"Fink!"
A sharp rebuke came from nearby, and the aura surrounding Fink faltered before slowly subsiding.
The violent elemental particles surging around him, powerful enough to send ripples through the air, were forcibly stilled in an instant by a higher-order Mental Force Field.
Fink's pupils abruptly contracted. Reason overcame the rush of adrenaline.
He gave Dago a long look, his eyes holding appraisal, wariness, and a trace of regret at losing his prey.
He silently stepped aside.
Dago turned and met the calm eyes of Emily, the silver-haired witch.
He gave her a slight nod and, without waiting to see whether she responded, strode forward. Soon, he disappeared behind the outline of a distant hillock.
Emily watched Dago leave. Only after his back vanished from sight did she open the door and enter the hut.
Ripples of folded space spread as she pushed the door open. Behind the crude wooden door lay another dimension.
It was still that spacious, magnificent palace. Noble and immaculate, Michael stood atop the steps, intently studying his right hand, which was entwined with strands of golden light.
"Your Highness."
Emily bowed respectfully to Michael.
Michael nodded slightly, his gaze never leaving the threads of laws in his hand.
After a moment's hesitation, Emily asked quietly, "That wizard from the south... refused?"
"Yes."
Michael nodded calmly, his flawless, porcelain-like face betraying not the slightest emotion.
"His soul is less than thirty years old, he's about to advance to the Third Circle, and his foundation is quite solid. The techniques at his disposal even allowed him to withstand a casual strike from Tracy."
"Such talent might not be worth mentioning in the Central Continent, but in the south, he certainly qualifies as outstanding. A little pride is only natural."
"He gave up the chance to accompany us