The crystalline corridors of the palace shimmered with a soft, rippling light. Blue-tinted walls refracted sunlight into dancing waves, while the soft gurgle of flowing water echoed gently through the marble arches.
Four figures walked in tandem: Quinlan flanked by two of the most powerful women on the continent. Feng Jiai was also there.
*WHAM!*
A meaty slap landed squarely between Quinlan's shoulder blades.
He staggered forward with a grunt, nearly kissing the floor.
"What in the!?"
Behind him, Serika cackled with unrestrained glee. She was very clearly excited.
"Are you sure you're ready for what's to come?" she smirked, throwing her arm around his neck and dragging him into a half-headlock, ignoring his protests. "I'm telling you, this time I'll get to go all out. No more relying on just fists: my fire gets to join the dance."
