24. Silk-like Fur

For the first time, Jayden felt a flicker of relief. He’d been carrying so much—fear, confusion, anger—all bottled up inside with no one to share it with. Now, finally, there was someone who might have the answers he’d been desperately searching for. As they walked together, Emric led Jayden toward the lake. The moon hung high above, its reflection shimmering on the water’s surface like molten silver. The scene was serene, a stark contrast to the chaos brewing within Jayden’s mind. “Alright, slow down.” Emric chuckled as Jayden bombarded him with a series of rapid-fire questions. “When I said I’d answer your questions, I didn’t mean I’m a fortune teller or some kind of all-knowing being. I can’t predict the weather or explain the mysteries kept in secret, alright?” He gave Jayden’s shoulder another reassuring pat, his smile easy and warm. Jayden couldn’t help but grin, at Emric’s humor, a lightness that cut through the heaviness of the night. Emric’s tone shifted, growing more serious.