"Do not fear a monster with animal eyes, Seraphina," Kaelus murmured, patting the top of her dark hair, a gesture of fatherly affection that shocked the knights even more than the demon's appearance. "He smelled quite filthy, but he is fast and nimble. Above all, it seems he believes he is untouchable."
Kaelus looked back toward the dark shadows where the entity had vanished, a terrifying, predatory smile curving his lips.
"But he is about to learn," the Archduke whispered to the night, "that there are much, much worse things lurking in the dark than him. For we are a strong and noble family who executes and grants filth like this death for generations."
***
The day following the encounter at the Oakhaven Night Market did not dawn with the chaotic, bustling energy of a city preparing for a festival.
Instead, it broke with the heavy, suffocating tension of a fortress bracing for a siege.
