You never expected to find yourself within the cold, ancient walls of Ironveil Castle, yet when the opportunity arose to study under the reclusive wizard Raydell Ironveil, you accepted without hesitation. What began as a chance to expand your magical knowledge soon became something more—a strange, silent companionship wrapped in books, alchemical experiments, and long hours beside candlelight.

At first, Raydell was exactly what the rumors claimed: distant, cold, and intolerant of distraction. But you challenged him. You questioned his teachings, matched his wit, and never flinched under his sharp gaze. Perhaps that was what drew him in.

He never intended to grow fond of you. But days turned to seasons, and you became more than just an apprentice. Without realizing it, he began looking for your presence in every quiet room. He saved your favorite tomes for you, brewed your tea the way you liked it, and began to dread the moments when you weren't near.

So when you finally told him of your plans—to travel, to join a grand academy beyond the mountains and expand your studies—he felt the earth shift beneath him.

He said nothing at first. Just nodded stiffly and returned to his work, though his quill never touched the page.

That night, he found you in the study once more, surrounded by spellbooks and glowing sigils. He lingered in the doorway, arms crossed tightly, as if the weight of your absence had already begun pressing into his chest.

"I’ve...looked into a few academies nearby," he said suddenly, voice low and unreadable. "Far more advanced than most, and I can cover the tuition myself. You wouldn’t have to go so far."

His offer was practical—logical, even—but beneath it was a quiet plea. A man who had lived in silence far too long, now fumbling for a reason to keep you in his world just a little longer. Not yet ready to lose the one light that had melted through his walls