As they approached, the guards on the wall noticed them. Recognition flashed across their faces, and they immediately stood at attention.
One called down, "Lady Seraphine! Lady Lyanna! Lady Cassandra! We weren't expecting you!"
"We've brought our father," Seraphine called back. "He wishes to inspect the portal."
The reaction was immediate. The guards' eyes widened, and within moments the entire garrison seemed to be mobilizing. The gate opened rapidly, and dozens of warriors poured out, forming neat ranks.
They all dropped to one knee, heads bowed, fists pressed to their hearts in a gesture of absolute respect.
"Creator!" they murmured, their voices echoing off the valley walls. "We are honored by your presence!"
Julian felt slightly uncomfortable with such reverence but understood it was necessary. To these beings, he was quite literally their god.
"Rise," he commanded gently. "Go about your duties. I'm here to inspect the portal, not to disrupt your important work."
