Chapter 10: The Unseen Puppeteer

Aveline stood at the entrance of Elder Thorne's room, her heart was beating faster than she expected from the turn of events and what she was warned about. The message had come unexpectedly, summoning her to a late-night meeting. The corridor outside the study was dimly lit. The heavy door creaked as it opened, and Thorne's voice called on her inside.

"Come in, Aveline," he said, with a cool tone.

She stepped into the room with her eyes checking around the room's surroundings. The Shelves were filled with ancient books and relics which loomed over the space. The only source of light was a single lamp on Thorne's desk. His piercing eyes locked onto her as he beckoned on her to sit.

"You summoned me, Elder?" she asked, keeping her voice calm despite the unease twisting in her stomach.

Thorne leaned back in his chair, his fingers joined together. "I have concerns, Aveline. Concerns about Gabriel and his role in all of this."