Felis could hear the subtle encouragement and support in Russell's words, hesitant though they were.
Russell knew perfectly well that if Felis chose to follow the people from Sia Tower, they would inevitably become rivals... even if Felis could choose not to become his enemy, they certainly could not remain friends.
Yet he had still brought it up.
Felis quickly reached a conclusion: his talent, which leaned toward the soul, was not merely an affinity associated with the Black Enigma Tower. The mastermind behind Sia Tower was very likely skilled in soul magic as well.
Russell's teacher must have let something slip between the lines... that was why Russell had given him this hint.
Compared with having no choice but to teach himself... Rute's help could only go so far. No matter how outstanding Felis proved himself, nothing would change before he became a Seventh-Circle Mage.
But if he really did become a Seventh-Circle Mage on his own, he would no longer need anyone to change their attitude.
Russell really was looking out for him... even if it meant letting him turn toward the darkness.
That was not the same as taking a Soul Potion and being forced to change his soul's affinity. Entering the darkness did not necessarily mean doing evil, and even if he chose to do evil, that would still be his own choice.
For mages, alignment had never really been the issue. The only issue was whether it truly reflected their own will.
Felis did not hesitate at all. "I'm staying here."
Russell looked a little surprised.
He was not surprised that Felis had principles, but the fact that Felis set the bar so high left him a little bewildered.
"Goodness is a choice, not an obligation. You know that, right?" Russell asked softly.
"I know