BLOOD & SIGILS

Chapter 13: The Weight of a Name

Kael remained in his father's study long after Duke Alistair had left. His father's words still echoed in his mind.

"Find your answer, Kael."

His fingers tightened around the armrest of the chair.

For years, the path laid before him had been clear—follow the traditions of the Veyrin family, master the Crimson Sigil, and uphold the strength that had made them one of the greatest noble houses in Eldoria.

But he knew now that he could not follow that path.

Not because he lacked talent. Not because he feared it.

But because it wasn't his.

A knock at the door broke his thoughts.

"…Come in."

The door creaked open, and Elira stepped inside.

His sister's crimson eyes flickered over the room, then landed on him. "So, he gave you the talk, huh?"

Kael exhaled. "You knew?"

"Of course," she said, moving toward the window and leaning against the frame. "Rheon had the same conversation when he was younger. So did I."

Kael frowned. "And did it change anything for you?"

Elira scoffed. "I already knew what I wanted. That's why it was easy for me." She turned to him, her gaze sharp. "But you? You've never truly decided, have you?"

Kael looked down. "I thought I had."

Elira sighed, pushing away from the window. "Then prove it. Because right now, it looks like you're still lost."

She walked toward the door but paused before stepping out. "Oh, and Mother's looking for you. Said she wants to talk after breakfast."

Kael glanced up. "Did she say why?"

Elira smirked. "She never does. But if I were you, I'd make sure my thoughts are in order before meeting her."

Then she was gone.

Kael let out a slow breath. His mother—Isolde Veyrin—was not someone he could fool.

If his father was a force of discipline, his mother was a force of insight. She had an uncanny ability to read people, to see through their thoughts as if they were laid bare before her.

If he wasn't careful, she would see through everything.

Especially the fact that he had been researching magic outside of the Crimson Sigil.

He stood from his chair.

He would have to be careful.

But more than that…

He needed to decide.

Because soon, there would be no room left for hesitation.