"Master Farn, a warm welcome home..."
In Xinweila World, at the Royal Magic Academy.
Farn had returned once again to the place he had once known so well.
This time, however, he returned as a student who had completed his studies abroad.
The academy's leadership and prominent figures from across Sinvira gathered to welcome him.
The authorities had arranged a grand reception, honoring him with ceremony worthy of a leading statesman.
"I thought Sinvira was already on the brink, with everyone jumping at shadows...
I never expected things inside the academy to be this peaceful."
After the reception, Farn spoke gravely to the few people accompanying him.
Had Roland himself been there, he might have recited a verse: "The warm breeze intoxicates the travelers, until they mistake Hangzhou for Bianzhou."
"But I heard other places are already living through hell. The people in some occupied regions have even been slaughtered to the last. It's horrific."
A burly, middle-aged warrior stroked his axe as he spoke.
"How can these people keep holding receptions and dancing with such clear consciences?"
"Heh, perhaps those lofty mages don't consider commoners real people."
A dark-skinned Drow assassin spoke with a hint of cynicism.
"Of course, you're an exception."
These were followers Farn had won over during his campaigns in other worlds.
During their travels, mages often won adventurers over through their abilities or personal charisma.
Tired of wandering without a place to call home, those adventurers had chosen to become his guards or mercenaries working exclusively for him.
They were much like Jonis, Vian, and the others.
"We can't stay here long," Farn said. "We must reach the front lines as soon as possible and find out what's really happening!"
A middle-tier human mage cautioned him, "Whatever you do, don't accept a mission to reinforce