A ripple of curiosity swept through the staff at Nebula's actions. Heads turned; a few exchanged startled glances. Yet, as soon as they recognized Lin Fang, they straightened and offered respectful greetings.
Lin Fang gave them a brief nod and started toward the staircase. "Nebula, follow me," he said calmly.
"Yes, Master," she replied, falling into step behind him without hesitation.
Alpha's amused voice stirred again in the back of his mind. "Interesting… I never expected you to contract with such a powerful demon."
Lin Fang's eyes narrowed slightly as he replied silently, "Well, I went through a lot to make it happen."
"Indeed you did," Alpha said, the faintest trace of admiration in its tone. "You are destined for trials of life and death. You are a summoner—one of the nine overlords. For such beings, death will always linger around you like a shadow."
