Shadows of Departure

As the time drew near for Aleric to depart for the academy, he found himself faced with a difficult decision: choosing a servant to accompany him on his journey. Despite his reluctance to involve anyone else in his dangerous charade, the Thorne family insisted, viewing it as a matter of honor and propriety.

Reluctantly, Aleric acquiesced to their wishes, though his heart weighed heavy with the knowledge that any involvement would only place his chosen companion in grave danger. Yet, as the Thorne servants volunteered one by one, he couldn't bring himself to deny their kindness or refuse their offer of companionship.

In the end, it was a young woman named Evelina who stepped forward, her beauty and grace matched only by her unwavering dedication to her duties. With long, flowing black hair and a voluptuous figure, she embodied the ideal of a noble servant, her diligence and commitment earning her the respect and admiration of the Thorne household.

As they embarked on their journey, Aleric couldn't help but marvel at the transformation that had taken place in the Thorne lands. The once-dilapidated estate now stood as a testament to their newfound prosperity, the fruits of their sacrifice and generosity evident in every corner of the estate.

But amidst the opulence and grandeur, Aleric couldn't shake the feeling of melancholy that gripped his heart. As they bid farewell to the Thorne family and set out on the road ahead, he couldn't help but feel a pang of sorrow knowing that his time with them had come to an end.

For Aleric knew the true purpose of his mission: to rob and deceive, actions that would inevitably bring hardship and suffering upon the Thorne family. Despite their kindness and hospitality, he was bound by duty to carry out his task, the weight of his deception heavy upon his shoulders.

With a heavy heart and a sense of foreboding looming over him, Aleric set his sights on the horizon, steeling himself for the challenges that lay ahead. Though the road ahead was fraught with uncertainty and danger, he knew that he could not falter in his mission, for the fate of those he held dear hung in the balance. And so, with determination burning bright within him, he embarked on his journey into the unknown, his resolve unyielding despite the shadows that trailed in his wake.