Silas Onley

"But, Father, I don't want to go. I want to stay and fight, like a real man. Why are you making me run away?" Silas cried. "Silas, a real man must learn to keep his family safe and that is what I'm doing, keeping you safe. One day, when you have children of your own, you'll understand my decision. You are going to Canada and that is that. The maids have your bags packed and you will be staying with your good friend, uh, Livingston's boy. A wonderful house they have, truly grand and an extensive staff that you simply couldn't... Look at me, droning on like an old man," Sir Onley chuckled ruefully. "Rest well my boy, you must wake tomorrow at 6am sharpish for your flight. Call me once you arrive, yes?" Silas had nodded begrudgingly and made his way to his large bedroom, rather sluggishly, taking in the sighs of his home; the vases, the paintings of distant relatives that covered the walls of the hallway, that warm, oaky scent that permeated the air from the fireplaces that sat in every room of the house. Who knows when he'd be able to see this again? Finally, he arrived in his room, pushing the heavy door and plopping down on to his bed.

His father had told him that the Livingstons would send someone for him, all he had to was look for a sign reading... "Welcome to Canada, Silas," Silas murmured, looking down at his phone, then back up at the crowd of people periodically, scanning for the sign of his new hosts. "Hey, Si!" came a voice. Silas looked around confused, unable to pinpoint the sound. "Over here, bitch!"

Ah, Silas thought, Livingston's boy.

"I-I'm Hugo, do you remember me?" said the voice, manifesting itself into a body as a tallish, blonde, pink-faced boy ran over to his side. Silas nodded slowly in response. "Ah, you must be tired. Bertrand, bags!" Hugo bellowed and behind him came a skinny elderly man, picking up Silas' bags that lay at his feet and putting them into suitcase carriages. Behind him came 4 other similarly dressed men, copying this Bertrand man's actions with the large number of bags that Silas had brought. "Shall we?" asked Hugo, leading the way out of the airport and towards the cars that awaited them outside.

The icy air hit Silas hard, the airport had been rather stuffy and this was a sharp, unwelcome change in the temperature. "After you," Hugo said, as Bertrand opened the door to one of the cars for him and Silas. Silas bowed gratefully to the two before entering the vehicle, followed by Hugo and a sharp slam of the door and the car began to drive.

"W-what about my..." Silas began. "Bags? Dude, what do you think the other cars were for?" Hugo chuckled. "I'm so excited for you to see the house man." After what seemed like an eternity, they finally arrived at the house.

Towering evergreens and manicured hedges framed the sprawling mansion, their deep greens contrasting beautifully with the stately stone façade. A long, winding driveway—lined with ornate lanterns and vibrant flowerbeds—led up to the grand entrance, where imposing double doors, flanked by towering columns, welcomed visitors with an air of sophistication. Expansive gardens stretched out in every direction, boasting a dazzling array of roses, tulips, and hydrangeas that bloom in perfect harmony. A series of interwoven pathways wind through the grounds, leading to charming gazebos, serene koi ponds, and ivy-clad archways that offer secluded spots for quiet reflection. Beyond the gardens, a shimmering pool complex with cascading waterfalls and elegant stone patios invites relaxation. A second, more secluded pool—complete with a spa and cabanas—rests further back, offering an exclusive retreat. Adjacent to the main house, a set of stately servant’s quarters blend seamlessly with the estate’s architecture, ensuring both convenience and discretion. Encircling the property, towering trees and dense shrubbery provide both privacy and a natural barrier from the outside world.

It was a gorgeous sight, one that Silas had only ever dreamed of. Despite being of wealth himself, this was still an impressive structure.

"We should check out the pools. There are some trunks in one of the pool houses," said Hugo.

Good, nice chance to relax, Silas thought.

Silas sat poolside with Hugo, chitchatting about the years that the two friends hadn't spoken.

"You thirsty?" Hugo asked. Silas nodded. "{{user}}! Two ice cold whatevers." A few moments later, a servant emerged with two ice cold drinks on a platter.