Adrien breathed out and smiled, pleased; he felt that he had found a good thought to hold tight to. "I think I have it", he finally said.

"Very good", he replied, smiling in turn. "Focus on this thought with all of your might as you draw the circle. Let me know whenever you are ready, and we'll begin".

Adrien shifted his fingers up on the staff. He slowly closed his eyes; he took in a series of deep breaths as he prepared himself, then he opened his eyes again - a resolute expression now appearing on his face.

"Ready".

Valerion nodded; then he outstretched his right arm, with the palm of the hand now facing Adrien. He closed his eyes, and, like before, a shivering mist of darkness began to collect itself around his fingers. Adrien watched, unbreathing, his hold tightening on his staff, trying to figure out when he should begin drawing the circle; then he saw Valerion's eyes open again, and he hurled the black sphere towards him.