Opening

However, this didn't prevent them from covertly backing their family from the shadows. 

If anyone posed a threat to the Stone family, even as soul slaves, they could intervene. 

As long as their actions didn't undermine the interests of the Hall of Souls, soul slaves enjoyed a considerable degree of freedom.

"Exercise restraint," Wolfhart Neal cautioned via mental voice transmission. "Our objective today is the Ivory Tower. Any other grievances can be addressed at a later time."

Wolfhart remained composed, understanding the purpose of their current expedition—they weren't here to instigate conflict. 

His focus lay elsewhere, set firmly on the Ivory Tower.

Kellan Stone's interest was piqued. 

Having received word of the Neal family's ancestor venturing out to welcome back a young man, he sought to probe further. 

Who was this individual? 

The Stone family harbored suspicions that the newcomer might be linked to Thirteen.