"I figured," Cattaleya said with a crooked grin. "You don't look like the mercenary type. More like wandering swords and ancient mysteries."
She gave Meng Bai a wink that made him flush and look away, flustered.
As the moon climbed higher, the group began to settle once more. The strange aura of the siren had dissipated, leaving behind the scent of brine, ash, and mystery.
Lin Mu still kept his eyes on Cattaleya.
No ordinary traveler, no passing warrior.
She was from elsewhere—another world, perhaps even another realm. But for now, she was here.
And whatever secrets she held, Lin Mu would uncover them. In time.
"So what are you guys looking for here?" Cattaleya asked as she spun another marble between her fingers.
"Hunting as well," Lin Mu said. "But not beasts. An ancient sect."
"Oh?" Her brow rose with curiosity.
"I'll explain," Elyon said, stepping in. "Perhaps our goals might align."
A few minutes later, he finished laying it all out.
