Chapter 13: Search
The rising sun peered into Alfie's room and illuminated his small bed and desk. On most occasions, the room was quite empty.
This morning, however, two people lay in bed snuggling with each other in a warm embrace.
Alfie woke up to the feeling of warm skin against his, Lucia had snuggled into his arms the night before.
A surge of happiness flowed through his whole body, and in his excitement, he hugged her closer.
The sudden movement caused Lucia to wake up as well. As she turned to face Alfie, he blushed at the sight.
They stared into each other's eyes for what seemed like an eternity, smiling in silence. And just for that moment their worries and fears seemed nonexistent.
But sometimes even eternity feels too short, they had responsibilities to attend to and they weren't the ones to run away from them.
The night before was nothing short of chaotic and passionate, and it had solidified their newfound relationship.
Alfie's mood during his walk towards his office was as prominent as the sun that day. The radiant smile he showed everyone was leagues above the practiced one he usually gave out.
Eventually, rumors spread that something good was supposedly happening to the village, but when the general was seen to have also been smiling much more than usual it became apparent what had happened.
Before even an hour had passed, the news had spread all across the small village. It elicited many smiles from other wives who had predicted such an outcome.
Jess and Clare obviously weren't oblivious to the rumors either and while they didn't speak out about it to Alfie, they were happy for him.
While Alfie hadn't talked to the chief yet about his plans, his mind was already set. He already had a game plan set in mind.
He needed his apprentice to mature much quicker than he had expected. So, when Sonia walked through the door he told her the truth of her position.
"Sonia, do you know the real purpose of your position?" Alfie asked
"On paper, I am a personal assistant, but in reality, I am your chosen successor right?" Sonia guessed
Alfie nodded with approval, "I'm glad you understood the hints I laid out for you."
Sonia bowed down and answered, "It is an honor to be chosen for this role."
"You don't have to be so formal with me. I've never been the type to like strict mentor relationships." Alfie stated
Sonia nodded before asking, "Why was I chosen out of everyone?"
"You showed the greatest potential and had the characteristics that I wanted in a student. It was as simple as that really." Alfie answered
"Did you get the information about my character from Jess and Clare?" Sonia asked
"That'd be correct, I have them make general profiles of everyone in the village," Alfie answered truthfully.
"That's all the questions I have for now," Sonia stated
Alfie smiled before stating, "And that's exactly the characteristics that made me choose you."
Sonia perked up at the compliment for a short moment before composing herself, "Thank you counselor."
"Alright enough talk, you have a lot to learn," Alfie said
Sonia simply nodded before Alfie resumed his explanations and teachings from yesterday.
Hours went by as Alfie began not only explaining how to run a village and small government but also general knowledge and his own philosophy.
He truly was making Sonia his successor. He would eventually impart every piece of knowledge he held.
Soon the sun rose to a little past its peak, and the familiar sound of footsteps approaching his door was heard.
"Hey prof, Clare and I are heading to leisure," Jess stated
Alfie who was waiting for this moment answered differently than he normally would.
"Could you perhaps take Sonia here with you as well?" Alfie asked
Sonia showed a look of shock and Jess's footsteps came to an abrupt end.
"Oh, um sure we can," Jess eventually answered.
"I'm glad to hear. You three should get some time to get to know each other." Alfie said
Sonia looked a bit awkward at the request but assuming her role of a student she accepted.
As the sound of those three leaving for leisure reached Alfie's ears he slumped once again into his chair.
Although those three didn't have the greatest impressions of each other, he needed them to get at least somewhat. He hoped this attempt would get them on amicable terms.
Now that it was time for leisure again, Alfie would make his way back to the temple. It was time he informed the chief about his plan.
As Alfie entered the main lounge of the temple he was met with the sight of the chief and Lucia already waiting for him.
"I already know about the plan you have in mind. Our creator approves of the idea." The chief said abruptly
His words halted Alfie's tracks and caused Lucia to almost choke on the water she was drinking. The fact he had approved of the plan confirmed
Alfie's worries.
"He told you directly..?" Alfie asked.
"Yes, it was the first time in a while since he reached out but I'm certain." The chief admitted
"I'll prepare some of my men to form scouting teams for tomorrow then," Lucia said
"We have until the start of the new year." The chief admitted
"Is that what he said…?" Alfie asked.
"Yes, that's correct."
"That only gives us about four and half months.." Lucia stated.
"That's more than enough time, we'll be able to manage." Alfie comforted
"Alfie, could I speak with you privately for a moment.." The chief asked
Alfie only nodded before they entered the temple's kitchen which stood far enough away.
Although they were out of sight the chief found it hard for his words to exit.
"I know, chief I know."
"You.. do?" The chief's eyes went wide.
Unable to handle the guilt courting through his mind, he fell to his knees begging for forgiveness.
"Time and time again you've done so much… I'm so sorry I've gotten you into this mess."
"I know you just got into a relationship with Lucia, and you should've been looking forward to a future together."
The chief's voice was low and coarse, his eyes spilled the ground with tears, and his body trembling.
Alfie lowered himself to the ground and responded "You weren't aware that your one action would lead to this. You're not the one to be blamed."
"So stand up and compose yourself. Be prepared for what's to come."
Alfie truly didn't blame the chief for his actions. Why? Because when he made the decision to reject Zeus' offer, how would he have any idea that this would be the outcome.
Plus, who would be so petty to get this offended by a simple rejection? From the likes comparable to a newborn who knew nothing of the world.
Even so, Alfie couldn't do anything about it. He lacked the sole quality needed, power. And sadly he had arrived too early to grasp the power this world had to offer.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone