He stopped looking in that direction.
Ruger put on a relaxed expression and resisted the tremendous temptation to let Mahama feel the weight of his knowledge as a Grand Wizard.
Among the giant's many remarks, one still echoed in his mind.
The thing was exceptionally sturdy. As for just how sturdy, he chose to trust the old Wizard's craftsmanship.
Since it was an oddity, he naturally had to take it. Aside from those scattered fragments and the joking around, he had also easily found the method of becoming its master. This time, the method had been relatively easy to find. It seemed that very few people had touched this strange book since that playful contest.
Ruger glanced around, then helped himself to a large bowl of fish-ball soup and began eating. Naturally, he did not neglect the steaks either. He had eaten some earlier, but had yet to satisfy his appetite. Only when the Crystal Stove's flames had warmed his fur and his belly was full of delicious, hot food did he stop eating. He lay down right where he was and tucked the book beneath his head.
A battle was exhausting, especially against someone with that fellow's methods. Dealing with them had kept his nerves taut.
The Fuzzies also began praying silently, as though blessing their furry master. They seemed to have sensed his fatigue and drowsiness. With their prayers, a different sort of warmth, distinct from the Crystal Stove's flames, enveloped him. As he deliberately relaxed his mind, he gradually fell asleep.
An oddity beyond appraisal.
This was the method of becoming its master.
Sleeping was not the important part. Being awake worked just as well, so long as he relaxed his mind and rested his head against the book. Ruger simply felt he might as well take