The evening within the Ice Heart Citadel was surprisingly calm. Alaric's 'Arctic Warden' barrier pulsed with a steady, reassuring azure light, holding the lingering demonic stragglers and the biting northern winds at bay. The disciples, exhausted but buoyed by their recent victory and the presence of their powerful savior, had retired to their quarters, a sense of fragile security settling over the frozen valley.
Alaric, however, had other plans. The intense battle, the subsequent demonstration of his power in repairing the barrier, and the gratitude shining in Sect Mistress Meng Yao's obsidian eyes had all been carefully orchestrated steps. Now, it was time for the final, most personal act of their… alliance.
