Tale of a Hedonistic wizard

Pierre turned to him and said, "Yes, it's the family name of Ethan, Ethan Baxter. You know the guy who seems to always be pissed at you. I don't know why he would always do that."

Jaegar laughed wryly, "I think he had a reason or two."

Pierre asked, "Why? What happened with him?"

Jaegar replied, "Nothing, it's a petty issue."

Then they both went back to the dorm.

When Jaegar considered Ethan, he found it unbelievable that they would send a demon after him. Did he hate me that much, even to the point of killing me?

'Ethan, I will have to pay him a visit later, then,' he thought to himself. To think that he would drag the matter out and even try to kill him, made Jaegar angry. He wanted to go after him and have his way with him, but he didn't want to spoil his mood before the carnival. Jaegar decided to focus on enjoying the carnival for now and deal with Ethan later.

He couldn't let the rivalry issue ruin his day of fun and excitement.

As the days to the grand carnival drew near, a palpable excitement enveloped the academy, with students preparing to journey to the event's venue.

For Pierre, the destination was his hometown—the enchanting Tedroft Hills. He couldn't wait to show them the beauty and charm of his hometown. Pierre had spent countless summers exploring the hills, and he knew that the carnival would be the perfect opportunity to share his favourite spots with Jennifer and Jaegar.

In a gesture of camaraderie, he extended an invitation to Jaegar to stay with his family during this time, and his girlfriend Jennifer would obviously stay with him in his house. Pierre's family was more than happy to welcome Jaegar into their home.

Together, they embarked on a journey to the heart of Pierre's origins, a land marked by rolling hills and stories of ages past.

The trio found themselves within the bustling confines of the Sphepet Circle, a place of departure and arrival, of journeys, embarked on and destinations met. As the train pulled in with its rhythmic chug, the anticipation within them grew. Boarding the train, they sought out a cabin and settled in, eager for the voyage that lay ahead.

Amidst the rhythmic hum of the train's movement, Pierre started telling them about his family, sharing his family's history and heritage. His father, a skilled merchant dealing in exquisite jewellery and clothing, had navigated the realms of high society with a profitable venture. His mother was the lady of the house and often assisted her husband.

The Selfridges family—a name familiar in the realms of refinement and wealth—stood well off, their coffers filled with prosperity.

Pierre's family extended beyond his father, encompassing his mother, Fiona, and his devoted brother, Leo. Leo, a paladin of the church, had sworn his loyalty to its teachings, his life was intertwined with the sacred order he served.

Leo had recently been promoted from knight rank to paladin of the church. It was an honourable title in the empire, garnering respect from many. Leo's promotion brought great pride to Pierre and their family, as it solidified Leo's commitment to upholding justice and righteousness.

The newfound respect bestowed upon Leo not only elevated his status within the church but also increased the family's reputation in the eyes of society.

Amid the exchange of stories, the train journey pressed forward, the rhythmic clatter of tracks beneath them harmonizing with their conversation.

As the journey culminated at the Tedroft Hills, the trio disembarked, their eyes met by a woman who radiated affection. With open arms and heartfelt warmth, Pierre's mother enveloped him in an embrace, her joy palpable. "My sweet boy, you're finally here!" she exclaimed, a mother's pride painting her features.

"Jennifer, it's nice to see you again."

With introductions made, Jennifer blushed lightly as Pierre's mother, already acquainted with her, greeted her warmly.

Then came Jaegar's turn, his gaze meeting hers as he acknowledged the woman before him. He had a sense of familiarity, reminiscent of an actress from his past whose movies had left an indelible mark on his memory.

"Dear, you must be Jaegar Ambrose," she said with a gracious smile, her cheerfulness infusing the air around them.

Jaegar confirmed it by nodding with a smile on his lips. She let out a chuckle, covering her mouth, and her eyes locked on Jaegar. "I've heard so much about you from Pierre," she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"The pleasure is all mine, Mrs Selfridges."

"You must all be tired, let's get you guys home." Mrs. Selfridges gestured towards the waiting carriage, her warm hospitality evident in her actions.

The trio followed her lead, making their way through the picturesque landscape of Tedroft Hills. Soon, they arrived at their destination—an imposing mansion that stood as a testament to the Selfrides' legacy.

Upon entering, they were allocated rooms, each designed to cocoon them in comfort. As the day waned into the evening, they rested, recharging their energies for the dinner that awaited. In the heart of this unfamiliar yet welcoming abode, the promise of friendship and connection blossomed, and the fragrance of a homecoming hung in the air.

Dinner that night was a convergence of warm hospitality and camaraderie. Pierre's parents extended their gracious welcome to Jaegar, their genuine kindness creating an atmosphere that felt like home.

Amidst the gentle clinking of utensils and the sharing of stories, Jaegar found himself embraced by a sense of belonging, as though he had known Pierre's family for years.

With the carnival only three days away, the trio had ample time to explore the tapestry of Tedroft Hills.

Their days were filled with wanderings through its enchanting landscapes, with each day a new chapter of discovery. The first day was dedicated to traversing the city, with the trio venturing through streets alive with the vibrancy of local life. Food places, each with its own unique aroma and flavour, beckoned them to taste the essence of this place.

On the second day, Jaegar decided to embrace solitude, leaving his companions to create their own memories.

He wandered through the city's heart, the main area nestled in a valley embraced by towering structures. The buildings, futuristic and intricate, painted a picture reminiscent of a sci-fi world. As he strolled along, he caught a glimpse of a familiar figure—Charlize. Their paths intersected yet again, and a smile broke across his face.

"Hello, it's the third time we met, you know," he said, greeting her with playful familiarity. Charlize responded with a faint smile, acknowledging the coincidence.

Jaegar, curiosity piqued, inquired about her presence. "What are you doing here?"

Charlize's reply was laced with the excitement of the impending carnival. "The carnival is about to start. Where else would I be?"

Their conversation took a turn towards plans for dinner, or perhaps something as simple as coffee.

"So, dinner?" Jaegar's question held a lightness to it, a bridge between formality and flirting.

Charlize's chuckle filled the air as they decided to explore a fancy restaurant together. It exuded class and sophistication; it was a haven of elegance. The music from live musicians enveloped them in a serene atmosphere, a harmonious accompaniment to their conversation.

The soft glow of candlelight danced across their faces, casting a warm and intimate ambience. The tantalizing aroma of gourmet dishes wafted through the air, heightening their anticipation for the culinary delights that awaited them.

"You are really taking this seriously. This is a very busy restaurant, how did you get us in so quickly?"

Jaegar's answer to Charlize's question about how he secured entry revealed a connection to the city's finest culinary offerings. "It's considered the best food in the city. A friend's father ensured our names were on the list for access whenever we wished."

Charlize's response carried a note of admiration. "You have a really good friend, then."

Seated at a beautifully arranged table, they allowed themselves to be enveloped by the ambience. Their conversation meandered through topics like the carnival, and the city.

After having their meal, they came out, and then Charlize said, "Well, until next time."

Jaegar said, "Yeah, the next time we meet, it will be different," he said with a wistful smile.

"Oh, I will be waiting, then."

Jaegar saw her figure disappear into the night crowd.

Putting his hands in his pockets, he walked back to the mansion. It was just a few minutes past the duck, and the lights had already lit up the entire city.

He reached the mansion and entered through the main door. There seemed to be no one in the house as he tried calling.

"Pierre... Jennifer."  "Mrs Selfridges."

Seeing that no one answered, he went to his room. Then he wanted to have a shower. So he went towards the bathroom and opened the door, and there he saw something that he wouldn't ever forget.