The Blue Dragon Priest reconstructed the teleportation portal, tendrils coiling around him, the Lich Crown askew upon his head. Lyle's expression was grave as he quickly approached the altar.
"Begin the ritual once more, teacher."
The towering Bone Dragon looked down at his student, his annoyance evident on his face—it seemed the lad had suffered a setback. The dragon found himself inexplicably cheered by the sight of that sullen face.
"It's good to have you back," he said, adopting the air of a teacher once more. "A proper setback can spur growth." Then, he settled back on the altar.
The Dragon Priest exhaled in relief, his emotions a tangle of disappointment and relaxation. As they psych themselves up to rally anew, Lyle shattered their barely regained calm with a single sentence.
"No, he's here."