After resting long enough for their bodies and minds to recover fully, the group packed up and erased every trace of the ritual. Most importantly, they dispelled the traces of their spells through prayer. Then they passed through the Earth Door behind the clutter in the cellar and returned to Moran Bookstore.
Once they had dispelled the spell traces there as well, Miss Moran asked Stone and Ailo to escort Mrs. Violet and Leo home, respectively.
Those two had not been practicing for long. After performing a ritual and sensing the Hours, they would need a long time for the tremors in their souls to subside completely. Until then, they could neither use the Invisible Arts nor endure any intense shock.
Night had fallen, and London was hardly safe after dark. Without an escort, they might well run into trouble.
Whether they were forced to cast spells to protect themselves, further shaking their souls, or simply murdered by thieves, the outcome would be terrible.
Mr. Norman, on the other hand, needed no bodyguard. His mastery had long since reached the point where he could wield his power freely. Though the ritual had taken a considerable toll on him, it was nowhere near enough to rob him of his ability to fight.
Besides, he had the Demon known as the Steam Spirit with him.
Anyone who tried to rob him on his way home would be lucky enough to enjoy a warm welcome from the edge of the Mansus.
The Steam Spirit could grow by devouring human pain and fear. Mr. Norman surely would not mind letting a few robbers make a selfless contribution to its recovery.
Miss Moran watched the three carriages disappear into the distance, then nodded and said to Pan Long, "Mr. Pan, would you be willing to