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(🥀)═══ CHAPTER SEVENTEEN ❝ always ❞
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"We need to talk."
Mazikeen looked up from her spot under the tree, her eyes squinting slightly at the sight of Abraxas standing a few feet away. His voice was low, clipped, and urgent, making it clear this wasn't just a casual visit.
She had been mid-conversation with Enid, their usual chat flowing easily as the cool breeze from the black lake brushed past them, but now, the atmosphere shifted.
"Privately," Abraxas added, his tone leaving no room for argument. He was alone—unusual for him—and his posture was tense, hands shoved deep into his pockets. Something was clearly weighing on his mind.
Mazikeen exchanged a glance with Enid, who raised a blonde brow but said nothing, sensing the gravity of the situation. "Alright," Mazikeen said, pushing herself up from the grass. She dusted off her robes and gave a short nod to Enid before turning to follow Abraxas.
Abraxas led Mazikeen away from under the tree, and they began a slow walk along the narrow strip of sand bordering the lake. The crisp autumn air was laced with the scent of pine from the surrounding forest, and the golden-red leaves that clung to the trees rustled softly in the breeze. Occasionally, a gust of wind sent a few leaves spiraling down to the ground, adding to the layer already carpeting the path.
The sun was dipping lower in the sky, casting a pale late afternoon glow across the water, while ripples on the surface mirrored the amber hues of the fading day. The temperature had dropped slightly, the chill of the season creeping in, but Mazikeen found it pleasant—calming even. The quiet between them stretched, though she could sense that Abraxas was stewing over something, his brow furrowed in thought.
For a while, the only sound was the crunch of leaves beneath their feet and the occasional soft ripple from the lake. Mazikeen waited, knowing Abraxas would speak when he was ready.
Finally, after a few more paces, Abraxas exhaled sharply, breaking the silence. “It’s about Riddle,” he said, his voice low, almost as if the lake itself was listening. “He’s been watching you, more than usual. And I don’t believe it’s just curiosity anymore."
Mazikeen didn’t respond at first. Instead, she let out a quiet sigh, her dark eyes drifting toward the lake, watching the soft ripples stretch out across its surface. She knew Abraxas well enough to understand when to let him continue.
