Chapter 101. Game starts
Leo stood in his chambers, freshly bathed, the midnight-blue coat hugging his frame with tailored precision, it’s elegant yet designed for combat, it’s dark fabric shining faintly in the lamplight. Nimbus leapt from the floor, dissolved into his shadow.
Rolling his shoulders, Leo strode into the manor’s hallway, the coat flowing with his movements, ready for the action ahead.
As he walked, he caught sight of Maria standing in the corridor, her face pale, eyes filled with guilt. He intended to pass by, but her trembling voice stopped him. "Leonhardt... I heard you’re going to bring Vivien back."
Leo paused, turning slightly, his crimson eyes meeting hers. "Yes."
Maria’s hands twisted together, her voice barely above a whisper. "I treated you like you were nothing, not even human. Why are you risking your life for my daughter? You could walk away... leave us to our mistakes."
Leo exhaled, his voice low but steady, carrying a weight of conviction. "Vivien’s my sister. She’s innocent, full of love, love that doesn’t judge, that lights up when she sees me. You want to know why I never struck back, even after everything you did? Because no matter how you treat me, you love your children more than any mother, Vivien adores you, clings to the mother who loves her fiercely. I won’t let her lose that. I won’t let her lose you."
Maria’s breath caught, tears spilling down her cheeks as she choked out, "Thank you, Leonhardt... thank you."
Leo’s gaze softened for a moment, but he turned away. His item box filled with weapons, potions, and supplies, everything he’d need for now.
Outside, the night filled the manor in darkness. Leo approached the stables, Liana at his side, her steps quiet but heavy with worry. He mounted a sleek black horse, its eyes glinting like polished obsidian.