The next morning arrived with the weight of anticipation heavy in the air.
Rui stood before her mirror, adjusting the obsidian crest her father had given her.
The Crest of the Demon Crown gleamed against her battle attire, its blood-red jewels catching the light like captured flames.
A knock interrupted her preparations.
"Princess?" Shen's voice carried through the door. "They are waiting for you."
Rui opened the door to find Shen waiting in his full battle armor, his electric-purple aura crackling with barely contained energy.
His mask was in place, but she could see the determination burning in his light blue eyes.
"Are you certain about this choice?" he asked quietly.
"I'm certain," Rui replied, stepping into the corridor.
They walked together toward the Hall of Infernal Decree, where Zou, Ran, and Kee Kee waited. The portal swirled with golden light, its edges crackling with power.
At the edge of the portal, Rui stopped and looked at her little friend.
