[Sarythran—Capital of Zahryssar—Red-Zone Dawn]
The city did not breathe, not truly.
Not after the red banners were hung across the streets, not after the gates slammed shut, not after the warning horns groaned through the capital like a dying beast.
Homes were locked and Market stalls abandoned. Sarythran—usually blazing with life—had fallen into a low, terrified silence.
Only the Red serpent Knights moved now.
Boots striking stone, spearheads raised, eyes scanning every shadow. Somewhere in the labyrinth of alleys… a Sirrash prowled.
***
[Silthara Palace — Armament Hall — Moments Before the Hunt]
The Armament Hall breathed steel.
Red Serpent Knights stood in perfect ranks, boots planted like iron roots in stone. Crimson cloaks fell straight down their backs. Spears rested against shoulders. Swords slept in scabbards—waiting.
No one spoke.
At the center of the hall stood Zeramet and Levin.
