Threads of Fate

The name Isadora lingered in Evelyn's mind like an echo from a forgotten past. As she and Lucien walked through the empty streets, the silence between them was thick with questions neither had answers to.

Lucien finally broke the silence. "We need to find out who Isadora is. If she's connected to your lost memories, then she might hold the key to everything."

Evelyn nodded. "But how do we even begin? I don't remember her. The name only brings flashes—feelings, scents, but nothing concrete."

Lucien glanced at her, his brows furrowing in thought. "There might be someone who can help."

Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "Who?"

Lucien hesitated. "An old acquaintance. He specializes in… uncovering hidden things."

She studied his expression carefully. "You don't seem thrilled about the idea."

"I'm not," he admitted. "But he's our best option."

Evelyn sighed. "Then let's find him."

The next morning, they traveled to the outskirts of the city. The sun cast a golden hue over the landscape as they approached a secluded manor, its iron gates rusted but still standing strong. The air carried a strange, almost electric energy.

"This is it," Lucien muttered. "Elias lives here."

Evelyn took in the sight of the imposing structure. "And he can help?"

Lucien smirked. "He won't do it out of kindness. But for the right price, he can dig up secrets no one else can."

They walked up the gravel path, each step echoing in the stillness. Lucien knocked once on the heavy wooden door.

A few moments later, it creaked open, revealing a tall man with piercing gray eyes and an amused smirk. His presence exuded confidence, and his gaze flickered between them with curiosity.

"Lucien," Elias drawled, leaning against the doorway. "It's been a while. To what do I owe this pleasure?"

Lucien's jaw tightened. "We need information."

Elias's smirk widened. "Oh? And what's it worth to you?"

Evelyn stepped forward, determination in her voice. "The name Isadora—what do you know about it?"

For the first time, Elias's expression faltered. His smirk faded, replaced by something unreadable. Then, after a long pause, he said quietly, "Come inside."

Evelyn's heart pounded. She had the feeling that whatever she was about to learn would change everything.