The Holy Church (1)

Belgrade, the Imperial Capital – The Emperor's Palace

The grand hall was filled with tension as representatives from the empire's most powerful factions convened, summoned in response to the recent upheavals shaking the empire's foundations.

The betrayal that had ignited the wrath of the noble houses and great guilds had been swiftly met with retribution. Yet, despite the empire's decisive response, the Ultras had managed to strike at one of the most secure locations in existence—the temple itself.

In this escalating cold war, the empire had retaliated, dispatching dozens of assassins from the feared Shadow Tribunal.

Now, before the imperial dais where Emperor Maekar sat, flanked by the heads of the great houses and the leaders of the guilds, stood Mist Umbra—the empire's deadliest assassin.

The news he delivered sent a ripple of shock through the chamber.