Please The Last Time

Tamara's POV

The Duke led me through trimmed hedges and colorful flowerbeds to a quiet open space. A large oak tree, with green leaves, stood in the middle, providing shade from the sun.

"This is it," he announced, "this is my favorite spot," the Duke said, his voice was softer than I'd heard it before. "A place for quiet contemplation."

I nodded, taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of the spot. It was a place of peace, a huge difference to the uneasiness within the manor walls.

We settled on a nearby bench, and I started the summary of my life at the guild. The ostracization, the frustration, the relentless pursuit of a seemingly impossible goal – I poured it all out, hoping to bridge the gap between us.

The Duke listened attentively. Finally, he spoke. "So, you were an alchemist at the guild, ostracized for your unconventional methods. The head alchemist, jealous of your success…"