Snow fell in thick curtains over the Northern Military Training Center, each flake drifting through frozen air that bit at exposed skin.
Damian stood outside the massive gates, his breath misting in the darkness.
Beside him, Lily stood in her human form.
The journey here had been quiet after Agatha left.
His grandmother had disappeared the moment Damian mentioned the soul fragment's attempt to possess him, leaving only a few words behind:
"I need to speak with the Northern Regional Governor immediately… Lily will escort you the rest of the way."
She'd kissed his forehead, told him to be careful, and vanished before he could ask questions, leaving him alone with the dragon who called him nephew.
Lily's hand rose, patting his shoulder with what she probably thought was gentle affection.
"Nephew~ it was truly wonderful to finally meet you."
Pain exploded through Damian's shoulder where her palm made contact.
