(Planet Vorthas, Capital City, One Day Before the Autumn Festival)
Valterri walked the procession route for the third time that afternoon, his cloak dusted with ash from the spice carts and his boots scuffed from the uneven stone of Riverbend Lane.
Every corner he passed, every awning he glanced up at, every vendor he observed unpacking festival goods…. he took mental notes of all of it.
Veyr's training was currently being held in a secure facility under the Twelfth Elder's direct authority, which meant he wasn't allowed anywhere near it. So instead, Valterri did the only thing he could: prepare for tomorrow.
He had no illusions about the danger.
The new Dragon wasn't just a symbol. He was a target. A walking bounty mark with the bloodline of an ancient enemy, paraded openly through the capital's most crowded district.
Valterri ground his teeth.
Who thought a public appearance during a festival was a good idea?
