The two sisters stared at each other, an irresistible glare meeting an impassive gaze, as the air about them started to shimmer and small objects rose smoking from the side table. The guards around them stood frozen, bound by their duty, unable to approach in the superheated air, unable to flee the imminent destruction.

Then the younger one snorted and turned, storming from the hall as she opened the door with a wild burst of oak-shattering magic, the air cooling rapidly behind her.

“Would that I were rid of you and your punctilious meddling, and could shine by my own lights!” she cried as she left.

The elder shook her head, more frustrated than she thought proper to show. “Would that her wild, impetuous nature could be calmed like mine, through mature reflection,” she sighed.

Unseen by all, a black clad figure stood outside on the balcony, and he spoke quietly, his tired voice older than kingdoms.

“As you wish, so be it,” he said.