In the mist, Lynn and Aldric faced each other.
Seeing that Lynn showed not the slightest hint of reflection or remorse, Aldric said no more, though the killing intent around him grew ever denser.
Lynn stood motionless atop the dragon's head. Far taller than Aldric, he looked down at him with an amused expression.
"You want to kill me? Aren't you afraid I've already reported what's happening here, and that a whole group of Wizards will descend afterward?"
"If you kill me, I'm afraid quite a few people in this world will have to be buried alongside me."
Aldric smiled faintly.
"There's no need to bring out such petty threats. They're useless."
"If you reported it, then whether I kill you or not, I won't escape being discovered."
"If you didn't report it, then if I let you leave, you'll bring even more people here. Killing you would instead allow the Alchemical World to remain hidden."
"So... I cannot let you leave."
"If you're willing to surrender, I can spare your life. Once I advance to Alchemical Sage, if you're willing to pledge allegiance to me, I'll let you go."
Lynn shook his head. It seemed words would not settle this after all. They would have to fight for real.
Aldric understood that as well. He stepped forward.
As he took that step, the mist beneath his feet split apart to both sides, revealing an empty grayish-white space below.
Lynn also stepped forward. The Chaos Dragon lowered its body slightly, the edges of its wings spreading a little.
Separated by the slowly closing mist, the two watched each other.
Mist churned between them, flowing slowly and continuously.
Once Aldric had stopped, he struck first, extending his right hand from his sleeve and spreading his fingers.
A silver-white alchemy array unfolded