A New Shine in Varem

Arthur leaned in slightly, lowering his voice as he murmured to Seisyll. "That omnimancer, Duxor, turned out to be a decent acquaintance. Didn't expect a mage to admit his own flaws."

Seisyll's gaze flicked toward the mage before returning to Arthur, his tone as polished as ever. "A mage will do anything to refine his craft, me-King. That one is young, compared to me, at least. Shame time hasn't been as kind to his body."

Arthur exhaled a quiet chuckle. "Right, but this one actually has common sense too. Now, why did you get rid of the architect?"

Duxor had drawn closer, angling himself just enough to listen in.

Seisyll, ever composed, replied smoothly. "Because their work would have taken days. I reviewed the plans, adjusted them myself. I can finish it in far less time. And I prefer not to let my magic dull."