The air in the palace was bitterly cold, a chill that seemed to seep into one's bones.1

Caron gazed up at the imperial throne, perched at the highest point in the grand hall. It was the very seat where his former master had once sat. It was the most revered throne in the empire, carved from the empire's rarest materials, positioned at its highest peak. However, the one who had summoned them here today, the emperor himself, was nowhere to be seen.0

Instead, a young man standing below the throne greeted them. "Welcome to the Imperial Palace, Leo Leston and Caron Leston."0

His features were sharp, his black hair neatly cut to shoulder-length; most striking of all were his golden eyes, which gleamed faintly in the dim light. Those eyes alone were enough for Caron to guess who he was. There was only one man in the empire who could greet guests in place of the emperor while being in his early thirties.0

Caron kneeled on one knee, showing his respect, and Leo followed his example.0

"We are honored to be in your presence, Crown Prince," Caron said.0

This was Iorn Karien, the crown prince of the empire and eldest son of the emperor, and the one destined to inherit the throne. He approached them slowly as his steps echoed through the hall.0

"The emperor is unwell and resting in his chambers," Iorn said; his voice rang with authority and grace, filling the hall with a palpable weight. "He wishes to convey his apologies for not welcoming you in person. He has sent me, the Crown Prince, in his place, so I trust you bear no ill will."0

There was...0