The Mage Association's request

A cruel smile played on Alex's lips. To Nori, she was a beautiful reaper, her presence radiating an aura of imminent doom.

He was certain she would strike him down without hesitation, right here in the tavern.

He tried to speak, to plead for his life, but his voice caught in his throat.

A searing pain ripped through his chest. He looked down in disbelief, his eyes widening as he saw a slender hand, crackling with purple lightning, protruding from his chest.

His strength drained away, his body paralyzed by the electric current coursing through his veins. His vision blurred, his head growing heavy.

Thump!

As Alex withdrew her hand, Nori's lifeless body slumped to the floor, the sound of his fall a dull thud in the otherwise silent tavern.

Alex, without uttering a single word, turned and walked away.