Damian left his golden palanquin behind and approached the intersection where the paths leading to the council platform converged.
The morning air carried the noise of the Imperial Capital, but the area surrounding the meeting grounds remained unusually orderly. Imperial guards stood at measured intervals, their weapons gleaming beneath the sunlight, while the faint crimson glow of protective arrays pulsed beneath the stone pavement.
Beyond the perimeter, demons from different races gathered in small groups, eager to catch a glimpse of the Princes before the second session began.
The other Princes were already approaching from their respective paths. Unlike the previous day, none had brought a companion.
