“I see…” Karyl nodded in response to Dushala’s report.0

“The Church has dispatched a high priest to perform a purification prayer for two days, and then they will hold a state funeral for three days.”0

Dushala paused, taking a sip of water from the cup on the table before continuing, “You were right, Master. A young boy ending up as a political sacrifice. Quite tragic.”0

“Is the mighty Dushala feeling sympathy for the dead?”0

“Not at all. It’s just... something the men in the camp said came to mind.”0

“Hmm?”0

Karyl gave her a curious look, but Dushala merely shrugged as though it wasn’t important. He then turned his gaze away, deep in thought. Kromen’s name left a bitter taste in his mouth. Although he wasn’t directly responsible for the young prince’s death, he knew it was coming and chose to let it happen. 0

“What were his final moments like?”0

“His death was handled in strict secrecy, so we don’t know the details, but the guards who were coaxed into talking described it as horrific. They said that just before he died, blood flowed from every orifice, eyes, ears, nose, mouth... every hole in his body.”0

Dushala shook her head lightly.0

“I’ve never seen such a potent poison. The empress fainted on the spot upon seeing him... and the Second Prince was the one who handled the...0