"Very good." The Great Shepherd Leader's voice betrayed no emotion. "The pieces are in place, the board is set. Now... I must return to my slumber. I have stood watch for so long, and I need to gather my last reserves of strength before the true 'Promised Day.' Wake me... when that time comes."
"As you command, Holy Throne." Valken bowed deeply. "May the starlight and the chill winds of the Northern Lands guard your slumber."
From within the shadows, a pair of deep-set eyes gave Valken one last look, then slowly closed.
The tall silhouette seemed to merge completely with the shadows of the hall, its aura rapidly fading until all that remained was a sense of ancient, silent nothingness.
The Valkendu Metropolitan Bishop remained bowed, holding his posture until the final trace of the Great Shepherd Leader's unique presence had completely dissipated.
Only then did he slowly straighten, his ice-blue eyes regaining their signature coldness, devoid of any warmth.
