Chapter 456: Allegiances made Clear
The structure housing the Shard of Omniscience stood apart from the main castle. Like Bluegate Keep, it was a formidable tower, nearly two hundred feet tall, with four imposing entrances. Small towers rose on either side of the gates, but their turrets seemed empty. A translucent, shimmering haze surrounded the tower, saturated with an almost palpable aura, keeping the chaotic swirls of dust, ash, and mana at bay.
"What kind of spell is that?" Jenna asked, gesturing to the barrier.
I gripped my horn, rubbing it gently as I considered the sight. "I think it’s some sort of defensive measure from the Shard of Omniscience against the Mana Storm. It should be fine to pass through, though whoever’s inside will be at full strength. We should be careful."
The Star Guard shifted into a state of heightened alertness, their grips tightening on their weapons. Kahlen’s smile widened, his four swords beginning to orbit him like eager comets. Did he not understand the concept of ’careful?’
The silence grew deafening as we approached, broken only by the groan of destabilized masonry or the crash of a building coming down somewhere in the city. Occasional screams and cries of distress caused me to jump, and I gripped my staff tightly, eyes swiveling in every direction.
The lack of guards was disconcerting, as there weren’t even any bodies in the courtyard. We were at the city’s central keep, where the City Lord lived. This should have been the center of activity, with messengers running in and out, carrying orders in the wake of our assault. Just where was everyone?
"Wait," Gith’s hand rose in a gesture that halted Fable mid-stride. He made a subtle motion towards the small towers flanking the keep. "They’re waiting in ambush."
I shivered, once again grateful for Gith’s ability to sense souls with such precision. While I could feel the general strength and sometimes even the direction of powerful souls, he could pinpoint their exact location. It was the ability that had earned him a place in the Star Guard, a decision that had proven its worth time and again.
"How many?" Luxxa asked softly.
"Four. They’re strong; one’s at least seventh-level."
"Leave that one to me. The rest of you protect Lady Xiviyah," Kahlen said, not at all trying to lower his voice.