The sun had not yet risen when Adrian stepped onto the cobbled streets of Stonehold City. A light fog clung to the alleys like whispered secrets, and the air was cool enough to bite. The events of the previous night still echoed in his mind—the veiled threats, Julian's venomous gaze, and the enigmatic pressure that radiated from the cloaked cultivator.
But none of that mattered now.
He glanced down at the silver-winged tiger cub nestled in the folds of his cloak. Storm let out a soft snore, his tiny chest rising and falling with each breath. For a moment, Adrian allowed himself a small smile. Whatever came next, he wouldn't face it alone.
He moved quickly, sticking to side streets and shaded alleys. He had already taken measures to avoid being tracked—Veil of a Hundred Shadows was still wrapped around his soul like a second skin, its concealment potent even to those several realms above him.
Still, he couldn't shake the sensation that he was being watched.
