Thus Begins the Plague!

As she sat crossed-legged within her cultivation chambers and listened to the cloaked man's words, no sign of hesitation flashed within Else's blue slit eyes.

"You may thank her ladyship for her offer, but I respectfully decline. The Holy Flame Empire welcomed house Metze in its times of need. Though we bear irreconcilable contradictions with the church, though the emperor has fallen to insanity, I have no desire to see this country destroyed.

This was never part of our agreement.

Else of house Metze doesn't do such shady business. See yourself out, and unless lady Gulistan is willing to instead support a change in dynasty, do not return."

Else's uncompromising words annoyed the cloaked man whose tone immediately chilled.

"Ungrateful wretch, without her ladyship, you would now be a pile of bones. If only for her lifesaving grace, you should comply.