Saddened that it was already time for her friends to go home, however she understood they had other obligations and responsibilities on their own land. She hugged Ravenessa and Stergis goodbye. 

Then she told Jim goodbye, trying to keep it more professional. Unsure as to if she wanted to peruse anything with him or not. She didn't wish to lead the warlock on. She didn't know if she felt that way about him or not.

      The empress stood in the doorway of her home and waved watching the two warlocks and sorceress leave her castle grounds and go back home to the Nucandu forrest. She then turned around and went back to her sanctuary for the rest of the late afternoon. 

   The moment she'd grabbed her spell-book and candles, rang for her apprentice.  Waiting much longer than usual, rolling her eyes in annoyance. 

"Where in the realms is that girl?" Speaking to the emptiness surrounding her.

Ten minutes passed as she burst through the door.

"So terribly sorry miss. I wasn't in the castle when you summoned me."  She over-apologized. 

"Where were you?" 

"I was out in the caves miss." She answered.

"Why were you out there?" The empress inquired.

"Sometimes I go out there and talk to Ludwig and Soranto, too." She said.

"Oh, that's very good of you. I worry the dragon is alone too much." 

"Thanks. Here is your cup." She told the empress handing her a steaming hot mug.

"Pour one for you." Ralvania told her.

"I think I need one. Did you enjoy visiting?" Amberosia asked.

"Yes, and the warlocks looked through the forest for us." She said, taking a sip and setting the cup down. 

"There are no wicked or dark intent from the creatures. They are trying to be better creatures. " She explained.

"Oh wow I feel stupid." 

"Oh honey, don't. Your main role here is to protect my home. That's exactly what you were doing." She told the girl with a serious glare.