Another Day of Study
The next morning, Harry found himself once again in the library at Morgana's Crater, determined to gather as much information as possible before Aiden's arrival. The weight of the previous day's discoveries still lingered in his mind, but he was resolved to be as prepared as possible for the impending encounter.
As before, Karma had already anticipated Harry's needs and laid out a selection of books on the large table where Harry had taken up residence. Talon, sensing that Harry preferred to be alone with his thoughts, busied himself with various tasks around the castle, ensuring everything was in order.
Harry spent the morning and afternoon in deep study, the hours passing quickly as he absorbed every detail about the Archivist Family, Eldoria, and the intricacies of the slave trade. He was methodical, making notes on anything that might be useful when dealing with Aiden and his methods.
As had become routine, Harry took his meals with the Five Custodians, who continued to show subtle concern for his well-being. Breakfast and dinner were spent in their company, where they discussed various topics—some related to the current situation, others more mundane or academic. Harry appreciated their presence, recognizing that they were giving him the space he needed while still offering guidance and support.
However, during dinner, Harry's curiosity got the better of him, and he decided to inquire further about Aiden. He needed to know more about the person who would be taking Ginny away, the one who would be responsible for her training.
"I've been reading about the Archivist Family," Harry began, setting down his fork as he addressed the Custodians, "but I'd like to know more about Aiden, specifically. What kind of person is he? How did he become the number one slave trainer?"
The Custodians exchanged glances, and it was Caelum, the Steward of the Eternal Library, who answered. "Aiden is a complex figure, Harry. His reputation as the best slave trainer in Eldoria, perhaps even in all of Morgana's Seat, is well-earned. He has a deep understanding of both magical and psychological conditioning, and his methods are highly effective, though some may find them harsh."
Lira, the Warden of the Obsidian Labyrinth, nodded in agreement. "Aiden's approach is meticulous and precise. He tailors his methods to each individual, ensuring that they are molded into the exact role required of them. This is why he is so sought after—he never fails to deliver."
Valeria added, "He is known for his ability to handle even the most difficult cases, which is likely why he has been chosen to train Ginny. He will see her potential, and he will ensure she adapts to this world, whether she wants to or not."
Harry absorbed their words, his thoughts turning over the implications of what they were saying. Aiden sounded formidable, a man who would stop at nothing to achieve the desired outcome. For Ginny, this meant that her fate was now in the hands of someone who would reshape her into whatever role he saw fit.
Determined to learn more, Harry returned to the library after dinner, where he asked Karma to help him locate any books specifically about Aiden. Karma, always eager to assist, led him to a section of the library where a single book stood out from the rest. The title, embossed in gold on the cover, read "The Top 100 Trainers of Morgana's Seat."
Harry took the book and returned to his seat, flipping through the pages until he found the entry on Aiden. As expected, Aiden was ranked number one, and the book dedicated two full pages to detailing his life, methods, and accomplishments.
The first page featured a portrait of Aiden, a man with sharp, intelligent eyes and a cold, calculating expression. His dark hair was neatly combed back, and he wore the formal attire of the Archivist Family, complete with the symbols of his status. The portrait captured the essence of a man who was both highly disciplined and deeply knowledgeable, someone who commanded respect and authority.
The accompanying text provided a detailed overview of Aiden's background. Born into the Archivist Family, he had been trained from a young age in the art of magical and psychological conditioning. His early successes in the field had quickly propelled him to the top of his profession, and he had earned a reputation for being able to break even the most resistant individuals.
The second page described Aiden's methods in more detail. He was known for his use of complex spells and enchantments that could manipulate the mind and emotions of those under his care. He also employed various psychological techniques, carefully balancing reward and punishment to achieve the desired behavior. Aiden's slaves were said to be among the most loyal and effective, fully conditioned to serve without question.
Harry read through the entry multiple times, committing every detail to memory. The more he learned about Aiden, the more he realized just how serious the situation with Ginny was. This was not someone who would show mercy or understanding Aiden was a master of control, and he would reshape Ginny into whatever he believed she needed to be.
After spending the entire day in the library, Harry finally decided it was time to retire to his quarters. His mind was buzzing with the information he had gathered, and he knew he would need to process it all carefully in the coming days.
When he returned to his room, Talon was there, waiting for him as always. Harry could see the concern in Talon's eyes, the way he was constantly attuned to Harry's needs.
As Harry sat down by the fire, he looked up at Talon with a tired smile. "I think I could use another massage tonight, Talon. It's been a long day."
Talon nodded, his expression softening with relief at being able to help. "Of course, Master Harry. I'll do my best to help you relax."
As Talon's skilled hands began to work on Harry's shoulders, Harry felt the tension of the day slowly begin to melt away. The soothing pressure of the massage, combined with the warmth of the fire, brought him a sense of peace that he hadn't felt all day.
By the time the massage was over, Harry felt significantly more relaxed. He thanked Talon quietly before moving to his bed, feeling the day's exhaustion finally catching up to him.
As he lay down, his thoughts briefly returned to the upcoming arrival of Aiden and what it would mean for Ginny. But the comfort of the massage and the warmth of the fire soon lulled him into a deep, restful sleep.
Tomorrow would bring new challenges and difficult decisions, but for now, Harry allowed himself to rest, knowing he had done all he could to prepare.