In the sky city, the air was filled with gloom and tension—the famous tower was gone, leaving a space that seemed to mock the elders and the pope, who were gathered in another meeting room.
"Why did you have to send the holy son?! Do you know how we look to the entire northern continent?!" one of the elders pointed at the pale and silent popes.
"A child brought you down to this level? Our tower is in ruins, the holy son taken hostage, and a contract beyond belief!" Another Elder listed each disaster, his voice tight with disbelief. They had only just learned about the failed assassination and the contract—never imagining events would spiral so far out of control. Now, even their reputation was slipping through their fingers.
