As Cedric and the king rushed through the city, they witnessed a surreal scene of chaos and unconscious civilians strewn across the streets. The once-vibrant city now lay in a state of eerie stillness, its inhabitants mysteriously incapacitated. The king's determined expression didn't waver as he led Cedric through this strange, silent landscape.
"We're here," the king declared, his voice carrying an undertone of grim resolve.
The two men paused in a shadowy alley, their eyes scanning their surroundings. Their arrival hadn't gone unnoticed. On a rooftop above them, a small figure in black attire peered down with a calculating gaze. Flanking her were two cloaked figures, their features obscured by the hoods of their robes.
Cedric squinted up at the girl, his brow furrowing in recognition. "Do I know you?" he asked, genuine curiosity in his voice.