Because of the time difference, the sky over Vien was only just growing light when Kallen appeared in the York City District's Teleportation Magic Formation hall. Apart from the staff, there were few passengers.
Before returning, Kallen had specifically instructed the staff here to keep his return itinerary confidential, so his appearance startled quite a few of them. After his subordinates woke him, the night-shift Deputy Director, who had been dozing in his office, immediately rushed over, deliberately shaking off one leather shoe along the way.
Kallen smiled at him. They thanked each other for their hard work, and he led his people straight outside.
There were reasons for returning so quietly.
Although the church had heavily publicized his exploits this time, its underlying purpose had been to offset misfortune with good news.
The prevailing mood was still one of grief and humiliation over the Investigation Delegation's annihilation. If Kallen returned in a blaze of publicity, held some welcome ceremony and then a victory banquet, he really would be turning a funeral into a celebration.
Previously, he had deliberately drawn attention to create opportunities for rapid advancement. Now that he had risen, he needed to gradually adopt a steadier image and erase the disadvantage of his "youth" as much as possible.
Another reason was that Gaspol would soon hand over the District Chief's position to him. At a time like this, Kallen ought to keep a low profile, not only to make Gaspol feel a little better, but also to protect his own image.
Richard had observed that rumors were already circulating outside, saying that Kallen's greatest specialty was the Spell Art of "cursing his superiors."
It was only a joke, and although it contained the malice of jealousy, it had yet to gain traction. Still, it was enough to