The Royal Palace of Azureus was a fortress of coral and pearl, suspended in the center of the city by massive mana-chains. It was beautiful, opulent, and currently, the most dangerous place in the ocean.
Alvian walked through the grand hallway, his boots clicking rhythmically on the polished shell floor. Flanking him were Valeria and Seraphina. Valeria had cleaned her armor, though the dents remained as badges of honor. Seraphina moved in his shadow, her eyes scanning every guard, every servant.
Lady Ola walked beside Alvian. As a Guardian, she granted them access, but even her presence couldn't dispel the tension in the air. The palace guards—Elite Merfolk Warriors Level 45—watched them with suspicion. They gripped their spears tightly.
"They're nervous," Seraphina whispered over the comms. "The rumor mill is working overtime. Half the city thinks Alvian is a savior. The other half thinks he's a demon who ate the Octopus Queen."
