They arrived at the Barony not long after.
From above, Cromwell looked busier than ever. Streets were more developed. New buildings had risen. Beasts moved alongside humans. The signature mix of chaos and stability that defined the place remained.
But as Nox's dragon descended and they landed in the central courtyard, he immediately noticed something was off.
The atmosphere was tense. Too tense.
Soldiers moved in hurried groups. Beast Tamers stood on alert. Injured beasts were being tended to at the side. The usual warm welcome he received whenever he visited was absent.
Nathan was already striding toward them with his cane.
"Nox," he said, face grim. "You came just in time."
Nox jumped down from the dragon's back, Jack dropping beside him.
"What happened?" he asked without any pleasantries.
Nathan's expression darkened.
"Two individuals showed up not long ago," he said. "I believe Skully has already informed you."
