Then we begin, Kaeryx said, voice like burning stone.
A knock echoed behind them.
David stepped into view, silhouetted by the doorway.
"Sorry to interrupt," he said, a little breathless. "But one of the Grosh'ka runners just brought news. There's movement in the western quadrant—something big. They're requesting your presence."
Ethan straightened immediately, his eyes sharpening.
"Another sanctum?"
David nodded. "Possibly. Or something worse."
Kaeryx spread his wings slightly, eager.
Ethan gave one last look at the stars.
"Then let's not keep the world waiting."
He turned and strode inside—Kaeryx gliding silently behind, the heat of a forgotten god trailing at his heels.
The journey to the western quadrant began before dawn.
