The dwarf grinned, pride clear in his eyes.
"Lad, this spear is one of my best works. The shaft and blade are opposites—one hungers for blood and destruction, while the other is in harmony with nature itself."
Alex gripped the spear. It hummed faintly in his hand, as if recognizing him.
He turned to leave without a word—heat crawling over his skin—and without giving the dwarf a chance to ask for more credits.
Alex crossed the bridge leading to the outer tower. With Hati silently padding beside him, he made his way toward the lone teleportation portal—the same one he had first arrived through. It was the only active gate connecting to the world outside.
As they neared the circle, he saw the others already gathered.
The vice principal stood at the center, hands behind his back. Riven Veylor stood beside Lyra Duskthorn, his gaze unreadable. Nearby, Kaelan Ignis was chatting with Meika Noctshade and Rina Roarhart. They were laughing together, light and relaxed.
