Approximately ninety minutes into their cultivation, Raena stirred.
"Azrail," she said quietly, her voice pitched to reach only their group. "Three individuals approaching from the western path. Cultivation levels: Heaven Core Early, Qi Refinement Peak, Qi Refinement Peak. Affiliation based on robes: Burning Sky family. Demeanour suggests official capacity rather than random wandering."
Azrail opened his eyes partially, his gaze tracking the indicated direction.
Three figures in red-trimmed robes walked along the main path through the cultivation grounds, their movements purposeful. The lead figure was a man in his thirties with sharp features and eyes that catalogued everything they passed. Heaven Core Realm Early—respectable power for an outer sect elder. Behind him, two younger disciples flanked him, their posture attentive and subordinate.
'All-Seer, identify them,' Azrail commanded.
