Chapter 116: Bonus chapter (Magic castle reward)

As Zafron burst through the front door, his face split into a grin that threatened to break free from the confines of his cheeks. Mara and Matilda looked up from their evening activities, startled by his exuberant entrance.

"Ladies," Zafron announced, puffing out his chest, "you are now looking at the personal guard of none other than Cassandra Beaumont!"

Mara's eyes widened, a delighted smile spreading across her face. "Oh, Zafron! That's wonderful news!" She rushed forward, enveloping him in a warm hug.

Matilda, however, remained seated, her expression a mix of surprise and something else Zafron couldn't quite place. "Well," she said, her voice carefully neutral, "that certainly is... unexpected."

'Uh-oh,' Zafron thought, his excitement dimming slightly. 'I know that tone. That's the "I'm happy for you but also worried and maybe a little suspicious" tone. I've heard it before... usually right before something goes terribly wrong.'