EMPIRE Claverence was under strict restriction after the horrifying news of Lady Psycheberg’s poisoning at the Imperial banquet spread. In response, Emperor Kallixto had ordered heightened security measures — every merchant and foreign traveler was to be thoroughly inspected at the Imperial Gate. No exceptions were allowed.
Inside the cold, dimly lit dungeon, the air hung heavy with the stench of blood and mildew.
“Spill the truth before the Emperor,” came the chilling voice of Shun Sixton. His tone echoed menacingly against the stone walls, each word cutting sharper than the dagger in his gloved hand.
The suspected culprit gave no reply. His silence was not of defiance but of pain. His body was a canvas of wounds — deep cuts and raw scratches covered his arms, chest, and face. Both ha
