Zatiel found himself reclining in his bed at home. While meditation could restore his depleted energy, sleep was not only an alternative but also a periodic indulgence he enjoyed.
'In five years, if I don't meet their terms, they might very well target me first, seizing all that I own as compensation for the troubles I've caused. Regardless, if I devote myself solely to rune crafting, I can attain the status of a Rank 1 Runemaster in under a year. Yet, this rapid ascent may arouse suspicion. After all, for a rank 0 apprentice, such progress is perceived as an anomaly due to the inherent energy limitations of humans.'
Zatiel's reasoning was sound. Achieving Rank 1 was a monumental milestone for any being, signifying profound transformation. For humans, especially those at rank 0, this leap was even more challenging, given their inherent vulnerabilities.
'I should prioritize achieving Rank 1 before advancing in rune mastery. The ancient magus's lab will provide me with the essential component for this advancement. However, these places are fraught with perils, necessitating meticulous preparation.'
...
Morning dawned, revealing two figures departing the Magic Tower: Zatiel and Sophia.
Their pace was swift. For Zatiel, it was a leisurely trot, but he moderated his speed to accommodate Sophia.
Sophia, an Elementium apprentice, had a natural affinity for water. Normally, such apprentices possess frail physiques. However, Sophia's unique conditions endowed her with the physical prowess equivalent to a rank 3 body-refining apprentice, enabling her to match pace.
"Zatiel, is venturing to the Underground Zone necessary? That realm is infamous for its hostile inhabitants," Sophia queried, her voice tinged with trepidation. Her knowledge about the Underground was merely based on circulating rumors.
"The Underground houses the materials essential for my rune crafting. And, speaking of hostile races, humans could easily be among the top contenders," Zatiel opined. In his view, humans, especially from realms like The Magi World, were amongst the most belligerent species in the universe.
"You're mistaken! Many people are benevolent, cherishing their loved ones. In villages, communities thrive on mutual care," Sophia retorted, momentarily abandoning her usual restraint. Memories from her pre-magic days, which served as beacons during her bleakest times, spurred her impassioned defense.
Her outburst ended, and a chilling fear gripped her as she met Zatiel's icy gaze.
"Are you certain of my error?"
The frostiness in Zatiel's eyes deepened, awaiting her reply.
Panic swelled in Sophia. She believed she had gleaned some understanding of Zatiel during their shared time, yet now, she felt the palpable threat of demise.
She was on the verge of retracting her words when a surge of memories flooded her senses. A resolute fire ignited in her eyes.
Facing Zatiel with newfound resolve, she declared, "Yes, you are wrong."
As soon as she ceased speaking, a swell of emotion burgeoned within her. Prepared to face the impending consequences, she was met instead with a surprising response.
"Hahaha, well done, there is hope for you yet. Intelligence and talent may not be your forte, but I couldn't care less about that. Remember this feeling and nourish it," Zatiel, amused by her fervor, gave her an approving nod.
"Are you truly not angry?" Sophia was baffled by his oscillating demeanor. He seemed ready to assail her one moment and was praising her the next.
"Do I appear so petty that I'd assail those around me simply for harboring differing beliefs? Consider this a minor trial, and congratulations, you've acquitted yourself splendidly," Zatiel, now impressed by Sophia, beamed at her.
"A test? For what purpose?" Sophia was perplexed, considering her worth to Zatiel negligible and hardly warranting a trial.
"I was assessing your resolve. Upholding one's beliefs in the face of peril is commendable, albeit reckless. Next time, just lie. Prioritize your safety over mere words. Maintain your convictions internally; external affirmations are inconsequential. Despite passing this test, you have much to learn."
Zatiel had reasons for Sophia's company; her isolation within the tower posed inherent risks. Other apprentices might probe her for information about him, given their incapability to confront him directly. Moreover, he had grown fond of her and was willing to aid her if she proved her merit.
He had considered Ezequiel's company as well, but the young boy's commitment to his creations required his presence elsewhere.
"Let's proceed. The entrance to the Underground Zone is far. And worry not, we'll traverse only the initial layers. I'm aware of my limitations." Without further ado, Zatiel resumed his journey.
Sophia paused, her hand against her chest, before following him with renewed determination.
After about a week of travel, they reached the Underground Zone's entrance, a vast mountain housing a cave leading to the first layer, its dark expanse seemingly swallowing all light.
Zatiel, poised to enter, suddenly halted and scanned the skies, annoyance creasing his face.
Sophia, noting his reaction, tried to discern the problem but found nothing.
"Is something amiss?"
She sensed his irritation but couldn't ascertain the cause.
"It's inconsequential. Stay within a twenty-meter radius from me," Zatiel instructed, his tone stern, leaving no room for dissent.
As they submerged into the cave's obscurity, a figure descended from the skies, unveiling itself.