"Hmm… To some degree, there is truth in your words," Jeerda cordially admitted.
"However, such an achievement would go first to your pupils. And then to me, the coordinator of this provincial team. And finally to you, who willingly submitted two of these aspiring individuals into my Permafrost Qualifier.
"Don't get too cocky, Zelsh. I say that for your own good."
Unfazed, the daunting man laughed and pointed straight at Oli. "See, even you can't deny the truth! Count yourself lucky that I wanted to give him some new perspectives instead of keeping him all to myself!"
"Also," Jeerda stared right through the Rot King's ramblings, "stop riling up my candidates."
"I see nothing wrong with riling up these youngsters!"
Lord Treeda's voice surged through the grand hall. Her visage appeared at the same time amidst cascading shadows.
Everyone present immediately bowed, which Treeda waved off a second later.
