The Last Blood Mage

Trap for Xander

As Xander and Atheria made their way into the castle, they were immediately struck by the lavish decorations that adorned the interior. Rich tapestries hung from the walls, and the air was filled with the melodious sound of a string quartet playing in the background. Nobles from all over Emberlyn had gathered here, the castle buzzing with the excitement of Prince David's birthday celebration.

Atheria, skillfully blending into the crowd, picked up snippets of conversations as she navigated through the throngs of nobility. She overheard a group of well-dressed ladies in elaborate gowns whispering among themselves.

"Have you heard about Duke Marvin's rule in Mooncrest?" one of them asked, her voice tinged with concern. "They say his grip is as tight as iron. There's talk of resistance fighters rising against him."

Another lady, her hair adorned with jewels, chimed in, "Oh, but that's not all. Duchess Celina of Krovian is making quite the stir with her progressive laws. It's the talk of t