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Summary

Early Life

Castien was born into a powerful clan of elves known for their magical abilities, often becoming advisers or guards for anyone who could afford it. Having a member of the clan working for you was a statement of wealth and power. For Castien, he was sent with his mentor to the Advyre residence for training. He was born with a rare condition that affects his ability to regulate the amount of magic he uses when spell casting. This usually ends up with a burned up casting focus, thus the need for his casting cards.

His condition is a sore subject for Castien. It has caused him trouble learning spells since he needs to take extra precautions so he doesn’t end up hurting himself or others. Though this usually puts him behind others his age in terms of the spells he knows, he makes up for it in terms of raw spell power. Even then, he knows the pure power he holds isn’t enough to satisfy his parents, nor the clan’s elders.

The Advyre Estate

When Castien was sent to the Advyre residence to train with his mentor. His mentor demanded perfection from him. His mentor pushed him even when he was exhausted and made sure he never stepped out of line. His mentor made sure Castien came out as the “perfect” mage, even if it took longer to achieve. His training not only consisted in spell casting but also how to be an advisor. Though the training was exhausting, it did bear its fruits. The head of the Advyre household took notice of the potential that Castien had and decided to officially hire him.

When Castien was officially hired by the Advyre residence, he was thrilled. Not only was he hired by a noble family, but a powerful one at that. At first, his daily tasks were usually along making sure the estate was safe from any magical threats, ensuring all grimoires were kept in good condition, and occasionally advising the head of the Advyre family. He was even allowed to practice his magic whenever he needed to. It was during one of these practice sessions he felt as if he was being watched. He shrugged it off until he heard a crash coming from one of the nearby trees. He approached the tree with magic ready to attack any trespasser only to find a familiar face. A young white haired half-elf laid in the bushes. Castien only somewhat knew who this half-elf was. His name was Percival, he was rumored to be a bastard child and he would always get into trouble. After a quick chat, Castien allowed Percival to practice alongside him and learn a spell or two. The first spell Castien taught Percival was a small fire spell, of which Percival learned quickly.

The two continued to grow close and became good friends, though Castien thought of Percival as more than a friend. Percival would try to drag Castien into whatever trouble he felt like getting into with varying success, and Castien would reign in Percival’s shenanigans with varying success. Castien would always marvel over Percival’s ability to avoid any major consequences, for him Percival’s spontaneous personality was quite refreshing. It soon became apparent that the best way to control Percival’s mischief was to have Castien keep an eye on him. However, there is only so much one person can do.

An important dinner party was being held at the Advyre estate. Nobles and wealthy merchants were going to attend, one of the guests was Castien’s mentor. Percival however, was not a guest. Usually Percival would stay out of sight during the duration of the party, however this time he decided to be bold and crashed the party completely drunk. Castien watched as Percival stumbled towards his grandfather, insulted him, and poured wine all over him. In the midst of the commotion, Castien took a step to interfere but his mentor stopped him. Castien hoped Percival would manage to weasel his way out of the situation like he always does. The guards were called and dragged Percival out of the estate. The party continued as if nothing happened.

The Hunt

The following months after the dinner party were quiet. Castien focused on his duties and magic and tried to ignore how alone he felt. Over the years he watched as Percival’s grandfather hired mercenaries and assassins, and watched as they came back defeated. Castien tried to forget about Percival and all the mercenaries sent to kill him. Percival’s grandfather summoned him one day and out of desperation decided to send Castien to hunt down Percival. Castien couldn’t tell his patron no so off he went. Castien searched for months; no spells he cast could trace Percival and any trail of his ran cold. At the end of his rope Castien was about to head back and admit defeat but as fate would have it, he ran into a strange old woman who gave him a ball of red yarn. “You’ll find who you’re looking for at the end of that string,” she said before disappearing into the crowd. As ridiculous as that sounded, Castien was at the end of his rope so he tried. He tossed out the ball and followed the string and at the end of it… was Percival

Now Castien has to make the choice between being the mage he was raised to be by following his orders, or staying by his old friend’s side and helping him escape any threats?

Spoilers: they’re gay