After getting the permit officially sorted and finishing my talk with Elena—who, by the way, spent a solid five minutes aggressively rubbing my ears, claiming it was a necessary "bribe" she needed for her own "refreshment"—I finally walk out of her office.
Before I left, she happily assured me she would have the Empire's best architects and expert laborers hired and ready for me by tomorrow morning.
"Perfect!" I announce cheerfully, stretching my arms as I stride down the sunlit hallway. "Good time to head for the mountain!"
Whoosh.
Kael instantly steps directly in front of me, his massive frame completely blocking the corridor.
"We will not be leaving the palace, My Lady," Kael states, his voice dropping into its strict, military register. "You were just targeted by elite Bladewardens last night, and we still do not know exactly who the mastermind is."
I cross my arms, raising an eyebrow at his towering figure. "And what exactly are you here for, then?" I ask smoothly.
