As Erik and Naeku reached the palace entrance, the cacophony outside became clearer. The angry voices of the two groups had grown louder, their demands more brazen.
Erik gently set Naeku down, and his werepanther princess firmly gripped the spear in hand, frowning with determination. They shared one more knowing glance before pushing open the palace doors, stepping directly into the tense confrontation brewing there.
Immediately, all attention turned toward them. Enkai, still standing firm with arms crossed, turned slightly and offered them an amused glance. "They're all yours," he muttered, stepping aside without protest. His relaxed stance made it clear he saw no genuine threat, but his expression indicated curiosity over what would happen.
Naeku narrowed her eyes, holding her spear casually but with a subtle menace. She wouldn't stand a chance against the third-ranked leaders there, but she wasn't going to let that impede her momentum.
