Emilia and Ellie had been found by Daniste to guard against any unexpected developments. Though Shade could not imagine what unexpected development might still arise tonight, it was good to have two Chosen Ones present.
Winnie had prepared a dinner suited to everyone's tastes. At the table, Daniste had also wanted to invite Luvia and Winnie to visit the Academy. Though they had never touched the signposts in the Library's underground levels, she had a way to take them there.
But both Luvia and Winnie declined. They knew tonight was important to Daniste, so they did not want to disturb her.
"Then we're off~"
At seven in the evening, the group of four returned to the Academy Library. It was already time to open the Tree Hollow, but on their way out of the Library, Daniste ran into a professor from the Library Management College carrying documents for her review and signature.
The other party wanted to borrow a Sage Level Relic as a research subject for an upcoming senior-year course. All prior approvals had been completed; only Daniste's signature remained.
Daniste had actually wanted to deal with it tomorrow, but seeing that old colleague come looking for her so late at night, she spent another half hour reviewing the documents. Only after confirming that there was no problem did she sign her name and stamp them.
During that time, Emilia and Ellie took Shade around the Library for a casual stroll. By the time the four of them finally reached the Dragon Blood Tree in the Central Courtyard, it was nearly eight o'clock.
"Shade said the Fire Seed Source is why this tree has such vigorous Life Force. If we take the thing inside, will the tree suddenly die?"
Before Shade began, compassionate Emilia asked this question. Daniste shook