Ethan and Isabella walked side by side through the majestic corridors leading to the palace's Great War Room. Unlike the last time Ethan walked those halls as a simple, unknown refugee, now the elite guards and soldiers of the realm glanced at him more than once before stepping aside to yield the way with a deep bow.
The report of the massive fleet's arrival and the news of the total dismantling of the southeastern sects had spread like wildfire among the high command. Everyone in the palace was intensely curious about what kind of monster the Princess had found to accomplish such a ruthless mission in record time.
Stepping through the bronze double doors of the great hall, the atmosphere grew suffocating in an instant. At the far end, seated upon the crown throne, sat the King of the Soaring Dragon Kingdom. His aura was overwhelming and terrifying, infinitely heavier than the last time Ethan had witnessed him.
