The wind howled low across the marble path as the palace gates loomed in the distance, taller than they had any right to be, stretched thin against the pale gray sky like something out of a half-remembered dream.
Solarin walked ahead, robes brushing the ground in silence, his presence making even the shadows hesitate.
Behind him, Hwan paced to keep up, his steps uneven, and Leo followed with practiced calm, one hand resting near the hilt of his sword.
"How long has it been since your companion was taken to the emperor?""
Solarin asked suddenly, his voice calm but edged with something older.
Hwan blinked.
"Not long. The high priest led her away maybe twenty minutes ago. Why?"
The demon king didn't answer immediately. His gaze fixed forward, shoulders stiff.
"Tch."
The sound was low, almost a curse. "Then we may not have much time. Don't panic—and don't be surprised if we have to fight her."
Leo stopped walking.
"What are you talking about?"
Hwan asked, tension rising.
