Horton's words fell.
The expressions of every Wizard in the hall instantly darkened.
Before Jules could speak.
A red-haired Wizard at the side had already stepped forward. "Horton, you're dreaming. Back when you were the family heir, you left without a word, all because of some family legend. You aimed too high and wanted to seek out the legendary Veridian Academy."
A lean Wizard beside him nodded as well. "After your father died, he did indeed leave behind a magic field, but you had already left the family at the time..."
Horton cut the two of them off. "I left to seek breakthroughs and knowledge, not because I betrayed the family. What my father left behind was property in his own name—especially that magic field outside the city. The contract makes that perfectly clear—"
Jules waved a hand as well. "Horton, let bygones be bygones. No matter who that magic field truly belongs to, the family has invested many resources into it over the years, so it cannot be given to you.
"But don't say I've forgotten old ties. The family has recently opened up a small spirit field on the sixth level, the same size as that one. Take it as compensation. This is the absolute limit."
Horton was silent for a long time.
"Fine."
In the end, he uttered only a single word, his tone icy.
Jules nodded in satisfaction. "Then it's settled. I'll send someone to bring you the contract shortly."
Only then, as he looked at Horton, did he notice the inconspicuous Ian behind him. Indifferently, he said, "If there's nothing else, you may leave."
Horton said no more.
He turned and left with Ian.
"Teacher!"
A few minutes later, Ian followed Horton out of the place.
Only then did Horton turn to look at Ian.