The imperial palace seemed to hold its breath as Magnus paced the ornate corridors. His fingers tapped rhythmically against the pommel of his sword. The message from Prince Lucas had set a chain of events in motion, events that would soon take him away from the palace, from Cassiopeia, his empress and love.
He found her amidst the grandeur of her chambers, worry etched across her features. Her hazel eyes met his, and he could see the unspoken concern that she held for him.
"Cassiopeia," he began, his voice was gentle yet tinged with a hint of regret. "There is something I must tell you."
Her lips parted, "Magnus, what troubles you?"
He moved closer, and the words he was about to say made his heart heavy. "My Empress, Prince Lucas told me something. The South operation was a success, an
