There was still no time to take in the true face of the Fifth Elemental Tower. Before anyone had even stepped off the airship, the Mage overseeing the trial had already told them not to wander off — the trial's accounting would be settled for everyone together.
At that news, every qualifier but Adam snapped to attention. The Spire was never stingy with its rewards for the outstanding: a thousand merit points was only the passing mark, and every point earned beyond it meant enormous benefit.
That benefit might come as resources, might come as knowledge, but either way it would let them meet the planar campaigns ahead with far more composure.
The Mage called Adam aside alone, casually opened a portal, and said to him, "Apprentice Adam, Priscilla the Transdimensional wants to see you."
"Apprentice Adam, welcome back."
"It is an honor to see you again, great Mage Priscilla the Transdimensional."