The artifact is truly masterful, David mused as they walked. It provides complete social camouflage, not just visual deception.
They navigated deeper into the palace, David's strategic mind continuously updating his mental map while the Umbra Veil managed his social interactions. Luna scouted ahead through wall shadows, reporting guard positions and magical ward configurations, while Vespera phased through solid barriers to identify potential threats.
"Main stairwell to detention levels is clear," Veylith's voice advised through the crystal. "But move quickly, security patterns suggest they're more cautious tonight than usual."
****
The descent to the detention levels marked a clear architectural transition. Opulent palace decorations gave way to utilitarian stone corridors, and the air grew colder, damper. More concerning were the increasingly complex magical wards, these weren't designed to deter casual trespassers but to contain serious threats.
