Chapter 42: Line

As Azerion moved toward the aura he sensed, a guard appeared at the doorway, which had silently opened.

"Sir, you are not allowed to leave."

Azerion looked deeply into the guard's eyes. "Not allowed, you say?"

"But this aura… it's challenging me. I want to see the one who dares to do so."

The guard hesitated for a moment, then bowed his head. "No matter how much you insist, I cannot permit it, sir. The Emperor's orders are absolute."

Azerion took a deep breath and relaxed his shoulders as he sat back in his chair. "Very well, then," he said. "In that case, tell me a story."

The guard raised his eyebrows in surprise. His orders were to ensure Azerion didn't leave the room, but he was required to fulfill any other request he made.

"Of course, sir," he replied at last, and began telling a story.