Chapter 23: Elder Brother
Two days passed since Rowan left. The castle was quiet in the morning.
In her study, Empress Alexia stood by the window, watching the sunrise. The door opened, but she didn't turn around.
"You're early," she said.
A figure in dark green robes entered, closing the door behind him. His face was hidden by a hood.
He bowed to show resoect to the Empress. "Do you still have the seals in place?" His voice sounded young.
"I do," the Empress replied, finally turning to face him. "They were put into place for Caius."
"Good." The robed man said."You should activate them and sound the alarm. He'll be here in an hour."
"Is that necessary?" The Empress frowned.
"It's precisely what we need," the man insisted. "The palace must be cleared. If my junior brother is to see the Master, he must know what it feels liks when he doesnt hold back."
The Empress looked at him for a moment before saying, "Very well. And the boy?"
"Leave him to us." The robed man smiled beneath his hood. "It's time to meet my junior brother."