Inside the estate, the atmosphere was different. The servants had been restless since midday when news spread that the portal to the Silver Spire had vanished. Every rumor that reached them circled back to one name. So when the outer bell chimed softly — that distinct, measured tone that announced the master's own mana — half the household froze.
He stepped through the gate and into the long walkway leading to the main entrance. The marble underfoot reflected the fading sky, every step stirring faint echoes. The great doors opened before he could raise a hand. Celene stood there, her dark hair caught in the lamplight, eyes wide and almost disbelieving. "You're back," she breathed. Her voice trembled with both relief and pride.
He smiled, just enough for her to see. "Told you I would be."
Celene bowed her head, though her eyes shimmered. "Lady Seraphina will want to know immediately—"
