Gift and Return

Arctis's POV 

Aelric and I stood by the window of the hall, gazing at the three children playing and laughing atop the tower. The cheerful scene was a sharp contrast to the weight of our conversation. Breaking the silence, Aelric spoke, his tone steady and purposeful.

"You know this engagement is the best way to solidify our alliance. It will not only strengthen our relationship but also silence any dissenters who question our unity."

I sighed, folding my hands behind my back. "Old man, I'm not against the idea. Ethan is still a small child, and they'll have plenty of time to grow and naturally develop feelings for each other. But my daughter… she's fiercely protective of Ethan."

Aelric tilted his head, waiting for me to elaborate.

"You know why, don't you? Her lover died in the Abyss, and after enduring that tragedy, Ethan became her only remaining star. To her, he is everything, her hope, her joy, her purpose. His dreams, his happiness, his well-being… they consume her thoughts entirely. Even if she doesn't oppose the engagement outright, it will take her time to accept little Aurelia."

Aelric chuckled softly, his confidence unshaken. "There's no need to worry. I'll send Aurelia to your castle regularly. Let them spend time together. As they play and grow, their bond will strengthen naturally. Trust me, Arctis no one can dislike my granddaughter. She's clever, kind, and much more mature than her peers and certainly more sensible than that rascal Austin."

He smiled fondly but quickly sobered, his expression turning serious. "But Arctis, we must do everything in our power to ensure this alliance is secured. You haven't forgotten what's at stake, have you? The survival of both our families depends on this."

I nodded, my heart heavy with the shared burden of responsibility. "I haven't forgotten."

Aelric clapped my shoulder reassuringly. "Good. I'll leave Aurelia here for a couple of days. You can send someone to bring her back later. For now, let's call the children back."

I gestured to a servant nearby and instructed him to fetch the children, my mind already contemplating the future implications of our decision.

Ethan's POV 

As we made our way back to the hall, Aurelia chatted animatedly about random topics, her energy infectious. I responded occasionally, amused by her enthusiasm. When we arrived, Duke Aelric welcomed us warmly, and we settled back into our seats. This time, he avoided any mention of engagements, instead discussing our potential futures, including studies at the prestigious New Moon Magic Academy and other mundane plans.

In the midst of the conversation, he tapped an unassuming brass ring on his finger. To my amazement, a wooden box materialized out of thin air. I instantly recognized it as a spatial storage artifact, something I had read about in the library. These rare tools came in various forms be it rings, earrings, bracelets, or belts and were considered essential accessories for wizards.

Duke Aelric held out the box toward me, smiling. "This is my gift to you, little Ethan. Open it."

I hesitated, caught off guard by the gesture, but then carefully opened the box. Inside were three exquisite knives, each about eight inches long. Their handles were crafted from a silvery metal adorned with delicate leaf designs, while the blades were a translucent green, etched with vein-like patterns that shimmered in the light.

I glanced at Grandfather, whose expression betrayed astonishment. Clearly, this was no ordinary gift. Before I could voice my curiosity, Duke Aelric waved dismissively.

"No need to ask; your grandfather will explain everything for me."

I nodded, offering my thanks, and gently closed the box, keeping it secure in my lap.

Grandfather's face turned slightly embarrassed, and I quickly realized why. Compared to this impressive gift, he likely hadn't brought anything of similar caliber for Aelric's grandchildren. Nevertheless, he straightened, tapping his own ring to summon a small box of his own.

When the box opened, red smoke-like particles wafted out, swirling delicately in the air. Inside lay two eggs, each about twice the size of a chicken's egg, their vivid crimson shells adorned with intricate flame-like patterns.

"These are eggs of Fireplume Birds," Grandfather declared proudly, his tone carrying a hint of triumph. "I brought two one for each of you."

Duke Aelric's eyes lit up with approval as he commanded his grandchildren, "Thank your granduncle immediately! These are no ordinary eggs. Fireplume Birds can become your loyal beast companions for many years."

The siblings expressed their gratitude eagerly, their excitement evident. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, we began our journey back to the Mistborn castle.

Ten minutes into the flight, my thoughts lingered on the day's events, especially the awe-inspiring Storm Eagle. Aurelia, now seated quietly beside me, seemed more reserved in Grandfather's presence, though she occasionally glanced my way with a soft smile.

When we arrived at our castle, I watched as her eyes widened in amazement at the sight of its distinctive architecture. Bathed in the light of the setting sun, the castle gleamed like a magnificent violet gemstone nestled deep within the snowy mountains.

Aurelia's astonishment was evident, her gaze fixed on the castle's grandeur. Though she remained silent, her expression spoke volumes. When we landed on the stone-paved courtyard, both my mother and grandmother emerged to greet us. It seemed my mother had returned early today, a rare occurrence that added to the sense of occasion.

As we dismounted the Storm Eagle, the majestic bird let out a soft cry before flying off toward the back of the castle, likely to reunite with her mate.

My mother and grandmother exchanged curious glances when their eyes fell on Aurelia. Grandfather stepped forward, introducing her with his usual calm demeanour. However, as he spoke, I noticed his lips move silently, conveying something unheard to them. It was likely a magic technique.

My grandmother's expression softened into a warm smile, but my mother's face remained unreadable, her eyes lingering on Aurelia with a measured gaze.

The formalities quickly passed, and the day settled into a quieter rhythm. We spent the rest of the evening playing in the castle grounds, the atmosphere light and filled with laughter. As night descended, we gathered for a sumptuous dinner, after which we retired to our rooms.

I started making plans to step into the threshold of the Arctic Sovereign Immortal Body as I was swept in my sweet dreams.