Rizantona landed on the shore of the lake where Irtysh had fallen, dropping Yuta and Noriko off and instantly retreating to the other side of the lake, several cho away.

"Thank you, your majesty," Yuta said with a bow.

"Are you all right, your majesty?" Noriko asked, bowing herself.

"Yes," she said. "I believe I am out of range. I did feel it when I dropped you off. I was looking for it and expecting it, but it is powerful. I am surprised Irtysh was not more ...