Lin struggled to her feet, ice crystals still falling from her scales as the last effects of her magic faded. The stronghold around them was in ruins—walls cracked from the battle, thermal vents spewing steam through broken pipes, and the acrid smell from the corruption lingering in the air.
General Huoyan approached, her sword still drawn but no longer glowing with flame. "Princess, we need to pursue him immediately. Every moment he remains ahead of us gives him more time to corrupt Ao Run's forces."
By the time Grim and Captain Zhen arrived, Jiaolong had already made his escape.
"The Gate," Grim said, studying the portal that Jiaolong had used.
All eyes turned to Commander Yuehua, but she raised her hands peacefully. "I know you have no reason to trust me, but Jiaolong's betrayal changes everything. The gate will remain stable for perhaps ten more minutes."
General Huoyan sheathed her sword. "Then we follow him."
