CHAPTER SEVENTY NINE - THE FIRST DRUID

A thick silence hung heavy in the air as Alistair surveyed them both with a piercing gaze. Finally, he chuckled, a deep, rumbling sound that echoed in the stillness. "Well, John," he rumbled, his voice surprisingly warm for such a large man. "Took you long enough to bring your little friend here." John cleared his throat, a flicker of awkwardness crossing his features. "Alistair, this is Karina. Karina, this is…" he hesitated for a moment, "this is Alistair. A… friend." Alistair arched an eyebrow, a knowing twinkle in his eye. "Friend, eh? More like a lifeline, I'd say." He clapped John on the shoulder with surprising force, causing him to wince slightly. Karina, trying to mask her apprehension, offered Alistair a tentative smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you," she said politely. Alistair returned the smile, his face crinkling at the corners. "Indeed, my dear. Now, why don't you both come inside? I've brewed a pot of tea strong enough to wake the dead." He ushered them through th