I stepped through the ornate gates of the Celestial Apothecary Guild, my mind still replaying the haunting scene of Ms. Hayward dissolving into black mist before her son's eyes. Death wasn't new to me. I'd seen it, caused it, survived it countless times. Yet something about the casual cruelty of her execution left me unsettled.
The guards recognized me immediately, offering respectful nods as I passed. My status as both Elder and honored guest of the Pavilion Master afforded me rare privileges within these walls. Still, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was running out of time—that my enemies were merely allowing me these moments of reprieve.
"Liam!" Jackson Harding's voice boomed across the courtyard. The legendary master approached with his customary confident stride. "I heard you went into the city last night."
I nodded grimly. "Seeking information. Found more than I bargained for."
