Caspian's Legacy: The Scent of Truth (book two)

Chapter forty-three

"I will start us dinner right now!" the woman exclaimed happily, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I'm sure you two have quite a few stories to share, and I can't wait to hear them all." She ushered them inside. The warmth of the house was inviting to Soren; he had never been inside a mortal home before. All of the new sights and smells were overwhelming him a little.

"This is a very cozy home," he thought to himself thoughtfully as his gaze dashed from object to object. He had never been inside a mortal home before, and this one was very different from the forest he had called home. He yearns to be with the Lunar Eclipse Pack again; it has been too long since he started the quest with Caspian, Aurora, and Oak. They must complete their tasks to save the life of Luna and restore it once again.

Soren sees Lucius's son sitting on the sofa, reading a book quietly to himself, his gaze fixed on the words on the page. The boy looks up at Soren and smiles shyly before going back to his book. The woman, meanwhile, bustles about the kitchen, preparing a feast fit for two honored guests. She hums softly to herself as she works; her movements are fluid and practiced. The house itself is cozy and inviting, with a warm fire crackling in the hearth and soft rugs scattered across the wooden floors.

Soren never felt this relaxed, but he shouldn't get too comfortable. He has to go back to the spirits and reform them. He has done the task they wanted him to do; he needed to be there for his best friends Caspian, Aurora, and Oak for their trials. They need him as much as he needs them. He hoped they would do well; he knew how strong they were and how much they loved each other. They would make it through anything.

"I hope Caspian, Aurora, and Oak are okay with their trials," he said, more to himself than to Lucius. "They've been through so much already; I just want them to find some peace and happiness." He paused briefly before turning his gaze to the crackling fireplace. "It's strange, you know? I've been with Caspian and Aurora since they were pups, and Oak was just there to look after us growing up in the pack. We've faced so many challenges together, but nothing could have prepared us for what we've gone through in recent years." He sighed heavily, his hazel eyes filled with a mix of sadness and determination. "I just want to make them proud, you know? I want them to know that I am there for them, no matter what," he said, looking at the woman who was preparing dinner.

Lucius nodded, understanding the bond that Soren shared with his friends. "I'm sure they are. You've always been there for them, Soren, and I know they feel the same way about you. They'll be fine, you'll see. They're strong, just like you." He reassured him with a gentle smile. The woman, sensing their conversation, paused in her cooking and glanced over at them, a soft expression on her face. She knew that Soren was not just their guest but a friend as well, and she was grateful for his presence in their home.

"Dinner's almost ready!" She chirped, a smile dancing on her face. "I hope you two will enjoy it!" Soren nodded, feeling his stomach growl in anticipation. "It smells wonderful." He said this, taking a seat at the dining table. Lucius sat down beside him, his gaze drifting over to his son, who was still engrossed in his book. There was a look of pride in the older wolf's eyes—a mix of happiness and sadness. Soren could sense that Lucius was feeling the weight of his son's future on his shoulders, and it was clear that he was worried about what might come next for the boy.

"Relax, Lucius; your son's future won't happen for a long time. He's in good hands. He has plenty of time to worry about his future when he's older." Soren reassured his friend. He didn't want Lucius to worry too much about his son. He has never been a parent himself, but he understands the struggles of being a parent and how hard it has to be no matter who you are, and he didn't want the father to be anxious about the son's future.

Lucius let out a deep sigh, knowing his new friend has a point; his son is only young and has a long life ahead of him. He should enjoy his time with his son instead of worrying about his future. "You're right, Soren. He's my son, and I want the best for him, but I should focus on the present and worry less until the time comes." He smiled down at Soren, grateful for his wise words.