The weight of the situation, the council chambers, the strange message – it all seemed to fade away for a moment. Here, in the comfort of Rylan's living room, with the promise of a new adventure on the horizon, Alex felt a surge of unexpected generosity.
"Maybe something that complements your fiery spirit," he added, a playful smile tugging at the corner of his lips.
Maya hesitantly approached the case, her fingers hovering over the intricate jade discs.
***
Several hours later, Alex emerged from the bustling gates of Laury, the case of necklaces clutched securely in his hand. Relief washed over him. "Well, that was… eventful, now, time to get back home, wherever that is anymore."
Suddenly, a figure materialized in front of him, a shimmering duplicate of Jian Gang. Alex recognized him instantly – Barty's handiwork.
"Well, well, where have you been?" the duplicate inquired, his voice mirroring Jian Gang's gruff tone.
