Alaric leans forward, his elbows resting on the table, his hands clasped tightly together.
We must also consider the possibility that there are those who would seek to use this power for their own gain. If word of this ritual spreads, we could be facing a risk of an extremists and fanatic and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.(Alaric)
The room grows darker as the sun sets, the candles flickering to life, casting eerie shadows on the walls. Beatrice stands, moving to light the lanterns, her silhouette framed against the gathering darkness. She turns back to face them, her expression unreadable.
Alaric leans forward, his eyes narrowing as he considers the situation.
We need to start by identifying nobles with strong celestial connections. Perhaps we can look into their family trees, their birth charts, or any known magical affinities.(Alaric)
Beatrice nods, a hint of approval in her eyes. A sound plan.
I can assist with the research, utilizing my library and contacts within the noble houses. She pauses, her gaze drifting to the window as the last rays of sunlight fade into twilight.(Beatrice)
So it's gonna be hidden information between us and the royal family.(Aerion)
The gentle knock at the door interrupts their discussion. Beatrice's head snaps up, her eyes narrowing slightly as she calls out, her voice sharp and commanding.
Enter.(Beatrice)
.......
The door creaks open, revealing Rosemary, the maid from the previous night and few other. She curtsies deeply, her head bowed, a silver tray balanced precariously in her hands.
My lady, I apologize for the interruption. I've brought the tea you requested.(Rosemary)
Beatrice's expression softens slightly, a hint of curiosity in her eyes as she watches the maids.
Ah, thank you, Rosemary. Please, set it down here. She gestures to a nearby table.(Beatrice)
As maids sets the tray down.
The room is silent for a moment, the tension palpable as Beatrice studies the maids, her mind clearly racing with unspoken thoughts. Aerion and Alaric exchange a glance, their expressions a mix of confusion and intrigue.
Alaric's gaze keeps drifting back to Rosemary, his mind preoccupied with the encounter from the previous night. He catches himself staring at her, his eyes lingering on the way the candlelight catches her hair, turning it into a halo of golden strands.
Beatrice notices his distraction, a faint smirk playing on her lips as she pours the tea. She hands him a cup, her fingers brushing against his briefly.
Something on your mind, Alaric? You seem... preoccupied.(Beatrice)
Her tone is light, but there's an undercurrent of curiosity, a subtle challenge in her words.
Alaric startles slightly, his cheeks flushing as he realizes he's been caught. He clears his throat, his eyes darting away from Rosemary.
Nno, it's nothing. Just... thinking about the case.(Alaric)
He takes a sip of the tea, hoping the hot liquid will distract him from the maid's presence.
Rosemary, for her part, remains silent, her head bowed as she waits for further instructions. But there's a subtle tension in her posture, a hint of awareness that she's the center of attention.
Alaric's words trail off, his mind racing with confusion and embarrassment. He glances back at Rosemary, who is now pouring tea for Aerion, her movements graceful and efficient. There's something about her, something that draws him in and makes it difficult for him to concentrate.
Beatrice watches the exchange with a mixture of amusement and curiosity, her eyes flicking between Alaric and Rosemary. She takes a sip of her tea, her gaze lingering on the maid's face.
Rosemary, dear, would you mind giving us a moment? I believe we have some... private matters to discuss.(Beatrice)
Of course, my lady.(Rosemary)
The maids exits the room quietly, closing the door behind her with a soft click.The maid curtsies, her head bowed.