Ethan approached the grand throne step by careful step. Each footfall echoed through the colossal hall like a slow, ominous drumbeat. His Shadow Sword hung at his side, but he couldn't tear his gaze from the figure shrouded in darkness.
At first glance, the silhouette looked…oddly round. Bulky. Almost fat.
What the hell…?
He squinted, and as he drew closer, the throne's deep shadows peeled away in slow, deliberate layers. The shape didn't grow any more imposing—only more absurd.
And then, in the last few meters, clarity struck him square in the face.
Ethan stopped dead in his tracks, mouth falling open.
It was a panda.
A damn panda sat on the throne, plump belly perched majestically over crossed legs, black ears flicking with regal disdain.
He couldn't help himself. The words exploded out of him like a cannon shot.
"What the actual f—"
