The moment Kyle's name and the existence of the mana stone were whispered in the jewel shop, the news spread like wildfire.
Every noble lady, merchant, and visiting dignitary carried the rumor further.
In less than a day, it reached the ears of Duke Armstrong himself, sitting in the comfort of his sprawling estate.
High Inquisitor Charles, the Duke's second-in-command and a man known for his merciless ambition, stormed into the Duke's private study, his boots thudding heavily against the polished marble floor.
"Your Grace, did you hear? Your son—Kyle Armstrong—has uncovered mana stones. The entire region is buzzing with it. And yet..."
Charles said sharply, bowing with only the bare minimum of courtesy. Charles' eyes narrowed dangerously.
"I hear nothing of it from you. No reports. No tributes."
The Duke leaned back in his high-backed chair, lazily swirling a glass of brandy in his hand.
His tired eyes flickered toward Charles but he said nothing for a long moment.
