There was no grand parade this time. No confetti, no cheering crowds lining the streets of the commercial district.
The portal deposited them at the secure military transfer point just outside the palace gates. The sun was setting, casting long, mournful shadows across the cobblestones.
The group that returned was significantly smaller than the one that had left.
The supply train was light—not because they lacked supplies, but because the men who used to carry them were dead. The gaps in the Knight's formation were like missing teeth.
"We part ways here," Oliver said, stopping at the intersection that led to the Guest Palace.
Daniel nodded. He looked exhausted. The glory of the gold in his bag was weighed down by the reality of the report he had to give.
"We have to head to the Throne Room," Daniel said, his voice gravelly. "The Emperor will want a full debriefing immediately."
