The Sect Master's study was at the heart of the Core area, guarded by carved pillars and a pair of silent sentries.
They bowed when I approached. One of them slipped inside to announce me.
When I entered, Malik was standing before one of the circular windows, hands clasped behind his back. Even after everything, I couldn't deny the quiet power he radiated.
He turned when he heard me. "Micah."
"Mia," I corrected.
His eyes flickered with something I couldn't quite read it looked like amusement, perhaps, or acceptance. "Mia, then."
I bowed lightly. "Sect Master."
"Seems like you have something to tell me."
"Yes, I'm leaving the sect."
He studied me for a long while, then motioned for me to sit. "Tell me why."
I sat across from him. "Because this place was always meant to be a stop along my path, not the destination. I came here to learn and to grow. I've done that. But staying any longer would mean letting this sect change who I am and I can't let that happen."
