Chapter 32: Defiance in the Dark

The heavy thud of boots echoed across the grand magic hall as a figure clad in sleek black armor strode in with an air of arrogant confidence. His helmet gleamed under the magical sconces, its angular design resembling a beast's snarling face and draining the warmth from the room with his dark presence.

"It's been a long time, hasn't it, Master Ixius?" he chuckled in a deep and unsettling sound, his voice reverberating like a cruel melody. "Almost a hundred years, and you still look well… Master."

Ixius, who had remained calm until now, tightened his grip on his staff. His sharp gaze locked onto the intruder. "At first, I wondered who could infiltrate the capital and breach the palace territory without detection. To think it would be you, Kradius."

The name seemed to hang heavy in the air. Ren and I exchanged wary glances.

Who is this intimidating man? Did he and Master Ix know each other?