The ancient cobblestone path appeared before them, and Beatrice halted in front of those pebbles as if facing an insurmountable chasm. Lyle could hear her inhale, a deliberately gloomy sound expelled from her nostrils.
"Ahead lies the territory of Degonris," Beatrice turned back, her gaze resting on Lyle's face, "As soon as we take that step, we will be exposed to the eyes of the Loshutar Blood Clan."
The surrounding vegetation was still lush, and they were some distance from the towns of Degonris, without any hidden sentries in sight. Nonetheless, Lyle made his choice.
"Kevin, Grape, you must stay behind. You can explore and play nearby, but promise me not to set foot on this cobblestone road."
The solemn warning elicited a response from Kevin, who patted his chest in assurance that he wouldn't overstep, and he half-forced Grape to make the same promise. Only then did Lyle feel at ease to walk into Degonris's domain with Beatrice.
