On the way back from the Underground Palace, Ian didn't rush to the airship.
He found a secluded mountain hollow, changed into clean clothes, and carefully scrubbed off the blood scabs and scorch marks. Only then, with Gaga in tow, did he return to Shadow Moon Tower, staying concealed the whole way.
The main gate of the High Tower looked the same as always. Vines crept up the dusty gray stone walls, and a few Apprentices were huddled by the entrance, yawning.
The moment Ian approached, the Apprentices glanced up and looked as if they had seen a ghost.
"W-Wizard Ian?" one Apprentice stammered.
"Yes," Ian acknowledged with a nod, not breaking his stride.
The Apprentices watched him walk through the gate, only daring to whisper amongst themselves after he had passed.
"How did he get back so soon...?"
"I don't know. Maybe something happened..."
"Shh! Keep your voice down!"
Ian paid them no mind and walked straight to his quarters in the High Tower.
