The Contracter's Conquest

Chapter 4: Chapter 4: A Chance at Redemption



Chapter 4: A Chance at Redemption

The evening sun cast a warm, golden glow over Sylas's modest home as he poured two cups of herbal tea for himself and Lukas. They sat across from each other at the small dining table, the air heavy with unspoken words. Lukas had always been straightforward, but today there was an unfamiliar hesitance in his demeanor, as though he were trying to find the right way to start.

"So," Sylas began, breaking the silence. "You've been away for a while, Lukas. What's the big news you couldn't wait to share?"

Lukas leaned back, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Straight to the point as always, huh? Alright, I'll tell you. After I left the village, I made my way to Wyvernheart—the capital."

Sylas raised an eyebrow. "The capital? What were you doing there?"

"I enlisted at the Adventurer's Guild headquarters," Lukas replied, his voice carrying a mix of pride and excitement. "It wasn't easy to get in, but once I did, the real challenges began. I've been on missions—real missions—and let me tell you, it's nothing like the quiet life here."

Sylas leaned forward, intrigued despite himself. "Missions? Like what?"

"Well, one of them nearly got my entire team killed," Lukas admitted, his tone suddenly more serious. "We were in way over our heads, caught in a situation we couldn't handle. If it weren't for my benefactor..."

"Your benefactor?" Sylas interrupted.

Lukas nodded, his expression unreadable. "Yes. Someone I owe a great deal to. They saved us when no one else could. But I can't say much more about them, Sylas. I gave my word."

Sylas frowned, but he didn't press further. "Alright. So this benefactor helped you. What happened next?"

Lukas's smile returned, this time more subdued. "They didn't just save me. They saw potential in me, Sylas. After that mission, they offered me a scholarship to study at Eldrich Academy."

Sylas's eyes widened. "Eldrich Academy? The Eldrich Academy? The one where nobles and royals send their children?"

"The very same," Lukas said, a hint of pride in his voice. "It's the best institution for Ring-users in the entire kingdom. Getting in is almost impossible for commoners like us, but thanks to my benefactor, I have a spot."

Sylas stared at Lukas, his emotions a swirl of awe, disbelief, and pride. "Lukas, that's incredible. Truly. I'm so happy for you. To make it to Eldrich Academy... it's a dream for so many people."

Lukas's smile softened. "Thanks, Sylas. It means a lot to hear that from you. But..." He hesitated, his gaze dropping to the table.

"But what?" Sylas prompted.

"I'll be leaving the town the day after tomorrow," Lukas said, his voice quieter now.

Sylas nodded, already bracing himself for the inevitable goodbye. "I see. I figured as much."

Lukas looked up, his expression conflicted. "There's more. If you wish, Sylas... we could go together. I know how much your Ring's situation bothers you. Eldrich Academy has resources—teachers, researchers, and even ancient texts. They might be able to help you figure it out."

Sylas's eyes widened in surprise, but then his expression darkened. He shook his head, cutting Lukas off. "No, Lukas. As I am now, I'd just be a burden to you. Please don't bother."

Lukas's jaw tightened, a flash of irritation crossing his face. "You always say that. Always. But do you think I care about you being a 'burden'? You're my friend, Sylas. You've been there for me when no one else was. Why can't you let me do the same for you?"

Sylas looked away, guilt and frustration warring within him. "I just... I don't want to hold you back, Lukas. You've worked so hard to get where you are. I can't be the one to drag you down."

Lukas sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Fine. I'll respect your decision—for now. But listen to me, Sylas. The admissions for general students at Eldrich Academy are three months from now. I believe that by then, you'll have made up your mind."

Sylas opened his mouth to protest, but Lukas raised a hand to stop him. "I was given an early entry because of a recommendation. I'll try my best to secure one for you as well. By any means necessary."

"Lukas, you don't have to—" Sylas began, but his words were cut off as the door swung open.

Both boys turned to see Sylas's father, Mark, stepping inside. His coat was dusted with travel dirt, and his face was lined with fatigue, but his eyes carried a spark of determination.

"Am I interrupting something?" Mark asked, his gaze shifting between Sylas and Lukas.

Sylas stood abruptly. "Father, you're back!"

Mark nodded, his expression softening. "It seems I arrived at an important moment."

Lukas rose as well, offering Mark a respectful nod. "Good evening, Mr. Mark. I was just catching up with Sylas."

Mark's eyes narrowed slightly, sensing the tension in the room. "I see. Well, don't let me interrupt. Please, continue."

The air grew heavier as all three stood in silence, the unspoken words lingering between them.

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