Astrid's eyes narrowed as she sensed Kael's aura. A flicker of amusement crossed her regal features. She let out a sharp, mocking scoff.
"A Spirit Soul Rank 4?" she mused, her voice dripping with condescension. "I have been cultivating for nearly a century to reach the Peak Spirit Soul. And you, a child, dare to infiltrate my palace at such a pathetic level?"
She tilted her head, studying him. "That face must be an illusion. Some cheap trick to appear young while hiding your true, wrinkled self. What are you? A hermit hired by a rival kingdom to assassinate me?"
Kael didn't answer. He simply smiled.
Void Step.
WHOOSH!
Kael vanished. He reappeared directly in front of Astrid, his Shadow Slayer blade thrusting toward her throat.
CLANG! Astrid reacted instantly, her water spear snapping up to deflect the blow. Sparks flew. But Kael didn't press the attack. Instead, he pivoted, his body twisting as he lunged toward the bed where the two children slept.
"NO!" Astrid screamed.
