At that moment, a heavy set of footsteps echoed across the golden palace.
Damian instinctively turned his head.
A colossal golden lion emerged from behind Sol's throne with slow, measured steps. Standing well over seven feet tall even on all fours, the beast possessed a magnificent golden mane that shimmered like flowing sunlight. Every muscle beneath its fur carried overwhelming power, while its pair of golden eyes remained fixed solely upon Damian from the moment it appeared.
The lion walked to Sol's side before lowering its enormous body gracefully beside the throne.
It never once looked away from Damian.
Before Damian could study it further, a burst of purple smoke erupted upon his lap.
Buzz!
Rin appeared immediately, landing comfortably across Damian's crossed legs before letting out a slow sigh.
"We were wondering why you suddenly became unresponsive." Rin glanced around the palace before his eyes settled upon Sol. "Now I understand."
