Golden rays poured in through the tall arched windows of the Von Augustus mansion, casting a warm light over the grand dining hall. The scent of fresh bread, sizzling herbs, and honey-glazed fruits wafted in the air. It was rare for this place to feel so alive, but today, the atmosphere was cozy, almost… domestic.
Noah sat at the long obsidian-wood table, dressed in a simple white shirt and black trousers. He had tied his snow-white hair back into a loose ponytail, still drying from a morning bath. To his right sat Lyra, sipping her tea in silence, her black hair spilling over her shoulders. On his left, Scarlett eagerly munched on a piece of bread, her crimson eyes sparkling with mischief. Across from them, Layla poked at her eggs with a lazy smirk, clearly not a morning person, yet undeniably present.
At the head of the table sat Noah's mother, Lady Julia, elegant in a flowing indigo gown. Beside her, Duke Richard Von Augustus—Noah's father—looked over his cup of tea with a teasing glint in his eyes.
"Did you sleep well, dear son?" Julia asked with a knowing smile, her voice a melody of gentle mockery.
Noah raised an eyebrow. "That sounds suspiciously loaded, Mother."
Richard chuckled. "Come now, don't keep us in suspense. With three beautiful girls under your roof, we were half expecting a scandal by sunrise."
Scarlett nearly choked on her bread, her cheeks exploding into a fiery red. Lyra's eyes widened in mild horror while Layla just giggled, raising her teacup in salute.
"W-What are you saying?!" Scarlett barked.
"He's teasing," Noah muttered, rubbing his temples. "As usual."
"Guilty," Richard said proudly, earning a soft whack on the arm from Julia. "But truly, Noah. You've returned stronger and… different. What's next for you? What are your future plans?"
Noah leaned back in his chair, expression thoughtful. "I've decided. I want to stay here for a year. Train properly. Master everything I have access to before stepping out into the world."
Julia looked pleased. "A wise decision. You've always been sharp, but now I sense maturity."
"I'll need guidance," Noah said. He turned to his mother. "I know you're a master of both shadow and ice. I'd like you to train Scarlett and Lyra in those elements."
Both girls blinked.
Scarlett looked to Julia. "You can use shadow magic too?"
The lady of the house smiled enigmatically. "It runs in our bloodline. Not many know, but yes."
Lyra, who had remained quiet, gave a slow nod. "Then… I'll do my best to learn. Thank you."
"And Father," Noah continued, glancing to Alden. "You have the lightning and wind affinity, correct?"
"Stormborn, as they once called me," Richard said proudly. "A title from my younger, more reckless years."
"Then I'd like you to teach me. I've unlocked wind, but I want to properly master both."
Richard's expression turned serious. "Training with lightning is dangerous. It's raw, wild, and temperamental. But if you're truly ready… I'll give you everything I have."
Noah nodded. "I am."
Layla let out a loud yawn, stretching her arms over her head. "That's nice and all, but what about little ol' me? I'm just a cursed child, remember? No fancy elements."
Noah turned to her with a smile. "Curse users are rare for a reason. Their power is unstable, unpredictable—but dangerous in the right hands."
She raised an eyebrow. "Meaning…?"
"Meaning," he said, tapping the table gently, "You'll train on your own, for the most part. But I'll help you. I'll study curses, gather materials, and design a path tailored for you."
Layla blinked, surprised. Her usual cocky demeanor wavered.
"Also," Noah added, "I suggest you start using a weapon. Your powers are potent, but a focus or medium will help you control them better."
"Like… a sword?" she asked.
He smirked. "Too common. You seem more like a scythe or chain girl."
Layla grinned, all teeth. "Now that sounds sexy."
Scarlett rolled her eyes. Lyra allowed herself a faint smile. Julia chuckled behind her hand, while Richard barked a laugh.
"You've all grown so much," Julia said softly. "Even you, Layla."
"Thanks, Mom ," Layla said, softer than usual.
The warm breakfast continued, filled with laughter, teasing, and an unspoken sense of unity. They were all broken in their own ways. Scarred by battles, haunted by pasts. But here, for the first time, they were family.
A new journey was coming. But for now—this peace was enough.
And Noah?
He would forge them all into legends.