Cassiopeia's graceful silhouette was outlined against the bright light flooding in from the hallway. Every eye turned towards her, but she had eyes only for Magnus. Each step she took echoed with authority, and the room's ambient chatter came to an abrupt halt. Her deep blue gown flowed behind her like a midnight river, her silver tiara catching the light with each movement.
Stopping a mere few feet away from the throne, her piercing hazel eyes locked onto Magnus. In a voice as cold as the northern winds, she commanded, "Find her, Magnus. Find my sister. Do not make me ask again."
The sheer iciness of her demand left the room in stunned silence. It was a tone none had ever heard from their usually warm and compassionate Empress.
Without waiting for a response, Cassiopeia turned on her h
