In the Imperial Capital, the Heavenly Emperor's office was far too silent for a place that had just received news from the far East.
The tall windows were open, letting in the pale light of late afternoon, while golden curtains swayed gently with a breeze controlled by magic. On the main desk, maps of Aelyra's territory were spread beside letters, broken seals, and reports received in sequence since Strax had sent his message. The Emperor stood before the desk, one hand resting on the wood and the other holding a still-sealed report.
Derick stood at his side, motionless, serious, and clearly expecting the next document to be worse than the last.
The Emperor opened the seal.
Read it.
Then frowned.
"What became of her territory?"
