''Something in that manor tickled my suspicious muscle.'' Your father begins once your conversation finds a lull. In the distance, you can see the manned checkpoint that separates this forest from the city and he stopped to look at you. ''You remember what soul imprints are?''

Oh, now that's an academic question. ''Remnant of... strong emotions, I think? Emotions stimulate and power souls so surplus tend to leave behind specters that can only be identified with Father Sky rituals, particular training, or instincts.''

''Mmhm.'' He nods, crossing his arms. ''It's always normal to find in family homes; intense positivity and negativity leave imprints and I've noticed the servants of the manor are folks around your age, men and women so at first, I suspected it was the simple dramas of young folks gathered in a big home.''

''But?'' You add.

''The colors were dark, ugly brown, putrid purples with hints of reds. Intense negativity with a pathway toward the basement of the manor.'' Realizing your confusion, he continues. ''Negativity, rot of emotions, manic happiness, intense passions. I've seen these colors during the year I spent in Eliaures: widespread drug uses.''

''That's not all.'' He continues, giving a casual wave to one of the men at the outpost. ''A trail led me toward the basement of the manor and the place was being guarded by some of the mercs. I didn't try my luck after they demanded I turn around and walk away.''

''I don't know what's happening over there, there's nothing concrete and it's not enough to condemn the young lad you want to be friends with.'' He was polite about it but your father disapproves of your newfound companionship with the bespectacled young man. ''Combined with the missing pearls of powers, overstimulated leyline, and clandestine presence of one of Mother Earth's daughters, these imprints make me nervous. There's been widespread intense emotions going on inside that manor.''

Indeed. Your father logic is sound, he's a Cleric-of-the-Path, one step removed from being an exorcist. Investigating and maintaining the most remote shrines of Mother Earth means dealing with all kinds of situations, mundanes and not.

''Too soon to make a final judgment, I don't want to condemn Thibault, especially since he wants to help the monsters of the city.''

''Of course, Rey.'' His hand goes on top of your head. ''You're an adult now, so I wanted to share what I've found. You've gone and adopted a little slime too, it's alright to feel a bit overwhelmed and lean on your mother and I.'' He winks. ''I-

''...am not saying little Usha is your granddaughter yet but we'll see.'' You huff and shake off his hand. One day you'll be the one giving him comfort. ''I've been thinking about what's next.''

Indeed, what's next Rey? Your last few days have been busy indeed and today you'll take it easy and get to know your monstrous guests but there are plenty of things on your plate...