THEIR private discussion had come to an end, and Thalia had planned to excuse herself to pay a visit to Princess Stella in her estate.
Earlier, Mage Kayne and Leaf Avery had offered their respectful bows and exited the Emperor’s working chamber after a productive strategic meeting. Even Shun Sixton had left, clearly sensing that the moment was no longer for investigation counsel. Thalia, thinking the Emperor had something important to share, had stayed behind as requested.
But now…
Silence. Utter silence.
The only sound in the chamber was the faint scratch of the Emperor’s quill on parchment. Kallixto, seated at his grand desk, hadn’t said a word since everyone left. His silver head was bowed in focus, the parchment before him holding more of his attention than she did.
Thalia sat th
