In the city, Vezalia stood atop a crumbling ledge, the breeze brushing through her hair. She sniffed once. Her eyes opened, and then, she frowned.
"Him?" she muttered.
Her gaze sharpened, locked toward the direction of the forest. The woman beside her traced a finger along her chin, thoughtful.
"A Demon Lord manifesting is rare," Vezalia said, her voice low. "But to have that many... in the same place..."
The woman smiled faintly, her tone detached yet oddly serene.
"It must mean something's ending today." She tilted her head. "But I don't like flies buzzing around someone else's prey."
Vezalia clicked her tongue.
"If Mother isn't there... it will fall on the Devourer's name."
"That would be unfortunate for you," the woman agreed softly. "But maybe... you can make it meaningful. Find a thread that matters, Vezalia."
Vezalia turned slightly.
Behind them, the two Sacred warriors who had defended Airi stood in front of New Horizons members.
Vezalia smiled.
