The Imperial Summons

Minjun's lips parted, as though he wanted to explain, but before he could say anything, the sound of approaching footsteps cut through the air like a blade.

Wuxie turned to see a group of royal guards, their faces stern, eyes locked on him as they marched in a perfect formation, their weapons drawn with precision.

The holy insignia of the Empress was emblazoned on their armor, and their presence sent a cold shiver down Wuxie's spine.

"What the—" Wuxie started, but the guards were already upon him. Their hands gripped his arms, pulling him away from Minjun with unsettling force.

"Hey! What's going on?" Wuxie shouted, struggling against their hold, confusion and alarm mounting inside him.

"You are to be taken to the Imperial Palace by order of the Holy Empress," one of the guards said, his tone cold and mechanical. "Do not resist."