In a special-grade laboratory on a colonial plane.
Witch Catherine toyed with the Magic Mirror in her hand.
Every mirror in her castle was connected to it. Not just the mirrors, but every reflective surface in the castle.
Through the Magic Mirror, Witch Catherine saw that Locke had discovered the truth about Ritual Magic, and her lips curved into a smile. "Not bad. I was wondering why that young man hadn't figured out Ritual Magic's true purpose yet, given how perceptive he is."
"But it isn't too late. In fact, the timing is just right."
Fafnir, the Golden Dragon, grumbled, "Using a Magic Mirror to spy on people hardly suits someone of your standing. You've always liked keeping track of everyone around you."
"Besides, you could have just told that young dragon. Why go to such lengths?"
Witch Catherine said, "Discovering something for yourself and being told about it are two very different things."
"You're a member of the Dragon Race, not a wizard like us, so you don't understand how crucial discovery is to a wizard.
"If I told him, I'd be taking away a step he could have used to climb higher. It would do him harm and no good."
"He's a wizard and a researcher at the Advanced Truth Institute. He must have the insight to uncover the truth hidden behind everything.
"Only then does he have a chance to go further."
Fafnir turned sharply toward Witch Catherine, finally realizing what she meant. "You're cultivating him?"
Witch Catherine smiled. "I'd rather he spent ten years stuck at this hurdle than give him the answer outright. Fortunately, he hasn't disappointed me so far. His performance still meets every expectation I had of him."
Fafnir looked at Witch Catherine. "Witch Catherine, I've always believed people are most eager to