The Summoners' Heir

Chapter 31: Only Love Could Hurt This Way

The Winter Fete was only two days away, and Mother would soon be presented to the world. Our Sun Summoner. The one who would liberate us all.

The note I had just read was... was it really time? Perhaps I should speak to the Darkling. But then I would need to admit I read the letter... this was getting tiresome. Everyone was racing around with orders from the Darkling. Genya was frantic with gown designs, and Mother was missing - probably training. I didn't know what the heck I was supposed to be doing amongst all this.

"Leksi?"

Father.

"A word."

I nodded in acknowledgement and followed him to his chambers.

"The Winter Fete is only a few days away, and I would like you to attend."

"Of course."

He seemed tense today. While stoic, he had a controlled calmness about him - usually. He was lost, distant. Something was bothering him.

"How is Alina?"

There it was.

"She's fine. I haven't seen her for a while."

There was no way I was mentioning the note now.

"She's probably busy training for the big day," I tried with a weak smile.

He sighed.

"I understand the pressure she must be under. You know your mother and I truly are two sides of the same coin.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, Leksi, despite our juxtaposing powers, Alina and I aren't all that different. We were two people blessed with power beyond Ravkan understanding, and because of it, we'll be scrutinised for eternity. We'll always be under pressure."

"So tell her."

I was met with a raised eyebrow.

"Tell her," I repeated, "Father, you need to remember that you're not alone anymore."

I reached out, encircling his wrist with tendrils of light and shadow. He reciprocated with shadows of his own.

"I'm just..."

"Just what?"

"Worried," he murmured. So softly that I almost missed it.

He was worried for her. My shipper heart couldn't take it. Was it strange to ship your own parents?