The Siphoner's Curse

Chapter Two

JUST about forty-five minutes away from the Sanctuary, was a small, privately funded and very elite, University, that only the greatest minds all over the world had the privilege of attending to study in science, medicine, archaeology, and marine biology—to name a few.

Once upon a time, Adam Cane had taught various courses at this University, and put a lot of his own funds into making sure the students who were selected to attend this school received only the best education. From what Callum could remember, Adam had left the University after several disagreements about funding and where the school was heading. After several hikes in tuition, it became a school only the rich could afford because of the prestige, and no longer was it based on merit.

Still, Adam kept his donations toward his wing in the University, and started his own scholarship program so that those who were smart and wanted to make a difference in this world would be able to attend, and not have to worry about what income bracket they fell under.

Callum was always in awe every time he entered the University, and because Adam was one of the biggest donors, Callum had a chance to dress up once a year and attend the Galas with Adam as a plus one. He didn't mind it as much. The girls were busy planning a wedding, and the two werewolves were always out for one of their numerous runs in which he couldn't keep up physically. But places like this, where academia was the focus, he felt at home.

Callum felt a gentle hand on his shoulder and turned to see Adam, looking at the various people in attendance. He studied the older man's face, which was mixed with familiarity and sadness. With each passing Gala, Callum could sense Adam growing more despondent by the State of this once fine institution.

"These Galas used to be much simpler when Cynthia and I used to attend many moons ago," Adam said half-jokingly. "It was never this...flashy."

Callum understood what Adam had meant. He also noticed that each Gala was bigger and better than the last, with professional chefs cooking appetizers he never heard of.

"Shall we find our table and look at what fine cuisine we will be dining on tonight?"

Callum half smiled as he followed Adam into the transformed gymnasium that was turned into a beautiful banquet hall. Tables were set up with the finest silverware, and there was a podium set up for after dinner, where many Professors would give speeches on their various findings. Callum quite enjoyed listening to all of them, and more importantly, he was excited to hear Adam's speech, which was always a huge hit.

The two of them arrived at their table, where an older couple, around the same age if not older than Adam, were already seated.

The gentleman at the table, who wore an expensive tuxedo, clear framed glasses, and had a little bit of a gut on his average sized frame, stood up immediately with a huge smile on his face.

"Well, well, well. If it isn't the man himself!"

Adam smiled back while extending his hand and saying, "I didn't expect to see you here."

The man chuckled heartedly while his wife stood up. "You remember Patricia."

"Of course," Adam said as he turned his attention to Patricia and took her hand. "You look lovely."

"Thank you, Adam. Where is Cynthia tonight? I hope she is well."

"She is, thank you. These events just don't interest her. I brought my adopted son along, who is quite gifted and interested in these things. Callum, this is Professor George Eldin, and his wife, Patricia."

Callum shook both their hands before the four of them took their seats.

"I wasn't planning to come," George continued to say. "But my trip ended earlier than anticipated, so since I was back, and noting I haven't been to one of these in ages, I thought I should see where my money was going."

"Where did you go?" Adam asked.

"He went all over Europe," Patricia answered.

George chuckled. "It was quite the experience. Inspired me a little. I may even take up the Dean on his offer to lecture a couple of courses."

For a moment Adam looked around the room before he turned his attention back to George. "I've been avoiding the Dean all night, just in case he asks. I am running out of excuses as to why I refuse to lecture here anymore."

George chuckled as he picked up his wine glass. "I say we propose a toast. To old friends."

***

BY the time Nora and Sage returned home from their night out, it was late. From the cars outside, she knew that Callum and Adam were still at the University Gala, and Cynthia and Mary Louise were still out as well. Nora wondered if Barron and Jonas were home, but she got confirmation when she saw Barron make his way into the foyer.

"Successful night?" Barron asked, to which Nora smiled.

"I have some ideas. But planning a wedding is much harder than it looks."

"Where is Sage?"

"She is in the Courtyard. She wanted to practice some spells. How was your night?"

"It was good, Jonas and I went for a really long run. Felt nice."

"Glad to hear that," Nora said. "But I'm exhausted from all the shopping—I think I will call it a night."

Nora was about to head up the stairs when Barron stopped her.

"There is someone here to see you," Barron said.

"To see me?" Nora asked, slightly confused.

"Yeah. They were very insistent to speak with you. They're waiting in the den."

Nora stood still long after Barron had left. She wondered who could be visiting her, and at the Sanctuary of all places.

She suddenly became defensive, her hands forming a fist as her eyes momentarily flashed blood red. If this was an enemy, she wanted to be prepared so they wouldn't hurt her family.

Nora cautiously made her way toward the den, her steps soft as if she were on the hunt for prey. When she got to the den, she noticed a rather tall woman from behind, with flowing waves in her hair that was mostly blonde with a tinge of red. The woman was looking at pictures of Cynthia, Adam, Barron, Callum, Jonas and Sage.

Nora stood in the doorframe, watching the woman carefully. Almost, as if the other woman sensed Nora's presence, she slowly began to turn around.

"Hello, Nora," The woman said.

Nora swallowed hard. "Valerie?"