The moment they reappeared on the outskirts of Dragontooth City, Azela's expression changed.
The cold fury that had twisted her beautiful features vanished, replaced by a composed, almost serene calm. It was a startling transformation—like watching a stormy sea suddenly still, its surface becoming a mirror of perfect tranquility. The emotionally charged sorceress who had nearly unleashed her full power on Vanne was gone, replaced by a calculating, patient strategist.
She stared at her tall, dashing nephew, and a light smile crossed her lips.
"Was all that scheming worth it?" she asked, her voice carrying a note of genuine curiosity. "With your permission, I could have just activated the Atlas Imprisonment Cube and had him transferred to Father's presence in an instant. Not even the Great Earthly Beast would have been able to save them."
