Within Blue Bridge Fortress, dusk had fallen.
The massive Stone Wall lay shrouded in firelight, while the resounding footsteps of patrolling warriors echoed in the distance. The air was filled with a tense, solemn atmosphere.
Lanlost stood atop the northern wall, gazing northward, a chilling authority radiating from his rugged features.
Hansen approached quietly, his voice carrying a hint of caution. "My lord, Ang has sent word that, for the time being, he can only communicate with you through the Magic Communication Crystal."
Lanlost raised his head, his hawk-like gaze sweeping over him. "What? He refuses to come to Blue Bridge Fortress?"
Hansen quickly lowered his head. "It is not that he is unwilling. He says the circumstances are special... he must remain at Ebony Fortress. You may have noticed as well that there are already signs of Tier 4 Foul Spirits in that area."
At the words "Tier 4 Foul Spirit," Lanlost's brow tightened slightly, but he said nothing. He merely raised a hand in gesture.
Hansen immediately and respectfully placed a crystalline Magic Communication Crystal, gleaming with faint light, atop the city wall.
"Leave."
"Yes, my lord." Hansen answered with obvious relief before withdrawing.
When he reached the corridor, he murmured softly, "I never thought Ang had really become a legendary expert... It's simply unbelievable."
The surroundings were silent.
Under the torchlight, Lanlost's face was as resolute as iron.
He stared at the crystal for a long while before finally extending his hand and slowly pouring magic power into it.
Rippling patterns of light spread across the crystal's surface, followed by a familiar voice. "Is that Lord Pan?"
"It is." Lanlost spoke, his voice low as thunder. "What is this? I told you to come to Blue Bridge Fortress, yet you keep making excuses and refuse to come?"