"You missed today's ceremony," Araxus said.
John looked at him for a moment, then walked over and sat down on a couch opposite his next opponent.
"I figured my presence would be in bad taste," John replied after taking his seat and relaxing for the first time in a full day. "So, what have you come here for?"
"No idea," Araxus said while shrugging. "So, how are you feeling?"
"How am I feeling? About what? About Ishnai?" John asked, to which Araxus nodded.
John shrugged. "I'm not really feeling any particular way. While sad, Ishnai's death was her own doing."
"Agreed," Araxus nodded, then leaned forward. "But a lot of people are blaming you, despite the Mage-Sovereigns' words. Mostly fans of the Mage-Dao Sect, or other disciples of the sect."
John shrugged again, not concerned about how others, especially those from the Mage-Dao Sect felt about him. Silence filled the room for a short while before Araxus spoke again.