New Kid On The Block - Chapter 6

"I want to see just how much better I can get."

His words stood firmly as Grant seemingly applauded his answer with a slow yet gentle clap. The sound of the padded leather softly echoed with each impact before dying down. Grant smiled at Dante and nodded in approval at his answer.

"You seem to just want to become better than you were yesterday. I can respect a man that knows what he wants. You could learn a thing or two from him, Xavien!"

Xavien seemed to have heard the words as his head was already looking towards the ground in defeat before he could say anything. On the other hand, Terra seemed more determined than ever to make sure her point got across clearly.

"I want him to be able to attend the Academy; I'm sure it won't be too hard to get him in. If my father won't help, then we'll figure out some way to do so."

Grant's eyebrows raised slightly at the sight of conviction from his best friend's once unruly and playful child. Seeing her talk boldly as if she were to obtain the means necessary no matter how it may happen intrigued him. 

"Just how much does she want this…?" He thought to himself before motioning for them to follow behind him.

"I'll bring you all along so you can speak to the big man himself. I'm sure he'll be pleased to see you in good health, Terra, since you've stepped foot on the estate."

Dante looked to see Terra's head slightly lowered at the mention of her father as they continued walking behind the man. She slightly turned to Dante, wanting to give an encouraging smile and say everything would be handled. He could tell from her facial expression that she was trying to keep his face to ensure he didn't worry. He looked forward, and they continued onto the path to the Farren Estate.

-

I followed slightly behind the group as we slowly approached a gated area. It was closed off to the public, as many people in uniforms resembling the suits and dresses I'd often see in picture books about kings and queens. They seemed to be the case as they were maids and butlers. As we continued into the estate, they all stood at attention before speaking and bowing their heads as we passed.

"We're honored to have you here, Lady Terra!" 

"We hope your studies have gone well, Lady Terra."

"You're as beautiful as ever, milady."

Terra's face scrunched up as if she were dreading the situation, clearly not enjoying herself, as Grant bowed back politely and continued on. My eyes began to wander as the wonder of being in such a lovely place started to set in. From the lush shrubbery to the vineyards surrounding the area, it was quite a sight for me personally. I'd often hear Rita speak of such things when telling me of some of her adventures, though seeing it in real life was different. 

We continued to walk through the courtyard until finally reaching two sets of doors. They slowly began to open as two of the workers pushed them for us. They bowed as we walked into the establishment; the hall was grand, and the floor was so clean that we could see our reflection. I felt like a fish out of water walking into the house. Grant turned back to me and smiled, giving me the go-ahead to walk with the group. 

We walked down the hall some more before finally reaching a more expansive room. Two people were seemingly conversing before they turned to us. The woman standing there had long, flowing brown hair and wore a light blue dress that flowed freely onto the ground. Her deep blue eyes shined brightly as she stared at our group. She suddenly ran to us before hugging Terra tightly. The sudden reaction shocked everyone but Terra, who, in return, hugged her back.

"Terra, my love, I've missed you so much! It feels like we haven't seen you in ages! Are you keeping well? How's your diet? Classes?"

"Hey, Mom… I've missed you too."

The two held one another as the man slowly approached us. His slicked-back black hair had streaks of silver, and his lowered eyes were a light shade of purple as he smiled and walked toward Grant. The two opened their arms and gave each other a hug before firmly shaking one another's hands. 

"Grant, it's been some time. Hopefully, all's well on your end."

"It's been some time, Reno. I've gotten your letters and thought of personally talking over matters. Though, I ended up running into some interesting company."

Reno looked over his shoulder and looked directly at me. His eyes stared intently before turning away to look at his wife and daughter. The feeling I got from it was one of caution as the odd sense stuck with me as I continued to watch. It felt like I was out of place and shouldn't have been there.

"Terra." He stated, looking at her with a deep sense of worry planted on his face. His hand brushed her hair softly as she looked to the side. The wife stepped back and began to mess with Xavien's face. Stretching it around as he muffled his words back to her.

"Mff…gumf…tm…sheee…yuu"

"It's good to see you! You look like you've been filling out well!"

She squeezed him as Terra and her father looked at one another intensely. 

"Father."

Suddenly, he lifted her into the air and swung her around in his arms, joyfully laughing. He spun her around a few times before setting her down, instantly putting his hand up to his mouth and coughing to adjust himself. This interaction confused me as it seemed Terra was totally against everything happening.