Nine years passed in a flash. In all those years, Aaran barely had any contact with his parents back in Aurelia. After what Analeis told them, it didn't come as a surprise.
However, they couldn't do anything.
Not even a suicidal fool would dare fight the Emperor.
That's why it came as a surprise when they received an invitation. It was about Aaran's coming-of-age ceremony. It should have been hosted in Aurelia, but the Emperor had stripped Amara and Lucien of that honor as well.
They were hurt, but they readily accepted the invitation. After all, it could be a way for them to connect with Aaran and maybe undo the Emperor's brainwashing.
***
Meanwhile, back in Velrune, a different battle was taking place.
A battle of wills.
Two stunningly beautiful ladies sat across from each other in a pristine bedroom, calmly sipping the tea they'd been served. On one side was Eleanor, and on the other was Seraphina.
