BEFORE dawn had fully broken, Kayne shattered Kallixto’s sleep by dragging him through a mage teleportation spell straight into the Mage Tower. Still half-asleep, Kallixto forced his eyes open, disoriented by the sudden shift. His gaze snapped toward the mage, sharp despite his fatigue, while Kayne returned it with an apologetic expression.
“Your Majesty,” Kayne said at once, bowing slightly, “I know it is unethical to abduct you so early in the morning, but we are facing a crisis.”
At the word crisis, Kallixto’s drowsiness vanished. His senses snapped fully awake.
“What is it?” he demanded.
Moments later, Count Aston entered the room. His expression was grim, his posture heavy with worry as he greeted the Emperor. He took a seat beside them, his head lowered. Though newly appointed as
