The Chimera landed steadily at the entrance to the mine.
Sain was the first to dismount. He strode forward, stopped three paces from Lynn, and cupped his hands solemnly.
"Lord Lynn?"
Lynn gave a slight nod. "Lord Sain?"
"Indeed." Having witnessed what he had just seen, Sain's tone had become noticeably more respectful.
"I am Sain. By order, I have come to take over the duty of guarding Shadow Mine. I have long admired your reputation, Lord Lynn. Now that I have met you, you truly live up to your name."
Lynn returned the gesture. "You are too kind, Lord Sain. You have had a long journey. Please, come in."
The four apprentices silently climbed down from the Chimera's back and followed behind Sain.
They furtively studied the absurdly young official Wizard before them, their eyes full of awe.
The tall, thin apprentice recalled how the Calamity Undead had nearly made his legs go weak while they were in the air.
Yet this young man, who looked about the same age as him, was the master of those terrifying beings...
He lowered his head unconsciously, not daring to look any longer.
The group passed through the mine entrance and followed the main tunnel toward the fortress.
Whenever they passed the undead along the way, the four apprentices could not help lightening their footsteps.
"Mentor," the only female apprentice among them asked softly. "These undead... they will not suddenly attack us, will they?"
Sain shook his head. "No. An official Wizard's spiritual imprint is extremely stable. It will not lose control as easily as an apprentice's."
The female apprentice sighed in relief, though her feet still drifted involuntarily closer to her mentor.
At the fortress entrance, two women were already waiting.
The woman in front wore a simple yet elegant robe.