not only glory but a chance to sate the curiosity of those eager to uncover the secrets of this enigmatic region.
"When is it?" Baines asked, his voice flat as he scanned the letter, his expression as unreadable as stone.
"Two weeks," Tasha replied, nodding enthusiastically. "Plenty of time for travelers to arrive and rest before the tournament begins."
Baines handed the parchment back, closed the door behind him, and began walking away without a word. Tasha blinked, caught off guard. "Huh? Where are you going?" she called, hurrying to match his stride when no response came. Undeterred, she took his silence as an invitation to follow, her curiosity outweighing her confusion.
Their destination was the family head’s office, a grand chamber within the Darkan stronghold, its walls adorned with ancient tapestries depicting draconic battles.
Tasha’s presence smoothed their entry. Guards who might have questioned Baines alone stepped aside, recognizing her status. Inside, the family head sat behind a polished obsidian desk. Beside him stood a striking woman with flowing black hair, her presence commanding yet warm.
"Mother!" Tasha exclaimed, her surprise genuine.
"Come to me, baby girl," the woman said, opening her arms. Tasha rushed into her embrace, a rare moment of vulnerability softening her usual bravado. Sensing the gravity of the meeting, the woman smiled gently.
"Let’s catch up while they speak." With a graceful nod, she led Tasha out, leaving Baines alone with the Darkan family head.
The silence in the room was heavy, broken only by the faint crackle of a fire in the hearth. "I’m sure you’ve heard the news," the family head said, leaning forward, his eyes searching Baines’s impassive face. "So, why are you here?"