The Gentle Giant

Book One ~ Chapter Four

Muriel and Emir sat awkwardly on opposite ends of a large couch in Countess Nadia's salon. Across from the two, Morga sat as she looked around the room derisively, a sneer fixed firmly on her face. The moment Nadia got word of Emir, Muriel, and Morga's arrival, she had servants usher them all to the salon. "Making us wait. An intimidation tactic," Morga said with a scoff as she stood to her feet, beginning to pace. She stopped abruptly in front of a painting that hung near the back of the room, her eyes narrowing dangerously. "This is a joke."

Countess Nadia strolled in just as Morga was in the process of removing the painting. She didn't look surprised, only mildly amused. Portia and Loganne trailed behind her. Portia took a spot by the door. Loganne, on a soft chair. "Ah, yes, I believe Lucio had that portrait painted in honor of you."

Morga carried the painting over to the fireplace, throwing it in unceremoniously, "And now it is gone. Good riddance."

Nadia settled gracefully on a chaise longue, raising a brow, "Not a fan of the brushwork?"

"Our people are warriors and hunters. Not frilly-laced weaklings in ill-fitted finery," Morga said with a light groan.

Nadia reached out and poured herself a cup of tea, taking a small sip, "I believe you'll find finery does not exclude one from being a hunter." Emir shifted awkwardly, reaching forward to pour himself a cup. Nadia's gaze fell on him, her expression softening, "I apologize for making you all wait. I was occupied. And if I may ask, who is your handsome friend?"

Muriel's cheeks gained a bright blush at the compliment. He scowled and looked away, staring into the fire. Emir chuckled lightly, "This is Muriel."

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Muriel. I am Nadia Satrinava, Countess of Vesuvia," Nadia said with a smile as she offered her hand to him. Muriel stared at the Countess's hand in bewilderment. Nadia simply shrugged and withdrew her hand. "Not much of a talker, eh?"

Emir smiled cheekily, "He's shy."

"Enough wasting time," Morga interrupted. "I am here for a reason, Satrinava. And I will be heard."

"Of course, Lady Morga."

"I am no Lady. You will not address me as such."

Nadia nodded, "My apologies, Morga. Please, go on. What would you like to tell me."

"My fool of a son. Montag Morgasson. You all know him as Lucio."

"I... I assume you have heard of his passing."

"That is why I have come. For the past three years, I have sensed nothing from him. However, a few days ago, things changed. He started moving again."

Nadia's eyes widened with intrigue, "You sensed his movement?"

Morga gave a small nod, "He is my son. He cannot hide from me... and you will find my senses are sharper than most." She then fixed Muriel with a long stare that he pointedly avoided.

"If this is true, what does it mean?" asked Nadia.

"It means he once again has joined the land of the living. In what capacity, I cannot say."

Muriel snorted. Everyone turned to look at him. He flushed a little under the scrutiny, then cleared his throat, "That's why we're here... I saw him."

"Where?" asked Morga.

"The forest."

"What was he doing in the forest?" asked Nadia.

Muriel looked away, ashamed. "He killed The Heart of The Forest," Emir answered for him.