>>Ariston
The sun burned high over the spires of the demon city, casting jagged shadows through its streets.
I adjusted my cloak, tucking the hood a little tighter over my head. I wasn't in danger here, not exactly—but being a human walking openly through demon territory always earned too many eyes. Eyes that lingered too long. Eyes that calculated.
Still, I moved forward, one foot after the other, keeping my eyes peeled.
Every shop I passed, I slowed. Every tavern door creaked open, I glanced inside. Every time I thought I saw a figure tall enough, broad enough—my heart jumped, only to fall again.
I stopped at the edge of a weapons vendor first. Blades lined the wall like crooked teeth, and the demon behind the counter raised an eyebrow at me.
"You sell information as well as weapons?" I asked.
The demon leaned forward, yellow eyes narrowing. "Depends who's asking."
I lowered my hood just enough to meet his eyes, my red irises flashing in the light.
