Chapter 43: Take a Dip in Darkness

The first rays of dawn pierced the city's skyline, casting a golden hue that sharply contrasted with the underlying tension in the air. Despite the sun's warmth, a cold dread had settled in the hearts of the citizens. As they moved about, hushed conversations replaced the usual lively banter, with everyone wary of the guild's latest moves.

King Tooj stood at the palace balcony, his silhouette framed by the rising sun. His royal armor, meticulously adorned with gold, glistened, each detail reflecting the grandeur of his lineage. The pendant swaying gently around his neck, a testament to his time-altering prowess, glowed softly, as if echoing his inner turmoil. Deep lines of concern were etched on his brow, and his normally piercing eyes looked distant, lost in thought.