The ancient castle was like an inn.Yet, as the travelers who once stayed here gradually departed one after another, the number of inhabitants dwindled.Life in the castle grew quieter, calmer, almost still.
This tranquil existence persisted for a full year.
When Daniel had already lived in the castle for two years, Faer finally returned.He still carried that faint, unchanging smile, and as he arrived, he handed Daniel a mug of wheat beer.
"Daniel, my friend," Faer said in his usual gentle tone, "I truly did not expect the ninth stage of the Emperor's Trial to consume so much time."A brief pause, and then his smile faltered just slightly."Unfortunately, I failed."
Daniel nodded silently. He offered no words of comfort. Perhaps he felt they were unnecessary.
At that moment, Luna came running up, full of excitement, her little steps echoing in the quiet hall."Faer, you finally came back! Welcome home!"
