The carriages did not go straight to the city gates; they first stopped in the center of the Magical City, where the Grey Shadow Hall kept its watch. Its dark stone towers rose like blades against the morning sky, with flags waving that displayed a coiled serpent in silver thread. Even in daylight, the hall had an air of mystery, a fortress built to protect against hidden threats.
When the Osborn convoy arrived, the guards at the gates stood at attention, their faces hidden behind black masks. The gates opened without a word, and the carriages rolled into the inner courtyard.
Robert stepped out first, scanning the dark halls with quiet caution. Every cultivator here radiated suppressed power; their presence honed for killing and shadow work. His own qi stirred in response, but he kept it steady.
