"Simplicity, a clear enemy responsible for everything bad in the world, and being told that one is chosen hold comfortable appeal for people. But things rarely are that simple and straightforward, and those who insist they are sadly often have ulterior goals," Thaum comments. "But you can choose for yourself now, instead of being used as a weapon. Give it time."

And the evening of the day, true to his word, Thaum also takes care of any lingering wounds and mends everyone's clothes to get rid of all the stains and tears inflicted by the battles, before finally retiring for the day, almost all of his magical reserves spent and thus more than a little fatigued.