I have a faint memory of a story that I am trying to locate. The MC was an apprentice to a Warden of a magical preserve. It seems that the old Warden is gone or deceased. The MC feels a summoning to a (city) by (witches or council) for a meeting, which he resists. I think the council wants him to become the new Warden.
The MC lives alone in his house and responds to a black witch in his backyard at one point. His response is witnessed by two young witch apprentices. He has some surprising (magical) fighting abilities.
Like I said, my memory of the story is faint. Hopefully, someone recognizes the story and I can reacquaint myself with a second reading.
Thanks in advance for any help!