Next day in the morning.
In the bustling heart of Varem's underwater district, Melite stood at the edge of the gleaming canal, clutching a folded letter tightly. Its weight felt heavier than mere parchment, for Arthur had imprinted it with more than words.
She could feel the raised texture of the inked handprint through the fold, an unmistakably reptilian mark, its sheer size and otherworldly detail meant to leave an impression on its intended recipient, Zephyra. Arthur had made it clear: the letter was for her eyes only.
The underwater city sparkled with opulence.
Yet for all its beauty, Melite found herself lost in its twisting paths. Every turn seemed to lead her further from the gilded heights of high society where Zephyra held court in her auction.
