Disheartened by my defeat, I fled the training grounds in shame. I wished to crawl up into my room and hide from everything, but that place was no longer mine. Revera had evicted me shortly before leaving, and I carried everything I had with me in the spacial pouch. My staff wouldn't be left behind, floating behind me but within easy reach. I thought of putting it in my bag, but the thrill of excitement every time I looked at put that thought to rest.
There was one thing I had left to do, something I'd put off as long as I could. But, the day was getting on, and I'd been summoned to meet with the other heroes for a final feast around lunchtime. Resigning myself to walk, I strode with heavy steps to the library, a fervent prayer that he wouldn't also ask me to smile.
"Xiviyah! I heard you're leaving today," Thron said, raising his wrinkled hand to welcome me. His eyes sparkled brightly, glistening like the last rays of the setting sun.
