It was more than a week before Moren felt strong enough to leave her bed and manage to stomach solid foods. She felt extremely weak, and Luna stayed by her side the whole time, calling Lucius whenever Moren needed food or water.
The weather was ideal for their journey home, with sunshine and a few clouds dotting the sky. After surviving Hell Week and finishing the ritual, Moren relished the beautiful day. The return trip to Ethos felt strange, almost dreamlike. Her heightened senses made everything more vivid and lively. She could distinctly smell the blooming flowers, the birdsong was as clear as a bell, and she saw a rabbit dashing through the nearby brush with perfect clarity. Luna soared above, executing loops, dives, and twirls in sync with Moren's excitement.
Lucius glanced at her as they rode, his usual gruff tone softening. "Take it slow, Moren. Your senses are going to be on fire for a while. Give yourself time to adjust—don't try to block it all out, just… learn to let it pass through you."
She nodded, the wind tousling her hair. It wasn't just her body that had changed—something inside her felt different, too. Wilder. Sharper.
By the time they reached the outskirts of Ethos, Moren was looking forward to seeing her family despite her ragged appearance—bruised, dirt-smudged, and half-dried blood still caked under her nails. She looked nothing like the Heiress she had been all of her life and loved every minute of it.
Moren barely made it halfway down the lane towards the Ravenheart Estate when the front gate to the estate burst open. Heiko walked with a purpose in their direction as Moren dismounted her horse.
"Oh, absolutely not," Heiko declared, hands already on her hips. "You are not setting foot in this house looking like you crawled out of the Nine Hells." The cat beast-kin sent a scathing glare at Lucius before returning her attention to Moren.
Before Moren could protest, Heiko grabbed her by the arm and started dragging her toward the bath. "You're filthy, you stink like old leather and sweat, and your hair looks like it fought a thunderstorm and lost."
Moren opened her mouth to say something, but Heiko cut her off with a raised eyebrow and a sharp tug. "Nope. You don't get to argue. You're my lovely niece, not a feral beast."
Despite herself, Moren smiled as she was led inside. The bathwater was already running, warm steam curling in the air like a gentle welcome. It felt good to let someone else fuss over her for a change—even if that someone was an unrelenting whirlwind named Heiko.
Lucius swiftly and silently slipped out of the room, moving with the stealth of a shadow to avoid drawing any attention from Heiko—or Moren, who looked dangerously close to being pampered into submission.
He figured his apprentice had more than earned a break. And as for him? Before explaining anything to Jacen and Heiko about Moren's new path, he needed a stiff drink.
He paused by the front table, pulled a scrap of parchment from his coat, and scribbled a quick note in his tight, slanted script:
Gone for the week. She's fine. Mostly. Don't kill anyone until I get back.
– L.
He hesitated and then added underlined text:
P.S. She's earned a break. She is one hell of a spitfire.
Folding it once, he weighed it down with a smooth river stone and muttered, "That should be enough time to let Heiko calm down." He mumbled before pausing for a moment. "I hope anyway."
Lucius exited through the side door, the quiet thud of his boots masked by the rustling trees. He knew from experience that Jacen would probably try to punch him in the face after finding out about Moren taking the trial. That was the easy part.
But, Heiko?
Heiko didn't punch. She planned. And she never showed mercy to those who pissed her off.
As the crowd swallowed him, Lucius gave a slight smirk. "Good luck, Moren." He whispered, vanishing.
Steam curled in the air like dancing spirits as the tub filled with lavender-scented water. Moren sat on a low stool beside the bath, peeling off her dirty clothes piece by piece with a wince. Her muscles ached in ways she didn't know they could, and her senses were still so sharp it felt like every breeze was whispering secrets into her ear.
Heiko knelt beside her, sleeves rolled up, a determined look in her eye.
"Don't you dare try to stop me! Whatever wild training Lucius put you through, you're still my niece and need a proper bath."
Two of Heiko's maids entered the room—one carrying folded towels, the other with a basket of salves and brushes. They curtsied politely, but both wore fond smiles.
"I can do it myself," Moren muttered, though without much bite. She rubbed her nose as it started to burn from something in the air, but it went away. "It looks worse than it really is."
"Nope," Heiko said, gently tugging a knot loose from Moren's tangled hair. "You earned this. Let someone take care of you for once." She gestured to another maid in the doorway to take her clothes away. "Grab some new clothes from her dresser, please."
"Yes, Ma'am," The maid replied and scurried away.
With practiced ease, the maids helped ease Moren into the tub. The moment the hot water touched her skin, she exhaled a low, shuddering breath she didn't know she'd been holding. Dirt and blood darkened the water almost immediately.
Heiko rolled up her sleeves further and knelt behind Moren, slowly working her fingers through the rest of the knots in her niece's hair. "I was scared, you know," she said quietly. "When I saw you walk up looking like you'd wrestled a dragon."
Moren's eyes fluttered closed. The heat, the smell of lavender, and the careful touch of Heiko's hands all threatened to unravel her composure. "I'm sorry I worried you," she whispered. "I just… I had to do this. For myself. To show that I am more than just my last name. Good or bad."
One of the maids gently dabbed a salve on a bruise along Moren's shoulder, offering a kind smile when Moren winced. "You've got the look of someone who's been through fire and walked out with her own torch."
Heiko gave a watery chuckle. "That's my niece. Stubborn as your uncle." She reached around to cup Moren's cheek, gently turning her face to look at her. "You've changed, Moren—but you're still you. Don't forget that."
"I won't," Moren said softly, leaning into the touch. "I promise, Aunt Heiko."
For the first time in what felt like ages, she allowed herself to just be—no armor, no titles, no training. Just a tired woman in a warm bath, surrounded by love.
Moren was about to say something else when her nose began burning to the point of pain. "Gah," she winced as the scent grew stronger and the pain grew more intense. "That is that smell? It's so strong it hurts." She tried to rub her nose to make it stop, but it didn't work this time.
Heiko narrowed her eyes, sniffed herself, and turned to the door to see the maid return with the requested clothing and a bottle of expensive perfume Moren had gotten for her birthday. "Leave the clothes and get one of my perfumes." She waited until the maid had left and turned back to look at Moren. "Better?"
Moren nodded her head as the pain lessened, and she took a tentative sniff before letting out a sigh. "Much better." She answered, rubbing her nose one last time. "What was it?"
Heiko tilted her head slightly. "It was the perfume I got you for your birthday," She said, furrowing her brow. "You didn't have an issue with it before," She trailed off for a moment before narrowing her eyes and staring intently at Moren. "What happened when you were with Lucius?"
Moren shifted slightly in the water and felt the best go quiet from the intensity of her glare. "Well, I'm sure we can hold off until Lucius returns later this week," She deflected and avoided her Aunt's glare by grabbing a bar of soap and scrubbed her arm."
"Moren Fae," Heiko said in a stern tone. "Start talking." Her eye started twitching as she waited for Moren to start talking.
Well," Moren began before telling her about what happened during her Hell week and her decision afterward to become Lucius's apprentice.
Lucius had just set his empty glass down after his first drink when a sudden chill slithered down his spine, prompting him to raise a finger. "Another drink, the strongest thing you've got," he ordered, sensing that Heiko would be hunting for him sooner than anticipated. The air around him seemed to tense with anticipation. He downed his second drink in a single, swift gulp, feeling the warmth spread through him, and then hurriedly returned to the nearby forest. The dense canopy loomed ahead, its shadows stretching like fingers, offering a temporary sanctuary where he could wait for Heiko's temper to cool. The forest's cool, damp air embraced him as he slipped between the trees, seeking refuge in its silent depths.
Moren sat at the table as Tiele and Jewel talked softly to her after being told by their mother that her new senses were stronger than before. She had been grateful that her Aunt brought food and drinks that didn't overwhelm her. "This is good," She said, taking a mouthful of soup that was barely seasoned from the smell but tasted just as good."
"They are used to making food for me and the children," Heiko preened and gestured to her children. "Our animistic traits make smells and strong seasoning intense at times, but they have had years of practice." She sent a stern glare at her husband. "Isn't that right, dear?"
Moren glanced over to see her uncle wince at the chill in her tone.
"Yes, dear," Jace replied in a soft tone. "I understand you are upset about what happened, but we can discuss this later." He tried to give her a gentle smile. "I was not aware that was what he was planning to do when we agreed to this."
Heiko perched her lips. "We can discuss this when Lucius returns," She replied in a clipped tone. "I had one of the maids fix up the room next to ours."
Jace let out a soft groan as he knew it would be a long week of sleeping alone. 'Damn you, Lucius,' He swore to himself as he saw Moren giving him an apologetic look. He gave her a wink and returned to his dinner.
Jewel flashed Moren a bright smile. "WE can help you adjust," She offered sincerely. "Mom helped us when we were little to keep us from being overwhelmed around people." Her tail swayed with excitement.
Moren chuckled and flashed her young cousin a smile. "I would appreciate that," She replied, finishing her soup. "I have a few days until Lucius is supposed to return. "When will Veska and Jaycen be back?" She had noted their absence earlier but had decided to wait after seeing how upset her Aunt was for her to become a Veilborn.
"Veska said she would be back in a few weeks," Heiko replied, taking a sip of her wine and placing her glass down. "She wanted to visit the temple where she grew up. Veska said she wanted to see a few of her old caregivers."
Moren nodded her head. "Good," She said with a smile. "She could use a break from searching for her old Master." Moren knew that Veska was growing increasingly frustrated by the few near misses of finding him.
"Jaycen, on the other hand," Jace added. "He is going through additional training at the moment." He crossed his arms. "Seems like the city is wanting from the order by having more members training in the healing arts."
"Well, with how fast the city is expanding, we are facing a shortage of healers," Heiko admitted with a sigh. "The poorer districts are suffering the most since no one can afford to pay a Healer to stay."
Moren could see how much it bothered her Aunt the place where she grew up being treated so poorly. This may allow for healers to go there if the Order is paying them to visit those areas. She offered, reaching to give her Aunt's hand a squeeze. "Besides, we know that Jaycen would be a good healer."
Heiko immediately brightened at her words. "Yes, would be," she mused. Getting lost for a moment before her eyes sparkled with delight. "That would make him more attractive as a possible husband." She exclaimed and leaped out of her chair. "I need to check my notes!"
"Poor big brother," Tiele mumbled as he did his best not to laugh. "He won't know what hit him when he gets back." He flashed his win a smile. "He'll be completely blindsided."
Jewel let out a loud giggle. "I almost feel sorry for him," She cackled, ears twitching. "Almost. We better get some good snacks for the show Mom will put on the moment he gets home." The twins shared a mischievous smile
Jacen did his best not to laugh, but the way he hid his mouth behind his hand gave him away. "Well, that's one way to cheer her up," he murmured, clearly entertained. He knew this would keep his wife happily distracted for hours—a much-needed break. "I just need a few minutes to talk with Moren before you drag her off to play."
"I promise I won't be long," Moren said gently, turning to the twins with a smile. "Go ahead and pick a game. Have it set up so we can start when I get there."
"Come on, sis!" Tiele whooped, bolting for the door. "The first one to the cabinet gets to choose!"
"Hey!" Jewel hissed, her eyes narrowing as she chased after him. "That's cheating!"
As the laughter and footsteps of the twins faded down the hall, Moren turned back to Jacen. The easy smile she'd worn for them slowly slipped away, leaving a more serious weight in her expression. She walked toward the window, the late afternoon light casting golden beams across the floor.
Jacen followed her gaze, then softly closed the door behind them. "How are you feeling?" He asked softly. "Heiko said you were struggling earlier with your new senses."
Moren didn't answer right away. Her fingers brushed the edge of the window frame as if grounding herself to the moment. "It is a bit of an adjustment," She admitted, turning to face her uncle. "Heiko has been very helpful. I know it will take some time to adjust."
"I just wish you'd talked to Heiko or me before you became his apprentice," Jacen began, his tone soft but tinged with concern. "I've known Lucius for years. I've seen how much he's struggled—with his inner beast, with the weight of what he's become." He paused, searching Moren's eyes. "Has he talked to you about your first change?"
"He did," Moren replied with a quiet sigh, her gaze dropping to the floor for a moment. "In about two or three weeks—after my body's finished adjusting to the changes from the trial—I'll transform under the next full moon." She folded her arms across her chest as if bracing herself. "We talked a lot while I was recovering. He didn't sugarcoat anything. I'm... nervous. But there's part of me that's also ready. Eager, even."
Jacen nodded slowly, absorbing her words. "That feeling—it's natural. But it can be dangerous, too. Lucius always talked about the hunger, the strength, the clarity, and how it was intoxicating."
Moren gave a small, rueful smile. "He said the same thing. It's not just about surviving the change—it's about learning how to live with it. Without letting it control me."
Jacen stepped forward and pulled her gently into a hug, one arm wrapping around her shoulders with quiet reassurance. "Just remember, Moren... Heiko and I love you. That won't change, no matter what form you take."
She closed her eyes and leaned into him, the tension in her shoulders softening. "I know. And I'm so glad I still have you both in my corner." She mumbled into her uncle's neck.
"Always, Momo," Jacen replied softly, using the old nickname that still made her smile. Then he cleared his throat and straightened his posture, putting on a brave front. "Now, go have some fun with Jewel and Tiele. We'll talk more later."
Moren nodded, giving her uncle one last hug—tight and lingering—before slipping out of the room with quiet footsteps and a heart just a little lighter.
Jacen watched her go, the ghost of a smile fading as the door clicked shut behind her. His shoulders sagged, the weight of helplessness settling in his bones. He knew he couldn't protect her from what came next—not from the transformation, the hunt, or the things she'd see beyond the Veil. The Fey deal tethered her fate, ensuring that her path would never be simple.
Part of him wanted to fight it anyway. To keep her here in Ethos, safe and surrounded by family. But another part—the part that had raised her like a daughter—knew she was meant for more. Just like her mother had been.
With a weary sigh, Jacen ran a hand through his tousled hair. There was no stopping the storm. All he could do was prepare for its wake. And maybe—just maybe—figure out a way to convince Heiko to let him back into their bed before the week was out. Jacen turned toward his office with a new purpose, muttering under his breath, "Gods help me if I have to beg."
The rest of the week had been a much-needed rest, but Moren was going stir-crazy at times as her senses grew overwhelming at times. Heiko and Mika have made the week bearable, and Moren was grateful for both of them in her life. The warm meals, quiet mornings, and the steady rhythm of family life, but for Moren, it wasn't entirely restful.
There were moments at first when she cursed her new senses. The transformation had sharpened her senses to an unbearable degree. Every creak of the floorboards sounded like a crash. Every scent—cinnamon from the bakery down the street, woodsmoke from the hearth, the faint perfume of wildflowers clinging to Mika's cloak—hit her like a tidal wave. Even silence had weight now, pressing against her like a second skin.
Moren did her best to mask it, but some days, she paced the room like a caged animal. Her hands would flex unconsciously. Her ears would twitch at distant sounds. And her dreams… her dreams were no longer entirely her own.
Still, she endured. And she wasn't alone.
Heiko had a way of grounding her—cool hands, sharp wit, and an unspoken understanding that came from surviving her own dark nights. She didn't try to fix Moren. She just sat with her, close enough to be steadying without suffocating.
And Mika, with her warm laughter and quiet patience, always knew when to step in with a joke or a plate of something sweet. She didn't flinch when Moren's eyes glowed silver in a flash of instinct. Mika just gave her a mother's love and patience, which was very calming.
Moren didn't have the words to express how much that meant to her. But one evening, when the shadows were long and the house quiet, she found herself sitting next to Heiko while she read aloud from an old journal from her adventure days. Moren rested her head on Heiko's shoulder, her body finally still.
For the first time all week, the restlessness ebbed. The beast inside her curled up—not banished, not silenced, but at peace. Moren didn't say a word. She just breathed in the scent of paper, smoke, and family—and whispered a silent thank you to whatever gods still listened.
Moren had just finished the last bite of her breakfast when Lucius was escorted into the dining room. She perked up immediately, rising to her feet with a bright smile.
"Morning, Master," she greeted, brushing her hands on her trousers. "Have you eaten yet?"
"Ate before I came," Lucius replied curtly, his eyes scanning the room and then flicking down the hallway. "Is Heiko around?"
"No, she's not here at the moment," Moren said, resisting the urge to snort. It was oddly satisfying seeing the fierce Veilborn Hunter looking over his shoulder like a schoolboy trying to avoid detention. "She's at a public event with Uncle Jace until lunchtime."
She gave him a wicked grin. "Not afraid of her, are you?"
Lucius ignored the jab with the patience of a man who'd been around too many cocky apprentices. "Grab your things," he said instead. "We're going to visit an old mentor of mine. They might be able to help make your first full change… more bearable."
A rare, almost fond smile ghosted across his lips. "They've mentored many of us over the years. Some even say they helped lay the foundation of our order."
"You've piqued my curiosity," Moren said as she approached the door. "Do you want to wait for Heiko and Jace to return before we head out?"
Lucius cleared his throat and coughed into his hand. "I'll leave a letter," he muttered. "Hurry up. I want to be on the road before the city gets too crowded."
Moren gave a mock bow, her tone playful. "As you wish, Master." And with that, she vanished down the hall to gather her things, still grinning to herself.
"Brat," Lucius grumbled with no real heat to his words.
Before they left, Lucius paused at the writing desk in the front hall, his brow furrowed in thought as he dipped a quill into ink. With his usual no-nonsense efficiency, he scrawled a few short lines onto a piece of parchment and folded it neatly, sealing it with a small rune pressed into wax.
Heiko,
Took Moren to see an old contact. She'll be safe with me. Back in a few weeks.
—Lucius
He placed the note squarely in the center of the table near the front door, then glanced toward the door with a flicker of unease—as if the letter itself might bite him. "I'm going to regret this," He muttered quietly to himself.
It was early afternoon when the front door swung open with a sharp creak as Heiko stepped inside, unfastening the clasp of her jacket. Jacen followed close behind, talking about his speech at the event until he saw the look on her face change.
Heiko had stopped mid-step, eyes narrowing on the sealed letter left so conveniently in plain view. "Jacen," she said slowly, in that dangerous, flat tone that made grown men step aside.
"Yes, love?" he asked, already regretting it.
She snatched up the letter, broke the seal, and read. Her eye twitched. Then, both her brows shot up. "He what?" she hissed, her voice low and lethal. "He took her without telling me in person?"
Jacen opened his mouth to explain or calm her down—he wasn't sure which—but she crumpled the letter in one hand like it was tinder and muttered, "I am going to castrate that smug son of a wraith."
Jacen sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Could we please not talk about maiming my old friend before I've had my second cup of tea?"
Heiko turned on her heel, already stalking toward the weapons rack.
"Heiko," Jacen called after her, voice weary but affectionate. "They'll be fine. Moren's strong, and Lucius would never let anything happen to her."
"That's not why I'm mad!" Heiko shouted from the next room. "He knows better than to pull this kind of stunt!"
"Right," Jacen muttered, pouring himself a fresh cup of tea. "And I'm the one who gets to clean up the blood." Now he had an angry cat woman to calm down and was just allowed back into their bed. "Damn you, Lucius."