Prologue, The Night Before Everything

PROLOGUE, THE NIGHT BEFORE EVERYTHING

The Lion Emperor of Omenmia was dying, and everyone in the court knew it.

During a grand royal gathering, Emperor Aulsman Sibelius fell ill and was escorted back to his chamber.

Rumors of his impending death spread like wildfire through the royal court. Whispers turned to plots as factions moved to secure the Throne of the Lion family.

Summoning his son from the throne room, the emperor made his final call—but before the prince could arrive, someone else had already slipped into his chambers.

It was already too late. A dagger had stabbed right into his heart.