—Empress Althea's Chambers—
The Empress lay on her bed, covered in a thick duvet, looking paler than before. Prince Caelum and Serena stood behind me, their expressions twisted in pain.
"You shouldn't have stepped out. You should focus on recovering," I said with a frown.
But Althea shook her head, and a small smile played on her lips.
"I don't mind dying, now that I know Solinthar is safe."
Her voice was weak, forcing my brows to knit.
I needed this woman alive. None of her offspring were good enough to take her place.
"Is there a way I can save you?" I asked, then turned to Caelum. "Is there a spell I could use to save her or at least prolong her lifespan?"
Caelum froze and wore a thoughtful expression. Seconds later, his eyes widened with realization, and he was about to speak—
But Serena quickly covered his mouth with her hand.
"That method is too dark… It taints the body and soul. I will not allow that method to be used on my mother."
