It was almost night when, Cassian and his group fell into formation, joining the growing crowd assembled before a massive, time-worn stone platform. The stage stood empty for now, but the air buzzed with anticipation—soldiers, mercenaries, and officials packed tightly together. Cassian's gaze swept over the gathering, landing on Julius deep in conversation with a cluster of officers. He considered approaching but decided against interrupting.
"Anyone know why we've been called here?" Althea asked, shifting restlessly beside him.
Wanni shrugged, pulling pastries from her spatial ring and passing them around. "No clue. Maybe to do something with the cult? Or some grand announcement."
Cassian accepted the offering with a nod, though he'd already stocked his own spatial ring with rations. Old habits died hard—after one too many nights stranded in the wilderness, he'd learned to always be prepared.
