A woman stepped forward from the ruined doorway, her eyes fixed on the spot where the maid had vanished.
A smile played at the corner of her lips.
"Shadow movement?"
She tilted her head.
"Is she from the Abyss Cult?"
Her smile widened.
"How interesting. For her to come all the way here."
She raised her hands and pulled them apart.
The sound of a whip snapping echoed through the corridor. Between her fingers, a long leather whip materialized from thin air.
"I haven't had a good hunt in…"
A weathered hand settled on her shoulder.
She paused, turning her head.
"Father?"
An elderly man stood beside her. His face was lined with age, but his eyes were sharp and clear. He wore robes befitting his station, and despite his years, he carried himself with undeniable authority.
He shook his head slowly.
"Elara. I know you enjoy solving your problems with violence."
His grip tightened slightly.
"But you need to think as well. This could be a trap."
