Suddenly, the tranquil ambiance shattered.
Guards clad in armor dashed across the open grounds of the World Tree, their boots pounding against stone and enchanted wood.
Their voices were low but urgent, signaling each other with sharp hand gestures and curt nods.
Some sprinted across the latticework bridges that connected the towering trees, while others disappeared into shadowed alcoves and hidden paths.
Luka's eyes narrowed as he observed the flurry of activity, his instincts flaring.
He tapped his personal maid lightly on the back, just enough to get her attention.
Serene turned, her expression puzzled.
Luka leaned in close, his voice a whisper. "Follow me."
Serene didn't respond with words, simply giving him a half-nod, her eyes glimmering with a mix of confusion and trust.
"…" Luka turned, his pace quickening as he led them away from the central trunk of the World Tree and into the winding outer pathways. .
