The letter arrived on a Tuesday.
Aurelius found it on his desk when he returned from his morning lecture—a simple envelope, unmarked except for his name in elegant script.
He opened it carefully.
Dear Professor Veyron,
I hope this letter finds you well. I know it's been years, but I've been thinking about you. About everything you taught me. About the person I've become because of you.
I'm writing to ask for your help. Something has happened—something that I can't explain and can't handle alone. I need your mind. Your wisdom. Your understanding.
Please come to the Sunken District. Meet me at the Old Temple at midnight.
Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.
There's something I need to show you.
Your former student,
Elara
Aurelius read the letter three times.
Elara. I remember her. Brilliant student. Sharp mind. Full of questions.
She was one of the first to attend my lectures. She stayed after class, asking questions that pushed me to think in new ways. I thought she had the potential to become something extraordinary.
What could she possibly need my help with?
He looked at the clock. It was already evening.
The Sunken District. The Old Temple. Midnight.
There's something I need to show you.
He made a decision.
"I'm coming with you," Fiona said.
Aurelius shook his head. "No. This is something I need to do alone."
"Alone? The Sunken District at midnight? That's not safe."
"I know. But Elara trusted me enough to reach out. I owe her the same trust."
Fiona studied him for a long moment.
"Fine. But if you're not back by dawn, I'm coming after you. And I'm bringing an army."
Aurelius smiled. "I'd expect nothing less."
He kissed her and walked out the door.