Krasus was sitting in the study of his Mage Tower, one of his favorite places. The room was cozy and warm, though not spacious. Every surface that could hold anything—the desk, side tables, and chests—was piled with books or magical items. If there was anywhere else that could fill his heart with greater joy, it was reading without anyone disturbing him. At the moment, Krasus was busy copying a very ancient tome into a new parchment volume.
A crystal ball hovered in the center of the study, providing light. A soft glow flickered within it.
Just then, he heard the door being pushed open. Krasus did not look up, because he knew only his apprentice Rhonin would recklessly barge into the study instead of knocking first. But he would not reprimand Rhonin. To outsiders, they were master and apprentice, but in private, they were close friends. Rhonin's wit and humor had brought Krasus countless joys through his peaceful years.
"Someone is here to see you, Krasus," Rhonin said. A pouch of herbs hung from his belt. Krasus had sent him out today to gather experimental materials, but Rhonin had brought back something else.
"Here to see me?" Krasus finally stopped writing and moved the pen away to keep ink from dripping onto the parchment.
"A Gnome lady, and her... friend. The lady insisted that I give this to you. But... may I say one more thing?"
"Go ahead," Krasus said with a faint smile. "I have never disregarded your advice."
"The lady herself seemed fine. I bear her no ill will, but her friend..." Rhonin shook his head and frowned slightly.
His apprentice's reaction immediately put Krasus on guard. Rhonin could be careless at times, but he possessed sharp instincts and often grasped the heart of a problem. The apprentice