The Mist's Gambit (2) The Second Attempt

The following morning, the mist had not relented. The golden wards flickered intermittently, straining against the unnatural density pressing in from all sides. Mikhailis and his companions moved through the streets as easily as ghosts, slipping between wary-eyed merchants and silent traders.

Rhea and Estella once again took the lead in their usual fashion—Estella drawn toward anything remotely interesting, Rhea resigned to damage control. Vyrelda walked beside Cerys, both of them keeping a close watch on their surroundings, while Lira, as always, remained composed, her gaze assessing everything with quiet precision.