Deep within the silent valley, a thick layer of mist covered the mountain peaks, as if trying to hide the place from the outside world. The faint sound of a flowing stream broke the stillness, it was the only sign of life in that secluded realm.
In the center of a small stone garden stood an old wooden pavilion. An elderly man sat quietly on a wooden chair, wearing a long, dark-gray robe. On the table before him lay a silver tea set, perfectly arranged, as though waiting for a long-expected guest.
He lifted the teacup and took a slow sip, eyes closed, enjoying the peace that came with the morning mist.The first light of dawn filtered through the fog, casting soft shadows across his wrinkled face. Despite his age, his eyes still sparkled with sharp clarity.
Then came the faint sound of footsteps.The mist began to part, revealing the silhouette of a woman approaching.
Her long, dark violet hair shimmered faintly in the morning light. Pale yellow eyes, sharp and steady, met his as she drew closer, her black cloak swaying in the wind.
The old man slowly opened his eyes and said, "It's been a long time, hasn't it, Velmira?"
The woman chuckled softly."Probably since the day you decided to leave your entire family."
"Heh. You still know how to hit where it hurts."The man set his cup down gently.
"So, you've received all the details, I assume?"
She let out a quiet sigh."Yeah, yeah. Send the boy to the lower world and make sure he learns to control his Authority, right?"
"That's right," the man replied calmly."But if he stumbles, you can stop at any time need to push him."
She frowned, irritation in her eyes."You speak as if that boy is just a tool to you, old chunk."
A faint smile crossed his lips."Maybe…but perhaps this is simply his fate. I'm only giving him a chance to prepare for what's coming."
She exhaled softly. "Hmph… well, I'll admit, he does seem more promising than the last one."
"Looks like you've taken quite an interest in him," the old man teased.
"I'm just doing my job," she replied, turning away as her cloak rippled behind her.
"Then why did you come all the way here again? I thought I had already told you everything."
She paused for a moment."No reason. Just wanted to see if the old geezer is still breathing."
The man chuckled."At least have a cup of my special tea before you leave."
She didn't respond. Instead, she raised a single middle finger over her shoulder without looking back.The mist thickened once more, engulfing her figure until she vanished completely into the haze.
The old man looked down at his teacup, a shadow of thought crossing his face.
"...I'm sorry," he whispered to no one in particular.