The study was quieter than usual, sunlight spilling in through open windows and warming the air with a golden glow. John Osborn sat behind his desk.
"Robert," John began, leaning forward slightly. "There is something you must know. Your mother… She has broken through to the realm of Soul Manifestation. First stage, low level."
Robert's eyes widened, and then a rare, unguarded smile tugged at his lips. His heart surged with pride. "Mother… at Soul Manifestation. That means the clan now added one more; now three are standing in that realm."
John nodded, his voice steady but carrying a flicker of excitement. "Yes. And with her progress, the Osborns have taken one step further out of the shadows." His gaze hardened then, the warmth giving way to calculation.
