Everything comes at a price!

In the Black Palace's veranda,

Gulp...

"Hmmm..."

Aether was slightly taken aback, watching the old man, Drakhairs, down an entire massive jug of wine in a single gulp.

It wasn't just a cup—it looked like at least 10 litres vanishing in an instant!

"You don't like to drink, Sir?" Drakhairs asked, wiping his lower lip, catching the last few drops of wine before turning his sharp gaze toward Aether.

His tone was casual, but there was respect behind his words.

Aether hadn't touched his own wine, which in many ways was considered discourteous. It was as if he, an Emperor, was refusing to drink alongside someone of lower status or something like that.

But only Aether knew why he wasn't drinking that shit!

"Well..." Aether's eyes flickered toward the deep red, mesmerizing wine.