Baofeng's massive form cut through the morning mist, landing steadily in the plaza of Black Stone Castle.
He leaped from the Griffin King's back, landing alone on the hard, black flagstones with a crisp sound.
Avril had remained at the Observatory to study the profound arts of Star and Spiritual Magic with Mage Delin.
Lillian, meanwhile, remained in the Mage Tower filled with lava and fire, pursuing her own Path of Flames.
They had set out as three, but he returned alone.
Raylo surveyed the familiar castle—his castle.
The straight-backed figures of the guards, the shouts carrying from the distant training grounds, the smoke gently rising from the kitchen chimneys...
"My Lord, you've returned."
Ed appeared nearby.
"Mm. Thank you for your hard work."
Raylo nodded and began walking toward his study, asking as he went.
"Did anything happen in the territory while I was gone?"
"All is well, My Lord."
Ed followed behind him, giving a concise report.
