The World Above

Chapter 35: To Be Loved

In the end, I had to return home without the Swordmanship lesson. Felix still hadn't woken up and Angelica and flema were a bit worried at the fact, though they didn't show much.

I sat quietly in the sleek Maybach Exelero as it glided through the winding roads, the luxurious interior enveloping me in a cocoon of comfort.

Mx residence had been a revelation, a hidden haven filled with a collection of expensive cars, each more impressive than the last. The Maybach had an imposing and elegant presence that's why Hercule chose it.

Hercule glanced at me as he navigated the curves, his demeanor calm but his eyes betraying a hint of concern. I sensed that he wanted to say something and I was proven right in the next minute.

"Haven," he began, breaking the silence with his measured, gentle tone, "Felix awakening his spirit animal is a significant milestone. It means some of his lessons will be different from yours. He’ll need extra attention now, more specialized training."

I nodded, my gaze fixed on the passing scenery. "I understand, Hercule. I’m not demotivated."

Hercule studied me for a moment, worry flickering in his eyes. "You’re sure? You’ve been working so hard, and I don’t want you to feel left behind. You’re one of the first humans to have the potential to become the rulers of Magix. It’s important that you don’t lose hope."

I turned to face him, my expression resolute and sincere. "I know, Hercule. And I’m happy for Felix. He deserves this. Truly.”

As we neared my house, the familiar landscape growing more distinct, Hercule seemed to relax slightly. “Alright. Just remember, your time will come. Everyone’s path is different."

He pulled up in front of my house, the grandeur of the vehicle contrasting with the middle-class neighborhood. He turned off the engine, his attention fully on me. "You’re stronger than you realize, Haven. And we’re here for you, no matter what."

I smiled, a small, practiced smile that conveyed my gratitude. "Thank you, Hercule. I appreciate the reassurance."

I stepped out of the car, closing the door behind me with a soft click. Waving as Hercule drove away, I turned to face my house, my smile fading as I walked up the steps.

I didn’t want to go back inside after what had happened earlier, but I knew i had to.

The door flew open even before I could touch the handle, and Mira and Matt came rushing out, their faces a mixture of relief and worry. Mira, with her tear-streaked face and trembling frame, threw herself into my arms. "I was so scared," Mira sobbed, her voice muffled against my chest.

Matt stood a step back, trying to maintain his composure, but I could see the worry etched into his young face. His eyes flickered to the fresh scars hidden under my clothing, his lips pressed into a thin line. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice tight.

I hugged Mira tightly, pressing a kiss to the top of her head before looking at Matt. "I’m fine," I lied, offering him a reassuring smile. "It’s over now."

Matt’s gaze lingered on me, skepticism clear in his eyes. He had seen too much to be easily convinced. But he nodded, accepting my words for now.

I guided them into the living room, away from the oppressive silence of the foyer. The room was decorated with tasteful paintings and a plush sofa, but to me, it felt more like a cage than a sanctuary.

I wished, not for the first time, that Mike had taken Mira and Matt with him when he left. They didn’t deserve to live under such toxic conditions, where fear and pain were constants despite the outward appearance of normalcy.