“Commander, the ritual has already begun, and the Emperor's personal arch-mage is overseeing everything.”
Albrecht recognized Roderick's voice from the lower stairs, but he couldn't turn to answer. Two imperial mages were blocking his path across the maintenance bridge, and a third guard was moving toward the control panel he had damaged.
The Aether-Core continued to pulse above the central platform. Its blue light had grown brighter, spreading through the pipes connected to the prisoners' restraints.
“Roderick, get the prisoners away from the central platform!” Albrecht shouted.
“I'm trying, Commander! The guards have sealed the lower exits!”
“Then find another way!”
Roderick drew his sword and charged toward the nearest group of guards. The soldiers raised their weapons, forcing hi
