As a Level-Four Mage, Zell had never visited the Kingdom's barren Northern Frontier, much less traveled so far through such bitter weather.
And he had certainly never been struck by peas falling from the sky...
After finally extricating himself from the carriage, he looked utterly furious and shot Aistena an icy glance.
Aistena naturally noticed that icy look, but showed no reaction beyond a smile tugging at his lips.
He rather hoped the fellow would attack him.
Aistena's smile cut Zell to the quick, and he withdrew his gaze.
His resentment only deepened.
If this fellow had not meddled, why would he have been forced to come to the Northern Frontier? Why would he have suffered like this?
At that moment, his hatred for Aistena even surpassed his hatred for Kroya.
Unfortunately, he himself had benefited enormously from his status as a mage, and knew all too well how easily higher-ranking mages could suppress those below them.
He did not even dare defy Celesty's orders.
That left him with only one hope... killing Kroya.
As long as he could kill Kroya, he could apologize and make amends afterward. Even spending his entire life's savings would be worth it.
The people in the association would probably try to persuade Celesty, too.
After all, the man would already be dead. Disposing of a Level-Four Mage as well would hardly be appropriate, so Celesty probably would not pursue the matter to the bitter end.
As long as I can kill that little mage...
Zell soon steadied himself and straightened his slightly rumpled mage's robe. Its magic runes still gave off a pale golden glow amid the ice and snow.
Seven golden rings of different sizes had been embroidered onto star-moon whale hide with arcanum thread, like a brilliant sun shining against a star-filled