Arthur did not respond.
He stared at the bronze door for a while.
More precisely, he was staring at the spot where the Guardian had last stood.
"Yes."
He muttered to himself.
"Truly a formidable existence."
After a two-second pause.
"Unfortunately, he has become a bit of an obstacle."
Calvin finally spoke at that moment.
"Inspector, if they really make a move..."
"They won't." Arthur interrupted him, his tone calm. "At least, not for now. The Empire's greater cause can still keep that Klaus in check. But not for much longer."
He turned and walked back behind the round table, sitting down again.
"Speed things up. The Dean's final step must be completed within three days."
Kame nodded.
The female instructor had remained where she was, silent throughout.
But when Arthur mentioned accelerating the plan, a strange look flashed through her eyes.
Outside the Tower of Erudition.
The square was deserted. The River of Light still flowed overhead.
Klaus walked at the front.
His pace was neither fast nor slow, his hands tucked into his pockets, his expression obscured.
As they reached the edge of the square, he spoke.
"My lord, did you sense it?"
The Guardian walked on his right.
"Yes."
His voice was low and hoarse.
"There is something in the Main Tower. Very dangerous."
The Guardian's words were brief.
"He did not tell the truth. They used a taboo object to open the Forbidden Land."
Klaus's footsteps paused for an instant.
Then he continued walking.
"I know."
A voice came from behind him.
"What do we do now? Should we just wipe out the Tower of Erudition in one go?"
The voice came from beneath a Night Watcher robe.
It was female.
Clear and crisp, carrying undisguised killing intent.
Klaus did not turn around, but his lips