Junghwa stood, smoothing his robes with a calm smile. "You've done more than enough for us, Leader Goh. Thank you for your hospitality. I hope the Azure Mist Clan and the Blood Moon Sect will continue to grow our bounds from here on."
"I hope for the same Lord Baek."
The group followed him through the courtyard. The cool night air carried a faint scent of pine. Fireflies drifted between the lanterns. A black carriage waited at the gate, its lacquer gleaming in the moonlight. Servants with torches awaited the Demon Lord's entourage.
"Safe travels, my lord," Leader Goh said. "May your return be peaceful."
"Peaceful?" Junghwa murmured, amusement flickering across his face as he stepped into the carriage. "One can only hope."
The door shut, muffling the outside world. As the carriage rolled through the quiet streets toward the harbor, Wooyun glanced out the window. "We're not really taking a boat back, are we?" His wary tone revealed faint suspicion.
