Emery spent a week in his quarters, waiting and training.
Each day he devoured a little more of the spatial shard, and each day his grasp of spatial law deepened by a hair. It wasn't enough. Another week, perhaps two, and he might have touched a real breakthrough. He never got the chance.
Someone knocked on his door.
"Grand Master Emery."
Warden Chairney stood in the corridor, the same sea-green uniform and tired smile he remembered from the harbor. This time she addressed him by his alchemy title, with a courtesy that hadn't been there before.
"What is it?"
"The king wishes you to accompany him to the border."
Emery studied her for a moment, wondering what had prompted the sudden invitation. Still, the request suited his purpose well enough. Anything that allowed him to see more of Tartarus and learn about the Scourge's movements would benefit his mission. Besides, refusing a direct invitation from King Valder was hardly an option he could consider lightly.
"Lead the way."
