Some days after the great attunement, I returned to Haven, rested with my mana fully recovered. There was so much I had to do, and so little time to do it. My visions over the last few days had intensified, taking me in the waking hours as well as when I slept. With each one, I grew more anxious, more certain of the path that lay ahead. The window for preparation was closing. Luke was coming back.
"You're finally ready to resume your training?" Emlica asked as I entered the library.
I gave a small, hesitant curtsy. "I'm sorry, I've had other matters to attend to."
None is as important as breaking into the ninth level. Unless you attain it, you shall surely perish at the hands of one of Enusia's champions," she grumbled, "But you've wasted enough time already, a scolding would only take more. Come, there are many spells for you to learn."
"Many?" I asked, hurrying after her.
