And just like that, she left. Silent as she had arrived, slipping out of his chambers without a word.
Nwadiebube set the rapport aside and rose, pacing the length of his room. The idea that had sparked his action refused to leave him, expanding with every step, every rotation of his thoughts. He traced its implications, ran simulations, and weighed potential outcomes. The truth of it, he realized, would depend entirely on her next move on whether she would confirm or contradict the theory that had now taken hold in his mind.
Night after night passed in silence. The absence of the female mage gnawed at him, casting doubt over his plan. Perhaps the idea had been wrong. Perhaps she had simply retreated, indifferent or cautious. Yet on the third night, the quiet shattered: she returned.
And this time, Nwadiebube was ready.
