Imperial aura erupted.
Court mages moved at once, forming a colossal circle in the sky. Ancient sigils flared to life, suppressing monsters and clan forces alike many collapsing to their knees under the pressure. Imperial elite troops surged forward like a tide of steel disciplined, ruthless, without hesitation.
Monsters that had rampaged moments ago were swiftly put down. Clan followers were driven back, their formations shattering instantly.
The Grand Duke released a heavy breath for the first time in what felt like an eternity, his shoulders eased, if only slightly.
"The Emperor…" he murmured.
Jay struggling to remain standing behind his father lifted his head. His eyes were still red, his aura unstable, but he saw it clearly:
they were no longer alone.
The Emperor approached, stopping a few steps from Jay. His sharp gaze assessed the wounds, the fractured aura, the devastation that had nearly swallowed everything.
"You endured," he said simply.
