Helen, Mirian, and Irina had not yet returned from their improvised scouting mission at the borders. What sounded on paper like a highly important military task was actually a strict punishment to discipline them, forcing them to patrol Kowarre's cold, inhospitable night skies mounted on the scaly backs of the wyverns.
Because of their insubordination, they were forced to spend the night out in the open, far away from the warm comforts of the castle. And thanks to their absence, the fortress felt unusually peaceful.
Inside the fortress, Lise and Alicia immediately positioned themselves on either side of Ryan. He was standing right at the wide entrance to the throne room, a place that had gradually become the usual spot for official meetings and decision-making.
In front of them, a low-ranking demon panted slightly, sweat beading on his forehead after a rushed journey.
