A maid knelt nearby and spoke in a whisper. “My lady, Mr. Saleto reports that Jared has left level three. His strength proved unfathomable, even killed men from Malevolent Path Hail.”

The woman turned, rolling an emerald pendant between elegant fingers. “A Wandering immortal Realm Level Five defeating Mr. Saleto? Jared is becoming a most intriguing variable.”

“Mr. Saleto adds that followed your command, only a light probe, no final break,” the maid continued. “Well done,” the woman answered, allowing the ghost of a smile to touch lips.

She inclined head, the pale glow of the throne chamber glinting off the silver filigree of coronet. “The Celestial Palace has decayed for far too long. Those moss-clad conservatives clutch the old codes like tombstones. if we can recruit a man of his caliber, the reformers might finally carve open a road to renewal.”

She allowed the words to settle, then turned to maid. “Isabel, travel to level four. If Malevolent Path Hall presses Jared too hard, intervene quietly, but do not wound their pride. The Celestial Palace, and the entire celestial race, already carries more enemies than friends. Until our power is absolute, strutting about as though we stand above the clouds will only earn us bruises.”

Isabel Yeats dipped a knee, dark hair brushing marble. “As you wish, my lady…”

“When you find Jared, tell the slate is wiped clean. The Celestial Palace would rather bury the hatchet, and my Fourth Hall will lend its full weight if should ever call upon it.”